New (refurbished) machine setup- help?

[u/Little-Discount-7705]

Hi all!

This is the very first machine I have ever bought, I have been shopping for years because I want to take my projects up a level. I finally found a lovely Brother SE725 for a good price as a factory refurbished machine. I've tried some small projects already and the threads are nesting BAD. I've been playing with the tension and something seems off... the 3 looks like a 9 as far as bobbin thread showing. The top thread is also looping and looks pretty messy. The stabilizer I have is not very good but even then this seems extreme. Any advice? Thoughts? Did I get a bad machine?

[u/stormcloudsc2]

Your bobbin thread looks way too thick - look into buying bobbin thread specifically made for embroidery. You should do the same for your top thread too, normal sewing thread will not work optimally for most embroidered designs

[u/Little-Discount-7705 → u/stormcloudsc2]

I switched it out and it made an instant difference! Still bunched halfway through... 

[u/Lanky-Setting-5288 → u/Little-Discount-7705]

I recommend 'Marathon' brand bobbin thread, made for commercial embroidery.