The Sewing Place

The Emporia => Embroidery and Embellishment => Topic started by: Iminei on September 06, 2019, 11:22:52 AM

Title: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 06, 2019, 11:22:52 AM
So as you may know I have had Elvis out of his body bag all week and until the last stitch of yesterday all was well,
then I had to change the bobbin and the top thread is showing on the bottom of the piece.

I know we've had this before but the stitching until the last one yesterday was really good.

Ive just stitched out the 'label' block for the 2019 coverlet and taken a pic of the back to illustrate the problem ....

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/lZRtexXGlddqD34sxvmmXl4-Z4-NxZ0BEjIsL9668Gk-MHPSDqXmzmkEY3uyvfu4x8gMjCcMcFs6qaVjdRDzP8IIohaTacd683AUlT8lPXP4TVppygE62-XnsI0ht-izGlP42xHBeO_PXJGUOioKKhBMmh08rQRU_809xiE52NofblLqPvVFTXNUibxX6XxcxQTbMDfQKSwt0YCKyXMsmuDuaCaQ1Uax2iwQtTnCn5cjDDtE8BNKwXSJNDfVuJmN5H8jgcWOiX6ntOYzhjbwQqP32ajLy8AM5PNcYUp6Ou2Drt7j34LvgpWOjOaFxKaKcldlEzQk1Vm1i_77zlVJw8dvkDnnt1xTU8Zn19IIuioSp-GcsWoU8i2ggdgyVDJr9xYe65rP3vuGp88jldDusqjnqY_hQSULMrmrVhkRTIpOl63OxIY0tuEcJwS6gjBTznhiMBKvgYeLM8bWBS1RSTVXV8y2Py_Wt3NCRBCdEHwyCturTtnvbilGuONWsTDibcbKz42ieJOLHJxcJOGNNz9t1e63MzJzVMkQkSHFQjKzt3vlpmFuBS9Qa83ToEou48MQ4lZ6ekdfZEQ-AhGr2Q2Sy45PKLNIbCoro74yUToKeEuVy5JEDb93WMOWaQ-rGVqwB9fgfF2bKUocdh9nhvtmk9CN4V4mVo1taIxNhGY7YThR=w1035-h773-no)

linky (https://photos.app.goo.gl/bJqzUK7ugrSWKcRMA)

Any help, ideas really gratefully received and remember you are talking to a 2 year old ... I have no clue as to whats what.

@Celia @Bodgeitandscarper  @Morgan @anybodyelsewhoembroiderslots
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Acorn on September 06, 2019, 11:41:50 AM
Generally speaking, if the top looks good I don't care whether the top thread shows on the bottom! 
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: BrendaP on September 06, 2019, 11:56:36 AM
Try rethreadig both top and bobbin threads.
But, I agree with corn, it's what the top looks like and doesn't matter much what the bottom is like.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Morgan on September 06, 2019, 12:38:57 PM
Looks like the top tension was a little slack.

Usual troubleshooting process of elimination -

Remove Threads, Clean & floss etc, then New Bobbin and New Needle.
Re-thread the machine (as per the manual) and ensure that the top thread is correctly seated in the top tension unit

Sew out a tension test design - medium weight even weave fabric + cutaway stabiliser
Adjust the top tension settings as necessary for the thread.
(I use different threads and each has it's own top tension setting and they're all different)

A couple of tension test designs if you don't have some already

http://www.originalstitches.com/free/other/tension-test-p-339.html#.XXJEpIvQiUk (http://www.originalstitches.com/free/other/tension-test-p-339.html#.XXJEpIvQiUk)

https://www.lagniappepeddler.com/store/p38/Free_H_Tension_Test.html (https://www.lagniappepeddler.com/store/p38/Free_H_Tension_Test.html)  If you have a single needle machine, you stitch out only 4 or 5 letters.  Stitch the first one at default tension, then at the colour stops increase the top tension setting by one interval.  When you look at the back you will see which top tension setting is the most balanced for that particular top thread.

