Thread Nests (part 2 - prevention)

The most common cause of a thread nest is lint in the upper thread path. When removing a spool to change thread colors, always snip the thread near the spool, then pull the thread tail down through the thread path toward the needle. This may seem wasteful, as you will discard several inches of thread each time. But if you snip near the needle, then pull the thread tail backwards through the tension disks, you will leave behind bits of lint that will eventually cause the dreaded thread nest.

Clean the upper thread tension disks by setting the tension as low as possible (to open the tension disks) and "floss" by passing top-stitching thread (or any heavy thread or unwaxed dental floss) through the disks, always in the same direction that you use when threading the machine. You can also use a clean dollar bill, folded in half lengthwise. If you have a vacuum cleaner with mini tools, you can use that. Avoid canned air, as it can blow the lint deeper into the machine. And you would never just blow with your mouth -- that puts moisture into your delicate machine.

Be sure to re-set the tension to normal before embroidering again. Also check that the bobbin is pushed all the way in. Never use sewing thread that is a poly core wrapped with cotton, as this thread will produce more lint. Use a size 12 needle for embroidery. A smaller needle can cause lint from friction as the thread passes through the too-small eye.

Train your ear to know when your embroidery machine sounds different. That is usually the first sign of trouble. The sooner you stop the machine, the smaller the problem will be. And never, ever leave the embroidery machine running unattended, not even just to answer the door, let the dog out, grab another cup of coffee or get the mail. If a needle breaks, your machine can be badly damaged. You know you don't want to part with it to have it serviced any more often than necessary!

Next issue: stitch length

from Mary Jane Allen of Perfect Little Stitches

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