Thanks for that info. I'll check with my dealer.

Lorna1021 wrote:
My dealer was saying not to use it with the 1/4" foot because the needle swings a bit to the side to cut the thread and the needle could hit the foot. I've done it but don't do it regularly! But this is with my 200, so I don't know about the 830.

I've found that if I use my needle down position when I use the automatic thread cutter, then pull the fabric to the back, I don't get the problem with the thread pulling out of the needle.

Thanks Amoret, those are good suggestions. I have the 830 and love the thread cutter. I have to admit that I hurriedly pull the fabric out but see the wisdom to what you suggest. I use the thread cutter with all projects. Not sure how the thread cutter could hit the foot since it is below the stitch plate, (on mine anyways). There is much less thread waste as you don't have all those tails to cut off. I've had no problems with unthreading.

I think there is a knack to the thread cutter. First of all once you've used the cutter don't be in a rush to pull the fabric out. Lift the foot and gently move the fabric from under it away from you. This way what tails of thread are left are lying toward the back of the machine ready for the next piece of fabric. When you put the next piece in start the first few stitches slowly just so it catches the stitch.

Just taking a little time allows the stretch in the thread to relax and sit where it's supposed to be. If you pull too quick or start too fast the tiny little bit of give in the thread and the spring in the needle will ping the thread out of the eye.

I'm not saying it won't happen again, but it will happen a lot less often and you will soon find your rhythm.

I have a Bernina 200 and when the thread cutter works, I love it. However, 80% of the time it unthreads the needle. My dealer also works in Aurora at Bernina owned Quilter's Resource and when I mentioned it to her she said, "Un, huh." Yes. It does. No help there!

I don't use it when paper piecing b/c I use my #37/1/4" seam foot and you aren't to use the thread cutter with that foot. I have before but don't want to risk it hitting the foot and meeting my eye. I don't wear glasses or safety goggles to sew.

Betty, Thanks for your comment. I was scrolling through the list looking for a different section to post and decided to read this one. I am about to start a foundation pieced project with around 400 foundation pieces. I'll have to make sure to do it on the machine that cuts.
Frances

I have a Pfaff and love the thread cutter. I finally learned to resist the urge to pull the threads out after using the cutter. This is an unnecessary step and defeats the purpose of an automatic thread cutter. I do however sometimes run my ruler or scissors under the presser foot to dislodge the upper thread from the hole in the plate. It is a short thread but not so short it unthreads the needle. The bobbin thread is unseen. I just stick my next piece of fabric in and start sewing. When I cut again, the end of my fabric has a bit of a tail left after being cut.

Barbara

I have the 730 and LOVE the thread cutter!! I'm working on a foundation pieced quilt and have many strips to sew. The thread cutter is a wonderful time-saver! When it cuts, there is no thread coming up from the bobbin. When I start the next seam, everything is perfect--no tangle on the bottom. Call your dealer re the cutter problem. It probably needs an adjustment. Let me know how you get this worked out. Betty D

I have had the same trouble with that happening especially with light weight and metallic threads. I think it gets stretched taut when it goes through the tension and so it pops back. if you pull the thread a little looser above the needle and then cut, it works better. I usually cut the old fashioned way for piecing and making clothes, but I do use it for quilting.

The only time I use the thread cutter on my 6600 is when I'm quilting. It doesn't leave a lot of thread so you have to be a little careful and grab the upper tail. When I pull the bobbin thread up when I start again, only about an inch comes up so I carefully grab that and lengthen it. I haven't had a problem with icky underneaths. I really do like it inspite of the little extra care it takes.

I have had the same problem with my Janome 6600 at times but not ALL the time. My main complaint is that the next seam sewn has tangled thread on bobbin side so I don't use it for that reason!

I agree, this feature is less than perfect. I think they need a better design OR to tell us how to use it more beneficially.

Maybe some of our dear friends on this forum will have an answer!

Lynn

Hi,
When I use the auto thread cutter on my bernina artista more times than not it un threads the needle???? This is frustrating. I end up doing it the old fashion way, but I spent lots of $$$$ for a machine with all of these type of features, and I want to use them. LOL

Thanks