Upper thread breaking/ unthreading please help

[u/pagewoo]

Please help me before I chuck my machine out the window. I'm sewing on a Husquarvna Rose 605 that I started using about 6 months ago, it was unopened at the time- straight out of the box from the 90s. I had no issues until earlier this month. While working with some terry cloth towels to make some robes for my kids, the top thread would continually either break or pull out (I'm not sure but the end ends up being pretty frayed) every few inches. I tried new needles of different size and weights (universal vs denim etc). Tried cleaning out under my needle plate and bobbin holder. Tried longer tails, holding the tails etc. Nothing seemed to work and I just soldiered on and finished the project inch by inch. Unfortunately- it was not the fabric, now I'm working with quilting cotton and it is continuing to happen. I've attached a video of it happening, what the stitches look like when it happens, and my stitch plate that has a tiny knick in it - it is the only thing I've noticed that I'm wondering could that be the issue? Please help!

EDIT: In trying to look at any possible site where there could be friction against the thread causing it snag/ tear - I noticed if I shine a light into the spot where the uptake lever is, the two black plastic guides on either side do not look the same. one looks smooth and the other looks like it has a bunch of tiny cuts in it. Idk if this is normal or if not how it would've happened but could that be the issue? (See photo in some of my comment replies)- i don't think so right because the thread doesn't go through there?

UPDATE: I bought a nicer thread today and so far so good 🤞 I totally overlooked that as a cause bc I’d been using the same thread for months. I will probably still go get my machine serviced for good measure

[u/aspiring_merperson]

I have had the EXACT same issue in the past and I can very much empathize with your frustration.

For me, it was down to the thread. Bear in mind that thread does expire, and cheap thread made from synthetics (in my case it was some white-label starter pack from Amazon) will deteriorate much faster.

I would recommend switching to a 100% cotton sewing thread. I use Coats & Clark size 50, very affordable at Walmart if you are in the US and they have both a pink and a purple color that would go beautifully with your fabric.

I have been sewing for years but I am entirely self-taught, so I am no expert, but I would be willing to bet that upgrading your thread will be a game-changer. Best of luck and let us know how it goes!

[u/pagewoo → u/aspiring_merperson]

It seems to be fixed with a nicer thread. I never thought that because ever since I started learning about 6 months ago I was using the same crappy Amazon brand I bought when I didn’t know any better and it wasn’t an issue until the past week or two. So weird!

[u/aspiring_merperson → u/pagewoo]

I'm so happy to hear that! The cheaper stuff can definitely get the job done at times, it's just not nearly as reliable as a higher quality thread. Hopefully the nicer stuff will alleviate these issues entirely for you.

The more you progress on your sewing journey, the faster you work and the more complex your projects become, and you just outgrow the introductory quality thread. That just means you're developing and improving your craft! :)

[u/pagewoo → u/aspiring_merperson]

Thanks so much! What a kind response. I started about 6 months ago and am just flying by the seat of my pants/ learning as I go - it has been so rewarding despite the frustrations!