Are you an avid quilter looking to take your free motion quilting to the next level? Say goodbye to frustrating thread breakage and embrace smooth, uninterrupted stitching with our expert guide on setting up your sewing machine for flawless free motion quilting using cross wound thread spools and stacked thread. The Tree City Quilt Guild is here to empower you with the knowledge and skills needed to create stunning quilts without any hiccups!
Step 1: Gather the Right Supplies Before diving into the setup process, ensure you have the necessary supplies at hand. You'll need cross wound thread spools, stacked thread holders, your sewing machine manual, and high-quality quilting thread.
Step 2: Understanding Cross Wound Thread Spools
Cross-wound thread spools have threads wound horizontally across the spool. The thread lays flat and crosses over itself as it is wound onto the spool.
They are typically larger spools and have a smooth, even distribution of thread across the width of the spool.
Cross-wound spools are designed to unwind smoothly when mounted horizontally on the sewing machine's spool pin.
They are commonly used for sewing machines that have a horizontal spool pin orientation, such as many home sewing machines.
Step 3: Utilizing Stacked Thread Holders
Stacked thread spools are designed to hold multiple spools of thread vertically on a single holder.
They are usually smaller in size and have a central post or holder where the spools are stacked one on top of the other.
Stacked thread holders allow quilters and sewers to use multiple colors of thread at once for different stitching effects or when working on multi-colored projects.
These spools can be used with sewing machines that have a vertical spool pin orientation, which is common in some industrial machines and certain models of home sewing machines.
Both cross-wound and stacked thread spools can be used for free motion quilting, and neither is inherently better than the other. The choice between the two types of spools depends on your sewing machine's spool pin orientation and your personal preference.
Cross-Wound Thread Spools for Free Motion Quilting:
Cross-wound thread spools work well for free motion quilting on sewing machines with a horizontal spool pin orientation.
The thread unwinds smoothly from the spool as the sewing machine pulls it off the top, which is ideal for horizontal spool pins.
Stacked Thread Spools for Free Motion Quilting:
Stacked thread spools are a great option if your sewing machine has a vertical spool pin orientation.
They allow you to use multiple colors of thread at once, making them suitable for projects that require frequent thread changes without stopping to wind bobbins.
Stacked spools are convenient for multi-colored quilting designs, as you can easily switch between different thread colors on the same holder.
Ultimately, the decision between cross-wound and stacked thread spools for free motion quilting comes down to your sewing machine's setup. If you have a horizontal spool pin, go for cross-wound spools. If your machine has a vertical spool pin, stacked thread spools will be more suitable. Both types of spools can produce excellent results in free motion quilting when paired with high-quality quilting thread and proper machine setup.
Step 4: Dry Silicone Spray
Dry silicone spray is a lubricant that creates a smooth surface and reduces friction. When applied to the sewing machine's moving parts and thread path, it can help the thread move more smoothly and prevent it from getting caught or snagged during the quilting process.
Here are some ways dry silicone spray can help with thread breakage in free motion quilting:
Reduced Friction: The spray creates a slick surface, reducing friction between the thread and various machine components, such as tension discs, thread guides, and the needle's eye. This minimizes the chances of the thread breaking due to excessive resistance.
Smooth Thread Flow: By lubricating the thread path, the thread can flow more freely and without resistance, preventing tangles or knots that might lead to thread breakage.
Minimized Buildup of Residue: Dry silicone spray does not leave behind sticky residues like some other lubricants, which means it won't attract lint or dust that could cause thread-related issues.
Consistent Tension: A smoother thread flow and reduced friction can contribute to more consistent thread tension, further preventing thread breakage during free motion quilting.
Dry silicone spray, when used correctly and sparingly, is generally safe for use on sewing machines and should not stain a quilt. However, it's essential to follow some precautions to minimize any potential risks:
Avoid Direct Contact with Fabric: When applying the silicone spray to your sewing machine, be cautious not to spray it directly onto the fabric or quilt. Instead, apply the spray to the machine's moving parts, such as the needle bar, thread guides, and tension discs, ensuring that no overspray reaches the fabric.
Use Sparingly: A little goes a long way with silicone spray. A small amount is usually sufficient to provide the desired lubrication and reduce friction. Excessive spraying can lead to oversaturation and increase the likelihood of stains.
Allow Time to Dry: After applying the silicone spray, give it some time to dry completely before starting your quilting project. This will help prevent any potential transfer of the spray to the fabric.
Test in an Inconspicuous Area: If you are concerned about potential staining, it's a good idea to test the silicone spray in an inconspicuous area of the fabric or quilt before using it on the entire project.
Choose a Quality Product: Use a dry silicone spray specifically designed for sewing machines and quilting. Quality products are less likely to leave stains or residue on the fabric.
By taking these precautions and using the dry silicone spray responsibly, you can minimize the risk of staining your quilt while still benefiting from the lubrication and reduced thread breakage during free motion quilting.
Step 5: Proper Thread Tension Achieving the right thread tension is vital to prevent breakage. Consult your sewing machine manual to locate the tension dial and set it to a balanced position. Test with a few stitches on a scrap quilt sandwich to ensure the tension is just right.
Step 6: Guiding the Thread Path Guide the thread through the machine's designated thread path, avoiding any unnecessary twists or turns. Keep an eye on the thread as it moves through the guides to prevent tangling or snags.
Step 7: Check the Needle A dull or incorrect needle can lead to thread breakage. Ensure you're using a fresh, high-quality needle suitable for free motion quilting. Change the needle regularly to maintain optimal stitching performance.
When selecting a needle for free motion quilting, consider the type of fabric you're using, the thread weight, and the thickness of your quilt sandwich. Typically, a size 75/11 or 90/14 quilting needle works well for most quilting projects, but you can adjust the size based on your specific needs.
It's also essential to use a fresh needle for each new project or after significant quilting to maintain the best stitching quality. A dull or bent needle can lead to skipped stitches and thread breakage, affecting the overall quilting experience
Step 8: Adjust Stitching Speed Control the speed of your sewing machine to match your comfort level. Avoid rapid or jerky movements that could cause thread tension issues or break the thread.
With a well-set sewing machine and a passion for creativity, you'll be amazed at the stunning quilts you can bring to life. Happy quilting!
Comments