Solutions For Sewing Machine Bobbin Tensions
Tensions are a common source of problems in sewing. Understanding how tensions work is essential for every sewing machine user. It is not as complicated as some believe, and not as simple as some might think.
Tension is the amount of drag or resistance on the thread as it moves through the sewing machine. When the tension on top and on bottom are balanced properly, the threads will join in the middle of the fabric with no excess thread on top or the bottom of the fabric.
Thread from the spool on top of the machine is threaded through some guides, the tension discs, the take up lever, and needle. To increase the tension, just turn the tension knob to the right. To loosen, turn left.
The bobbin tension is not quite as obvious. In fact, you may not even be fully aware of it. In the early days of the sewing machine, it used what was called a shuttle. It was a long case with a pointed end and and open end to slid the bobbin into. Modern sewing machine use bobbins and bobbin carriers that are generally more rounded. You machine may have a top loading, front loading, or a side loading bobbin.
On your sewing machine, you have a bobbin on which you wind your bobbin thread. Then you insert your bobbin into its carrier which holds the bobbin. The thread goes under a tension spring, and up through the needle plate hole.
It is important to take special care when threading and inserting your bobbin. Since, there are some many different sewing machine models, first use the right bobbin. It is amazing how many times, the sewing machine messes up just because it has the wrong bobbin in it.
Second, be sure the bobbin thread is properly wound with no loops or loose threads and not too tight either. The thread should be smoothly wound around the bobbin.
Third, be sure to place the bobbin in the bobbin carrier exactly the way your sewing machine manual says. The bobbin thread usually moves from left to right or clockwise around the bobbin as it turns. However, there are models that are exactly the reverse. The key is to observe how the thread enters the bobbin carrier tension assembly. The thread should trail back under the tension so that it does not slip out during use.
Fourth, put the thread through the lower tension. Usually, this means the bobbin thread will peal back through the bobbin tension rather than follow along or just flop in the wind. Notice the piece of metal on top right of the carrier. A small metal spring usually built into the bobbin carrier applies pressure or resistance to the bobbin thread. This is the bobbin tension spring.
You can adjust the amount of pressure applied to the thread by turning the small screw located on the tension spring. To tighten turn it clockwise. To loosen turn it counterclockwise.
Of course, there are many kinds of bobbin carriers too. Top loading machines usually have carriers installed under the needle plate, and all you do is insert your bobbin in it. Front loading machines, usually have carriers that come out. You insert your bobbin, and put the carrier back.
Test the tension on removable carriers. Insert the bobbin, and train the thread back under the tension spring. Draw the thread through the carrier and make sure it flows smoothly with a gentle pull. Hold the thread and let the carrier and bobbin drop. If it falls quickly, tighten the tension screw. If it dangles, give it a little bounce. It should drop an inch or so. If it does not, loosen the tension screw.
Test drop in bobbins by using the draw test. Pull the thread through the bobbin tension until it flows freely with a gently tug. Adjust the spring as needed.
Double check to identify any worn parts that might snag the thread. If you find a rough spot, burr, or other such spot; correct the problem before bringing the thread up through the needle plate hole and preparing to sew. Generally, once the bobbin tension is set, it should only need to be adjusted if you change the size of thread you use.
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