Tera 40 Guterman thread problems

[sc_rupiper]

Anybody use this size thread? I've been having problems finding the right thread tension and get periodic wayward stitches in a continuous run. It seems like it's due to the thread being a thicker size. I'm using a 90/16 needle with 1.9 mm coated fabric (tarp project). I'm about ready to switch to the thinner guterman thread I usually use, but was eating to use this thicker stuff for this bigger heavier tarp. Any other experiences would help.

[Rain Man]

I run into problems with bad stitching when I fail to use a new sharp needle for each project. Might that be the cause? 90/16 sounds like a small needle to me.

Rain Man

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[sc_rupiper]

I run into problems with bad stitching when I fail to use a new sharp needle for each project. Might that be the cause? 90/16 sounds like a small needle to me.

Rain Man

.

I'm specifically starting with a new one. I'll bump up to a 100 size needle though and see if that makes a difference. Also noticed that faster stitching causes more irregular stitches.

[gargoyle]

With thicker thread the bobbin/hook has a more difficult time grabbing the loop, due to the stiffness of the thread.
Bigger needle may help as mentioned.
Your machine may not have the capability of sewing with thicker thread, unless you upgrade your bobbin and hook?

Going slower maybe neccessary, to allow the hook to grasp the thread each revolution.

Also, your timing on the machine may be off by just a little? It wont be obvious during sewing with thinner threads.

Personally, if the thinner thread works, use it. It will be less frustrating fer sure. And I don't feel that the thick thread will add that much in strength..figuratively.

[Yukon]

I'm using a Tera 50 with an 80/12 needle right now and it's working beautifully. Could be your machine...

[sc_rupiper]

I'm literally cutting my losses. I found another post on backpacking light where someone was having problems with it. A larger needle made it unable to even stitch correct. I put in the thinner guterman and it runs like a champ. Thanks for the suggestions. Also if anyone wants three spools of this thick stuff, send me a PM.

[nacra533]

Tera 40 appears to be a tex75 size thread based on the link below. Close to v69, which usually should be a 16 or 18 needle, depending on fabric. That's pretty stout thread for hiking gear and many home machines may have trouble sewing it. Most home machines, 16 is max needle size. Some may got to 18.

I used to use v69 on boat covers and sail covers in 9 oz subrella to give you an idea of thread size. I now use V92 because I have a machine that handles the larger thread better.

The "V" size and the "textile or tex" size are usually pretty close.
Ex. V69= tex70.

It also appears that the textile size gets smaller with the Tera number getting larger. That explains why Tera 50works with a 12 needle.

https://www.guetermann.com/shop/en/v...&type=industry

[CatSplat]

I picked up a couple spools of that Tex75 with the intent of sewing tarp ridgelines with it, it was a huge headache to get figured out. My largest needle was a mere 80/12 and it was not handling it very well. I never got it sorted to a satisfactory level and went back to the Tex40 instead.

The Tex75 is impressively strong, though. Maybe I'll get a larger needle and give it a second try someday.

[sc_rupiper]

Thread has been taken by cinnamon.

[Ramblinrev]

IMO it is a mistake to try and use the really heavy duty thread on most home machines. In the first place to be honest I don't think a tarp is that big a problem that heavy thread is required. If used correctly regular thread is entirely sufficient IMO. Plus the machines and needles available for home use are not designed for those thread applications. That negates any benefit the stronger thread may have. Damaged thread from too small a needle or an insufficient clearances is likely to be a breaking hazard in any event.

High quality polyester thread is good strong stuff. Couples with properly rolled hems and flat felled seams you are dealing with a very strong finished product.