Can anyone problem solve my Janome 1600DB?

Question

My thread keeps shredding on my high speed Janome 1600DB. I have tried size 11, & 14, needles and also Innovis and Schmetz types. I am using 100% cotton thread. What could be the problem?

Thank you for your responses.I have now cleaned everything and tried poly thread. I am trying to quilt with it on a Grace quilting frame. It will only free motion stitch for about 6" and either skips or breaks????? What now. This is so frustrating...

Answer 1

Is there a problem with the hook race, that business that holds the bobbin case in place? Could it have a burr on it? Something may be catching the thread and pulling the fibers apart.

Cotton thread is actually the weakest. Polyester is stronger. It also helps to use a premium brand like Gutermann or Mettler. Coats is inferior. It also helps if the thread is newer than 5 years old.

I am a professional seamstress and have been sewing since 1973 and I have never adjusted the bobbin tension. Top tension, yes because there are markings to remind you of what you have done.

Editing to add: OK Judy, I didn't realize it's a quilting project. Make sure you are using machine quilting thread and a needle with a wide eye. 4.0 is a good size,

Answer 2

Get a soft brush, remove the bobbin and dust for broken threads. They don't always come up when you pull them.
Look under the bobbin carriage to find dust, lint, thread and get it out of there.
While getting knotted up the thread may have loosened the tension on the bobbin so put a bobbin in and pull gently to see if it comes off easily, if not loosen or tighten the screw on the bobbin case itself.
Oil the machine and clean it.
Never adjust tension while the needle is up.Put it all the way down, turn it to 0 and then turn to the number you think it should be, then adjust returning the needle to the down position each time before turning the tension.