Introduction
Bobbin sewing machines are devices used to transform fabric pieces into clothing and other articles. Most commonly employed in manufacturing, they help create couture garments and garments for the mass market. As these machines are quite complex and involve intricate parts and mechanics, it is necessary to understand how to use them correctly and safely. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to bobbin a sewing machine and examine the necessary steps to prepare your machine properly.
Types of Bobbins
First, it is important to familiarize yourself with the two main types of bobbins used with sewing machines. The first is the bottom-loading bobbin, which is found on most home sewing machines. To load the bottom-loading bobbin, thread is passed through a small hole at the bottom of the bobbin case and around the bobbin, with the case then secured to the bobbin winder. The other type of bobbin is the top-loading bobbin, with this type of bobbin the thread passes through a hole at the top of the bobbin case. The top-loading bobbin is most commonly used on commercial sewing machines. It is important to note that you must use the correct type of bobbin for your machine or you may cause damage.
Steps to Bobbin a Sewing Machine
Once you have located the correct type of bobbin for your sewing machine, you can start to bobbin your machine. The following are steps on how to do this:
1. Check the needle is in the correct position and set the machine to the lowest speed.
2. Raise the needle by turning the hand wheel towards you.
3. Hold the bobbin with your thumb and forefinger, insert it into the bobbin case ensuring that it threads in the correct direction and insert the thread through the slot in the bobbin case.
4. Place the bobbin case back into the machine, holding it firmly, and rotate the hand wheel towards you until the needle goes down and the thread appears through the slot in the bobbin case.
5. Pull the thread up towards the bobbin trapping a small amount of the thread inside the case and making sure it wraps around the bobbin twice in a clockwise motion. Wind the bobbin until there is no more slack in the thread.
6. Hold the ends of the thread securely while you press the bobbin spindle (handle) which will cause the bobbin to rotate swiftly.
7. Release the spindle and check the tension on the bobbin thread. The thread should be loose in the spindle but have enough tension around the bobbin that it will not unravel.
8. Check both sides of the bobbin to ensure the bobbin is evenly wound, if it is not, unwind and wind the bobbin again.
9. With the tension correct pull the bobbin thread toward the top of the sewing machine, before winding the hand wheel again, making sure not too much thread is taken up.
10. To secure the bobbin, depress the bobbin winding spindle and remove the bobbin case with the bobbin.
Drawing Up the Bobbin Thread
Once the bobbin has been correctly installed, the bobbin thread needs to be taken up and connected to the top thread. To do this:
1. Hold the top thread at the back of the presser foot and draw the bobbin thread up to the top thread by turning the hand wheel towards you.
2. By slipping the left thumb and finger through the top and bottom threads, pull both threads up and away from the needle and presser foot.
3. Pass the threads through the take-up lever located at the top of the machine.
4. Pull the threads with your left hand, lower the presser foot and take up the excess with the right hand, creating a loop.
5. Gently pull the top and bottom threads to ensure good tension in the loop and hold the threads firmly between the thumb and middle finger of the left hand before drawing up the loops.
6. Ensure the loops are securely held, depress the bobbin winder spindle and turn the hand wheel until the needle is raised and pulls both threads smoothly through it.
7. Release the bobbin winder spindle and press the foot control to start the machine.
Bobbin Troubleshooting
For top performance, it is important to check that all the components of the bobbin system are securely in place. If there is any tension across the width of the fabric when the machine is running, check the tension on the bobbin thread as it may be too tight, resulting in one side of the stitch being pulled down. If the stitch loops on one side, ensure the tension on the bobbin thread is not too tight; adjust it if necessary. Conversely, if the stitches are not looping on one side, the tension on the bobbin thread could be too loose and need to be adjusted.
Regular Maintenance
It is important to ensure your bobbin and bobbin case is kept clean by thoroughly wiping it down with a cloth or an old toothbrush to remove any lint build-up. In addition, bobbin cases should be checked periodically for any signs of wear or damage as a damaged bobbin case could cause issues with the tension on the stitch.
Mending and Repairing Stitches
Knowing how to use a bobbin sewing machine is not only important for new work, but also for repairing existing garments or mending tears or rips. To begin mending or repairing stitches, first cut away any loose threads on the reverse side of the fabric, ensuring the excess threads have been removed. Then, use a small, sharp scissors to snip through the ends of the stitch loops on the back of the fabric. Finally, thread the needle with the bobbin thread from the garment and carefully insert it through the hole openings in the fabric where the stitch loops were cut before. This will securely hold the fabric together and ensure the repair is invisible.
Tips for Working with Bobbins
To ensure the most successful use of your bobbin sewing machine, here are some tips:
1. Select the correct bobbin type for your machine and ensure the bobbin is wound correctly before threading the machine and sewing.
2. Regularly check for lint build-up in the bobbin case.
3. Ensure the tension is correct and that the stitch loops correctly on both sides.
4. Ensure mending and repair stitches are invisible by using a bobbin thread of the same colour as the fabric.
5. Always hold threads securely when winding the bobbin.
Types of Threads
When using a bobbin sewing machine, it is important to choose the correct thread for the fabric being sewn. Generally, heavy-duty threads are best used on thicker fabrics, while lightweight threads should be used for delicate fabrics such as silk or organza. Additionally, there is a range of speciality threads available for specific fabrics, for example wooly nylon for knits or silk for quilting. Different threads require different tensions and needle sizes, so it is best to do some research and testing before beginning a sewing project.
Bobbin Thread Direction
The direction in which the bobbin thread is wound is also important for a successful result. Most bobbins are wound in a counterclockwise motion and the thread is threaded in a clockwise motion. If the bobbin is not wound in the correct direction, the stitch tension will be affected and the stitch will not lie flat.
Conclusion
Knowing how to bobbin a sewing machine is essential for successful sewing results, however, it is not just a ‘set and forget’ process. The bobbins, machine, and thread used will determine the quality and outcome of the finished garment or fabric piece. Regularly check the tension, lint build-up, and wear on the machine to ensure it is running at peak performance.
