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Grace Company The Q'nique 15SD User Manual
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31 Pages
The Q'nique 15SD, by Grace Company, is a feature-rich quilting machine with a 15” W x 8.5” H quilting arm, capable of speeds from 90 to 1800 stitches per minute. It features a built-in bobbin winder, dual thread tension guides for precise tension control, and a bobbin sensor to alert you when the bobbin is running low.
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Important Safety Instructions
Important Safety Instructions
Specifications and Overview
Specifications and Overview
Sewing Machine Parts and Tools
Attaching Thread Mast
Adjusting Sewing Machine
Threading The Bobbin
Winding The Bobbin
Installing The Bobbin Case
Adjusting Thread Tension
Plugging In The Cables
The Foot Pedal
Final Checklist
Repair Kit
The Needle Plate
The Hook Holder
The Hopping Foot
The Timing Machine
Thread Tension
Changing The Needle
Cleaning The Tension Discs
Cleaning Bobbin Area
Cleaning Bobbin Case
Oiling The Machine: Head
Oiling The Machine: Hook
Needle Information
Thread Information
Additional Tips
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
2
Table Of Contents
3
17
18
19
20
11
12
13
14
15
16
9
10
8
8
6
7
4
5
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
21
22
22
23
30
Important Safety Instructions
When using an electrical machine, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:
Read all instructions before using (this machine).
DANGER - To reduce the risk of electric shock the machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug this machine from the electric outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.
WARNING - To reduce the risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury to persons:
1.
Do not allow this machine to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this machine is used by or near children.
2.
Use this machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only attachments recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.
3.
Never operate this machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water. Return the machine to the nearest authorized dealer or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.
4. Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing machine free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.
5.
Never drop or insert any object into any opening.
6.
Do not use outdoors.
7.
Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.
8.
To disconnect, turn all controls to the off position, then remove the plug from the outlet.
9.
Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
needle.
ii) Keep fingers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine iii) Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break.
iv) Do not use bent needles.
v) vi)
Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deflect the needle causing it to break.
Switch the sewing machine off when making any adjustments in the needle area, such as threading needle, changing needle, threading bobbin, or changing presser foot, etc.
vii) Always unplug sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating, or when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.
Connect this machine to a properly grounded outlet only. See Grounding Instructions.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
3
Important Safety Instructions
GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS
This product must be grounded. In the event of malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. This product is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. The plug must be plugged into an appropriate outlet that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
DANGER - Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric shock. The conductor with insulation having an outer surface that is green with or without yellow stripes is the equipment-grounding conductor. If repair or replacement of the cord or plug is necessary, do not connect the equipment-grounding conductor to a live terminal. Check with a qualified electrician or serviceman if the grounding instructions are not completely understood, or if in doubt as to whether the product is properly grounded.
Do not modify the plug provided with the product - if it will not fit the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
This product is for use on a nominal 120 V circuit, and has a grounding plug that looks like the plug illustrated in sketch A in Figure 61.1. A temporary adaptor, which looks like the adaptor illustrated in sketches B and C, may be used to connect this plug to a 2-pole receptacle as shown in sketch B if a properly grounded outlet is not available. The temporary adaptor should be used only until a properly grounded outlet can be installed by a qualified electrician. The green colored rigid ear, lug, and the like, extending from the adaptor must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box cover. Whenever the adaptor is used, it must be held in place by the metal screw.
A qualified electrician should be consulted if there is any doubt as to whether an outlet box is properly grounded.
Grounding Methods
Figure 61.1
To Sewing
Machine
Surge
Protector
Metal
Screw
Cover of
Grounded
Outlet Box
(B)
Adapter
(A)
Grounding
Pin
To Sewing
Machine
Surge
Protector
Grounding
Means
(C)
Grounding
PIN
(D)
