Troubleshooting and fixing a bobbin case on a sewing machine can seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re not well-versed with its intricate parts and functions. Sewing machine malfunctions or errors, especially when trying to thread or insert the bobbin, used to be perplexing and often resulted in few reliable solutions. Fortunately, new enhancements to the basic functions of sewing machines have led to better improvements and easier troubleshooting. In this article, we’ll be discussing what a bobbin case is, common shortcomings of bobbin cases, and the best approaches to fix it.
The bobbin case is a metallic or plastic holder used to feed the thread for creating stitches. The case contains both the anchor of the thread and the bobbin itself. This mechanical part is responsible for the steady flow and unwinding of the thread while sewing. If there are malfunctions or it’s working incorrect, more times than not, it could be fixed simply and quickly.
The commonest issues with the bobbin case are threading problems, the tension of thread not being right and twists in the thread. An improperly threaded bobbin case, then, is the biggest factor while facing difficulties while sewing.
Repair / Fix Bobbin Case
The best approach to fixing the bobbin case is to first properly unthread the sewing machine and the bobbin case. The bobbin often accumulates a lot of lint and can gunk up the mechanism, causing it to not work properly. Take a lint brush made of soft plastic and clean the case of any dirt or dust. The next step is to remove the bobbin case and very carefully check for any parts that could have loosened, for any broken parts or for any areas of rust. Replace or fix anything that is broken and make sure all parts are properly inserted.
If you have a sewing machine with adjustable tension, then adjust the bobbin’s tension according to the strength of the fabric being used. Make sure the tensions are not too tight, otherwise, the thread might break with the slightest bit of pressure. Also, check if the thread is looping and make any necessary adjustments.
Now that all the necessary fixes have been done, thread the bobbin case with the thread according to the manual provided with the sewing machine. Depending on the model and type of the sewing machine, it can be used with a variety of thread sizes. Be sure to thread them in the right direction, too: adjust the tension of the thread accordingly to the suggested tension on the manual.
Checking Thread Tension
Thread tension can have a drastic effect on the final product. If it’s too loose, the bobbin thread won’t be pulled up when required. Conversely, if the tension is way too tight, the stitches could be too tight and hard on the material. Therefore, check and adjust the thread tension of the bobbin case regularly and make sure the thread itself is not loose. The tension should be just tight enough for the bobbin case to grab the thread without having too much tension, otherwise, the stitches might rip.
One method to check the thread tension’s working correctly is to try stitching on a fabric that isn’t too tough and see how it’s responding to the pressure of the needle. See if the top thread and bobbin case thread overlap perfectly, which would indicate that the tension has been set properly.
Cleaning Bobbin Cases
It is crucial to clean the bobbin case regularly to keep it in top shape. Lint gathers in the bobbin case and can keep the thread from winding correctly. When the bobbin case is removed from the machine, you can use a vacuum cleaner or a lint brush to clean the internal crevices, where all the lint accumulates. You can also use a soft brush or a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol to clean the case thoroughly.
Also, it’s important to clean the mechanism at least once a year. Toxic metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium can be found in many of the metals and plastics in old sewing machines, so it is best to handle them with caution. Cleaning the bobbin case with a soft brush soaked in rubbing alcohol will do the trick, but make sure to wear gloves when doing so.
Conclusion
A bobbin case is an important part of the sewing machine, as it is responsible for feeding the thread, thus creating the stitches. Fortunately, it is easy to fix minor errors in the bobbin case, like a threading malfunction. The best approach is to properly clean the bobbin case, check and adjust the thread tension, and make sure all parts are properly inserted. With regular maintenance, the bobbin case will be functioning without fail for years to come.
