Have you purchased a Singer sewing machine only to be derailed by bobbin tension issues? Allow us to guide you through the process of how to adjust bobbin tension on a Singer sewing machine. Bobbin tension is one of those thing that sounds far more complicated than it actually is, and the good news is that it isn’t too hard to figure out. When tension is off, thread can become too tight, too loose, or break entirely. Too much tension will cause fabric to be harder to sew, while too little tension can cause bunching, puckering, and looping of the thread.
Before Adjusting the Bobbin Tension
Before you start, you should know that bobbin tension is a very small, sensitive adjustment, so start by making small changes and inspect the test stitching.
The first step to adjusting bobbin tension is to have the right supplies. You’ll need a few sewing tools and supplies, including a seam ripper, rulers, scissors, seam guide, pin cushion, thumbtacks, and a paperclip, which is used as a bobbin adjustment tool. Be sure to use the correct bobbin for your machine type and be sure to use the correct thread for sewing fabrics.
How To Adjust Bobbin Tension on a Singer Sewing Machine
The bobbin tension adjustment on a Singer sewing machine is different from a mechanical machine and usually involves a very small adjustment. Start by threading the machine in the normal way, and make sure the bobbin is positioned correctly. Next, open the bobbin case door, located on the front of the machine, and move the bobbin tension dial to the right until it clicks. This will set the default tension on the bobbin so that the machine can sew properly.
When sewing, it’s important to check the stitch quality. Inspect the underside of the stitching to make sure the tension is correct. If the bobbin thread appears to be loose, it’s a sign that the tension needs to be adjusted. To make the adjustment, turn the bobbin tension dial to the left and test the stitching again until you obtain an even stitch.
How To Maintain Bobbin Tension on a Singer Sewing Machine
Maintaining bobbin tension on a Singer sewing machine is very important. In order to keep the tension at an optimal level, it’s best to clean the bobbin case and replace the bobbin when necessary. Over time, the bobbin can get worn out and need to be replaced, so be sure to inspect the bobbin regularly.
The bobbin tension should also be checked after any bobbin replacement. It’s also advisable to adjust tension if the machine has been idle for a long period of time or moved to a different location, as this may affect the tension settings.
Effect Of Thread Type On Bobbin Tension
The type of thread being used can also affect the bobbin tension on a Singer sewing machine. Different brands of thread may require different tension settings, so it’s important to test the stitching on scrap fabric to determine the correct tension for the thread being used. The thread should be sewn in even rows with no puckering or loops.
The bobbin tension can also be affected by the type of fabric being sewn. As a general rule, thicker fabrics require higher bobbin tension settings, while more delicate fabrics require lower settings. Use the same basic rules to adjust bobbin tension when sewing different types of fabric.
The Most Common Bobbin Tension Issues And How To Fix Them
Bobbin tension issues can be caused by a variety of factors, so it’s important to take time to troubleshoot the problem. Here are some of the most common bobbin tension issues and how to fix them:
Loose Threads: If the thread is too loose coming from the needle plate, it usually means that the bobbin tension is too loose. Try adjusting the tension dial to the right to tighten the bobbin tension.
Thread Breaking: If the needle thread keeps breaking, this could mean that the bobbin tension is too tight. Try adjusting the tension dial to the left to loosen the bobbin tension.
Skipped Stitches: If the stitches are skipped or uneven, the bobbin tension may need to be adjusted. Try testing different tension settings to see which produces the best stitches.
How to Inspect Bobbin Tension
After adjusting the tension, inspect the stitch quality to determine if it is correct. Check to see if the stitches are tight and even, with no loops or puckering. If the stitches are too tight or too loose, adjust the tension accordingly.
Also, inspect the underside of the fabric to make sure the bobbin thread is the same color, size, and weight as the needle thread. The bobbin thread should lay perfectly flat, without any loops or tension variations.
Finally, try sewing a zigzag pattern and inspecting the stitches. If the zigzag stitch lines up perfectly, the tension should be correct. If not, adjust the tension until the stitches look even and consistent.
Accessing Bobbin Tension Screws
The Singer sewing machine bobbin tension can also be adjusted by accessing the bobbin tension screws. Start by unscrewing the screws to access the bobbin tension spring, then tighten the tension spring to increase the tension and loosen it to decrease the tension.
If you are struggling to access the bobbin tension screws, refer to the machine’s owner’s manual for instructions on how to access and adjust the bobbin tension. Be sure to check the manual for the correct screw type and number.
When adjusting the tension of the bobbin, make sure that you do not over-tighten it, as this can damage the spring and cause thread breakage. If you accidentally do over-tighten the tension, gently loosen the screw and inspect the stitching to determine if it’s the correct tension.
Tips To Achieve The Perfect Bobbin Tension
Here are some tips for achieving the perfect bobbin tension:
Test Stitching: Test stitch on scrap fabric to make sure the bobbin tension is correct. This will help you identify issues before sewing something important.
Clean The Bobbin Case: Clean the bobbin case regularly to ensure it’s in optimal working condition and ready to produce perfect stitching.
Check Thread Type: Different threads may require different tension settings, so make sure to test the threads on scrap fabric to find the optimal tension.
Check Machine: Before adjusting the bobbin tension, make sure the machine is functioning properly and all settings are correct.
Bobbin Troubleshooting Guide
If you’re having trouble adjusting the bobbin tension on your Singer sewing machine, be sure to consult the machine’s troubleshooting guide. The guide contains step-by-step instructions for diagnosing and resolving a wide range of common bobbin-related issues.
Plus, if you run into an issue that you can’t seem to solve, the guide also provides contact information for the manufacturer’s customer service department, in case you need to seek assistance.
Takeaways
Adjusting the bobbin tension on a Singer sewing machine can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. Just remember to prepare the right supplies, check the machine settings, and test stitch on scrap fabric to determine the correct tension. Don’t be afraid to make small adjustments, and your stitching will be straight and even in no time.