4
Specifications And Overview
1. Height: 480 mm, 19”
2. Width: 395 mm, 15.5”
3. Length: 585 mm, 23”
4. Weight: 42 Lbs
5. Quilting Arm Length: 15” W 8.5” H
6. Maximum SPM: 1800
7. Minimum SPM: 90
8. Input Voltage: 110-220 VAC
9. Peak Power Consumption: 300 W
10. Timing Belt System
11. Bobbin Type: Large M Class
12. Foot Pedal
13. Built in Bobbin Winder
14. Dual Thread Tension Guides, for precise tension.
5
11
Specifications And Overview
7
3
6
5
4
2
1
8
18
10
9
16
12
13
14
15
17
1. Thread Mast Base
2. Bobbin Thread Guide
3. Bobbin Thread Tensioner
4. Bobbin Thread Cutter
5. Bobbin Wind Stand
6. Bobbin Sensor
7. Dual Thread Tension Guide
8. Small Thread Tensioner
9. Large Thread Tensioner
10. Thread Guides
11. Take Up Lever
12. Lamp
13. Needle Bar
14. Needle
15. Hopping Foot
16. Thread Stand
17. Leveling Feet
18. Handwheel
19. Bobbin Case
19
6
Sewing Machine Parts and Tools
Items Included
1. Bobbin Case - 1
2. M Class Bobbin - 3
3. Thread Mast - 1
4. Needle - 10
5. Foot Pedal
6. Oil Bottle - 1
7. Lint Brush - 1
8. Power Cord - 1
1 2
Tools:
9. Flat Head Screw Driver - 1
10. 4 mm Allen Wrench - 1
11. 3 mm Allen Wrench - 1
12. 2.5 mm Allen Wrench- 1
13. 2 mm Allen Wrench -1
B
Repair Kit Parts
1. M3 Thumb Screw - 1
2. Timing Spacer - 1
2
3
1
4 B
5 6
A
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF
<INSERT COMPANY NAME HERE>. ANY
REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A WHOLE
WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF
<INSERT COMPANY NAME HERE> IS
PROHIBITED.
2
NEXT ASSY
APPLICATION
USED ON
UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED:
DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES
TOLERANCES:
FRACTIONAL
ANGULAR: MACH BEND
TWO PLACE DECIMAL
THREE PLACE DECIMAL
INTERPRET GEOMETRIC
TOLERANCING PER:
MATERIAL
DRAWN
CHECKED
ENG APPR.
MFG APPR.
Q.A.
COMMENTS:
FINISH
NAME DATE
TITLE:
SIZE
A
DWG. NO.
REV
Foot Pedal
SHEET 1 OF 1
1
A
9 10
11
7
12 13
B
2
Attaching Thread Mast
1. Attach the thread mast to the thread mast base.
2. Make sure it is securely attached by screwing it on.
3. The guide loops on the thread mast should be positioned so that they are directly above the thread stands.
Thread
Mast
The thread mast acts as a guide for the thread, and makes it less likely to get snagged or looped around any object.
Adjusting Sewing Machine
1.
Adjust each sewing machine foot clockwise/counter clockwise until sewing machine is flush with table.
8
1
B
A
PROPRIETARY AND CONFIDENTIAL
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS
DRAWING IS THE SOLE PROPERTY OF
<INSERT COMPANY NAME HERE>. ANY
REPRODUCTION IN PART OR AS A WHOLE
WITHOUT THE WRITTEN PERMISSION OF
<INSERT COMPANY NAME HERE> IS
PROHIBITED.
2
NEXT ASSY
APPLICATION
USED ON
UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED:
DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES
TOLERANCES:
FRACTIONAL
ANGULAR: MACH BEND
TWO PLACE DECIMAL
THREE PLACE DECIMAL
INTERPRET GEOMETRIC
TOLERANCING PER:
MATERIAL
DRAWN
CHECKED
ENG APPR.
MFG APPR.
Q.A.
COMMENTS:
FINISH
DO NOT SCALE DRAWING
NAME DATE
TITLE:
A
SIZE
A
DWG. NO.
REV sewing machine table
SCALE: 1:24 WEIGHT: SHEET 1 OF 1
1
Threading The Machine
1. Place thread on the cone style thread stand.
2. Pull the thread through both loops of the thread mast.
3. Put the thread through the top hole on the thread guide, wrap the thread around and through the bottom hole of thread guide at the middle of the machine.
