Okay dude. I held off buying one of these because I thought my experience (10+ years) was good enough to deal with tension. However, after purchasing my second long arm, it came with a Towa. It has sat next to the winder for six months. Unused. Glaring at me. With the goofy humidity changes we have here in Michigan and living next to a lake, I find that some days my tension is somewhat annoying. I think I need to dust the gauge off and start using it. Stitched by Susan just put out a video on this critter so, I of course, went to you to get your thoughts. Thanks for backing her up. You rock!
What??! Superior has a suggested tension guide? Oh. I’m totally getting a Towa. Thank you so much. You are such a wonderful resource for us new quilters and Longarmers. 🤗
Finally....someone who understands this vital concept. Ty for getting the message out. I have been bullied by so my Fb Groups and Zoom's when I talk about setting your bobbin tension first, with a Towa. Why aren't more educators talking about this correctly? I am starting to think that a lot of educators just don't understand the concept. Thanks again!
I think it’s mostly teaching people how to do it without the Towa. There are so many factors that can change that bobbin tension and to start out every time with it set perfect is a game changer with tension. I can do it without by why would I want to. I take a Towa with me to every class, tell every shop they should carry it, and show students why I use it.
I got my long arm last summer and I’ve been doing the drop method. I recently got a towa gauge because I want to start using other types of thread. The bad news is the tension I had been using was way too tight. The towa gauge truly takes the mystery out of the picture. Thanks Adam!
Thank you Adam, I got a towa gauge and it is a game changer for sure and the information that superior has for FREE is a huge help especially for a newbie like me 😊
Thank you again Adam. Love my Towa guage. I test every time I change a bobbin. I printed out the Superior thread tension chart, so it is always by my machine. The Handiquilter educational videos are also great.
I bought a Towa gauge a few weeks ago, so I was happy to see you post this video because I knew I would be learning something new about it. I was also a little afraid that you might really love the digital one and, of course, I had decided to get the analog one. But, whew, that did not happen. Thanks for the great info. I am loving all your videos.
I purchased the Towa this morning!! I really hope it helps with my tension and the anxiety it causes. Can you do a video on how you wind your bobbins??!
So is there a work around to use this gauge on a top loading machine? Everyone shows how to adjust front loading but no one seems to show top loading. Only by observing the stitches, this is no good as you have too many variables with cloth and thread and needle size etc.
You cannot with a Towa. I'm actually not sure how you would even adjust bobbin tension in a top load, as all my machines are front load with a bobbin case. Maybe reach out to your retailer and see if they know how to adjust for a top load. Sorry I can't help you out more.
Once the bobbin is set, all the other adjustments are done with the top thread. Most of the bobbins will be about the same tension, so I have found the easy-set works even better now.
I also use a towa gauge for my class M bobbins. I have had issues though with part way through a bobbin it changes on the gauge and my tension is really bad on the back of a quilt. I got a new bobbin case and still having issues. I am at a loss
It could be your bobbin case, it could be the bobbin itself, or the way you are winding your bobbins. So many factors. I would start with one and see if things change and work your way down the list.
@@maryannstinnette6261 I am SOOO NEW at this, I shouldn't even be making a suggestion. But I noticed when quilting with cotton thread that an awful lot of fluff built up really fast in my bobbin area. I also know that the bobbin case and tension can be affected by just a small build up in the wrong place. Might this be your problem?
I was just referred to your RUclips channel. I’m learning so much already. I’m having to learn over because after I had COVID in late 2020, I lost my mo jo for quilting and haven’t touched it since. I’m ready now. I have a lot more videos to go. My question this time is about using the TOWA for Glide thread. Do you know what the number should be? Thanks so much!
Adam... I too decided to use my Towa (purchased 3 years ago) and my tension issues have been better. Love your description and instructions...always wondered how hard to pull the thread.. no real instructions for this. BUT what I really want to know that you mentioned about your bobbins wound with Bottom Line and So Fine. I have been winding my bobbins with the same thread as the top thread.. thus far Superior Magnifico. Do you have all colors of both So Fine and Bottom Line? I can't afford to do this, so wondering what 3 or 4 colors should I pick of each?
I don't have nearly all of the So Fine colors and have been collecting thread for the past 4 years. I would say, look at the colors you use the most on top and find a bobbin color that is in the same range as a few of them. You don't have to match exactly, just the same tone. I think I talk about it a bit in the selecting thread for the orange dream big panel. I might have a semi-light and semi-dark in each of the colors I use the most, because those can match multiple colors in the families. I hope that helps.
It would still be the M style. As for winding bobbins, have you changed the tension on it? I wind all my bobbins and have not changed my tension on the bobbin winder at all.
I’m not sure. If you have the vertical bobbin and it’s an L-Style, it should work. I think I have a machine similar to that and I do use the L Size with mine.
You would need the M-style Towa. Almost all long arm machines are a M size. Just in case you decide you want to purchase pre-wound bobbins, you will also need the M size.
Also if you use So Fine in the bobbin but Omni on the top how do you choose a needle size when So Fine is #14 needle and Omni is #18? Do you choose your needle based on top thread ?
