Grace Q'nique 14+ User Manual

Page 1

Page 2

Table Of Contents

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS..................................................................................................... 4

Specications And Overview.................................................................................................................. 5

Specications And Overview.................................................................................................................. 6

Included Parts And Tools....................................................................................................................... 7

Wheel Alignment.................................................................................................................................. 8

Installing The Encoder Onto The Carriage.............................................................................................. 9

Installing Encoder Onto The Quilting Machine....................................................................................... 10

Placing The Quilting Machine Onto The Carriage And Connecting Encoders............................................. 11

Attaching Thread Mast........................................................................................................................ 12

Threading The Quilting Machine...........................................................................................................13

Winding The Bobbin........................................................................................................................... 14

Installing The Bobbin Case.................................................................................................................. 15

Adjusting Thread Tension.................................................................................................................... 16

Plugging In The Cables....................................................................................................................... 17

Final Checklist.................................................................................................................................... 18

Basic Controls.................................................................................................................................... 19

Main Menu......................................................................................................................................... 20

Sewing Modes.................................................................................................................................... 21

Sewing Modes Continued.................................................................................................................... 22

T ools Menu........................................................................................................................................ 23

Tools Menu Continued......................................................................................................................... 24

Tools Menu Continued......................................................................................................................... 25

Repair Kit........................................................................................................................................... 26

The Needle Plate................................................................................................................................ 27

The Hook Holder................................................................................................................................. 28

Hopping Foot..................................................................................................................................... 29

Timing The Machine........................................................................................................................... 30

Thread Tension.................................................................................................................................. 31

Changing A Needle............................................................................................................................. 32

Cleaning Bobbin Area.......................................................................................................................... 33

Oiling the Machine: Head.................................................................................................................... 34

Oiling the Machine: Hook.................................................................................................................... 35

14+ Troubleshooting Instruction.......................................................................................................... 36

Needle Information............................................................................................................................. 38

Thread Information............................................................................................................................ 39

Additional Tips................................................................................................................................... 40

Page 3

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

When using an electrical machine, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:

Read all instructions before using (this machine).

DANGER - To reduce the risk of electric shock:

1. The machine should never be left unattended when plugged in. Always unplug this machine from

the electric outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.

WARNING - To reduce the risk of burns, re, electric shock, or injury to persons:

1. Do not allow this machine to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when this machine is

used by or near children.

2. Use this machine only for its intended use as described in this manual. Use only attachments recommended by the manufacturer as contained in this manual.

3. Never operate this machine if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has

been dropped or damaged, or dropped into water. Return the machine to the nearest authorized dealer

or service center for examination, repair, electrical or mechanical adjustment.

4. Never operate the machine with any air openings blocked. Keep ventilation openings of the sewing

machine free from the accumulation of lint, dust, and loose cloth.

5. Never drop or insert any object into any opening.

6. Do not use outdoors.

7. Do not operate where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is being administered.

8. To disconnect, turn all controls to the off position, then remove the plug from the outlet.

9. Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.

ii) Keep ngers away from all moving parts. Special care is required around the sewing machine needle. iii) Always use the proper needle plate. The wrong plate can cause the needle to break. iv) Do not use bent needles. v) Do not pull or push fabric while stitching. It may deect the needle causing it to break. vi) Switch the sewing machine off when making any adjustments in the needle area, such as threading needle, changing needle, threading bobbin, or changing presser foot, etc. vii) Always unplug sewing machine from the electrical outlet when removing covers, lubricating,

or when making any other user servicing adjustments mentioned in the instruction manual.

Connect this machine to a properly grounded outlet only. See Grounding Instructions.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Do not discard box or packaging

Page 4

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

GROUNDING INSTRUCTIONS

This product must be grounded. In the event of malfunction or breakdown, grounding provides a path of least resistance for electric current to reduce the risk of electric shock. This product is equipped with a cord having an equipment-grounding conductor and a grounding plug. Plug the cord from the quilting

machine into a surge protector. The surge protector must be plugged into an appropriate outlet that is

properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.

DANGER - Improper connection of the equipment-grounding conductor can result in a risk of electric

shock. The conductor with insulation having an outer surface that is green with or without yellow stripes is the equipment-grounding conductor. If repair or replacement of the cord or plug is necessary, do not connect the equipment-grounding conductor to a live terminal. Check with a qualied electrician or serviceman if the grounding instructions are not completely understood, or if in doubt as to whether

the product is properly grounded.

Do not modify the plug provided with the product - if it will not t the outlet, have a proper outlet installed by a qualied electrician.″

This product is for use on a nominal 120 V circuit, and has a grounding plug that looks like the plug

illustrated in sketch A in Figure 61.1. A temporary adaptor, which looks like the adaptor illustrated in

sketches B and C, may be used to connect this plug to a 2-pole receptacle as

shown in sketch B if a properly grounded outlet is not available. The temporary adaptor should be used only until a properly grounded outlet can be installed by a qualied electrician. The green colored rigid

ear, lug, and the like, extending from the adaptor must be connected to a permanent ground such as a properly grounded outlet box cover. Whenever the adaptor is used, it must be held in place by the

metal screw.