4. Take the thread through the first thread tensioner, between the two disks.
5. Loop the thread down around the second tensioner.
6. Pull the thread through the tensioner disks and around the spring hook.
7. Feed the thread through the right thread guide up to the take up lever.
8. Pull the thread through the hole in the take up lever.
9. Feed thread into the left thread guide below.
10. Pull the thread down towards the needle and through the bottom thread guide.
11. Feed the thread through the eyelet in the front of the needle arm.
12. Feed the thread through the eye of the needle.
Front View
Groove
Needle Diagram
Shaft
Eye
Point
3
Side View
Scarf
4
4
9
10 8
6
7
5
6
2
12
13
11
12
13
Make sure the thread is between the tensioner discs
Use cone style thread
The thread must go through the check spring
* Be sure to install the needle with the scarf toward the throat of your machine.
9
Winding The Bobbin
1. Place the thread on the thread stand.
2. Pass the thread through the hooks in the thread mast.
3. Pull the thread through the bobbin thread guide at the back of the quilting machine.
4. Loop the thread around the spring hook and around the thread tensioner.
5. Wrap the thread around the bobbin as shown.
6. Start the bobbin winder by pushing the bobbin winder cam into the bobbin.
7. When the bobbin is full it will automatically stop.
Thread
Mast
The bobbin winds in a clockwise direction
Adjust the cam so that the bobbin does not over-fill
2
6
5
4
Bobbin
Winder Cam
3
Make sure the thread is between the tensioner discs
Thread
Cutter
When the bobbin is full you can cut the thread with the thread cutter found next to the bobbin stand.
QR CODE
The bobbin winder runs on a separate motor from the quilting machine. This allows you to wind bobbins with the quilting machine running or stopped, as long as the power is on.
An encoder assembly tutorial is availablie on our website at: http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/
1
10
Installing The Bobbin Case
1. Remove the bobbin case.
2. Place the full bobbin into the bobbin case.
3. Pull thread from bobbin through the bobbin case.
4. Place the bobbin case into the quilting machine with the lever arm at the 3 o’clock position, and press it into place until it “clicks” in.
Pull the
Lever To
Release The
Bobbin Case
1
*Note the direction the thread is coming off the bobbin in relation to the bobbin case.
Bobbin
Bobbin
Case
2
Do Not Use The
Lever when
Inserting The
Bobbin Case.
Bobbin
Case
Hook
Assembly
4
Pull Several Inches
Of Thread Out Of
The Bobbin Case
3
11
Adjusting Thread Tension
Note: The thread tension will need to be adjusted anytime the thread is changed. Follow the process below to adjust the thread tension for the thread you have selected. See page 31 for more information about properly tensioning your thread.
When the thread is pulled The bobbin will turn clockwise.
1. Set the bobbin case, with the bobbin inside, in your hand on its side and pull up on the thread. The thread should pull the bobbin case vertical and the thread should flow out of the bobbin without lifting the bobbin off of your hand. If the bobbin pulls out of your hand, the tension is too tight and will need to be loosened. If the thread flows out of the bobbin on its side but does not pull the bobbin vertical the tension is too loose and will need to be tightened.
Turn the screw clockwise to increase bobbin tension and counter-clockwise to decrease bobbin tension
3. Adjust the top thread tension after the bobbin tension is established.
Start with the knob loosend so that none of the screw is showing, then slowly increase the tension until the thread tension is balanced and the thread knots in the middle layers of your fabric.
An encoder assembly tutorial is availablie on our website at: http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/
QR CODE
12
2. To adjust the bobbin tension, locate the larger of the two screws on the bobbin case. Tighten the tension in minute adjustments by twisting the large screw to the right or clockwise. To loosen, twist the large screw to the left or counterclockwise minutely.
Plugging In The Cables
Power
Adapter
Off
On
Once all the components are connected, you can attach the power cord to the sewing machine, then connect the power cord to an outlet.
When you are ready to begin sewing, turn on the machine using the power switch located on the back of the machine.
Below is a reference of how the cords should be configured.
• USB Connector Port
Female USB
QM Display
Port
• Quilt Motion Control
• Encoder
• Encoder
• Foot Pedal
Power Cord
Foot Pedal
Cable
13
The Foot Pedal
The foot pedal has a front press and a back kick feature. The front press control the stitching speed of the sewing machine. The back kick controls the needle up/down function of the sewing machine.
The foot pedals front press control the stitch speed of the sewing machine. The farther the pedal is depressed the faster the machine will stitch
Slower Stitch Speed
Faster Stitch Speed
Front Press
Press the back kick to toggle the needle up/down
Back Kick
Press and hold the back kick to toggle the default needle stopping position
14
Final Checklist
Before you begin sewing make sure that:
• The mast is attached and tightened securely.
