MACHINE SUPPORT

Quick Help for Common Longarm Questions
​
Whether you’re seeing stitch changes, tension issues, or just want to make sure your machine is running smoothly, this page brings together the most common troubleshooting topics and practical guidance from our team.

Most stitch issues are simple to fix. Start with the basics, make small changes, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help. We’re here to make quilting easier.
If your stitches suddenly changed, start here first.
This quick guide walks through the most common causes
before you adjust anything major.
​⭐ Start Here ​⭐
Top 5 Reasons Stitches Suddenly Look Bad

Top 5 Reasons Stitches Suddenly Look Bad

​If your stitches looked good yesterday but suddenly don’t look right today — take a deep breath.
​
The good news is --- It is almost never a serious machine problem.

In most cases, one small thing changed. Let’s go through the five most common causes in the order we see them most often.
1️⃣​The needle needs to be changed
This is the most common cause — by far.
Needles wear gradually, so the change isn’t always obvious until stitch quality suddenly drops.
Signs this may be the issue:
  • Skipped stitches
  • Uneven stitches
  • Popping or ticking sounds
  • Looping that wasn’t there before
✔️ Always start by installing a fresh needle before adjusting anything else.
​✔️ Read more about needles below, and in this extra article.
​2️⃣​Thread path changed (even slightly)
Thread may have:
  • Slipped out of a guide
  • Wrapped around the cone
  • Caught on something small
  • Been rethreaded differently than usual
Even a tiny change can affect stitch quality.
✔️ Completely rethread from the top instead of trying to spot the problem halfway down.
​3️⃣​Bobbin issues
Bobbin problems often show up suddenly.
Check for:
  • Uneven winding
  • Incorrect insertion
  • Thread catching or snagging
  • Lint buildup in the bobbin area
✔️ A fresh bobbin is often a quick, easy fix.
​4️⃣​Quilt loading or fabric changes
Sometimes nothing is wrong with the machine at all.
Stitches can look different when:
  • The quilt is tighter or looser than normal
  • Batting thickness changed
  • The backing has more fullness
  • The fabric behaves differently than previous projects
✔️ This is extremely common and usually minor.
​5️⃣​Basic maintenance Is due
A little lint or missed oiling point can quickly affect stitch quality.
If it has been a while since cleaning or oiling:
  • Clean lint from the bobbin area
  • Check oiling points (Innova owners)
  • Run a short test stitch
​Small maintenance = smoother stitching.
​Service-Pro Tip
When stitch quality suddenly changes, follow this order:
  1. Change needle
  2. Rethread machine
  3. Check bobbin
These three steps solve most stitch issues before tension ever needs adjustment.

Need to schedule a service call?
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Understanding and Adjusting Tension — 
​What Your Stitches Are Telling You

Tension questions are one of the most common concerns longarm owners have — and
​the good news is that most issues are simple to correct.

Before making major adjustments, remember this:
In the majority of cases, stitch problems are related to tension, threading, or needle condition — not machine timing.
Let’s walk through how to understand what you’re seeing and how to make calm, confident adjustments.

Step 1 — Start with the Basics (Always)
Before adjusting tension, quickly check these simple items:
  • Make sure the machine is threaded correctly
  • Confirm the thread is fully seated in all guides and tension disks
  • Check that the needle is installed correctly and not bent or dull
  • ​Verify the bobbin is inserted correctly and unwinding in the proper direction
Many stitch problems are solved right here.

Step 2 — Read Your Stitches
Your stitches will tell you what needs attention.
If you see loops on the back of the quilt: 
​This usually means the top tension is too loose.
  •  Increase top tension slightly
  •  Test again on a scrap sandwich

If you see bobbin thread pulling to the top:
This usually means the top tension is too tight.
  • Loosen the top tension slightly
  • Test again before making additional changes

If stitches look uneven or inconsistent:
Check:
  • Needle condition
  • Thread quality
  • Speed consistency
  • ​Proper threading

Step 3 — Make Small Adjustments
Avoid large turns or drastic changes.
A good rule:
➡️ Make small changes
➡️ Test
➡️ Observe
➡️ Adjust again if needed
Small adjustments give you predictable results.​

For instructions on changing the tension on an Innova machine only, click here.