Needle size is always associated with the top thread. The size is based on the eye size compared to the thread going through it. Send me a message through Facebook and let’s see if we can get your bobbin winder up and running.
Hello Adam, I went ahead and bought this Towa thing I understand the jest of it but.... and you're going to absolute CRINGE when I say this, "I use a lot of cone thread from like JoAnn Fabrics etc." Maxilock serger thread. I know you just died a little inside - but truly it has always worked for me with no issues. LOL Regardless, idk how to figure out any kind of tension settings with it and I have searched and searched the internet. Any thoughts on if there would be any kind of default tension settings as at least a type of guideline?? Or am I at the point where I have to buy name brand simply so I can use this towa device?
I always say, do what you are comfortable with and if it works for you, that’s ok. I would set it between 170-200. I think that thread is comparable to the masterpiece by Superior Threads.
![Twenty One Pilots - The Line (from Arcane Season 2) [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XCz7WUotXs8/mqdefault.jpg)
Okay dude. I held off buying one of these because I thought my experience (10+ years) was good enough to deal with tension. However, after purchasing my second long arm, it came with a Towa. It has sat next to the winder for six months. Unused. Glaring at me. With the goofy humidity changes we have here in Michigan and living next to a lake, I find that some days my tension is somewhat annoying. I think I need to dust the gauge off and start using it. Stitched by Susan just put out a video on this critter so, I of course, went to you to get your thoughts. Thanks for backing her up. You rock!
What??! Superior has a suggested tension guide? Oh. I’m totally getting a Towa. Thank you so much. You are such a wonderful resource for us new quilters and Longarmers. 🤗
Have you tried the digital version yet?
Thanks to your suggestion, I ordered a TOWA gauge and got it yesterday. One more view of your video, and I'm all set to rock and roll! :-)
You are going to love it. Just a gadget to make life that much easier.
Thank you Adam. Towa gauge came with my machine and this video sure helped me set bobbins correctly.
Thank you Adam - when you mentioned to me about the Towa gauge when showing me the longarm i had no idea what you were talking about - now I do!!!
Thank you for all the great information. I knew about the Towa gauges but you taught so much more!
Thank you for this presentation...you've helped take some of the guess work out of tension for me and made bobbin changes less dreaded.
Finally....someone who understands this vital concept. Ty for getting the message out. I have been bullied by so my Fb Groups and Zoom's when I talk about setting your bobbin tension first, with a Towa. Why aren't more educators talking about this correctly? I am starting to think that a lot of educators just don't understand the concept. Thanks again!
I think it’s mostly teaching people how to do it without the Towa. There are so many factors that can change that bobbin tension and to start out every time with it set perfect is a game changer with tension. I can do it without by why would I want to. I take a Towa with me to every class, tell every shop they should carry it, and show students why I use it.
Thank you sew much for this video. I never liked how random the bobbin tension felt. Now I'm sure. I love your videos and will definitely watch again.
I got my long arm last summer and I’ve been doing the drop method. I recently got a towa gauge because I want to start using other types of thread. The bad news is the tension I had been using was way too tight. The towa gauge truly takes the mystery out of the picture. Thanks Adam!
I also used to run my tension a bit on the tight side. Bobbin tension is one less thing to worry about now.
Thank you Adam, I got a towa gauge and it is a game changer for sure and the information that superior has for FREE is a huge help especially for a newbie like me 😊
Superior Education is some of the best.
Thank you again Adam. Love my Towa guage. I test every time I change a bobbin. I printed out the Superior thread tension chart, so it is always by my machine. The Handiquilter educational videos are also great.
Great explanation on how to use the Towa - I now understand it so much better.
I love my Towa but I didnt know about the Superior Threads reference guide! Game changer!!!! Thanks Adam!
Great information! Going to add this to my Christmas wish list. Thank you.
I bought the Towa on your recommendation when I saw you in Paducah and I love it!!! Thank you!
So glad it helps!
I bought a Towa gauge a few weeks ago, so I was happy to see you post this video because I knew I would be learning something new about it. I was also a little afraid that you might really love the digital one and, of course, I had decided to get the analog one. But, whew, that did not happen. Thanks for the great info. I am loving all your videos.
I haven't used the digital one yet. I probably don't need it but I do love a quilting gadget. HAHA
I purchased the Towa this morning!! I really hope it helps with my tension and the anxiety it causes. Can you do a video on how you wind your bobbins??!
Adam I can’t thank you enough for all you do!
Thank you for watching!
Thank you for this info, I never knew how to use this! It’s not in the drawer anymore!
Just found your channel and binge watched every episode, your a great instructor!! More please!
I did the same when I found his channel! He is great isn’t he 😊
Thanks Johnnie and welcome to the channel. Lots of ideas for upcoming videos. Now just to get them made.
Thank you Adam!
Great information. Thank you so much for sharing and creating this video!
Thanks Adam!!
So helpful!!! Thank you!
Thank you SO much. From New Zealand
Thank you for the help.. I just pirchased one!!