A qualied electrician should be consulted if there is any doubt as to whether an outlet box is properly

grounded.

Grounding Methods

Figure 61.1

Surge

Protector

To Sewing

Machine

Adapter

Grounding

(A)

Surge

Protector

To Sewing

Machine

Metal

Screw

Cover of

Grounded

Outlet Box

(B)

Grounding

Means

(C)

Grounding

(D)

Page 5

Specications And Overview

1. Height: 480 mm, 19”

2. Width: 395 mm, 15.5”

3. Length: 585 mm, 23”

4. Weight: 42 Lbs

5. Quilting Arm Length: 15” W 8.5” H

6. Maximum SPM: 1800

7. Minimum SPM: 90

8. Input Voltage: 110-220 VAC

9. Peak Power Consumption: 300 W

10. Timing Belt System

11. Bobbin Type: Large M Class

12. OLED Screen

13. Custom Ergonomic Handles and Handlebars for

efciency and extended use

14. Built in Bobbin Winder

15. Dual Thread Tension Guides, for precise tension.

Front

Rear

Left

Right

Page 6

Specications and Overview

1. Thread Mast Base

2. Bobbin Thread Guide

3. Bobbin Thread Tensioner

4. Bobbin Thread Cutter

5. Bobbin Wind Stand

6. Bobbin Sensor

7. Dual Thread Tension Guide

8. Small Thread Tensioner

9. Large Thread Tensioner

10. Thread Guides

11. Take Up Lever

12. Lamp

13. Needle Bar

14. Needle

15. Hopping Foot

16. Thread Stand

17. Carriage Wheels

18. Handwheel

19. Bobbin Case

Page 7

Included Parts And Tools

Please make sure all pieces were included in your kit.

1. Bobbin Case - 1

2. M Class Bobbin - 3

3. Thread Mast - 1

4. Needle - 10

5. OLED Screen with Cable - 1

6. Oil Bottle - 1

7. Lint Brush - 1

8. Power Cord - 1

9. Encoder - 2

• Silver Spring - 1

• Black Spring - 1

10. Top Encoder Cable - 1 (pre-installed in silver spring encoder)

11. Bottom Encoder Cable - 1 (pre-installed in black spring encoder)

Tools:

12. Flat Head Screw Driver - 1

13. 4 mm Allen Wrench - 1

14. 3 mm Allen Wrench - 1

15. 2.5 mm Allen Wrench- 1

16. 2 mm Allen Wrench -1

Repair Kit Parts

1. M3 Thumb Screw - 1

2. Encoder Spring Lower (Black) - 1

3. Encoder Spring Upper (Sliver) - 1

4. Encoder O-Ring - 2

5. Timing Spacer - 1

Page 8

Wheel Alignment

1. Using the 3mm allen wrench, loosen the set screws located above each of the wheels on the machine.

2. Estimate the distance the wheels need to be moved to sit on your carriage, and set the machine

onto the carriage on your quilting frame.

3. Readjust the wheels as necessary while centering the machine between the left and right wheels.

4. Tighten the set screws using the 3mm allen wrench.

Dual-Track

M6 Set Screw

Double Track

Bracket

Double-Single Track Adaptor

Single Vertical Track

M6 Set Screw

Single Track

Bracket

Single Vertical Track

Double-Single Track Adaptor Height Spacer

Page 9

Installing The Encoder Onto The Carriage

1. Use the 4mm allen wrench to remove the M6 x 16mm SBHCS from the outer, left, rear wheel, in the Bottom Plate.

2. Put the wheel, which you just removed, onto the encoder wheel bolt of the black spring encoder, with

the anged hub facing out, away from the encoder.

3. Use the 2mm allen wrench to loosen the set screw in the lock collar, without removing it, so that the

encoder wheel bolt can turn freely.

4. Hold the encoder to prevent it from rotating, and use the 4mm allen wrench to fasten the encoder

wheel bolt into the hole made available in the rst step.

5. Keep the spare bolts with your quilting frame’s spare parts.

6. Leave the encoder’s set screw loose. They will be tightened after you place the sewing machine on

your frame.

Encoder With

Black Spring

Loosen The Set

Screw Using The

2mm Allen Wrench

Encoder With

Black Spring

If the encoder is attached on the inside of the

bottom carriage, as shown above, the encoder

spring must be tensioned in the opposite direction.

See the encoder spring tensioning image on page

11 for direction on tensioning the encoder spring

Page 10

Installing Encoder Onto

1. Use the 4mm allen wrench to remove the

M6 x 16mm SBHCS from the outer, left, rear wheel, in the sewing machine.

2. Put the wheel, which you just removed,

onto the sliver spring encoder wheel bolt with the anged hub facing out, away from

the encoder.

3. Before attaching the encoder, use the 2mm

allen wrench to loosen the set screw in the lock collar, so that the encoder wheel bolt

can turn freely.