• The bobbin winder was able to fill a bobbin and stops when full.
• The quilting machine is threaded correctly.
• Check for bent needles.
• The needle is secured firmly into the needle bar.
• The power cord is securely connected.
No objects other than quilting materials should be near the needle or quilting area of the quilting machine.
15
Repair Kit
Every sewing machine includes a basic repair kit, which includes parts to make simple repairs to your machine.
M3 Thumb Screw - 1
A replacement for the needle bar set screw.
If the thumb screw is overtightened, it will strip out and will need to be replaced.
Timing Spacer - 1
A tool to make timing your machine easier and more consistent.
16
The Needle Plate
1. Place your needle plate on your sewing machine and rotate hand wheel to ensure needle plate orientation so that all screw holes are visible and needle enters the middle of the needle plate without contacting the needle plate at any point
2. Attach your needle plate using 4 needle plate screws, don’t tighten the screws during this step.
3. Rotate hand wheel until the needle is in the lowest position move needle plate till it is centered around needle and tighten all 4 needle plate screws.
Needle Plate Screw
17
Needle Plate
Needle
The Hook Holder
Tools Needed:
• 3mm Allen Wrench - Green Handle
1. Rotate your hook assembly so that the positioning guide is at the highest point during rotation.
2. Attach your hook holder to your sewing machine with a M5 X 10 SBHCS (don’t tighten the screw during this step) with the hook holder’s finger in the middle of the hook assembly’s positioning guide.
3. Slide your hook holder away from the hook hssembly so there is about a 0.75mm gap (it’s hard to measure so just make it as big of a gap as possible) between the hook holder and the hook assembly, and tighten the M5 X 10 SBHCS.
Hook Assembly
Hook Holder
Hook Assembly
Positioning
Guide
0.75mm Gap between Hook
Holder and Hook
Assembly
M5 X 10 FHCS
18
Hopping Foot
Tools Needed:
• 3mm Allen Wrench
1. Using the hand wheel in the back of your machine, rotate your machine until the needle bar is in the lowest position.
2. Attach your hopping foot to the press bar using a M3 Thumb Screw (don’t tighten during this step)
3. Using the hole in the needle plate, align the hopping foot so that is centered.
4. Place 8 sheets of paper under the foot and lower the hopping foot to the top of the surface. You may need to use 4 sheets more or less of paper if your project is particularly thick or thin.
5. Tighten the bolt using the 3mm Allen Wrench
3mm Allen
Wrench
M3 Thumb
Screw
Press Bar
Needle Plate
M3 Thumb
Screw
19
Hopping Foot
Timing The Machine
Tools Needed:
• 2mm Allen Wrench - Red Handle
• Timing Spacer
1. Remove needle plate.
2. Loosen all three hook assembly set screws with a M2 allen wrench by inserting the wrench into the machines timing hole cut out when each set screw aligns with the hole.
3. Rotate the handwheel clockwise from the front of the machine so needle is raising out of the hook assembly.
4. Bring the needle so it rests on the top of timing spacer, so the groove in the needle aligns in the middle of the hook on the hook assembly. The needle should be as close as possible to the hook assembly without touching, roughly between 0.02mm and 0.075mm.
5. Tighten set screw, make sure needle doesn’t hit hook by watching to see if the needle bends during rotation and there is no clicking noise. Rotate machine using the handwheel a full rotation to ensure the needle doesn’t hit anywhere during rotation. If needle hits the hook assembly anywhere during rotation adjust needle height up or down off center from hook in 0.25mm increments as appropriate to clear the collision.
6. Tighten the two remaining set screws and reattach the needle plate.
Needle
Needle
Scarf
Hook
Set
Screws
Timing Spacer
Hook
Assembly
Timing Hole
Cut Out
Tip Of Needle
2mm Allen
Wrench
(Red Handle)
20
Hook
Assembly
Proper Tension
Top
Fabric
Bottom
Fabric
Thread Tension
Top Thread
Thread
Knot
If the thread is properly tensioned the top thread and the bobbin thread will knot in the middle of the fabric layers.
