Sewing help -

[mearsfansinboise]

I don't know how to sew...I'm self-taught and only do it on my cards - - no way am I attempting to make or mend clothes - LOL Anyway, I got a new Brother computerized sewing machine and it's fab - until the thread breaks. I thought it was the quality of the thread because I was using old thread that I got from a friend...but then bought a new spool - so it's not that. What would make the thread break midway through...? - repeatedly.

[SamaraGugler]

I'd venture to guess that your tension is set too high.

[mearsfansinboise]

OK - then you're going to hear how dumb I really am...is that the thing that's up at the top...it's like a dial....like 1-8...? So what do I want it on?

[cat_woman]

Check your tension setting for both the top thread and the bobbin tension. Read the manual for your machine to see how the tension should be set up. You may also want to get a new needle for the machine. Ask at a fabric shop which type of needle you should use and they can recommend an appropriate needle for your machine. Also, take a magnifying glass and see if you can see any burrs where the thread runs. Sometimes in the manufacturing process, little burrs are left behind and that could cause your thread to break.

[SamaraGugler]

You should have two dials.

One is for the stitch length, the other is tension.

What do you have it set at? Play around with it.

[mearsfansinboise]

The needle I have is the one that came with it - it's brand new and out of the box...let me check the dials...I think I have 1 dial and the thread length thing is on this digital part where I choose the stitch - thanks!

[SamaraGugler]

Yep, then that's the dial.

[isewquilts2]

Cheap thread will break easily, as will screwed up tension. If you can't figure out what's wrong, rethread the machine (check the owners manual), put in a new needle, play with the upper tension, and if that doesn't work, call the dealer you purchased the machine from....or a friend who has experience with sewing machines!
New sewing machines are fun, but they can take awhile to figure out. I bought a new Bernina last year, and there are still some things I haven't figured out!