I'm trying to sew some fairly heavy canvas (double thickness) with my very-used Singer Stylist 457. Last year the gear broke (mentioned here in other threads) and I had it replaced. I also bought a manual for it online, so that I could tension it properly.
The problem I'm now having is that the loop thread will sometimes catch on the edge of the bobbin (it's a drop-in type) and the whole thing jams up. I then have to open the plate, cut the top thread, reset everything, and start again. Sometimes I can go several feet before it jams, other times it jams after two stitches. It's extremely frustrating!
Anyone know what the problem is? Is it the machine? Tension? Is it the heavy canvas? Or thick thread? Or both?
I should also mention that the top thread tension is at 9, yet I still have tiny little loops on the bottom of the material. I can't put anymore tension on the top thread, that's why I'm wondering if the thread is just to heavy for this machine. I'm using a #16 needle.
Help!