Breaking or shreadding threads
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This irksome sewing machine problem always seems to rear its ugly head right in the middle of something fun, doesn't it?
You're stitching along and...
S-S-S-SSSSSnap!
That darned thread has broken!
What's a quilter to do?
For the answers to this and other sewing machine problems, use this list to find the answers.
Remember to sew a test strip after each change.
Is there a notch in the spool cap that the thread has caught on?
If so, turn the spool in the other direction on the spindle or make sure that the cap that holds the thread in place is bigger in diameter than the end of the spool.
Has the thread wound around the spool spindle?
This is a common problem with a horizontal spool spindle and slick threads like a monofilament or rayon.
Is there a nick in the throat plate hole where the needle passes through?
If so, replace the throatplate. You can try polishing out the nick with crocus or emery cloth but I've only had limited success with this fix.
Be careful not to remove too much metal from the hole.
If it's still breaking, take your sewing machine to the shop.
Return to the Problems List.
This is a relatively uncommon problem. Thank goodness!
Return to the Problems List.
And finally, as you work to solve your sewing machine problem, change just one thing at a time.
Then try some sewing on a practice piece.
That way you know specifically what solved your problem.
If you change several things at once, you have no way of identifying which thing actually worked.
These are easy fixes to do at home for this annoying sewing machine problem.
Don't forget that many a problem is remedied simply by changing to a new sewing machine needle of the proper size. Keep a variety on hand.
However, if you find that you're uncomfortable with implementing any of these suggestions, please contact your sewing machine dealer for assistance.
Go from Sewing Machine Problem to Sewing Machine Maintenance
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