More information if you're interestedhttps://forum.embroideres.com/articles.html/articles/testing-the-upper-and-lower-thread-tensions-r22/ (https://forum.embroideres.com/articles.html/articles/testing-the-upper-and-lower-thread-tensions-r22/)
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 06, 2019, 15:21:11 PM
Thank you for that. Ive downloaded the H tension test and will set to tomorrow.

Where can I buy prewound bobbins ???
The first time I wound a bobbin on Elvis it was a nightmare .. the brother machine seems to have quite a tricky bobbin tensioner and this problem only occurred when I inserted a 'new' part used bobbin.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 06, 2019, 15:39:05 PM
I get lots of embroidery stuff from embroideredjust4u (https://www.embroideredjust4u.co.uk/ourshop/).  They do I think have a list of which bobbins fit which machines - yes, of course there are two types.

Do you have a pic of the top of your embroidery, Imi?  Nearly every time, tension issues are from the top thread, often not quite threaded correctly, but worth trying a different bobbin.

Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Acorn on September 06, 2019, 16:00:44 PM
OK, I've been trying really hard not to say this, but... valerian is really good for relieving tension.   :P
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 06, 2019, 16:39:55 PM
So is Gin!
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: BrendaP on September 06, 2019, 19:28:45 PM

Where can I buy prewound bobbins ???


@Iminei  What size bobbins does Elvis require?
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 06, 2019, 21:04:13 PM
@Iminei I can't remember what machine Elvis is, but here's the chart that tells you which bobbin you need.

Linky (https://sites.create-cdn.net/sitefiles/36/6/4/366471/BOBBINSIZES.pdf)
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Morgan on September 06, 2019, 22:32:27 PM


Where can I buy prewound bobbins ???

From Doris Darby at Embroideredjust4U  (https://www.embroideredjust4u.co.uk/ourshop/cat_923230-BOBBIN-THREADS-AND-PREWOUND-BOBBINS.html)(good prices for needles and stabilisers too, especially polymesh cutaway)
you want Size A
Try one of the small packs of prewound bobbins. 
It's a fine 60wt polyester bobbin thread so it goes a long, long way.  It sews very nicely.
It's finer than some of the machine branded bobbin threads like Janome or Brother so you will need to do some tension tests in case your bobbin case is set for a different weight of bobbin thread.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Morgan on September 06, 2019, 22:49:57 PM
Just a thought - on the Brother machines that I've used, I noticed that you really have to make sure the top thread runs through the top tension unit correctly so it's always worth doing that tug test before threading the needle.

Here's how to check that your Brother machine's top tension is clean - http://www.lordsewing.co.uk/blog/2014/07/31/know-your-thread-tension/ (http://www.lordsewing.co.uk/blog/2014/07/31/know-your-thread-tension/)


This is a really important check for anyone who has a Brother embroidery machine - it's about the little spring clip at the needle bar thread guide ( point 6 ) because it has a tendency to drop below the bar and needs to be flicked over the top.  http://www.lordsewing.co.uk/blog/2017/06/27/correct-position-of-needlebar-thread-guide/ (http://www.lordsewing.co.uk/blog/2017/06/27/correct-position-of-needlebar-thread-guide/)

Another very helpful group to join is this The Original UK Machine Embroidery Help & Advice  (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1579174022348838/)  Responses to requests for help tend to be very quick.

Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 07, 2019, 07:55:14 AM
Thank you very much everyone ... This is much more difficult than just 'sewing' isnt it?

Those tuts look very good but they could do with some bigger/close up pics.

I will be back later this afternoon to have a good looky at him ... Can you clean out the bobbin area as you can with The Splurgess???
 
I dont think I've seen any ... removeability ... around that area, he seems like  a very closed machine.

@BrendaP , I think he's a 750E.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: wrenkins on September 07, 2019, 08:03:21 AM
Pssst @Acorn.
Does it work for a tension deficit disorder.
  :ninja:
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: BrendaP on September 07, 2019, 09:15:08 AM
@Iminei
From https://www.thethreadexchange.com/miva/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=sewing-machine-bobbin-style-info (https://www.thethreadexchange.com/miva/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=sewing-machine-bobbin-style-info)  and also the link which Morgan gave I think he takes Style A bobbins.