4. Hold the encoder to prevent it from rotating,

and use the 4mm allen wrench to fasten the encoder wheel bolt into the hole made available in the rst step.

5. Leave the encoder’s set screw loose. They

will be tightened after you place the sewing

machine on your frame.

The Quilting Machine

Remove the

M6 x 16mm

SBHCS

Loosen The Set

Screw Using The

2mm Allen Wrench

Encoder Assembly

Option 1

Shoulder Spacer

Washer

Plastic Stop

Wheel Spacer

Encoder

Wheel Bolt

Encoder With

Silver Spring

Option 2

Sliver Spring

Encoder

Wheel Bolt

Encoder With

Silver Spring

Flat Track

Bearing

“V” T rack

Bearing

Page 11

Placing The Quilting Machine Onto The Carriage And Connecting Encoders

1. Place the bottom plate onto the quilting frame,

2. Place the sewing machine onto the bottom plate. Make sure that the encoder rides on the carriage track.

3. Plug in the encoder cables from each of the encoders into the sewing machine. The longer

cable is used for the encoder attached to the carriage, while the shorter cable is used for the encoder attached to the sewing machine.

4. Rotate the lock collar on the encoder up about 100 degrees or until you feel adequate push back

from the spring. While holding the lock collar in that position, tighten each set screw using the

2mm Allen Wrench.

Option 1

Option 2

Long Encoder

Cable

Short Encoder

Cable

Encoder Spring Tensioning

100 degrees

Set Screw

Bottom Encoder/

Black Spring

Lock Collar

Top Encoder/

Silver Spring

100 degrees

Lock Collar

An encoder assembly tutorial is availablie on our website at:

http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/

QR CODE

Page 12

1. Attach the thread mast to the thread mast base.

2. Make sure it is securely attached by screwing it on.

3. The guide loops on the thread mast should be positioned so that they are directly above the thread stands.

Connecting Front Display

Attaching Thread Mast

Thread

Mast

The thread

mast acts as a

guide for the

thread, and

makes it less

likely to get

snagged or

looped around

any object.

• Connect the Display ribbon cable from the Display to the display mount, and attach the display by snapping it into the Display hub.

Display

Screen

Display Ribbon

Cable

Page 13

Threading The Quilting Machine

1. Place thread on the cone style thread stand.

2. Pull the thread through both loops of the thread mast.

3. Put the thread through the top hole on the thread

guide, wrap the thread around and through the

bottom hole of thread guide at the middle of the machine.

4. Take the thread through the rst thread tensioner,

between the two disks.

5. Loop the thread down around the second tensioner.

6. Pull the thread through the tensioner disks and

around the spring hook.

7. Feed the thread through the right thread guide up to the take up lever.

8. Pull the thread through the hole in the take up lever.

9. Feed thread into the left thread guide below.

10. Pull the thread down towards the needle and through the bottom thread guide.

11. Feed the thread through the eyelet in the front of the needle arm.

12. Feed the thread through the eye of the needle.

Needle Diagram

Front View Side View

Shank

Shaft

Groove

Eye

Point

Scarf

Make sure the

thread is between

the tensioner discs

Use cone style

thread thread

The Thread Must

Go Through The

Check Spring

*Be sure to

install the

Needle with

the scarf

A threading tutorial is availablie on our website at:

http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/

toward

the throat

of your

QR CODE

machine.

Page 14

Winding The Bobbin

1. Place the thread on the thread stand.

2. Pass the thread through the hooks in the thread mast.

3. Pull the thread through the bobbin thread guide at the back of the

quilting machine.

4. Loop the thread around the spring hook and around the thread tensioner.

5. Wrap the thread around the bobbin as shown.

6. Start the bobbin winder by pushing the bobbin winder cam into the

bobbin.

When the bobbin is full it will automatically stop.

Thread

Mast

The bobbin winds in a

clockwise direction

Adjust the

cam so that

the bobbin

does not

over-ll

Push Bobbin Winder Cam

Thread

Cutter

When the bobbin is full you can cut

the thread with the thread cutter

found next to the bobbin stand.

A bobbin winder tutorial is availablie on our website at:

http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/

QR CODE

Make sure the

thread is between

the tensioner discs

The bobbin winder runs

on a separate motor from

the quilting machine. This

allows you to wind bobbins

with the quilting machine

running or stopped, as

long as the power is on.

Page 15

Installing The Bobbin Case

1. Remove the bobbin case.

2. Place the full bobbin into the bobbin case.

3. Pull thread from bobbin through the bobbin case.

4. Place the bobbin case into the quilting machine with the lever arm at the 3 o’clock position, and press it into place until it “clicks” in.

Pull the

Lever To Release The Bobbin Case

Bobbin

Case

*Note the direction the

thread is coming off the

bobbin in relation to the

bobbin case.

Pull Several Inches

Of Thread Out Of

The Bobbin Case

Do Not Use The

Lever when

Inserting The Bobbin Case.

