Reducing the Appearance of Pin Dots

Simply Quilts : Episode QLT-1101 -- More Projects »
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Visible pin dots
Quilting expert Alex Anderson answers a viewer's letter regarding thread visibility when sewing with two different thread colors.

First, if the tension setting for the machine is correct, you should see pin dots of the opposite color on either side of the project. To reduce the appearance of pin dots when sewing with light and dark threads, follow Anderson's advice:

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Lowering the top tension is recommended to hide pin dots.
  • Lower the top tension to see if you can "bury" the place where the stitches meet in the batting.

  • Experiment with different tension settings to achieve the desired result. Be assured that moving the tension higher or lower is perfectly acceptable.

  • Keep in mind, when sewing with two different thread colors, that they actually weigh different amounts--even if they are the same brand, type, etc.

  • Work with an exact sample of the quilt project until the desired result is achieved.

  • If the bobbin case has a CB hook, the finger on the case can be threaded to supplement the tension for more flexibility.
  • Also in this Episode