Introduction
Getting your bobbin tension right on a sewing machine can often be a tricky business. The delicate balance between the tension on your bobbin and the tension on the thread needs to be just right in order for your sewing machine to sew as it should. Knowing how to check and adjust the tension on your bobbin can save you time and frustration when it comes to getting your sewing projects completed. In this article, we will look at how to fix the bobbin tension on a sewing machine, and how to best go about making sure it’s set correctly.
What is Bobbin Tension?
Bobbin tension is the delicate balance between the tension on your bobbin and the tension on the thread when it passes through the bobbin. If the tension isn’t set correctly, your sewing machine may not sew correctly, as the thread will either be too tight or too loose. If it is too tight, it will cause the thread to break or the stitches to be too tight, creating an uneven and lumpy finish. If it is too loose, it will cause the stitches to become too loose and sag. The tension on your bobbin should be set according to the instructions of the sewing machine manufacturer, but you should also test it with a few stitches before you start to sew your fabrics.
How to Test the Bobbin Tension?
To test the bobbin tension, you will first need to make sure the needle is set to its lowest point. Then, take a small piece of scrap fabric, and place it underneath the presser foot. Place the bobbin onto the spindle, ensuring the thread passes though the tension spring. Rotate the bobbin holder to the right, and slowly pull the bobbin thread, until it gently breaks away. Now, return the bobbin holder to its original position, and pull the thread again. It should break around the same point as the first time. If it breaks lower the second time, then the tension is too tight. If it breaks higher the second time, then the tension is too loose.
How to Fix the Tension?
Once you have tested the tension, you can adjust it to get it set just as you need it. If the tension is too tight, you will need to loosen it. To do this, you need to turn the bobbin tension screw in an anticlockwise direction. Make sure you only turn it a small amount at a time, as too much tightening can cause the thread to break. If the tension is too loose, turn the screw in a clockwise direction. Again, only turn it a small amount at a time, as too much loosening can cause the stitches to become too loose and sag.
Other Considerations
When it comes to fixing the bobbin tension, there are also a few other things to be aware of. Firstly, make sure the bobbin is properly inserted into the bobbin case, as this can affect the tension. Also, make sure the bobbin thread is under the tension spring, and that the thread passes around the pulley wheel smoothly. If the thread is not wound on the bobbin correctly, or is twisted in any way, it may affect the tension.
Tips to Remember
Fixing the tension on your bobbin can be a tricky business, but there are a few tips to help you out. Firstly, always make sure to check the bobbin tension with a few stitches before you start to sew your fabrics. You should also make sure the bobbin is inserted into the bobbin case properly, and that the thread is not twisted. Finally, make sure to only turn the bobbin tension screw a small amount at a time, as too much can cause the thread to break or the stitches to become too loose.
Best Practices
Fixing the bobbin tension on a sewing machine is an important step in ensuring that your sewing machine performs its best. It’s important to bear in mind all the factors that can affect the tension, such as the correct placement of the bobbin in the bobbin case and the wound thread on the bobbin. Testing the tension before you start to sew your fabrics is essential in ensuring that the tension is set correctly, and making sure you only adjust the bobbin tension screw a small amount at a time can help to avoid any problems with the thread breaking or the stitches sagging.
Tools and Resources
To help you fix the bobbin tension on a sewing machine, there are a variety of tools and resources available. First of all, you can check your sewing machine instructions, as these will provide you with information on how to correctly repair and adjust the bobbin tension. You can also purchase tools such as tension gauges and tension springs which will help you set the tension correctly. There are also numerous videos available online which provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix the bobbin tension on your sewing machine.
Common Problems
When it comes to fixing the bobbin tension, it’s important to be aware of some of the common problems that can arise. One such problem is if the thread catches on the bobbin case, causing it to become twisted and the tension to be affected. In this case, make sure to check the bobbin case and ensure the thread is not caught on it. Another problem is if the tension is set too tight or too loose, which can cause the thread to break or the stitches to become too loose. To avoid this, make sure to only turn the bobbin tension screw a small amount at a time when adjusting the tension.
Warning Signs
It’s important to be aware of the warning signs that can indicate an incorrect bobbin tension setting. If the tension is too tight, it can cause the thread to break, the stitches to be too tight, or the bobbin case to become overheated. If the tension is too loose, it can cause the stitches to become too loose and sag. If either of these occur, you should stop sewing immediately to check the bobbin tension.
Conclusion
It is essential to get the bobbin tension set correctly in order for your sewing machine to work properly. Knowing how to check and adjust the tension on your bobbin can save you time and frustration when it comes to getting your sewing projects completed. By understanding the importance of the bobbin tension and following the tips in this article, you should be able to fix any problems you may have with the bobbin tension on your sewing machine.