Bobbin

Case

Hook

Assembly

Page 16

Adjusting Thread Tension

Note: The thread tension will need to be adjusted

anytime the thread is changed. Follow the process below to adjust the thread tension for the thread you

have selected. See page 31 for more information about properly tensioning your thread.

1. Set the bobbin case, with the bobbin inside, in your hand

on its side and pull up on the thread. The thread should

pull the bobbin case vertical and the thread should ow out of the bobbin without lifting the bobbin off of your hand. If

the bobbin pulls out of your hand, the tension is too tight

and will need to be loosened. If the thread ows out of the

bobbin on its side but does not pull the bobbin vertical the

tension is too loose and will need to be tightened.

When the thread

is pulled The

bobbin will turn

clockwise.

2. To adjust the bobbin tension, locate the larger

of the two screws on the bobbin case. Tighten the tension in minute adjustments by twisting the large screw to the right or clockwise. To loosen, twist the large screw to the left or counterclockwise minutely.

Turn the screw clockwise to

increase bobbin tension and

counter-clockwise to decrease

bobbin tension

3. Adjust the top thread tension after the bobbin tension is

established. Start with the knob loosend so that none of the screw is showing, then slowly increase the tension until the thread tension

is balanced and the thread knots in the middle layers of your fabric.

A thread tension tutorial is availablie on our website at:

http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/

QR CODE

Page 17

Plugging In The Cables

Power

Adapter

Off On

Quilt Motion

Tablet

(For optional Automation Accessory)

Once all the components are connected,

you can attach the power cord to the sewing machine, then connect the

power cord to an outlet.

When you are ready to begin sewing, turn on the machine using the power switch

located on the back of the machine.

Below is a reference of how the machine

should be congured.

» USB Connector Port

(Programming only)

» Quilt Motion Control

» Encoder

Power

Cord

Long

Encoder

cable

» Foot Pedal

(For sit down system)

Short

Encoder

Cable

Page 18

Before you begin sewing make sure that:

• The mast is attached and tightened securely

• The bobbin winder was able to ll a bobbin and stops when full

• The quilting machine is threaded correctly

• The handle bars are not loose

• The display hub is secured to the handle bars

• The display powers on and displays the quilting settings

• Check for bent needles

• The needle is secured rmly into the needle bar

• The power cord is securely connected

No objects other than quilting materials should be near the needle or quilting area of the quilting machine.

Final Checklist

Page 19

Basic Controls

1. Menu - This button returns the user to the main menu screen from any other screen.

2. Back - This button will return the user to the previously viewed screen.

3. Needle Up / Needle Down - A quick push and release of this button allows you to cycle the

needle to the up or the down position. Holding this button for three seconds will change the default stop needle position. When the machine powers up the needle will always default to the up position.

4. Start / Stop , Select - This button will select the highlighted function icon. When in a sewing

function menu such as regulate, manual or baste this button will cause the sewing machine to sew, or stop sewing.

5. Increase , Scroll up - When in a menu this button will scroll up for navigation of listed icon

selections. When a variable window is highlighted, such as speed, stitches / inch, time or cycles, this button will allow the user to increment the value of the variable up.

6. Decrease , Scroll down - When in a menu this button will scroll down for navigation of listed icon

selections. When a variable window is highlighted, such as speed, stitches / inch, time or cycles this button will allow the user to increment the value of the variable down.

Back

Menu Controls

Select

Scroll Up

3 4

Scroll

Down

Need Up/

Needle Down

Sewing Controls

Start/

Stop

Decrease

Speed

Increase

Speed

Page 20

Main Menu

The Main Menu provides access to the different sewing methods and access the tools menu.

Regulated Precise -

In both regulated modes, the sewing machine will adjust its rate of stitching based on the speed at which the user moves the machine on the quilt frame, in order to maintain a constant stitch length. The screen will show you the current state, and sewing settings. In Precise Mode, the machine will stop sewing if it is not being moved.

Regulated Cruise -

In cruise mode, the machine will not stop sewing if it is not being moved. The Stitch speed will not drop below 5%, even when the machine is at rest.

Manual Mode -

This mode allows you to set the speed of the machine. When sewing in this mode the machine speed is xed. To get consistent stitch lengths you must adjust your movements to match the

speed of the machine. This mode is especially useful for small continuous stippling type patterns, as opposed to regulated stitching functions.

Baste -

The baste feature allow the user to place a temporary stitch at large intervals to secure fabric

layers together.

Tools-

The tools menu allows access to information regarding the sewing machine. You can also enter the

diagnostics menu to test different aspects of the machine to identify issues.

Page 21

Sewing Modes

Over-speed Indicator -

This will be green when the sewing machine is being moved within the speed limit for sewing. When the

indicator turns red and beeps it means

the sewing machine is being moved more quickly than the sewing machine can stitch, and will be unable to maintain

the SPI setting. In addition to the red

indicator, an audible beep will sound until the speed is reduced sufciently to allow the machine to regulate.

