Superior Threads

Overriding automatic tension settings

Q.  I don't know if this is a machine problem or a thread problem but 
thought I would start here. I have the Bernina 830 and am piecing with 
Masterpiece Thread. My top thread keeps breaking! My frustration level 
is going up fast. Could it be because the thread is coming off the top 
of the spool instead of the side? I put in a new needle but that hasn't 
helped.
Thanks for any input you might have.

A.  This is an occasional problem with Bernina's automatic tension 
setting (it's too tight).  Override the setting and reduce the top 
tension to the 1.5 to 2.0 range.  Make sure the spool is positioned 
vertically on the upright pin so the thread unwinds straight from the 
side and not over the end. 
This should fix it.