If anyone has a machine which uses Style F bobbins I have a box of black and a box of black and a box of white - both opened but about 50 bobbins left in each - yours for the postage.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 08, 2019, 11:50:45 AM
So I've had a play and unfortunately Elvis has been very consistent ....

Each A was stitched with a different bobbin .... (ignore the stunted top A, I think that was because the top would have been too close to the frame ??)

Front

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/1Vy35CyxMT4NmCIMA3c_sK-wJwF_fiMBCH024He1RXZWI6JafzXkGXR--9M8nYC2x4eXE5At0L9fRbPnNJZXw2egyUkq8sX7unRGKSxr_hgJYYQp6zfciyOCgfbtOl_nC6TK_WKzDf6PcjGTJxqUj--tKjFZ7b7XYOR3h1QfFybZOYGR7efyjsbvBB1iQVWxe33cmzCNsJSjVqlEbf5QXoE3n3agNtKnP_OOU--n1cDzaKOd-8gskTrUuCx3WqfP-KRhLriKqZ83Z8pPHYuGIbc-mMjuEBkKheaN_RnkEN7HIow6jmGyYYTEyRG7ed_rEwYYoY21Nd5wUjqFTFj2R5oReqmHbTC7eq3SFcwp9jcJxfo-UiXaVll5vlERLBRGbMHx7ykLoZAEi8YAGNAUMfd2UPgj8XKWNCLiqFpaReCsN7zRQ9H8bJzg1zgTdvadLn95T8cNm8621DZguIUr_hUPFnW8o2M-Mxn5QCqe9B_RmHl6M0nyaXh10X-K72ZgcHgYGk6JeFN8OF3LGzk9nDzUOi-60sOsGUqlyrSC0OnSUKV0bID-GzUqH7XmcCA0N35TAYsPmwW54DY0gJkx21zdFyBnGyzmIYxehEexgZrRBN-19P_D-JjSZc8TLhZEhU2Z96mjldjVtRJfz2S1Mf_GVftlUkHLeNk8lxUUh7AtJPrt=w1035-h773-no)

Back

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/eLVJzHl8_AiRy5WAI-p1CwpUpRzpXVhWL7DBgoKmIL9Jegn5USIWNkygOFBPG0fUfQ51xlbBRB8XSFpzfp_lAe2LIGw8ZWZshzVjALZP3wo21GRWsl-6_8cIQbzonwqqi2U2stQ09-o1ogdkRhf6xNEgqWx1mwtiUMzUunmPpSL0ny1Ey76e4nMyA3-0SA9q-1ijQ5Y30tv2XHQZGvJnNXpdBM3D4hf_adhJ864TMHyL9ytgVuqPV9D3uElch7PA3M8w8-nHsS02E0u9lJzahka6UjJVRT7m2ZTTJbS1Br2xMeu8te-pOJZxBzDrnA3E0_UVD3OlvnGiV_mHpFnrKdeS7uv3TxgxnEGlgzaE5uV57UvqE_EijvoggdNa-4fbFPfLFHOsYY1_P_wC0FMofCsMDRAsKh2TpDtMX3r3ySOaUcg32wNVDnGQwkHk45I2OIF6nQdA0uOyIZhs4t0d4hwUOZybGaIQpd4VwOkBEtIbhdhJYtAGUjW50uZFf-A0POF0TB7Q49JcI3RmjlePmybt5JLS32muqNWpTeT-VKhr0FfAEaSGt5VFu2u73F_XKfie7zKJdR36vOIWJg5cJ5GodSMZktx4arro2jHHp4B7iYSmUyic71l40tycvN3ghDYQlmhxDl3FkJxPxhe5p5nvs6h3e2RYyr0BprUFiUGnlK2M=w1035-h773-no)

All the bobbins are low on fill ... Would this make a difference?

Lords sewing blog suggest that the top thread showing through like this means the bobbin tension is too tight ??  But then they want me to adjust some screw on the bobbin case .. which Im very doubtful to do as I cant see that the case will easily come out of the body of the machine (AS the Splurgesses does) let alone finding a lil screwhole.

