Help! Needle thread keeps breaking!

[momquilts]

Hi ladies. I haven't posted for a long time but I come in and lurk once in a while.

I'm having a problem with my serger. The right needle thread is breaking somehow. A piece is breaking loose but staying through the eye of the needle and the thread from the spool is just hanging loose. I've completely re-threaded the machine three times and it will sew maybe 2 inches then the thread breaks again. I am trying to make myself a tote bag using home dec fabric that is raveling like crazy. I gave up on the serger and just used my regular machine, turning the seam allowances in to the center and zigzagging them closed. Not how I wanted to make my bag, but I wanted it finished to take to school on Monday.

Any ideas or suggestions?

[sewingrandma]

Are you sure the thread is actually breaking? I know that sounds strange but I've had a couple of cones of thread where the thread is actually cut. My serger would run fine then all of a sudden would think the thread broke when actually the thread just ran out even though I had a whole spool of thread left.

[MartySews2]

I have had that happen when the tension was off a little ... you have to readjust the tension for the weight of the fabric. If the cone of thread does not have cuts in it like Brockie said, then try loosening your right needle tension. Also, are you using the ELX-705 size 14 needles and do you change them often? A dull needle or one with a slight burr will cause thread to break. You need the ELX-705 needles for the extra penetration on thick fabrics. Also, floss your loopers and thread path to be sure there's not a snippet of thread or dust causing your problems. Let me know if this helps ...
Marty

[momquilts]

Thanks Marty! I'll try your suggestions on my next project which is a lighter weight fabric.