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Quilting
I have a Singer Promise, very simple basic machine that I got as a present to see if I would use it.
Now I'm working on a quilt for my son and seem to be having issues. I'm at the stage where I'm going to quilt my top, batting and back piece together. I've had the thread break both from the top and bottom. And I've had the stitches bunch in the back or not sew consistently.
So far I've re-threaded the machine, tried different thread types, and played with the tension. I can't seem to stop the problem.
My last resort is to have someone help me pull the quilt through in the hopes that I can keep the speed more consistent. Past that I don't know what I can do.
Does anyone have any suggestions or tips to help me, I'd hate to give up now.
Thanks
Re: Quilting
I've sewn for over 40 years and the 3 things you mentioned that you fixed would be the things I'd recommend. The thread breaking and the bunching in back would all be indicators of the tension button. From my experience the tension button controls the tension of the thread on the top, the bottom thread coming from the bobbin just reacts to the tension of the thread on the top. I'd play with that more to see if a different setting helps.
When I sew I always use my right hand to keep the fabric steady and at the right reading on the right of the needle plate for depth of stitch, and pull the fabric through with my left hand. If you haven't tried this technique, try it.
The only other advice I can offer would be to look in the owner's manual for the FAQ or specific issues you are having. You could also google the make and model of your sewing machine to see if there are other FAQ out there on the internet. If you know any other sewers or have a seasoned seamstress in the area you could always ask them for help.
Good luck. Over all these years I have found a lot of joy in sewing. It's a lost art but a useful one as I've made curtains & pillow covers for my home, the ceremony dress for my wedding, my daughter's prom dress, not to mention repaired the occasional clothing item.
Are you using thick fluffy batting? I have better luck using really thin batting.
Can you get a walking foot for your machine? They're supposed to help.
When you are sewing layers, the presser feet (those teethy things in plate under needle) have a hard time pushing the fabric through. This is why a walking foot is recommended. A walking foot helps to feed the fabric through from the top also, so the presser feet are trying to do all the work. If you go to a sewing store (a dealer, not a local fabric store) they can show you how to put the foot on your machine when you buy it.
Use good quality thread made for quilting. I use 100% cotton quilting thread for mine.
Otherwise, handquilting takes a long time but can be quite satisfying!
DMoney will be a kickass big sister