How To Adjust Bobbin Tension On Juki Sewing Machine

IMportance of adjusting Tension on JUKI sewing machines

Adjusting bobbin tension is essential to successful sewing, as too much or too little tension can result in uneven stitches or looping. In this article, we will look at how to properly adjust the bobbin tension on Juki sewing machines, as well understanding its importance.
The tension of a bobbin determines how much thread is pulled from the bobbin and therefore, the desired tension of the stitch is determined by controlling the tensioning of the bobbin. Generally, the tension should be set at the middle of the range so that when it is placed in the tension control, it sits half-way up the dial. However, this needs to be adjusted depending on the fabric being used and the weight of thread being used.
According to sewing expert, Lois DeLong, the ideal tension for stitching with a Juki sewing machine depends on the fabric being used. For light fabrics, the bobbin thread tension should be tight enough so that when the fabric and thread are pulled, the seam will not pucker. For medium-weight fabrics, the bobbin thread tension should be even and secure enough that one side of the seam does not pull more than the other. For heavier fabric, the bobbin should be adjusted to a slightly tighter tension than medium-weight fabrics.

How to Adjust Bobbin Tension on JUKI Sewing Machines

Adjusting bobbin tension on a JUKI sewing machine requires turning the screw located on the machine’s bobbin case. Begin by loosening the screw, so that it is the farthest away from the machine. Then, pull the thread tail around the tension disc, and return it back through the bobbin case, while still holding the thread in the tension discs.
Next, start winding the quality thread onto the bobbin, using the machine’s bobbin winding mechanism and check the tension as you go. Try to keep the thread evenly wrapped around the bobbin before it is wound up.
Once you have times the bobbin, pull on the thread and check the tension. If the bobbin turns freely and the thread does not break, the tension is set correctly. However, if the bobbin does not turn, then the tension is too tight, and needs to be adjusted, be releasing the thread from the tension disc and moving the tension screw closer to the thread. Conversely, if the bobbin case thread breaks, then the tension is too loosely, and needs to be adjusted by tightening the thread in the tension disc, and moving the tension screw further away from the thread.

Maintaining Bobbin Tension

Once bobbin tension has been adjusted to the desired level, it is important to maintain that tension. It is best to adjust the tension for each thread you use, as some threads may require a tighter bobbin tension than others.
Additionally, checking the tension every few months is recommended, as the bobbin tension may drift. Furthermore, it is essential to keep the bobbin case clean, dust free and free of oil or other foreign material, which can affect tension.

Troubleshooting Bobbin Tension Problems

Sometimes, even after adjusting the bobbin tension, problems may still occur. If the fabric is puckering or misbehaving, it could be an indication of too much or too little bobbin tension.
To troubleshoot these issues, it is important to adjust the bobbin tension appropriately, as well as to check the thread quality being used, to make sure it is compatible with the fabric and the size and style of stitching. If none of these solutions work, it may be that the bobbin case is damaged or worn, and needs replaced.

Adjusting Bobbin Tension for Different Sewing Techniques

Different sewing techniques may require different tensions. For example, when embroidering with a Juki, it is often best to adjust the bobbin tension to be slightly tighter than the top tension, to allow for more precise embroiders.
Generally, for large sewing techniques such as seams on heavier fabric, it is best to set the tensions to the tighter sides of the range, as this will ensure stitches look even and predetermined. Similarly, for finer details and heirloom stitching, the tensions should be slightly tighter than normal.

The Important Essentials of Bobbin Tension

It is essential to understand the important role that bobbin tension plays in ensuring successful and accurate stitching. From adjusting the tensions appropriately, to maintain the tension levels, to troubleshooting bobbin tension problems, understanding how to adjust the bobbin tension on Juki sewing machines can prevent common sewing problems and help you get the results you want.

Understanding What Factors Affects Bobbin Tensions

Bobbin tension can be affected by many factors. Aside from the thread quality, fabric weight and sewing technique, other factors such as the type of stitches being used, the size of the bobbin and the crown (the circular shape to the stitching) can all affect the tension of the bobbin. Additionally, the bobbin tension may drift over time, so it is important to regularly check the tension for accuracy.

Tips for Adjusting Bobbin Tension

When adjusting bobbin tension, it is important to remember these tips:
-Always start with the bobbin tension set in the middle of the range when the machine is at rest.
-Always test the tension on a scrap piece of fabric prior to sewing a project.
-Change the bobbin tension according to the fabric and thread being used.
-Check the bobbin tension regularly.

Conclusion

Adjusting bobbin tension on a Juki sewing machine is essential for successful sewing, and understanding how to properly adjust the tension levels, as well as maintain them, is essential for achieving the desired results. Fortunately, adjusting the bobbin tension is quite simple, as long as the aforementioned tips and tricks are followed.

Geoffrey Kirby is an experienced author and sewist who has been creating sewn projects for over 20 years. He has a passion for teaching beginners and inspiring more advanced sewists both online and through his writings. Outside of writing about sewing, Geoffrey loves to explore new techniques and styles of sewing that incorporate upcycling fabric remnants into sweet items with personality.

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