Needle Position Indicator-

This is a visual representation for the

default needle position when sewing is

stopped. T o change, hold the left needle

up/down button for three seconds.

Stitches Per Inch

setting

Over-speed

Indicator

SPI Setting (Stitch Per Inch) -

Shows the current SPI setting, the minimum is 4, and the maximum is 16.

Start / Stop Indicator -

This button indicates what action the sewing machine will take when the

start/stop button is pressed.

Needle Stop

Position

Indicator

(up position)

Needle Stop

Position

Indicator

(down position)

Start \ Stop

Indicator

Page 22

Sewing Modes Continued

• The baste stitch can be set to small, medium, or large.

MANUAL

Large

Stitch Size Setting

• The Speed indicator shows current

sewing speed as a percentage of

the maximum 1800 stitches per

minute. The minimum being 5% and the maximum of 100%.

Speed Setting

Indicator

Page 23

Tools Menu

The tools menu allows access to information regarding the sewing

machine. You can also enter the diagnostics menu to test different aspects of the machine to identify issues.

Stitch / Time

This screen displays the number

of stitches sewn and hours the

machine has run. Hours and stitches can be reset individually. T o reset either one, navigate to the

option you wish to reset using the

+ or - keys and then press select. Total -

This area cannot be reset. The

sewing machine will keep track of the total number of stitches sewn,

and hours the machine has run.

HOURS

0 0:00

RESET

TOTAL

STITCH

RESET

TOTAL

HOURS

Page 24

Tools Menu Continued

SYSTEM

INFORMATION

MAIN REV:

V1.6.0

03/28/14

DISPLAY REV:

V1.2.2

03/28/14

System Information

This screen will display the motor

control rmware version and the display control rmware version.

DIAGNOSTICS

ENCODER TEST

BUTTON TEST

SENSOR TEST

SELF TESTS

Diagnostics

The diagnostics are used to identify

where the sewing machine may be experiencing an issue. This will be very useful when working with a technician.

The diagnostics can be used to

troubleshoot a machine. They provide

a means to do testing, should a

problem arise.

Page 25

Tools Menu Continued

Preferences

This screen will be used to change defaults for various options as follows:

Default: Precise/Cruise/Baste/Menu Units: Inches/Metric Inches/Baste: Small/Medium/Large

Stitch/Inch: 4-16.

Over Speed: On/Off

Left Handed/ Right Handed: This will

reverse the buttons for right or left handed users.

PREFERENCES

DEFAULT CRUISE

UNITS INCHES

BASTE SMALL

STITCH/INCH 10

OVER SPEED ON RIGHT HANDED

Page 26

This section contains direction for cleaning and maintaining

the quilting machine, and instruction to repair simple issues.

Every sewing machine includes a basic repair kit, which

includes parts to make simple repairs to your machine.

M3 Thumb Screw - 1

A replacement for the needle bar set

screw.

If the thumb screw is overtightened, it

will strip out and will need to be replaced.

Encoder Springs - 1 Black/1 Silver

Replacement springs for the encoders.

Repair Kit

If the encoder springs are over-tensioned

the may break and must be replaced.

Encoder Rubber “O” Ring - 2

Replacement “O” rings for the vertical

The encoder “O” ring may become worn

and need to be replaced.

A tool to make timing your machine

easier and more consistent.

encoder wheel.

Timing Spacer - 1

Page 27

The Needle Plate

1. Place your needle plate on your sewing machine and rotate hand wheel to ensure

needle plate orientation so that all screw holes are visible and needle enters the middle of the needle plate without contacting the needle plate at any point

2. Attach your needle plate using 4 needle plate screws, don’t tighten the screws during this step.

3. Rotate hand wheel until the needle is in the lowest position move needle plate

till it is centered around needle and tighten all 4 needle plate screws.

Needle Plate Screw

Needle Plate

Needle

Page 28

The Hook Holder

Tools Needed:

• 3mm Allen Wrench - Green Handle

1. Rotate your hook assembly so that the positioning guide is at the highest point during rotation.

2. Attach your hook holder to your sewing machine with a M5 X 10 SBHCS (don’t tighten the screw

during this step) with the hook holder’s nger in the middle of the hook assembly’s positioning

guide.

3. Slide your hook holder away from the hook assembly so there is about a 0.75mm gap (it’s hard

to measure so just make it as big of a gap as possible) between the hook holder and the hook assembly, and tighten the M5 X 10 SBHCS.

M5 X 10 FHCS

Hook Assembly

Hook Holder

Hook Assembly

Positioning

Guide

0.75mm Gap

between Hook

Holder and Hook

Assembly

Page 29

Hopping Foot

Tools Needed:

• 3mm Allen Wrench

1. Using the hand wheel in the back of your machine, rotate your machine until the needle

bar is in the lowest position.

2. Attach your hopping foot to the press bar using a M3 Thumb Screw (don’t tighten during this step)

3. Using the hole in the needle plate, align the hopping foot so that is centered.

4. Place 8 sheets of paper under the foot and lower the hopping foot to the top of the surface. You may need to use 4 sheets more or less of paper if your project is particularly thick or thin.

