Gallant User Manual
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Top Tension
One of the joys of quilting with the Gallant is its ability to utilize many different types of thread. You can
quilt with almost any high-quality thread as long as you first adjust the bobbin tension and then adjust the
top tension to suit the thread you’ve chosen.
Puckering, gathers, and thread breakage occur when the top thread tension is too tight. Loops and thread
nests occur when the top thread tension is too loose. Tension may need to be adjusted depending on the
fabric, thread, or batting you are using for your project.
NOTE: Top tension should be adjusted after the bobbin case tension adjustment is made.
NOTE: Dark threads will be thicker (because of more dye) than light threads of the same weight
and may require a tension adjustment. The type or brand of thread may also affect tension settings.
Each time you change threads, you should check your tension.
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IMPORTANT
: Before adjusting your top tension remember to floss the top thread UP between the
tension discs or it will float outside the discs providing little or no top tension. This could cause
significant stitch quality or thread nesting problems.
QUILTING TIP: Test the tension settings before quilting. The best way to make sure the top and bobbin
tension settings are balanced is by quilting a test sample. Keep small pieces of light solid fabric on hand to
place at the side of the quilt on the extra batting and backing. Then quilt some small loops and swirls and
look at the stitches on top and underneath to ensure the tension looks balanced. Fine tune the tension as
needed.
To adjust the top tension
1.
Test stitching with a scrap of fabric placed on the extra batting and backing at the side of the quilt.
Examine the stitches both on the top and on the underside of the quilt.
2.
Adjust the tension by turning the tension dial clockwise to tighten and counter-clockwise to loosen.
3.
Continue to test the stitching on the fabric scrap and adjust by turning the tension dial until you are
happy with the stitches.
