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Page 28
Baby Lock Tiara Instruction Manual
Thread Requirements
Threads have a tendency to dry rot over a period of time.
Be sure to choose high quality threads for your valuable
heirloom quilts. Most machine quilting threads on the
market today are acceptable.
Needle Requirements
For general quilting, a size 16/100 needle will accom-
modate most threads and fabrics. Heavier threads, such
as top stitch and some decora tive threads, require a larger
needle such as 18/110 or 20/120. Heavier fabrics such
as denim, canvas or densely woven fabric may re quire a
larger needle.
To Prepare for Quilting
With any quilting machine, it is important to under stand
the basics of free motion quilting. The Baby Lock Tiara
does not have feed dogs like domestic machines; there-
fore, the fabric does not automatically feed under the
hopping foot. The operator controls the machine sewing
speed with the My Speed setting and the foot pedal, and
moving the fabric to get an even, consistent stitch.
In order to become comfortable using the Baby Lock
Tiara, quilters can begin with a few simple techniques
using a sample quilt sandwich (two pieces of fabric with a
layer of batting between them).
Set the machine at a medium My Speed setting (perhaps
25%) then begin moving the fabric until you become
ac customed to the resistance and the rhythm of the
machine. By moving the fabric faster, the stitches begin
to elongate. The My Speed setting can either be increased
or the fabric can be moved slower to get the stitches back
to the desired length. By moving the fabric slower, the
stitches get shorter and can build up on top of each other,
breaking the thread or making it extremely difficult to
remove threads.
Preparing to Quilt
The My Speed setting can be decreased or the foot
pedal released slightly, while maintaining a constant
motion with the fabric, to bring the stitches back to the
desired length.
When quilting, relax your hands and maintain a light
touch on the fabric� Gripping the fabric too tightly may
cause body tension resulting in poor quilting quality and
discomfort�
Different colors of fabric may require different brightness
settings for the LED light ring to prevent eye strain