Need to schedule a service call?
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How do I know if my machine needs retiming?


This is a very common question — and an important one.

True timing issues are rare.
Timing problems are far less common than people think.

Most stitch issues that appear serious are actually caused by:
  • Incorrect threading
  • Needle issues
  • Tension imbalance
  • Thread or fabric combination changes

Signs that are usually NOT timing problems:
  • Loopy stitches
  • Tension imbalance
  • Thread breaks occasionally
  • Skipped stitches that change when you rethread or replace the needle
These are typically tension or setup related.

Possible signs of an actual timing issue:
  • Repeated skipped stitches even after rethreading and replacing the needle
  • Needle striking or hitting the hook area
  • Machine suddenly cannot form stitches at all
  • Consistent stitch failure regardless of thread or tension settings
If you are seeing these symptoms, contact support before attempting adjustments.

Our Best Advice
When something looks wrong, slow down and start simple.
Most stitch issues are solved with:
✔ Correct threading
✔ A fresh needle
✔ Small tension adjustments
Jumping straight to timing adjustments can create unnecessary frustration.

Need Help?
​If you’re unsure what you’re seeing, we’re happy to help.
A quick photo of your stitches (top and back) often tells us exactly what’s going on — and helps get you back to quilting faster.

Need to schedule a service call?
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Needle Types & Common Mistakes


​Needles play a huge role in stitch quality — and many tension or stitching issues are actually needle-related.
The good news is that needle problems are usually easy to fix once you know what to look for.

Start with the Basics
Before changing tension or making adjustments, check your needle first.
A fresh, correctly installed needle solves a surprising number of stitch problems.
Always make sure:
  • The needle is fully inserted
  • It is facing the correct direction for your machine
  • The screw is securely tightened
  • The needle is not bent or damaged

How Often Should I Change My Needle?
A good rule of thumb:
Change your needle regularly — especially after large projects or if you notice stitch changes.
Signs it may be time for a new needle:
  • Popping sounds while stitching
  • Thread breaks
  • Uneven stitches
  • Fabric damage or skipped stitches
When in doubt, change the needle first. It is the easiest and safest troubleshooting step.

Choosing the Right Needle
Different threads and fabrics may require different needle sizes.
General guidelines:
  • Finer threads → smaller needle sizes
  • Heavier threads → larger needle sizes
  • Dense or layered quilts may need a stronger needle
If stitches suddenly change when switching thread types, try adjusting needle size before adjusting tension.

Common Needle Mistakes
These are some of the most common issues we see:
  • Reusing needles for too long
  • Installing the needle backwards
  • Not fully seating the needle into the bar
  • Assuming tension is the problem when the needle is worn
Small needle issues can look like major machine problems — but they are usually quick fixes.

Needles vs. Timing (Important Reminder)
Skipped stitches or stitch problems are often blamed on timing, but in most cases:
➡️ The needle is the real cause.
Before worrying about timing, always try:
✔ Rethreading the machine
✔ Installing a fresh needle
✔ Testing on a scrap sandwich

​More information about titanium vs. stainless needles here.
​
Still Not Sure?
If you’re unsure which needle to use or what you’re seeing, reach out to us.
A quick photo of your stitches — along with the thread and needle you’re using — helps us guide you faster and get you back to quilting with confidence.

Need to schedule a service call?
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Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is not about constantly adjusting your machine — it’s about small, consistent habits that keep everything running smoothly.
Most longarm machines are extremely reliable when they are kept clean, lubricated, and checked regularly.
The goal is simple:
A clean, well-maintained machine quilts better and lasts longer.


Daily or Before Each Quilting Session
These quick habits make the biggest difference:
  • Remove lint and thread buildup from the bobbin area
  • Check that thread is flowing smoothly through all guides
  • Confirm the needle is secure and in good condition
  • Wipe visible dust or lint from surfaces
A few seconds of cleaning prevents many common stitch issues.