The letters dont look too bad from the front but are far too 'soft' .. ie a nail  lightly run up and down the letter parts the threads too easily (IMO)

Do you think I should just buy the bobbins prefilled ??? Where should I buy them from and are Brother bobbins worth the extra cost?
Please help ...
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on September 08, 2019, 12:50:25 PM
I wouldn’t mess with the bobbin tension on that machine.  Yes it could be the bobbin tension is too tight, or the top is too loose.  Changing bobbins doesn’t seem to make any difference and using pre wounds probably won’t either. 
What thread are you using top and bottom?  Make and type. 
BTW the top letter looks as though you may have had the machine too close to something at the back and the frame might have hit it.  Be careful this can damage the machine.  Check you have enough space all round. 
Try stripping the machine and re threading from scratch.  When it’s done, put the presser foot down and just tug the top thread.  It should have some resistance.  If it comes through easily you’ll know it’s the top.  Make sure it goes through all the relevant channels etc. 
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 08, 2019, 14:36:40 PM
@Iminei can't see your pics,

There are suggestions of where to buy bobbins earlier in this thread. 

And another vote for don't mess with your bobbin case tension!

Can you try stitching something other than the letters?  See how that comes out?
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Celia on September 08, 2019, 15:24:48 PM
I can’t  see the pics either and I also vote for don’t mess with the tension.   It really is usual to see the top thread on the bottom and it is often not too regular in the amount showing, it depends on the amount of curve in the design.  That said all machines are different, I am a great believer in if the top looks good don’t worry about the bottom.

Do try different fonts as some are much more ‘soft’ than offers, its all to do with the way they are digitised and some work better on some fabrics that others.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 08, 2019, 16:22:41 PM
LINKY (https://photos.app.goo.gl/mhzi11hYqXJbDnYY6)
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 08, 2019, 16:27:22 PM
Yes ignore the top A ... I think it would have been too close to the frame.

I did the tug test and there was resistance when the presser foot was lowered and not when it was not.ice ???

Im going to buy some prefilled bobbins ... Did anyone say whether the brother bobbins were worth the premium price???

If its the same with a PFB, I either need to go to a service person (£££££) Or ?????
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Celia on September 08, 2019, 17:05:55 PM
Yes that is too much thread on the bottom, it does look like the machine is not threading properly, make sure the top thread is in tension and also make sure the bottom bobbin is in correctly, sorry if this sounds silly but i cant tell you how many machines i have seen like this, check the thread is running off the bobbin the correct way for your machine, clockwise etc.

Could you try to wind your brother bobbins on your Janome, check that the bobbins fit on the spindle, if they do it might be worth trying if you are having trouble winding on the brother.

Can’t comment on the pre wounds as I don’t use them.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 08, 2019, 17:44:20 PM
check the thread is running off the bobbin the correct way for your machine, clockwise etc.

I thought bobbins ran anticlockwise ?? ... I think ... like The Splurgess ... Cant really explain it ...
Would it make a difference but still sew?
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Celia on September 08, 2019, 17:57:25 PM
I have seen that cause a problem on some machines so it’s best to check.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on September 08, 2019, 18:05:00 PM
Yes it does make a difference.  But seriously, don’t waste money on pre wounds yet.  There is a problem with the tension. Yes you should see top thread on the bottom but about 1/3 of the thread should be top and 2/3 should be bobbin thread. 
The problem of the top A is not that it’s too near the top of the frame.  It wouldn’t sew if that was the case. I think the frame has hit something. 
If there is resistance on the top thread when the presser foot is down that’s good.  That shows it is under tension.
Good piccies here from Brother showing how your top loading bobbin should be put in.  Put your finger on  the top of the bobbin when you place  the thread in the tension spring.  You should feel a little click as it goes in. 
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 08, 2019, 18:25:22 PM
I shall check tomorrow ... Goodness me! Elvis has been out of his body bag 6 out of 7 days now!!!
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 08, 2019, 18:36:44 PM
Try sewing one of the built in designs, to see how that is.

