lol "both" but i prefer to oo it as i change threads hugs carolyn

I trim threads, when the machine stops for a color change. That way I do not risk a stray thread of one color getting caught, but not completely covered by another color. Then, it may be difficult to pull out the stray threads to trim.
Angel

Depends on the design for me. I always trim when there is the possibility of a length of thread ending up under a section that is a different color. Even a single darker thread can show through a lighter embroidered section.

Great question. It is going to be interesting to see what all the answers are to your question.

Marcelle

I like to trim at each color change.

only trimmed jump threads while still sewing ONCE. Almost lost a finger and jamed the needle threader. Now I wait for colour changes. xx

I trim at each color change, but make sure the machine is stopped not sewing.

Sometimes I will stop the machine,remove thread, then resume sewing.

I used to clip with every color change - as others have said you can catch a darker color under a lighter color and it does not look so nice. It can also be difficult to cut some jumps after they have been sewn over. I am lucky now, I have a new machine that cuts the threads for me - but I still use the old machine sometimes and it is back to manual cutting.

It depends on the design for me, too. I do like to live dangerously and trim while the machine is going, but I would never recommend it!;)

I clip while I am changing colors. *4U

I trim at color change unless I see the jump stitch is going to be caught under other stitches. Then I stop my machine & clip them. I don't like to have to clip & tug on the thread to get it out! I do have a machine that will cut jump stitches, but it looks so messy on the back I rarely use it!!

Sometimes in danger 8-)
and often at a colour change and I try to get both threads up on top before starting a color for easy trimming and no knots on the back

As I'm an fascinated by the thread painting emerging, I sit at the machine most times and trim the jump threads as they occur. I find this gives a cleaner stitched design. Jump threads can sometimes cause a distortion in the design.
AlmaG.

It depends . If I know that the next thread/ colour is going to go over the top then I do my best to remove it. I do not think I would try do do that while my machine is going!!!

I usually clip at thread changes. But I have also done it while the machine is running. Depends on where the thread is in the design and where the needle is at that time. AND how long the jump thread is. If it's a shorty, I'll stop the machine and use my 6" long tweezers. Those are the handiest tool that I have beside the machine. Can't stand looking at jump stitches while it's sewing.

I must say I have missed a few jumps. I really watch FSL. ALL 20+ angels have extra threads running through. For a newbie it is sometimes hard to discern what stitches are jump and what are support. I figure if the thread is 1/2 in or more it is a jump. I stop the machine if I think a jump will be run over, otherwise I clip at color changes. Whoever clips while the machine is running needs an assistant cause she does not have enough time(sugar)! And I hope it is a BIG hoop so you don't get hurt! Live Laugh Download Stitch! LLDS!christine