Oiling & Lubrication
Your machine is designed to run smoothly with proper lubrication.
General guidelines:
  • Oil according to your manufacturer recommendations
  • Use only approved sewing machine oil
  • Apply small amounts — more is not better
  • Wipe away excess oil before quilting
  • For an Innova specific diagram, this page shows all of the oiling and greasing points.

​If you quilt frequently, light regular oiling is better than waiting too long.


Bobbin Area Care
The bobbin area works hard and collects lint quickly.
Check regularly for:
  • Thread pieces wrapped around components
  • Lint buildup
  • Rough sounds or resistance
Keeping this area clean helps maintain consistent tension and smooth stitching.


Check Your Needle Often
Needles wear faster than most people expect.
Replace your needle:
  • after large projects
  • when switching thread types
  • if stitches begin to change unexpectedly
Many quilting issues disappear with a fresh needle.


Watch (and Listen) to Your Machine
Your machine will usually tell you when it needs attention.
Pay attention to:
  • New noises
  • Increased vibration
  • Rough or inconsistent stitching
  • Changes in sound while quilting
Small changes are early signals — addressing them early prevents bigger problems later.


What Preventative Maintenance Is NOT
Preventative maintenance does NOT mean:
  • Constant adjustments
  • Frequent tension changes
  • Retiming your machine
  • Taking things apart unnecessarily
Most machines stay in proper timing for years with normal use.
Simple, consistent care is far more important than major adjustments.
​

Suggested Maintenance Rhythm
A simple routine works well for most quilters:
  • Before quilting: quick clean & check
  • Weekly (frequent use): deeper lint removal
  • Monthly: overall inspection and wipe-down
  • As needed: needle replacement and thread path check
Consistency matters more than perfection.


When to Reach Out for Help
Contact us if you notice:
  • Persistent stitch issues after basic checks
  • Unusual sounds that continue
  • Needle strikes or mechanical resistance
  • Anything that suddenly feels different
We are always happy to help you identify whether something is normal or needs attention.

Need to schedule a service call?


Taking a few minutes for simple maintenance helps you spend more time doing what you really want — quilting.

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Is My Hopping Foot Set at the Correct Height?

Hopping foot height is one of those small adjustments that can make a big difference in stitch quality — but it’s often overlooked because the machine may still sew even when the height isn’t quite right.

The good news is that hopping foot issues are usually easy to recognize and correct.

With a correct height your hopping foot should:
  • lightly rest on the quilt when the needle is down
  • allow fabric to move smoothly
  • not press so hard that the quilt feels pinned down
You want gentle contact — not pressure.

Signs the foot may be too high:
You may notice:
  • flagging or fabric lifting with the needle
  • skipped stitches
  • inconsistent stitches
  • thread loops appearing suddenly
When the foot is too high, the fabric can lift as the needle rises, affecting stitch formation.

Signs the foot may be too low:
Look for:
  • difficulty moving the quilt
  • drag or resistance
  • fabric distortion
  • heavy vibration
Too low creates unnecessary friction.

Service-Pro Tip
Small adjustments make a big difference.
If you change the height, adjust slightly and test on a scrap before quilting again.

Need Help?
If you’re unsure what “right” looks like, we’re happy to help — a quick photo or short video often tells us exactly what’s happening.

Need to schedule a service call?
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Why Does My Machine Feel Harder to Move?

If your machine suddenly feels heavier or less smooth, don’t panic — this is usually caused by something simple.

Most common causes of movement changes are often related to:
  • lint buildup on wheels or rails
  • quilt tension being too tight
  • hopping foot set too low
  • machine needing a quick cleaning

The machine itself is rarely the problem.

What to check first before adjusting anything major:
✔ check that the quilt isn’t stretched too tight
✔ wipe rails and wheels
✔ remove lint buildup
✔ test movement without stitching

Helpful Reminder:
Your machine should glide — not fight you.
If movement feels forced, something small is usually causing resistance.

Need Help?
If movement still feels rough after cleaning, reach out — we can help you narrow it down quickly.

Need to schedule a service call?
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Why Are My Stitches Getting Smaller or Larger?


Stitch size changes can be frustrating because they often appear suddenly — but they are rarely serious.