Bobbin
Thread
Too Much Top Tension
Too Little Top Tension
Too Little Bobbin Tension
Too Much Bobbin Tension
If the bobbin thread is being pulled through the top layer of fabric you need to decrease the tension on the top thread by turning the top tension knob counter-clockwise.
Bobbin Thread Pulled
Through Top fabric
If the top thread is being pulled through the bottom layer of fabric you need to increase the tension on the top thread by turning the top tension knob clockwise.
Top Thread
Pulled Through
Bottom Fabric
Decrease Tension
Turn The Knob
Counter-Clockwise
Increase Tension
Turn The Knob
Clockwise
It is very important to make sure that the bobbin tension is properly set first , see page 16 for directions on setting the bobbin tension. As long as you have your bobbin tension correct, you should be able to fix the tension by adjusting only the top tension. If you are unable to fix you tension by only adjusting the top tension you may need to re-adjust the bobbin tension.
21
Changing The Needle
Tools Needed:
• 1.5 mm Allen Wrench
• New Needle
1. Power off the machine
2. Raise the needle to the highest point
3. Loosen the set screw that secures the needle a quarter turn, using the 1.5 mm allen wrench
4. Remove old needle and insert the new one
5. Tighten the set screw while holding the needle in place.
Old
Needle
Needle
Set
Screw
1.5 mm Allen
Wrench
1.5 mm
Allen
Wrench
Cleaning the
Tension Discs
*The eye of the needle faces the bobbin opening
1. Remove thread
2. Remove all lint and thread remnants.
3. You can use canned/compressed air to clean this area
• Lint build up between the tension discs can prevent you from being able to properly tension your thread
Main Thread
Tensioner
Needle
Set
Screw
New
Needle
* Be sure to install the needle with the scarf
(indent) toward the throat of your machine.
Separate the tensioner discs and clear them of lint and debris
Upper Thread
Tensioner
22
Cleaning Bobbin Area
1. Remove the bobbin case.
2. Remove all lint and any cloth and thread remnants.
3. You can use canned/compressed air to clean this area out as well.
Lint Brush
Remove the
Bobbin Case
Clean The
Hook Assembly
Clean the inside of the hook assembly
Cleaning Bobbin Case
1. Remove the bobbin from the bobbin case.
2. Remove all lint and thread remnants.
3. Place the bobbin back into the bobbin case.
Clean the inside of the bobbin case
• Once both components are clean reassemble the bobbin case and place it into the sewing machine.
Lint Brush
Clean the area around the hook assembly
Clean the area under the bobbin thread tension spring
23
Oiling the Machine: Head
We recommend oiling your machine regularly to keep it operating smoothly. It is recommended that you oil your machine every 20 hrs of use. If you use the machine frequently, we recommend oiling at the beginning of each project. Oil before use if you have not used your machine for more than 30 days.
The head of the machine and the hook assembly are the only areas that require regular lubrication.
Place one to two drops of oil into the holes indicated with the arrows.
Tilting the display away from the machine will make it easier to access the oil points.
1-2 Drops
1-2 Drops
Keeping the machine well oiled will reduce wear and extend the life of the sewing machine.
24
Oiling the Machine: Hook
Frequency: Once every other bobbin change.
1. Remove the bobbin case.
2. Ensure all lint and thread remnants have been removed.
3. Rotate the handwheel so that the needle is halfway down, about a quarter turn. This will put the hook in the optimal position to be oiled.
4. Place 1 drop of oil on the hook assembly indicated by the arrow, pictured here.
5. Rotate the handwheel and place it into the ‘needle Up’ position.
1-2 Drops
After oiling, run the machine briefly to ensure all components receive lubrication.