Also, when you change your thread, cut it off up near the spool, and pull the cut off end down through the needle rather than pulling back up to the spool.  Apparently embroidery machine and threads don't like it being pulled backwards through the threading path.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Sara-S on September 09, 2019, 02:08:53 AM
Did you change the type of thread you were using?And are the bobbin thread and top thread of the same type?  :thread:
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 09, 2019, 08:34:50 AM
Thread is the same bobbin thread as before ... and Im using Madeira Embroidery threads (rayon)

I'll wheel him out again today and see if I can get things any better :(

Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: BrendaP on September 09, 2019, 09:32:04 AM
There are four different thicknesses of Madeira rayon embroidery thread; 12, 30, 40 and 60
http://www.madeira.co.uk/threads/rayon-viscose-classic/ (http://www.madeira.co.uk/threads/rayon-viscose-classic/)
Changing from one to another would require a change to the tension settings.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Celia on September 09, 2019, 09:46:36 AM
I think all your Madeira threads from your box with the possible exception of the metalic is will use the same tension
@Iminei
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: BrendaP on September 09, 2019, 09:55:09 AM
If all the threads in the box are tha same size they will use the same tension, if they are different the top tension will pobably need adjusting.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Celia on September 09, 2019, 10:03:54 AM
If all the threads in the box are tha same size they will use the same tension, if they are different the top tension will pobably need adjusting.

Of course Brenda is correct, I am just saying that Imi's box is all the same size thread but sometimes the metallics behave differently.

Hope today goes better
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on September 09, 2019, 11:25:44 AM
Oh @Iminei I’m sorry I forgot to put the link about the bobbin threading.   :|. Honestly if I had brains I’d be dangerous.  Anyway this is from Brother themselves and clearly shows how it should go in.  You are using bobbin thread in the bobbin I take it?   

https://support.brother.com/g/b/faqend.aspx?c=gb&lang=en&prod=hf_inov350seeuk&faqid=faqh00000002_000
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 09, 2019, 11:38:06 AM
Yes thats how I've been threading all my bobbins .. anticlockwise.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 09, 2019, 12:54:16 PM
Today I have done things that no technodunce should be asked to do ... By which I mean, I have fiddled with the bobbin tension of Elvis!!!

First up, after bringing him downstairs I read through the manual and following the destructions to a tee I wound an empty bobbin with bobbin fill ... It came out fine ... unlike the first time I ever wound a bobbin on him!!!

Then, my hands shaking slightly, again following the destructions in the manual, I removed the Embroidery unit and slipped off the needle plate cover  ... Phew, luckily that came off very easily!

I then with a bigger tremble in my fingers, removed the bobbin, first noting the white marks on both case and race and where they lined up.

Surprisingly there wasnt much debris in the race but I cleaned out what I could find and then, hoping to God I had remembered things correctly reassembled the machine.

I threaded my brand new bobbin, threaded a top thread in Green ( @Lowena ) chose the letter A from the onboard fonts, hooped up some fabric and pressed PLAY.

Time for the big reveal ... No Change ...  ><

Ok when the presser foot is up .. the thread pulls easily through the needle, with the presser foot down, there is resistance ...so I can only assume the top tension is good ... so it must be the bottom tension ...

I dissemble the machine again, check in the manual for a fifth time on what to do and find myself holding the bobbin case in one hand and a teeny tiny screwdriver in the other ..... The clock ticks loudly as I gently turn the screw anticlockwise (and there was a convenient picture just to show me which way that goes) 30-40 degrees (?) ...
I turn the screw a tiny smidge, hoping the bead of sweat that has just rolled off my nose will miss Elvis' innards (It did).

Ok done! Now instead of being a horizontal line (I had noticed that before starting) it was pointing to the 8 on a clock.

I reassembled, re-threaded the bobbin, re-threaded the top thread, choose my letter A, adjusted the placement in the hoop and pressed PLAY again.

Elvis did his stuff, its a good job that the letter A is a quick stitch ....
After he was done I looked at the back ... the same :(

I repeated the above, turning the screw a lil more each time,  adjusting the placement in the hoop a lil each time (I was getting very good at this) and it wasnt until the 3rd letter a faint line of white could be seen down the legs of the letter.

