Art of Thread Tensioning
Thread tension is an important part of perfecting a wholesome sewing stitch. Tension should neither be too tight nor too loose—adjusting the tension appropriately allows fabric to move freely through the sewing machine while finishing with a neat and even stitch and finish.
Viking sewing machines are known for their exceptional quality, durability, and ability to consistently deliver. To ensure the best results, it would be beneficial to learn how to adjust the thread tension when using a Viking sewing machine.
How to Adjust Thread Tension
Adjusting the tension on your Viking sewing machine can be achieved in a few simple steps. The first step is to identify the tensioning knob. It is usually located in the front left part of the machine, near the needle.
When manually adjusting the tension, the thread should be threaded through the tensioner, with the loose thread pointing in a downward direction. Anchor the thread in the eye of the needle so the tension can be adjusted from the pressure it applies to the thread.
Once the tensioner has been adjusted, the thread should be tested by slowly increasing the tension knob until the best stitch tension is achieved. It can take a few adjustments to get the thread tension just right, so a few practice stitches may be necessary. Keep in mind that the thread tension setting should be slightly tighter than the fabric—the fabric should be able to move freely through the machine.
Once the desired tension has been achieved, ensure it is consistent across all of your stitches by using the reverse stitch function.
Effects of Thread Tension
Poor thread tension can result in skipped stitches, uneven hems, and poor quality yarn. Additionally, the wrong tensioning can lead to the thread hesitating when being fed through the machine, which can cause major disruptions during a project.
When the thread tension setting is too tight, fabric puckering is a common symptom. Puckering can cause fabric edges to constrict and can lead to incomplete stitches.
When the thread tension setting is too loose, the results will be quite visible with stitches appearing uneven and wide. Additionally, the thread can loop over the needle instead of passing under, resulting in a stitch that can unravel easily.
Thread Tension & Thread Guide
It is important to pay attention to the thread guide located at the top of the Viking sewing machine. This helps thread to be fed in the right direction and prevents it from becoming stuck or tangled.
The thread guide should be adjusted and re-adjusted depending on the type of thread being used. Thread types such as cotton and polyester, for example, require different tension settings. Cotton thread tends to be more slippery and requires more tension, while polyester thread is more durable and requires less tension.
It is also important to keep in mind the bobbin tension, which needs to be adjusted in a similar fashion as the thread tension. The bobbin tension should be tightened until even resistance is felt when pulling the thread with your fingers, then adjusted a bit more if necessary.
Common Thread Tension Problems
Thread tension will often vary in accordance to fabric type, so it is important to adjust the tension accordingly. Heavy fabrics such as denim and leather require a slightly tighter tension than lightweight materials, such as chiffon and crepe.
Using the wrong needle size is also an issue when it comes to thread tension. Needles that are too large can cause the thread to slip off the needle, resulting in skipped stitches and uneven hems.
Additionally, sewing too fast can also affect thread tension, as the machine will not be able to keep up with the fabric. Sewing too slowly can also cause the thread to slip off the needle, resulting in an uneven stitch.
Tips for Adjusting Thread Tension
The best way to adjust thread tension is to practice the art of thread tensioning and be aware of how the tension effects your stitch.
It is best to start with the tension dial in the middle position, as it is usually a good place to begin when adjusting thread tension.
When threading the machine, it is important to pay attention to the thread guide as it can help ensure the thread is fed in the proper direction. Finally, it is important to properly feed fabric through the machine, as this can have a major impact on the quality of the stitch.
Using Presser Foot
Another helpful tip when adjusting thread tension is to press the presser foot each time a new stitch is about to be started. This helps to ensure the thread runs under the presser foot and the tension remains steady throughout the stitch.
Finally, it is important to experiment with different tension settings and fabrics to find the perfect balance. This will help create consistent and perfect stitches every time.
Tension Check
On most Viking sewing machines, there is a tension checker located on the back of the machine. This tool allows users to test their tension settings and make adjustments accordingly.
When using a tension checker, it is important to ensure the thread is sitting in the middle of the tension disc. This helps to eliminate the potential for puckering, skipping, or looping of stitches.
Thread tension is a very important part of achieving quality results with a Viking sewing machine. Accordingly, it is advisable to practice and become accustomed to adjusting the tension. With patience and practice, adjusting thread tension can be achieved in no time, resulting in professional and consistent stitches on any fabric.
Achieving the Optimal Stitch
The key to achieving an optimal, even stitch is to adjust the tension so that it is slightly tighter than the fabric. The fabric should be able to move freely, yet the stitch should still appear tight and even.
In addition, it is important to thread the machine correctly and adjust the presser foot tension as needed. A few practice stitches should also be taken to ensure the thread tension is at the desired level.
Experimenting with various thread types and tensions can help to ensure the best stitch is achieved. This will vary greatly based on the type of fabric being used, and the end goal the user is trying to accomplish.
Using Different Tension Disks
Viking sewing machines use tension disks to help regulate the tension applied to the thread. Some users may have multiple disks with different tension settings, and as such, these disks can be exchanged and adjusted as needed.
Additionally, tension disks can be changed to accommodate different fabric types and thread materials. Different disk sizes are available, so it is important to use the correct disk size for the desired thread tension setting.
When it comes to adjusting tension on a Viking sewing machine, experimentation may be necessary to find the desired setting for the project. Tension disks are manufactured for different materials and tensions, and as such, it is important to use the correct disk size for the desired thread tension.
Different fabric types also require different tension settings, so it is important to pay attention to the tension settings being used to achieve the desired results. With a few practice stitches and patience, the desired thread tension can be achieved with a Viking sewing machine.