25
Needle Information
Shank - The part of the neeldle that is held in the needle bar
Shaft - The long narrow part of the neeldle. The diameter measurement is based on the shaft
Groove - Allows the thread to pass through the fabric more easily
Eye - The hole near the tip of the needle for the thread to pass through
Scarf - A cut away on the back of the needle which allows the the hook on the bobbin assembly to move past the needle and “hook” the thread
Point - The sharp end of the needle. There are different types of points for different applications
It’s important that you change you needle when the point dulls or you may damage your fabric
Front View
Groove
Needle Diagram
Shank
Shaft
Eye
Point
Side View
Scarf
Needle Size:
14/90
Recommended Needle Style- 135x5, DPX5
(Equivalent Needle Styles-134, 135x7, 797, SY 1955)
16/100
18/110
20/125
Thread Size and Type: monofilament, 100 wt. silk, 60 wt. polyester monofilament, 60 wt., 50 wt. polyester or cotton thread
40 wt. cotton and polyester, 30 wt. cottons and polyester any thread 30 wt. or heavier
Change your needle:
For the best results:
• Use the recommended needle style and make sure it is properly positioned
• Change your needle after 8 hours of use and at the beginning of each project
• Choose your needle size based on the weight and type of the thread that you use
• Use a multidirectional needle
• If you can hear your needle popping into your fabric
• If your thread is breaking
• If you are getting skipped or uneven stitches
• If you are getting puckered or damaged fabrics
• If there is a popping or clunking sound made by the sewing machine, this may be a sign that the needle is bent
• After 8 hours of use and at the beginning of each project
26
Thread Information
Things to consider when choosing a thread:
• The manufacturer of the thread matters (for thread weights and quality of thread)
• The weight and ply of the thread. For example: 40/3 means 40 weight 3 ply
• Not every manufacturer uses the same sizing scales. Sometimes it is easiest to examine and compare threads to find the size you want
• Thread may be measured in weight, tex, denier, number or composition standards depending on the brand. Make sure that you know what scale the threads you are considering are measured by
• The ply is how many strands are twisted together to make the thread
• The size of your thread is important because it will determine the appropriate needle size, effect your tension and how visible the thread will be on you projects
• Needle sizes
• Too small of a needle will shred medium and heavy threads
• Too large of a needle will cause inconsistent stitching
• The processing and quality of thread. The following processes are the most commonly used:
• Mercerized - Cotton thread that has been treated in a way that increases the strength, improves color quality and prevents fading.
• Glazed - Mercerized thread that has then been waxed or treated in another way to give it a polished appearance. The coating may rub off and if this happens it may cause issues with your machine
• Gassed - Cotton thread that has been exposed to a high temperature gas flame very rapidly. This process removes fuzz and lint, giving the thread a smoother appearance.
• Bonded - The thread is treated with a resin to increase its strength. Usually used for heavy-duty applications such as upholstery
• Length of Fibers - Also know as the staple. This is the length of the cotton fibers. Extra-long staple cotton thread is better because it has better strength and creates less lint.
• Lubricants - Polyester threads generally will have a small amount of lubricant on them to reduce friction. If the thread feels oily it has too much lubricant and should be avoided. Cotton threads should not have lubricant on them
• Colorfastness - How well a thread will hold its color
For the best results:
• Use a thread from a thread cone unless you have the thread spool accessory
• It is recommended that you use a high quality thread when quilting with high quality fabric
• cotton thread works well with most cotton fabrics
• Don’t use old thread unless it will pass the yank test when pulling it off its cone.
• If you can break the thread by sharply yanking it off the cone or spool then it will break in your machine and is not suitable
• Slow down with specialty threads
• Write down tension settings you like with each thread
• An example of a recommended thread is an Extra-Long Staple 100% Egyptian Cotton Mercerized
40/3
• Keep your thread out of direct sunlight, as this can cause the thread to fade and lose strength
27
Additional Tips
Thread
Thread weight is usually stamped on the edge of the spool or printed on the top or bottom of the spool. Thread becomes heavier as weight designations
decrease
.
•
•
•
60 weight, a very thin/fine thread
50 weight
40 weight
Heavier weight threads are more noticeable on the quilt. A 50 weight thread is a popular choice for quilting and 40 weight threads will be even more visible, while 60 weight versions will usually blend into the fabric.
Thread weight is only one of many factors to consider when selecting machine quilting thread. Will the thread’s color blend with the fabric or stand out to make quilting an important part of the design?
Consider whether you prefer the matte finish of a cotton thread, the shine of a rayon thread, or the glimmer of a metallic thread. Go with what you like, get the right needle for it, and give the thread a tryout. Remember to adjust the machines thread tension settings based on the type of thread you are using.
Needles
The size of the needle shows on the front of the package with 2 sizes, the larger number of the two is a metric designation and the smaller is the American standard equivalent. The larger the number, the larger the diameter of the shaft of the needle. As a general rule, the finer the fabric you use on the quilt, the finer the needle you should use as well.