So is there a work around to use this gauge on a top loading machine? Everyone shows how to adjust front loading but no one seems to show top loading. Only by observing the stitches, this is no good as you have too many variables with cloth and thread and needle size etc.
You cannot with a Towa. I'm actually not sure how you would even adjust bobbin tension in a top load, as all my machines are front load with a bobbin case. Maybe reach out to your retailer and see if they know how to adjust for a top load. Sorry I can't help you out more.
Great information!
Thanks
Will this also take the L size bobbins. I have 2 multi embroidery machines as well as my long arm. Thanks for the video.
Great video! Once you've got the bobbin set to the right tension, do you start with that tension on your longarm for the Easy-Set Tension? Thanks!
Once the bobbin is set, all the other adjustments are done with the top thread. Most of the bobbins will be about the same tension, so I have found the easy-set works even better now.
Bobbin tension is set according to what your machine requires, doesn’t matter what thread you are using.
I also use a towa gauge for my class M bobbins. I have had issues though with part way through a bobbin it changes on the gauge and my tension is really bad on the back of a quilt. I got a new bobbin case and still having issues. I am at a loss
It could be your bobbin case, it could be the bobbin itself, or the way you are winding your bobbins. So many factors. I would start with one and see if things change and work your way down the list.
@@adamsewfun. I have tried new bobbin cases, new bobbins, pre wound bobbins and nothing seems to help. I will figure it out I hope lol.
@@maryannstinnette6261 I am SOOO NEW at this, I shouldn't even be making a suggestion. But I noticed when quilting with cotton thread that an awful lot of fluff built up really fast in my bobbin area. I also know that the bobbin case and tension can be affected by just a small build up in the wrong place. Might this be your problem?
I was just referred to your RUclips channel. I’m learning so much already. I’m having to learn over because after I had COVID in late 2020, I lost my mo jo for quilting and haven’t touched it since. I’m ready now. I have a lot more videos to go. My question this time is about using the TOWA for Glide thread. Do you know what the number should be? Thanks so much!
Check the Towa chart from Superior Threads and use the numbers for Magnifico.
Adam... I too decided to use my Towa (purchased 3 years ago) and my tension issues have been better. Love your description and instructions...always wondered how hard to pull the thread.. no real instructions for this. BUT what I really want to know that you mentioned about your bobbins wound with Bottom Line and So Fine. I have been winding my bobbins with the same thread as the top thread.. thus far Superior Magnifico. Do you have all colors of both So Fine and Bottom Line? I can't afford to do this, so wondering what 3 or 4 colors should I pick of each?
I don't have nearly all of the So Fine colors and have been collecting thread for the past 4 years. I would say, look at the colors you use the most on top and find a bobbin color that is in the same range as a few of them. You don't have to match exactly, just the same tone. I think I talk about it a bit in the selecting thread for the orange dream big panel. I might have a semi-light and semi-dark in each of the colors I use the most, because those can match multiple colors in the families. I hope that helps.
I have an Avante, will it be an M style? Also if you are winding your own bobbin how do you get the tension right when winding ?
It would still be the M style. As for winding bobbins, have you changed the tension on it? I wind all my bobbins and have not changed my tension on the bobbin winder at all.
@@adamsewfun. I only wound 2 and they both messed up so I bought some prewound until I could figure it out.
Typing in towa bobbin gauge template does not bring up page. Says it can't be found
Do you know if the towa works with Janome hd9 v2?
I’m not sure. If you have the vertical bobbin and it’s an L-Style, it should work. I think I have a machine similar to that and I do use the L Size with mine.
@@adamsewfun. thank you it’s not an L style bobbin.
Which Towa would I need for the Amara?
You would need the M-style Towa. Almost all long arm machines are a M size. Just in case you decide you want to purchase pre-wound bobbins, you will also need the M size.
Also if you use So Fine in the bobbin but Omni on the top how do you choose a needle size when So Fine is #14 needle and Omni is #18? Do you choose your needle based on top thread ?
Needle size is always associated with the top thread. The size is based on the eye size compared to the thread going through it. Send me a message through Facebook and let’s see if we can get your bobbin winder up and running.
@@adamsewfun. ok will do I’m not home right now but will be this afternoon- thank you so so much for your help
Hello Adam, I went ahead and bought this Towa thing I understand the jest of it but.... and you're going to absolute CRINGE when I say this, "I use a lot of cone thread from like JoAnn Fabrics etc." Maxilock serger thread. I know you just died a little inside - but truly it has always worked for me with no issues. LOL
Regardless, idk how to figure out any kind of tension settings with it and I have searched and searched the internet. Any thoughts on if there would be any kind of default tension settings as at least a type of guideline??
Or am I at the point where I have to buy name brand simply so I can use this towa device?
I always say, do what you are comfortable with and if it works for you, that’s ok. I would set it between 170-200. I think that thread is comparable to the masterpiece by Superior Threads.
You need a microphone, it's hard to pick up everything you say...😞
Thank you Adam 😊
Typing in towa bobbin gauge template does not bring up page. Says it can't be found