Can You Use a Sewing Machine Without a Bobbin?
Understanding the different components of a sewing machine can be confusing for a novice sewer, however the bobbin is essential for any basic sewing project. A bobbin is a type of spool that can be used to add a second strand of thread to any fabric you’re sewing. While some sewing machines, such as the Brother CS6000i and other models, feature a quick-set drop-in bobbin, many machines require you to place the bobbin in the bobbin case before loading it into the machine.
In general, a sewing machine needs a bobbin — but there are some machines that don’t require one. Specifically, industrial sewing machines are equipped with heavy-duty motors that provide enough power to leave a locking stitch even when only the top thread is used. On the other hand, a domestic sewing machine, such as one manufactured by Brother or Singer, needs both a top thread on the spool and a bottom thread from the bobbin. To achieve the same tight stitch and locking stitch as an industrial machine, a domestic machine still needs both a top thread and a bottom thread from the bobbin.
Novice sewers may be daunted by the idea of filling a bobbin, but rest assured it’s not a difficult task. In most cases, a person can simply drop the bobbin thread into the bobbin case, pull the thread up and over the top of the bobbin case and guide it to the empty bobbin through the central opening. Before loading the bobbin into the machine, ensure it’s properly aligned and that there is no extra thread on the bobbin.
Bobbins are an inexpensive part of a sewing machine; they come in metal or plastic, and often in a variety of colors. Besides allowing a sewer to create a locked stitch, placing a bobbin in the sewing machine also saves valuable time. Unlike industrial machines, domestic machines require a person to rethread the top thread should the bobbin run out of thread while sewing.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Using a Bobbin
Using a bobbin when sewing has a number of advantages: it is an essential part of a lock stitch, it does not require much effort to set up and it don’t cost much. However, there are some instances when using a bobbin is not necessary. For instance, if you’re only working with a single seam and don’t need a fully joined, locked stitch, it is possible to use a sewing machine without a bobbin.
However it should be noted that using the machine without a bobbin does come with some disadvantages. The main one being that it will require tieing off the thread at the end of each stitch, which can be time consuming. Additionally, you can only sew in a straight line and can’t adjust the tension as you can when using a bobbin. The greatest disadvantage to using a sewing machine without a bobbin is that it won’t produce a lock stitch, so the fabric you’ve sewn may come apart more easily.
Understanding Top Threads & Bobbin Threads
The essential difference between a top thread and a bobbin thread is how each thread is handled by a sewing machine. The top thread is wound onto a spool, which rests inside the machine’s spool pin. The thread then passes through a set of guides, tensions and thread take-up lever before looping out of the machine and into the fabric. On the other hand, the bobbin thread is housed in a spool, which is set in the bobbin box — located in the lower portion of the machine — and feeds up through a small throat plate and into the loop of the top thread.
The principal difference between the two types of thread is the tension adjustment. A sewing machine requires less tension when using a top thread, whereas the bobbin thread must be quite tight. This is because the bobbin thread is underneath the fabric, requiring it to exert additional pressure to join the two pieces of fabric together. Despite differences in tension and how each thread is used, the general goal of both a top thread and a bobbin thread is the same: to create a secure, locked stitch that can withstand daily usage and normal wear and tear.
Choosing the Right Thread & Needle
Even with a properly functioning sewing machine and a correctly inserted bobbin, a person may find that their fabric seams won’t stay together. This could be due to poor quality thread or the wrong size of needle being used. A good-quality thread should be strong yet smooth. It should not have any excess lint or fuzz, and any knots should be properly secured. As for the needle, its size should correspond to the weight of the chosen fabric.
A heavier and thicker fabric requires a stronger needle that can penetrate the material more readily, while a lightweight and thinner fabric requires a thinner and fragile needle. Additionally, the eye of the needle should be big enough to fit the type of thread being used. Looped thread, for instance, won’t fit into the eye of a needle designed for a straight-stitch thread. If you’re unsure about the type of thread or needle to use for a project, seek advice from your local fabric store.
Stitch Patterns & Setting Up a Bobbin
Once you’ve chosen the correct type of thread and needle for your fabric, you can start to experiment with different stitch patterns. When using a bobbin, try using a zig-zag or an overcast stitch — both of which easily can be done on most sewing machines. Moreover, if your sewing machine has multiple bobbins, you can experiment with color combinations and overlapping stitch patterns.
Furthermore, it’s important to set up the bobbin correctly within the machine each time you add a new spool. Depending on which type of sewing machine you’re using (i.e., drop-in bobbin or front loading bobbin placement), you’ll need to thread the machine to accommodate the bobbin prior to starting any projects. After you’ve placed the bobbin into the machine, draw the thread up, to the top of the material and over the thread guide. Lastly, rotate the handwheel slowly toward you two or three times, keeping your fingers away from the needle.
Summary of How to Use a Sewing Machine
Sewing machines are a wonderful way to create usable items and create beautiful pieces of decor. In order for a sewing machine to work, it needs a bobbin. Bobbins come in either metal or plastic and in a variety of colors. When loading a bobbin into the machine, ensure it’s properly aligned and that there is no extra thread on the bobbin. Additionally, the quality of thread and size of the needle both need to be taken into consideration when selecting the right materials for a project.
Working with Patterns & Thread Types
While experienced sewers have an advantage in terms of understanding patterns, novice sewers don’t have to fear as most patterns are straightforward and clearly explain the terminology and techniques used in the project. Additionally, you can practice with a set of swatches to get a better understanding of the stitches. If you’re unsure about the type of thread and needle to use for a project, seek advice from a tailor or fabric store.
Once you’ve chosen the correct combination of thread and needle for your fabric, you can start experimenting with different stitch patterns. When using a bobbin, try using a zig-zag or an overcast stitch — both of which are easily done on most sewing machines. Moreover, if your sewing machine has multiple bobbins, you can experiment with different colors and overlapping stitch patterns.
Maximizing Sewing Machine Capacity
One way to get the best performance from a sewing machine is to help it last as long as possible. To do this, clean the machine regularly and service it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Additionally, use only quality needles and threads that match the fabric. For best results, you can also invest in a sewing machine cover, which will protect it from dust, dirt and the sun’s rays. Additionally, when the machine is not in use, store it in a dry, level and dust-free place.
Choosing the Right Sewing Machine Feet/Presser Feet
Presser feet, which come in all types of shapes, sizes and materials, are used to make it easier to work with fabrics or multiple layers at the same time. Generally, the different types of presser feet are dedicated to specific tasks. For instance, a zipper foot can be used to sew a zipper onto a garment, while a walking foot is used to sew through multiple layers. Additionally, a buttonhole foot can make inserting buttons or snaps a breeze.
However, the different presser feet can be confusing, but the best way to learn about them is to invest in a variety pack that includes the most commonly used attachments. That way, you can obtain an overview of each type of foot and what it can do. Furthermore, some presser feet come with snap-on integrated magnets that allow the user to easily switch from one kind of presser foot to another.
Care & Maintenance of Sewing Machines
Properly caring for a sewing machine is the key to maximizing its value. Before each use, inspect the machine for any loose screws, frayed threads and damaged parts. Additionally, you can use a purpose-made cleaner to clean and dust any exposed surfaces. If the machine is regularly exposed to dust and dirt, it’s best to unplug it and take it to a professional service facility every few years.
Proper maintenance of a machine is key to its longevity, so remember to inspect the machine settings before each use. Use a clean cloth or brush to remove any excess lint or threads, inspect the needle and the hook system, make sure the bobbin tension is set correctly and check the presser feet for any nicks or deformations. After the inspection is complete, oil the machine, if necessary, and then you’re ready to start sewing.