Batting
The weight and thickness of batting is measured by its loft. A low loft batting is thinner and lighter than a high loft batting. Low loft batting is used when a flatter appearance is the desired look for a quilt. High loft batting should be used if a fluffy full quilt is the goal. Typically, wool batting is the thickest of the various types of batting and bamboo is the lightest. Wool is known for providing the most warmth, followed by polyester and then cotton. Choose the batting that will provide you with the right look and feel for your project.
28
Troubleshooting
Issue
Critical distances check if not working/stitching properly or making noise
Machine Power
Skipped Stitches
Thread Bunches Up Or Is
Getting Wrapped Around
Hook Holder
15in Troubleshooting Instruction
Cause
Troubleshooting Mechanics
Hopping foot in lowest position .5mm away from needle plate
Make sure Timing is correct
Check there is a proper distance between hook holder and hook assembly
Machine stitching troubleshooting
Cable may be loose
Machine may be improperly threaded
Hopping foot may be too close or too far from the needle plate
Machine may be improperly timed
The needle may be damaged
Bobbin may be wound or threaded improperly
Thread may have too much or too little tension
Hook holder pressing against hook assembly
Bobbin threaded incorrectly
Machine threaded incorrectly
Bobbin case has a damaged or missing spring
Bobbin is wound incorrectly
Thread tension is not correct
Check timing is correct
Solution
See timing instructions
See hook holder instructions
Check all cables and ensure they are securely plugged in
Check threading and make sure the thread passes through all tensioners and thread guides (page 13)
Check and adjust the hopping foot gap
(page 28&30)
Re-time the machine. See timing instructions (page 29)
Check the needle and replace it if necessary (page 30)
Check the bobbin to ensure that it is properly wound and that it is properly inserted into the bobbin case (page 15-
16)
Check and redajust your tension (page
31)
Loosen the hook holder and slide it as far away from the hook assembly as possible
Check the bobbin to ensure that it is properly inserted into the bobbin case
(page 15-16)
Check threading and make sure the thread passes through all tensioners and thread guides (page 13)
Replace the bobbin case
Check the bobbin to ensure that it is properly wound (page 15-16)
Check and redajust your tension (page
31)
Re-time the machine. See timing instructions (page 29)
29
Troubleshooting
Issues
Thread Breaking
Machine Is Running Loud
15in Troubleshooting Instruction
Cause Solution
Machine stitching troubleshooting - continued
Thread tension too tight
Machine not threaded correctly
Hesitating too long at one point
Decrease tension (page 31)
Inspect for accidental double wrapping of thread on thread guides, make sure thread mast is directly over thread spool, make sure thread spool is correctly installed
Move machine quicker within speed limitations so stitches don't overlap or build up, sewing in one place will cause thread to break
Bobbin has a burr on it
Bobbin not inserted correctly
Top thread and bobbin thread tensions not balanced
Debris on tension discs
Hook holder pressing against hook assembly or doesn't have enough space
Bobbin is not correctly wound
Timing needs to be adjusted
Needle bent or burred
Hook assembly needs to be replaced
Needle plate off center rubbing needle
Hook assembly needs oil
Needle bar and mechannics need oil
Bobbin winder is runnung
Check and replace the bobbin
Remove the bobin and make sure that it clicks when you press it into the hook assembly
Make sure bobbin tension is adjusted correctly
Clean between and around the tensioner discs
Redajust the hook holder (page 28)
Check the bobbin to ensure that it is properly wound and that it is properly inserted into the bobbin case (page 15-
16)
if needle is hitting the hook thread will break. Follow the timing instructions
(page 30)
Replace the needle
Contact your Sewing Machine Dealer
See needle plate instructions (page 27)
Only one or two drops of oil see instructions under oiling my machine
Only one or two drops of oil
Make sure the bobbin winder cam is pushed out
30
The Grace Company
2225 South 3200 West
Salt Lake City, UT 84119
Phone: 1-800-264-0644
Fax: 801-908-8888 www.graceframe.com
1-800-264-0644 www.graceframe.com
Model: GC140
115-230 V~, 50-60 Hz, 400 W
5000843
HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY
USAGE MENAGER SEULEMENT
CONFORMS TO UL STD. 1594
CERTIFIED TO CSA STD. C22.2 No. 68
Date Code: 1511
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