And so it went!

By the time I came to the sixth stitch (the screw was pointing to 4  on the clock) ... I went through the process of putting him back together, re-threading, re-siting the design and after a few seconds of stitching I stopped the machine ... I had gone waaay, waaay too far and there was a lot of bobbin thread  on the top ...

Ok at least I knew there was a way too far ...

I repeated dissembling Elvis, removing the needle plate cover, hoiking out the bobbin and turned the screw BACK  to the 6 O'clock position .... put him back together and stitched.

To fit the A into my now crowded hoop I turned the A upside down and stopped him before he finished.

Yes there is a lot of green on the reverse BUT you can see a thin white line and on the top the stitch is fine.... and as the good bods at Lords Sewing say ... If it aint broke dont fix it, ie if the top stitch is good enough leave it as is.

The only other thing it could be is debris within the tension plates but that require a  fairy sized philips screwdriver so for the present Im leaving him as is ... I might think of buying a new bobbin case, it would be good to have a spare ... but at the moment he is merrily stitching out a design as we speak ... I hope its  ok.***

Because Im a nice kind of girl, I wont bore you with interminable picture of Stitched A's BUT if you are interested you can see them in this album (https://photos.app.goo.gl/mhzi11hYqXJbDnYY6)

*** Nope, still loads of top thread on the bottom, but the top looks good ... Pics at the end of the album.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: BrendaP on September 09, 2019, 13:25:11 PM
You don't have to disassemble tension discs to get out any debris between them; just 'floss' (the way you might floss between your teeth) with a strip of cotton fabric.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: wrenkins on September 09, 2019, 13:27:25 PM
Oooohhh that is luuuuvely!  :loveit:
tension schmension!
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 09, 2019, 15:50:14 PM
You don't have to disassemble tension discs to get out any debris between them; just 'floss' (the way you might floss between your teeth) with a strip of cotton fabric.

That would be for the top tension ... My worry about heading that way is A) finding the fairy sized Phillips screwdriver and B) Removing the plastic housing without breaking it!
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 09, 2019, 16:57:21 PM
I think your last stitch out of the illuminated letter is fine, it's very narrow stitching so it's just as I would expect on the reverse.  I'm still going to nag you to try another design that's a more solid shape and see how that is  :)
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on September 09, 2019, 17:24:33 PM
Where does this A design come from?   
I would suggest like @Bodgeitandscarper sewing out a design that is actually on the machine itself. 
If you plan to try and clean out the tension discs, make sure you use bias binding.  That way you can’t put any little pieces of lint back in.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 10, 2019, 05:18:57 AM
The A was the first letter of one of the chunky on board fonts ... on the machine itself.

What should I be trying? A Spray of Roses, to put on a nice green blouse ( @Lowena  ) ???
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Lowena on September 11, 2019, 11:53:09 AM
Oh Gawd.... you've descended into the Hades otherwise known as the twin towers of.... EWM and Bon Marche....... I knew it'd happen eventually @Iminei  :devil:
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 11, 2019, 11:58:18 AM
@Iminei look for a design that isn't just thin lines of stitching, and has more solid chunks of stitching, then see how much the top thread shows on the back. 
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 11, 2019, 12:02:50 PM
But the A was a chunky monkey ??!!!
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 11, 2019, 12:04:31 PM
Not that chunky in the grander scheme of chunky...
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on September 11, 2019, 12:54:25 PM
@Iminei number 24 the teddy sitting on a log playing the accordion would be quite good.  (Amazing what you can find online   >:)).  The design has enough surface area to check.  Personally I think it needs to go in and be looked at if you’ve done everything suggested but just try this first and out up a piccie.  You can do whatever colours you like.  :)
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 11, 2019, 12:59:31 PM
Number 24 ??? onboard design ??

Teddy on a log playing an accordian ....???? .... Really ??? PUHlease ???!!!!

Cant I do number 29 ... Goldfish blowing a bubble
???? Or is that no dense enough?
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 11, 2019, 13:17:26 PM
Teddy on a log playing an accordion - sounds just right for your new dungarees  0_0 0_0 0_0
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 11, 2019, 13:59:38 PM
Is this cutsie wootsie enough for you Ladies ....

