This is an occasional challenge. The issue isn't always with the thickness of the yarn, it's with the polyester batting. It's not nearly as difficult to pull yarn through cotton as it is through polyester.
Here are a few solutions to this problem:
1/4" to 3/8" stitch length |
If you're trying to take a stitch through an intersection (where four blocks meet in a corner), make sure to take the stitch diagonally through the blocks where the seam allowance is not. Feel with your fingertips, to locate the less thick area and stitch through it.
Try pulling on the needle using a "cap snaffler." It's a rubbery type thing used to open jars. Or, use rubber fingers or a thread gripper (found in a sewing store). If all else fails, you can pull the needle with needle nose pliers. First, wrap the nose tips with duct tape so ridges on the pliers don't damage the needle.
From top L-R: kitchen "cap snaffler;" thread gripper; needle nose pliers with duct tape on the tips |
Red #5 on a ball; green #5 on a skein; gold #3 on a skein |
Size #5 (the top thread) is less thick than size #3 (the bottom thread).
Top light blue size #5; bottom darker blue size #3 |
I hope this is helpful information! I'm looking forward to seeing some beautiful finished quilts by Nov. 10. Linda
2 comments:
Just to add to your excellent advice, I use a curved upholstery-type needle as opposed to a straight needle. Just one more way to make it easier. ~karen
Love the suggestions. I want to add that I use the thick cotton crochet thread and a large eyed needle, slip the needle right through!
Post a Comment