5. Tighten the bolt using the 3mm Allen Wrench

3mm Allen

Wrench

Press Bar

Needle Plate

M3 Thumb

Screw

M3 Thumb

Screw

Hopping Foot

Page 30

Timing The Machine

Tools Needed:

• 2mm Allen Wrench

• Timing Spacer

3. Rotate the handwheel clockwise from the front of the machine so needle is raising out of the hook assembly.

4. Bring the needle so it rests on the top of timing spacer, so the groove in the needle aligns in the middle of the hook on the hook assembly. The needle should be as close as possible to the hook

assembly without touching, roughly between 0.02mm and 0.075mm.

5. Tighten set screw, make sure needle doesn’t hit hook by watching to see if the needle bends during

rotation and there is no clicking noise. Rotate machine using the handwheel a full rotation to ensure the needle doesn’t hit anywhere during rotation. If needle hits the hook assembly anywhere during rotation adjust needle height up or down off center from hook in 0.25mm increments as appropriate

to clear the collision.

6. Tighten the two remaining set screws and reattach the needle plate.

Needle

1. Remove needle plate.

2. Loosen all three hook assembly set screws with a M2 allen

wrench by inserting the wrench into the machines timing hole cut out when each set screw aligns with the hole.

2mm Allen

Wrench

(Red Handle)

Hook

Assembly

Set

Screws

0.02-0.1mm Gap

Scarf

Timing Hole

Cut Out

Timing Spacer

Hook

Tip Of Needle

A timing tutorial is availablie on our website at:

http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/

CODE

Page 31

Thread Tension

Proper Tension

Top

Fabric

Bottom

Fabric

Top Thread

Thread

Knot

Bobbin Thread

If the thread is properly tensioned the top thread

and the bobbin thread will

knot in the middle of the fabric layers.

Too Much Top Tension

Too Little Top Tension

Too Little Bobbin Tension

Too Much Bobbin Tension

If the bobbin thread is being pulled through the top layer of fabric you need to decrease the tension on the top thread by turning the top tension

knob counter-clockwise.

Bobbin Thread Pulled

Through Top fabric

If the top thread is being pulled through the bottom layer of fabric you need to increase the tension on the top thread by turning the top

tension knob clockwise.

Top Thread

Pulled Through

Bottom Fabric

Decrease Tension

Turn The Knob

Counter-Clockwise

Increase Tension

Turn The Knob Clockwise

It is very important to make sure that the bobbin tension is properly set rst, see page 16 for

directions on setting the bobbin tension. As long as you have your bobbin tension correct, you should

be able to x the tension by adjusting only the top tension. If you are unable to x you tension by only

adjusting the top tension you may need to re-adjust the bobbin tension.

A thread tension tutorial is availablie on our website at:

http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/

CODE

Page 32

1. Power off the machine

2. Raise the Needle to the highest point

3. Loosen the thumb screw that secures the needle a quarter turn.

4. Remove old needle and insert the new one

5. Hand tighten the thumb screw while holding the needle in place.

Old

Needle

Needle Thumb

Screw

* Hand tighten Needle

Thumb Screw only.

Changing A Needle

*The eye of

the needle

faces the

bobbin

opening

*Be sure to install the needle

with the scarf (indent) toward

the throat of your machine.

Needle Thumb

Screw

New

Needle

Cleaning Tension Discs

1. Remove thread

2. Remove all lint and thread remnants.

• You can use canned/compressed air to clean this area

• Lint build up between the tension discs can prevent you from being able to properly tension your thread

Separate the tension discs and clear them of lint

and debris

Page 33

Cleaning Bobbin Area

1. Remove the bobbin case.

2. Remove all lint and any cloth and thread remnants.

• You can use canned/compressed

air to clean this area out as well.

Cleaning Bobbin Case

1. Remove the bobbin.

2. Remove all lint and thread remnants.

3. Place the bobbin back into the bobbin case.

• Once both components are clean reassemble

the bobbin case and place it into the sewing

machine.

Clean the

inside of the

hook assembly

Clean the

inside of the

bobbin case

Clean the area

around the

hook assembly

Clean the area

under the bobbin thread tension spring

Page 34

Oiling the Machine: Head

We recommend oiling your machine regularly to keep it operating smoothly. It is recommended that

you oil your machine every 20 hrs of use. If you use the machine frequently, we recommend oiling at

the beginning of each project. Oil before use if you have not used your machine f or more than 30 days.

The head of the machine and the hook assembly are the only areas that require regular lubrication.

Place one to two drops of oil into the holes indicated with the arrows.

Tilting the display away from the machine will make it easier to access the oil points.

Tilt the

Display

Back

1-2 Drops

Keeping the machine well oiled will reduce wear and extend the life of the sewing machine.