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/L-4gVDdVl2sqhF2AFTNzdsABwLorvs1dRfviiFngOHAdwSG7uj_gko49urdliNhkfP5J41slX-4F_lRG19Ohzd8XBn9s8GqXWcqXQXDjyaBUjlYXX7xT-S6sWCUcxXfGsJ7usWMqD23IV-nbWwgpUgBIB_O0Z5RpdL12dqx6OjbL-q5X2dvo1ejl5Pwn2FM7_I_sSKeDbGG1sawOVzsvznynhycFRA2NTrPC7tgw_dunEIMSsD-n0evqZEYAuo2IWrztVnmWuQo1FnBF-H6YPdGIkjyt44mEownnMI3B3d-TfPu4ZIVOohMEiYmSGVbnfWm9uxboD-cn6w2l_Rerq0kNNRb2vYSF9-Vj0v8SfQd32NvnImdGnVd2CV2S6yUDfQXg3q2HFVFFZWHeVEfRLJSbeqGOXVGCfA29uhAAvKJeGtP8Co29bSmm5uGeyXM-fkZFv9rzfmdMms3yQUAQM6peBCO2yuWp_ROqY27hIE9k3uGbQ_6GW11eeCklNPLMsaqd9POybfGUmjgC3jaofmQtswDwdGuXGcZw3X1rD7qD2zCR1SsDNK4s947mcj0IuYbCtbIIz172gLO_7c9e4PRNdMudr_BBQDdFwfYFfAL_poClGlm2rJtNh55TZr0wspevOo9iynIf0urjmYYXL4XW8fpWHkH-6G4UP4ybAhKL4nWxT0DjRD6O350bRrhiUAGih0B1dtExaRW5kdEDASCpxWf0xmDt2HCpD62LMA=w671-h752-no)

Reverse

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/8dQhuu_3ig7b0_sAH7gcpgZGe4dR6NIvniUzSXlLcJ0FbtcqQEf1zCkNxyX_t0FjTJBbwA1tu3cgZ3jMJ9rje6OQOw8stennKnlRPTOrT7WK6NqAoauA_fB_bAagdMEbQL4y3i3f-jIN_ORfXEhloCVe4qTQ-1IKv-X4mWcq3IdIA9pb5HojbQ4usjeAZxqD5GKRN9WykDYVELun9MPj2d_1rvRAwoRHL39COvNEy6iC0UMVGsAFMLhWOGYvms6XOOvb9MfvQd_Hz9Xs0CAc81jCwX_8xit6xhcjZR2bhKUm2joE1DZ8bnsQYD5eVERqzGdpw1f4BKUS4Y7nh3rErCri2-OjaUQtQjnVaWi_-AobnAa64RsHIUCIIy2eAFgC-fFIqdn160vqGoL80b-reLB6owkKrDMDcyyEkraKc7dBAw7F9jhMiyc45ujh5ng_jD4fhwkb4HK4UOCTpTXDSY3ho_bMcugKxUxPJialZAhy-rAggZkCQke2xUWkz42euum3f7NK5jlIHmkCfzsg3rjQ3w2PyENRuquK6F7v-eiCSTlrm0m3gVXIBDxCrD2bAb3UajBD_vIn4YfAFroNKpBOLcoDonsOoTsB7eHv3bIS8Hf97Ubmde_nHwTk5qbjQxW996v_PjF_eXXo-feMQpnXyadRjFse58wijnXDgyttPTQycou7aWQNHZhQtBYwdA-yOwTbyxGeE_s7KRf3ZJVir2ePrGybsuidowssWQ=w1007-h752-no)

linky (https://photos.app.goo.gl/mhzi11hYqXJbDnYY6)

I think I might make this into a MR and send it to Lowena !!
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 11, 2019, 14:05:15 PM
To me, that looks odd the way the bobbin thread is on the outline stitching, like the top thread is very loose.
What threads are you using @Iminei ?
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 11, 2019, 14:30:52 PM
Errrm where is the bobbin thread on top?? Or do you mean on the reverse?

