Have you ever started sewing only to find that your thread is tangled and won’t go through the needle?
Or maybe you’ve noticed that your stitches are uneven and pucker easily or the sewing machine stitch is not catching. If you’ve experienced either of these issues, chances are your sewing machine needs to be re-threaded.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the importance of correctly threading your machine, how to fix common threading problems, and summarize the steps necessary for proper machine threading.
The Importance of correctly threading your sewing machine
Threading your sewing machine correctly is important because it prevents tension problems, skipped stitches, and premature needle breakage.
If the upper thread and bobbin are not positioned correctly, the machine will not operate smoothly and may even break the needle. Therefore, it is essential that you take the time to properly thread your machine before beginning any sewing project.
If your machine isn’t sewing any stitches, here are some common fixes to that problem.
One of the most common problems sewers face is thread bunching underneath the fabric. This can be caused by several things including incorrect needle size, incorrect thread tension, or a dull cutting blade.
To fix this problem, start by checking that you are using the correct needle size for your fabric type. Then, check the tension on both the upper thread and bobbin; if either is too tight, it will cause the fabric to bunch.
Replace the cutting blade if it is dull. This will ensure that your fabric glides smoothly through the machine.
Secondly, ensure that the top thread is correctly threaded and fix it if necessary. Make sure that the needle thread is behind the needle bar on the guide. If there are any knots or tangles, cut them out and remove them from around the bobbin area.
Next, check that the tread is not too thick for the needle. Check the table of fabrics, tread, and needle combinations to select the correct combination. If necessary, readjust upper threat tension. Check that needle is not bent or the end of the needle is blunt- replace if necessary.
Lastly, take a look at the presser foot. Make sure there are no scratches on or around the hole in the presser foot, and ensure that you’re using the correct presser foot for your desired stitch.
If using a bobbin, make sure it is inserted correctly flat on the bottom with tread behind the bobbin spring inner rotary hook with no scratches on the surface. Then replace it if necessary.
Steps necessary for proper machine threading
- Start by raising the presser foot lever and turning off the power to your machine.
- Next, insert the spool of thread into the spindle on top of the machine and pull a few inches of thread through to secure it in place.
- Now it’s time to pass the thread through the needle eye from back to front; use tweezers or needle nose pliers if necessary.
- Once the thread is through the needle eye, pull it towards the back of the machine and pass it through all of the guides until you reach the take-up lever. The take-up lever is located at the top of the machine and looks like a small metal arm; when pulled back, it should raise up slightly.
- Now gently pull on the thread until you feel tension and then hold onto both ends of the thread while you lower the presser foot lever back into place; this will help prevent the thread from slipping while you sew.
- Finally, turn on the power to your machine and test the stitch on scrap fabric to make sure it looks good before sewing on your project!
By taking the time to machine-thread correctly, you can prevent a number of sewing problems including tension issues, skipped stitches, and needle breakage.
Sewing can be a relaxing and therapeutic activity – but only when everything is going smoothly! We hope this guide has helped you troubleshoot any problems you’ve been having with your sewing machine’s top thread. Happy sewing!