An oiling tutorial is availablie on our website at:

http://www.qniquequilter.com/videos/tutorials/

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Page 35

Oiling the Machine: Hook

Frequency: Once every other bobbin change.

1. Remove the bobbin case.

2. Ensure all lint and thread remnants have been removed.

3. Rotate the handwheel so that the needle is halfway down, about a quarter

turn. This will put the hook in the optimal position to be oiled.

4. Place 1 drop of oil on the hook assembly indicated by the arrow, pictured here.

5. Rotate the handwheel and place it into the ‘needle Up’ position.

1-2 Drops

After oiling, run the machine briey to ensure all components receive lubrication.

Page 36

Issue Cause Solution

Critical distances check if not

working/stitching properly or

making noise

Machine Power Cable may be loose

Skipped Stitches

Thread Bunches Up Or Is Getting Wrapped Around

Hook Holder

14+ Troubleshooting Instruction

Troubleshooting Mechanics

Hopping foot in lowest position .5mm away from

needle plate

Make sure Timing is correct See timing instructions

Check there is a proper distance between hook

holder and hook assembly

Machine stitching troubleshooting

Machine may be improperly threaded

Hopping foot may be too close or too far from

the needle plate

Machine may be improperly timed

The needle may be damaged

Bobbin may be wound or threaded improperly

Thread may have too much or too little tension

Hook holder pressing against hook assembly

Bobbin threaded incorrectly

Machine threaded incorrectly

Bobbin case has a damaged or missing spring Replace the bobbin case

Bobbin is wound incorrectly

Thread tension is not correct

Check timing is correct

See hook holder instructions

Check all cables and ensure they are

securely plugged in

Check threading and make sure the

thread passes through all tensioners and

thread guides (page 13)

Check and adjust the hopping foot gap

(page 28&30)

Re-time the machine. See timing

instructions (page 29)

Check the needle and replace it if

necessary (page 30)

Check the bobbin to ensure that it is

properly wound and that it is properly

inserted into the bobbin case (page 15-

16)

Check and redajust your tension (page

31)

Loosen the hook holder and slide it as far

away from the hook assembly as possible

Check the bobbin to ensure that it is

properly inserted into the bobbin case

(page 15-16)

Check threading and make sure the

thread passes through all tensioners and

thread guides (page 13)

Check the bobbin to ensure that it is

properly wound (page 15-16)

Check and redajust your tension (page

31)

Re-time the machine. See timing

instructions (page 29)

Page 37

Issues Cause Solution

Thread Breaking

Machine Is Running Loud

14+ Troubleshooting Instruction

Machine stitching troubleshooting - continued

Thread tension too tight Decrease tension (page 31)

Inspect for accidental double wrapping

of thread on thread guides, make sure

Machine not threaded correctly

Hesitating too long at one point

Bobbin has a burr on it Check and replace the bobbin

Bobbin not inserted correctly

Top thread and bobbin thread tensions not

balanced

Debris on tension discs

Hook holder pressing against hook assembly or

doesn't have enough space

Bobbin is not correctly wound

Timing needs to be adjusted

Needle bent or burred Replace the needle

Hook assembly needs to be replaced Contact your Sewing Machine Dealer

Needle plate off center rubbing needle See needle plate instructions (page 27)

Hook assembly needs oil

Needle bar and mechannics need oil Only one or two drops of oil

Bobbin winder is runnung

thread mast is directly over thread spool,

make sure thread spool is correctly

installed

Move machine quicker within speed

limitations so stitches don't overlap or

build up, sewing in one place will cause

thread to break

Remove the bobin and make sure that

it clicks when you press it into the hook

assembly

Make sure bobbin tension is adjusted

correctly

Clean between and around the tensioner

discs

Redajust the hook holder (page 28)

Check the bobbin to ensure that it is

properly wound and that it is properly

inserted into the bobbin case (page 15-

16)

if needle is hitting the hook thread will

break. Follow the timing instructions

(page 30)

Only one or two drops of oil see

instructions under oiling my machine

Make sure the bobbin winder cam is

pushed out

Page 38

Needle Information

Needle Diagram

Front View Side View

Shank

Shaft

Groove

Eye

Scarf

Shank - The part of the neeldle that is held in the needle bar

Shaft - The long narrow part of the neeldle. The

diameter measurement is based on the shaft

Groove - Allows the thread to pass through the

fabric more easily Eye - The hole near the tip of the needle for the

thread to pass through

Scarf - A cut away on the back of the needle which allows the the hook on the bobbin assembly to

move past the needle and “hook” the thread Point - The sharp end of the needle. There are

different types of points for different applications

It’s important that you change you needle when

the point dulls or you may damage your fabric

Point

Recommended Needle Style- 135x5, DPX5

(Equivalent Needle Styles-134, 135x7, 797, SY 1955)

Needle Size: Thread Size and Type:

14/90 monolament, 100 wt. silk, 60 wt.

polyester

16/100 monolament, 60 wt., 50 wt. polyester or

cotton thread

18/110 40 wt. cotton and polyester, 30 wt. cottons

and polyester

20/125 any thread 30 wt. or heavier

Change your needle:

• If you can hear your needle popping into your

For the best results:

• Use the recommended needle style and make sure it is properly positioned

• Change your needle after 8 hours of use and at the beginning of each project

• Choose your needle size based on the weight and type of the thread that you use

• Use a multidirectional needle

fabric

• If your thread is breaking

• If you are getting skipped or uneven stitches

• If you are getting puckered or damaged fabrics

• If there is a popping or clunking sound made

by the sewing machine, this may be a sign

that the needle is bent

• After 8 hours of use and at the beginning of each project

Page 39

Thread Information

Things to consider when choosing a thread:

• The manufacturer of the thread matters (for thread weights and quality of thread)

• The weight and ply of the thread. For example: 40/3 means 40 weight 3 ply

• Not every manufacturer uses the same sizing scales. Sometimes it is easiest to examine and

compare threads to nd the size you want

• Thread may be measured in weight, tex, denier, number or composition standards depending

on the brand. Make sure that you know what scale the threads you are considering are

measured by

• The ply is how many strands are twisted together to make the thread

• The size of your thread is important because it will determine the appropriate needle size, effect

your tension and how visible the thread will be on you projects

• Needle sizes

• Too small of a needle will shred medium and heavy threads

• Too large of a needle will cause inconsistent stitching

• The processing and quality of thread. The following processes are the most commonly used:

• Mercerized - Cotton thread that has been treated in a way that increases the strength, improves

color quality and prevents fading.

• Glazed - Mercerized thread that has then been waxed or treated in another way to give it a

polished appearance. The coating may rub off and if this happens it may cause issues with your

machine

• Gassed - Cotton thread that has been exposed to a high temperature gas ame very rapidly. This

process removes fuzz and lint, giving the thread a smoother appearance.

• Bonded - The thread is treated with a resin to increase its strength. Usually used for heavy-duty applications such as upholstery

• Length of Fibers - Also know as the staple. This is the length of the cotton bers. Extra-long staple cotton thread is better because it has better strength and creates less lint.

• Lubricants - Polyester threads generally will have a small amount of lubricant on them to reduce friction. If the thread feels oily it has too much lubricant and should be avoided. Cotton threads should not have lubricant on them

• Colorfastness - How well a thread will hold its color

For the best results:

• Use a thread from a thread cone unless you have the thread spool accessory

• It is recommended that you use a high quality thread when quilting with high quality fabric

• cotton thread works well with most cotton fabrics

• Don’t use old thread unless it will pass the yank test when pulling it off its cone.

• If you can break the thread by sharply yanking it off the cone or spool then it will break in your machine and is not suitable

• Slow down with specialty threads

• Write down tension settings you like with each thread

• An example of a recommended thread is an Extra-Long Staple 100% Egyptian Cotton Mercerized 40/3

• Keep your thread out of direct sunlight, as this will cause the thread to fade and lose strength, and do not store near extreme temperatures

Page 40

Additional Tips

Thread

Thread weight is usually stamped on the edge of the spool or printed on the top or bottom of the spool. Thread becomes heavier as weight designations

• 60 weight, a very thin/ne thread

• 50 weight

• 40 weight

Heavier weight threads are more noticeable on the quilt. A 50 weight thread is a popular choice for quilting and 40 weight threads will be even more visible, while 60 weight versions will usually blend

into the fabric.

Thread weight is only one of many factors to consider when selecting machine quilting thread. Will the thread’s color blend with the fabric or stand out to make quilting an important part of the design? Consider whether you prefer the matte nish of a cotton thread, the shine of a rayon thread, or the glimmer of a metallic thread. Go with what you like, get the right needle for it, and give the thread a

tryout. Remember to adjust the machines thread tension settings based on the type of thread you are using.

decrease

Needles

The size of the needle shows on the front of the package with 2 sizes, the larger number of the two is a metric designation and the smaller is the American standard equivalent. The larger the number, the larger the diameter of the shaft of the needle. As a general rule, the ner the fabric you use on the quilt, the ner the needle you should use as well.

Batting

The weight and thickness of batting is measured by its loft. A low loft batting is thinner and lighter than a high loft batting. Low loft batting is used when a atter appearance is the desired look for a quilt. High loft batting should be used if a uffy full quilt is the goal. Typically, wool batting is the thickest of the various types of batting and bamboo is the lightest. Wool is known for providing the most warmth, followed by polyester and then cotton. Choose the batting that will provide you with

the right look and feel for your project.

Page 41

Page 42

The Grace Company

2225 South 3200 West

Salt Lake City, UT 84119

Phone: 1-800-264-0644

Fax: 801-908-8888

www.graceframe.com

Model: GC140

115-230 V~, 50-60 Hz, 400 W

CONFORMS TO UL STD. 1594

CERTIFIED TO CSA STD. C22.2 No. 68

Date Code: 1511

1-800-264-0644

5000843

HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY

USAGE MENAGER SEULEMENT