Changing the thread on a multi needle embroidery machine can seem like an overwhelming task. When I bought my machine, I had to adjust from my usual threading practice because I was familiar with my single needle machine. Each time the thread color changed on a design, I was used to re-threading through the single needle machine path and moving on. A multi needle machine has many different colors on the machine and as the design stitches, the machine trims the thread and the head moves to a different position to continue sewing.
The multi needle machines are taller and usually on a cabinet so reaching up and around to change each cone is a little harder. The most efficient way to change colors is to tie onto an existing thread and pull through your tension discs and the needle. In order to do that you have to use a very small knot.
This picture shows the path that the thread follows from the top through all of the tension areas, take up levers and eventually through the needles. First you pull a long length of thread from the cone you are replacing. Cut that so there is something to tie onto left on the machine and remove the cone. I like to have around 24-30 inches. Then you place the new cone on the machine and pull a long length equal to the first thread. Next you need to tie your knot.
The original thread left on the machine is wrapped around your two fingers and held by your thumb. This creates a open loop on your middle finger.
The new thread is laid over your hand. So here you see my old thread is black. My new thread is white
Then you reach your finger through the open loop and pull both pieces of thread through. This creates a very small knot.
Looking at this type knot you can see that it does not resemble a traditional square knot. It actually looks like half the size and will be narrow enough to go through the sewing needle eye.
Once your knot is secure, you can start pulling the existing thread through the needle from the bottom of the machine. I usually hold the new thread ends taut while they go through the top tensions, Once they get past that area I continue to pull until I can see that the old thread is gone , the knot passes in the needle and the new color is ready.
This view shows that black thread tied to the white and the knot has just passed through the eye. I clip the excess off, secure my new thread to my spring and move forward.
Now you know you can quickly change those empty or wrong thread cones. It is difficult to imagine tying that knot from pictures, so I made a video you can watch below that shows the entire process with very close shots. I hope you have enjoyed this post, share what you learn and are generous with what you create. Someone will appreciate your hard work!
