Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to produce a "Hand-look" Quilting Stitch?
The "hand-look" quilting stitch is a reverse-motion stitch, programmed so the colored bobbin thread is pulled to the top to form part of the stitch. The clear monofilament from the needle shows between each of the colored segments, giving the appearance of a hand sewn running stitch.
Many BERNINA® machines have the "hand-look" quilting stitch on the Quilt Stitches Menu (stitch #328). The stitch in your machine is programmed for a "sandwich" of calico weight fabrics with light to mid-weight batting between. If your quilt is made of fabrics heavier than calico or very thick / dense batting, you may need to increase the top tension higher than 7.
Each time you raise the presser foot, this relaxes the monofilament. To continue with consistent stitches, tighten the thread by turning it back slightly on the spool then lower the presser foot.
Guidelines for "Hand-look" quilting stitch:
- Suggested BOBBIN threads: Mettler 30 wt Cotton Embroidery or Metrosene 50 wt. Silk Finished Cotton
- Suggested NEEDLE Threads: .004 Monofilament by Sulky*, YLI, or Superior
- Needle Size: #90 Quilting needle
- Stitch #328 NOTE: For other machine models see the Stitch Conversion Chart on the berninausa website. Select Sewing Studio > Basic Training
- Stitch Length and Width: as programmed
- Jeans Foot: #8 or Walking Foot #50 for three layers (fabric-batting-fabric)
- Tension: Start with normal then increase to 7
- Speed: Slow to medium speed, and sew at a consistent pace
- Balance: Start with Balance at normal and adjust if needed
Additional quilting information can be found in The NEW Quilting with BERNINA®, available from your local BERNINA® store.