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Top Tension
One of the joys of quilting with the Gallant XL is its ability to utilize many different types of thread. Quilt with
almost any high-quality thread as long as you first adjust the bobbin tension and then adjust the top tension
to suit the thread chosen.
Puckering, gathers, and thread breakage occur when the top thread tension is too tight. Loops and thread
nests occur when the top thread tension is too loose. Tension may need to be adjusted depending on the
fabric, thread, or batting you are using for your project.
NOTE
: Top tension should be adjusted after the bobbin case tension adjustment is made.
NOTE
: Dark threads will be thicker (because of more dye) than light threads of the same weight
and may require a tension adjustment. The type or brand of thread may also affect tension
settings. Each time threads are changed, check the tension.
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IMPORTANT
: Before adjusting your top tension, remember to floss the top thread UP between
the tension discs or it will float outside the discs providing little or no top tension. This could cause
significant stitch quality or thread nesting problems.
QUILTING TIP
: Test the tension settings before quilting. The best way to make sure the top and
bobbin tension settings are balanced is by quilting a test sample. Keep small pieces of light solid
fabric on hand to place at the side of the quilt on the extra batting and backing. Then quilt some
small loops and swirls and look at the stitches on top and underneath to ensure the tension looks
balanced. Fine tune the tension as needed.
To adjust the top tension
1.
Test stitching with a scrap of fabric placed on the extra batting and backing at the side of the quilt.
Examine the stitches both on the top and on the underside of the quilt.
2.
Adjust the tension by turning the tension dial clockwise to tighten and counterclockwise to loosen.
3.
Continue to test the stitching on the fabric scrap and adjust by turning the tension dial until you are
happy with the stitches.
Threading the Needle with the Needle Threader
1.
Turn off the power to the machine.
2. Hold the needle threader by the grip, with the triangle mark facing up.
3.
Guide the thread, inserting it into the Y groove from right to left horizontally.
4.
Place the V groove around the needle, above the eye.
5.
Slide the automatic threader down the needle, while pushing it gently against the needle, until the
threader pin goes into the needle eye.
6. Push the grip gently. You should see the threader pin and thread loop at the back of the needle.
7. Remove the threader from the needle slowly, then pick up the loop with the hook on the threader,
pulling the end of the thread out to the back.
8. Turn machine power back on.
