3 Tips To Help You Fix Tension Problems On Your Sewing Machine

Many people enjoy the satisfaction that comes from creating garments or other sewn items from scratch. Sewing machines are surprisingly complex, and understanding how to make adjustments to your machine in order to achieve the desired result is essential when it comes to sewing at home.

If you notice that the thread tension on your sewn items isn't correct, here are three simple things you can do to fix the tension problem and restore your sewing machine to working order.

1. Make sure that your bobbin isn't too full.

In order to create a stitch, your sewing machine loops thread from the upper part of the machine through thread from a bobbin, generally located underneath your machine's presser foot. The bobbin fits into a case that helps secure it in place. If you load too much thread onto your bobbin, it will not be able to spin freely within the case while you sew.

A bobbin that is overwound can cause the thread breaks and missed stitches associated with a tension that is too tight. Removing some of the thread from your bobbin before you begin sewing again will help you restore balance to your thread tension.

2. Make sure that you are using the correct needle.

Determining which needle is best suited for the fabric you will be using in your sewing project can help you avoid thread tension problems as you sew in the future. Fabrics come in a variety of weights and weaves, and there are many different types of needles available to accommodate your fabric needs.

Woven fabrics are best paired with sharp needles, while knit fabrics can more easily be sewn using rounded needles. When you use a needle that isn't suited for your fabric, you may encounter thread breakage and puckering because the proper thread tension cannot be maintained by the needle. Switching to a different needle will eliminate your thread tension problems.

3. Give your sewing machine a thorough cleaning.

As you work on various sewing projects, lint and stray threads can find their way into your machine's interior. These pieces of debris can negatively affect the thread tension on future sewing projects.

Debris that becomes lodged between the tension discs or under the throat plate of your sewing machine can impede bobbin thread from being pulled through your fabric correctly. Flossing debris out of your machine's interior with a clean, lint-free cloth can help you restore proper thread tension once more.

Understanding some simple solutions to help you address thread tension problems will make sewing less stressful in the future.  


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