The blue outline was my choice, actually all the colours were my choice :D

Do you think buying a new bobbin would fix this tension problem?
Or should I try and find the fairy screwdriver and open up the top to see if there is a problem with the tension plates ??

Or do you (quakes in her boots thinking about the ££££) Elvis needs to go into hospital ???
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 11, 2019, 14:32:43 PM
Here you go  the A on mine and a very quick little design.  Light top thread, dark bobbin.  Lots of top thread underneath, it's fine.  Embroidery machines are very different to sewing machines.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Bodgeitandscarper on September 11, 2019, 14:34:47 PM
Errrm where is the bobbin thread on top??

The blue outline was my choice, actually all the colours were my choice :D
Sorry, badly worded on my part!  I meant on the underneath, the bobbin thread looked odd where it stitches the outline.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 11, 2019, 14:39:06 PM
Im still no wiser as to if hes okay or not??  :(
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on September 11, 2019, 14:45:44 PM
Hahaha.  I agree with @Bodgeitandscarper just right for the dungarees.   :)
Soooooo, there is definitely a problem somewhere.  You have already fiddled with the bobbin case.   :o and had no better result.   Without knowing exactly what the problem is it’s difficult to say if a new bobbin case would fix it.   Do you know anyone nearby who has one that could possibly lend you to see if that is the problem?   Otherwise you have a choice......buy a new case and hope it works.  That will cost around £22 to £25.  Alternatively get it in for servicing and they will advise what the problem is etc.  That will cost more but once it’s serviced should be ok for 2 or 3 years. 
If you do go for the new case, make sure it is a proper Brother one and from a reputable dealer.  Cheap junk from EBay etc ends up as an expensive mistake. 
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Ohsewsimple on September 11, 2019, 14:47:10 PM
Sorry just seen your post....so yes he has a problem as far as I can make out as I haven’t seen the actual machine etc etc.   :(
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 11, 2019, 15:10:34 PM
Bum!

I think a service will be the way to go then .... sobs pound notes .....

Whilst I was on the phone to my local Engineer, who is very helpful and suggested one more thing to try and actively discouraged me from a service as Hes not had that much use .. Elvis beeped and told me his bobbin thread was running out mid stitch ...

Oh My giddy Aunt! That couldnt be, as I loaded a brand new bobbin the other day ... Anyhoo, much reading through the manual resulted in me finding how how to find out many stitches Elvis had done ... Noted down .. then after cancelling the design and removing the hoop, I found he was telling the truth, the bobbin was indeed going to run out !!!

New bobbin would successfully, and back to the stitch ... but of course I had altered the position of the design within the hoop ... sigh!

Multitudes of cancelling the design, then re-postitioning within the hoop, then peering at where the first stitch landed ensued until it landed bang on target ... I then took my lil numbers that I had noted down and pressed for an eternity until we were about 10 stitches behind the last  ... and finally I restarted the design!

Phew! I can tell you I  am learning a heck of a lot about Elvis from these problems.
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Nuttywife59 on September 16, 2019, 19:23:23 PM
When your bobbin runs out you don't need to cancel your design just stop machine and cut stitches and take the hoop off  then put your new bobbin in and replace the hoop then you just carry on from where you left off. 
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: annieeg on September 27, 2019, 09:13:29 AM
@Iminei
Put me out of my misery ....Is Elvia a codename for your Atelier or do you have a separate embroidery machine ? 8)
Title: Re: Does Elvis have a tension problem?
Post by: Iminei on September 27, 2019, 09:19:56 AM
No, Elvis is a Brother 750E that was a birthday present a couple of years ago... like a lot of things I get, I leave them for a while before I start to use them ... (Why I dont quite know but think Terror might be high on the list)

The Mug Rat Swap was just what I needed to give me the Ooomph to resurrect him and play and Im very glad I did!

I generally like machines that do one thing very well rather than machines that do lots of things not so well ...
Brother make (imo) Excellent embroidery machines, but not such good sewing machine (again imo).
Janome make excellent sewing machines but not such good embroidery machines ....

Also While Elvis chunters away I can still be sewing!