The Mechanics Of Bobbin In Sewing Machines
A bobbin is an important component of the threading process for a sewing machine, with it working alongside the needle to ensure that fabrics are securely stitched together. It is possible to buy various types of bobbins in relation to the type of sewing machine that you own, as there is no fixed size or shape when it comes to bobbins. First and foremost, it is important to understand the fundamentals of how the bobbin works in a sewing machine.
The way that a bobbin works is by creating a bottom stitch to match the top stitch that is it created by the needle. The bobbin is placed in the bobbin case and this enables it to spin in the same way as the needle augers its way through the fabric. Essentially, the bobbin is supplying the fabric with two threads simultaneously, allowing the needle to stitch through very thin material without breaking the thread.
On the bobbin case is an adjustable post. This allows you to move the tension adjuster back and forth, ensuring that the tension is correctly balanced between the top and bottom thread. This adjustment is important as it prevents the bobbin thread from becoming too tight and causing unappealing puckering on the fabric.
If this process is not done correctly then the chances are that the fabrics won’t look aesthetically pleasing. Problems often arise when a bobbin has been improperly placed in the bobbin case or the tension has been incorrectly adjusted. Therefore, the clarification and understanding of how the bobbin works in a sewing machine, is of paramount importance to creating an even stitch.
When a bobbin is correctly placed in a sewing machine, it needs to be wound in an anti-clockwise direction. Although the instructions may vary between different sewing machines, the bobbin needs to be pressed firmly in the case, while the thread needs to be firmly and securely wound around it. From here, the bobbin has to be gently pushed into the machine. Once it is in the sewing machine, the upper spindle of the machine needs to be covered with a bobbin cap to ensure that the bobbin does not move as the fabric passes underneath the needles.
When a bobbin is mounted in the sewing machine, it is important to adjust the tension and pull the thread smoothly and snugly as if you were tying your shoelaces. This delicate process is important in order to prevent flaws in the stitch and ensure that no puckering or bunching appears in the fabric. It is also important to make sure that the top and bottom thread do not cross over each other. After this process has been completed, the sewing machine can now be used for stitching.
Replacing a Bobbin
It’s highly important to know how to replace a bobbin and how to replace a bobbin case. When replacing a bobbin, it’s best to make sure that the replacement model is the same type, size and style as the one that is being replaced. If a user misplaces their original bobbin and needs to replace it, they should look at the manual of the sewing machine that they are using to determine the right size and model of the bobbin.
After the bobbin has been replaced, the user should follow the steps above to ensure that the bobbin is properly tensioned or mounted on the bobbin case. To take the bobbin out of the bobbin case, the user should unscrew the thumbscrew located at the top of the sewing machine and pull out the bobbin. To get the bobbin back into the machine the user should use a fingernail to slide the new bobbin into the case and then tighten the thumbscrew back into place.
For safety reasons, the user should always make sure that the bobbin has been securely fastened in the case before they start using the machine. A loose bobbin can cause a lot of damage to the internal workings of the machine, as it can become tangled in the internal mechanism when the machine is running.
Maintenance
When it comes to looking after a bobbin, there are a few steps that a user should take in order to prolong the life of the bobbin.
Firstly, the bobbin case should be regularly cleaned, using a soft brush to get rid of any lint or dust that may have accumulated. Cleaning the bobbin case after each use will also prevent any build-up of dust from occurring, as it will prevent it from potentially blocking the movement of the needle.
Moreover, it’s important to make sure that the thread on the bobbin is not too tight. This is because over-tightening the thread can put a lot of stress on the bobbin and case, leading to the bobbin jamming up or becoming loose.
Finally, it’s important to check the bobbin for any irregularities. Any damaged or cracked parts should be replaced, as this can damage the fabric that is being sewn and it can also lead to the needle becoming unthreaded.
Threading Process With Bobbins
In order for the user to make sure that the threading process goes smoothly, it is important for them to ensure that the needle is correctly threaded and that the tension is properly balanced. It is also very important for them to thread the bobbin properly and to adjust the tension as necessary in order to prevent any bunching or puckering of the fabric.
To thread the bobbin the user should start by assembling the thread spool onto the spool pin and winding it onto the bobbin in an anti-clockwise direction. Once the bobbin is wound, the thread should be removed from the spool and then pulled through the bobbin winder. The thread should then be tightened and the bobbin should be placed into the bobbin case and pushed in evenly. Lastly, the bobbin should be wound until the desired tension is achieved.
Once the threading process is complete, the user should then check that the bobbin turns freely in the bobbin case. If it does not, the tension should be adjusted until the bobbin moves freely. The thread should also not be too tight, as this can cause an uneven stitch and puckering. After the threading process has been completed the user can then begin sewing.
Different Types of Bobbins
As mentioned previously, there are various types of bobbins available in the market and these come in a range of sizes and shapes. Typically, the most commonly used bobbin are the cylindrical bobbins which are suitable for most machines, however there are other types available, such as drop-in bobbins and shuttles. It’s important that the user chooses a bobbin that is suitable for the machine they are using, as some machines require special bobbins.
Moreover, there are also different thread sizes that can be used on the bobbins. Threads vary in size and it’s important to choose a suitable thread size for the bobbin that is being used. Typically, thread sizes vary from #6 to #50, with #50 thread being the finest and #6 being the thickest.
Essentially, the type of bobbin that is used should be decided on by the project that the user is attempting to do with the sewing machine. For example, if the user is creating clothing or quilting then a cylinder bobbin is usually recommended, whereas for embroidery a shuttle bobbin is typically used. As such, it’s important for the user to consider the type of bobbin that is suitable for their project before buying it.
Usage of Bobbins in Quilting
When it comes to quilting, bobbins are an essential part of the sewing process. To begin quilting, the user must first thread the needle and then thread a bobbin in the same way as described previously. Typically, the bobbin should be threaded with the same colour of thread as the needle, so that the stitches that are created are not visible on the fabric.
When it comes to quilting, the bobbin and the needle need to be tensioned correctly so that the top and bottom stitches match up. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the bobbin is firmly and securely in the bobbin case so that it does not become dislodged or tangled when the quilt is being sewn. The user should also ensure that the top thread is the same colour as the bobbin thread, as this will ensure that the quilt stitches are even and neat.
Before the user starts sewing, it is important to make sure that the bobbin and needle are threaded properly and that the tension is correctly set for the fabric. This will ensure that the quilt looks neat, as any tension or threading issues will be visible in the finish of the project.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to understand how a bobbin works in a sewing machine and how to correctly thread the bobbin in order to achieve the best results. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the bobbin is correctly wound and tensioned in order to prevent any puckering or bunching on the fabrics. Furthermore, it is important to make sure that the bobbin is the correct type for the machine and for the project that the user is attempting in order to ensure that it works correctly.