Common reasons include:
  • changes in machine speed
  • uneven hand movement
  • stitch regulator settings
  • quilt thickness changes

Even small rhythm changes can affect stitch appearance.

What to check first:
  • test at a steady speed
  • check regulator mode/settings
  • test on a scrap sandwich
  • confirm smooth machine movement

​Service-Pro Tip
Consistency matters more than speed.
Smooth, steady movement almost always improves stitch consistency.

Still Seeing Changes?
If stitches continue to vary, check machine movement and hopping foot height.

Need to schedule a service call?
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Why Is My Thread Shredding?


Thread shredding can look alarming — but most of the time it’s caused by friction somewhere in the system. Thread shredding usually looks like fraying or fuzz building up before the thread breaks.​

Common causes:
  • needle eye too small for thread
  • worn or damaged needle
  • rough threading path
  • thread rubbing against guides

Before touching tension:
✔ install a fresh needle
✔ rethread completely
✔ confirm needle size matches thread weight

These simple steps solve most shredding problems.

Important Reminder:
Thread shredding is usually a needle or path issue — not a timing issue.

Need Help?
If shredding continues, send us a quick photo of your thread and needle setup — it helps us guide you faster.

Need to schedule a service call?
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My Thread Keeps Breaking — What Changed?

If your thread suddenly starts breaking, take a breath — this is one of the most common quilting frustrations, and it’s usually caused by something simple.
Most thread breaks are not a machine problem. In many cases, one small change is all it takes to get back to smooth stitching.

Start Here First
Before adjusting tension or making big changes:
✔ install a fresh needle
✔ completely rethread the machine
✔ check that the thread is unwinding smoothly from the cone
✔ test on a scrap sandwich
These quick steps solve most thread break issues.

Common Causes of Thread Breaking
Thread may start breaking when:
  • the needle is worn or too small for the thread
  • tension is slightly too tight
  • the thread path has extra friction
  • thread is catching on the cone or guide
  • the quilt thickness changed
Small changes can make a big difference.

Thread Breaking vs Thread Shredding
If the thread looks fuzzy or frayed before breaking, you may be dealing with thread shredding instead.
➡️ See: Why Is My Thread Shredding?

Service-Pro Tip
Change the needle first — always.
A fresh needle is the fastest and safest troubleshooting step, and it resolves more thread issues than anything else.

Need Help?
​If thread breaks continue after checking the basics, reach out to us. A quick photo of your setup and thread path often helps us spot the cause right away.

Need to schedule a service call?


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Why Does My Machine Skip Stitches Only Sometimes?


Intermittent skipped stitches are extremely common — and they often make people worry unnecessarily.

The good news:
If skipped stitches come and go, timing is rarely the cause.

Most likely reasons:
  • needle beginning to wear
  • fabric lifting slightly (flagging)
  • speed or movement changes
  • thicker seam areas

What to try first:
✔ change the needle
✔ slow slightly over thick areas
✔ check hopping foot height
✔ test on scrap

Small adjustments usually solve this.

Service-Pro Tip:
Consistent skips = investigate further.
Occasional skips = usually setup related.

Need to schedule a service call?
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My Machine Suddenly Sounds Different — Should I Worry?


Most sound changes are harmless — your machine naturally sounds different depending on speed, quilt thickness, and thread.

Normal changes:
You may hear differences when:
  • using thicker batting
  • changing thread type
  • quilting faster or slower
  • moving over seams

Sounds worth checking:
Pause and inspect if you notice:
  • sharp knocking
  • new grinding sounds
  • repeated clicking
  • sudden harsh vibration

What to check first:
✔ install a fresh needle
✔ clean bobbin area
✔ check for lint or thread buildup
✔ test stitch slowly

Contact Support If You Hear:
  • sharp knocking
  • repeated grinding
  • needle striking metal
  • anything that suddenly sounds harsh or mechanical
    ​

Calm Reminder:
Machines usually give small warning signs before big issues — and most are easy to fix early.

Need Help?
If a sound feels unusual or concerning, reach out. We’re happy to help you decide what’s normal and what needs attention.

Need to schedule a service call?
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