Parts Required
Fixing a thread in a sewing machine is relatively an easy job. However, before going ahead and starting the repair, it is important to know your parts and have them handy. Make sure to check your owner’s manual especially if it’s a new machine you are working on as it can be a different model than the one you are familiar with. Generally, the most common parts required to repair a thread in a sewing machine are needle, bobbin, bobbin case, thread spool, cutter blades, seam guide and thrums.
Inspect and Tighten The Thread
The first step in resolving any thread related issues in a sewing machine is to inspect the thread. Make sure there is no tangling in between thread spool, needle or even the take-up lever. If you see any knots, then it needs to be untied. So, be careful and gentle while untying knots in the thread. Also, make sure the thread is properly tightened according to the tension dial in the machine. This is the most important step in avoiding knots and breaks in the thread while stitching.
Clean and Adjust Needle
Many times, a thread break can be resolved just by cleaning and adjusting the needle. If the needle is slightly bent, then it increases the chances of a break in thread. So, it is important to check the needle and make sure all the parts of the needle, especially the eye is clean and free of any dust and burrs. Also, make sure to adjust the needle according to the cloth being used. If the needle is not properly adjusted according to the fabric, then it can cause thread break.
Check Thread Engagement
The thread should properly engage with the take-up lever, bobbin and needle system. If the thread does not properly engage with the take-up lever, then the speed at which the needle will pick up the thread cannot be adjusted properly and it can cause a thread break. Make sure to properly engage the thread to each component and rethread the needle. This will ensure smoother operation while sewing.
Check Cutter Blade
Make sure to check there are no cutter blade rust, putty or pieces of broken thread. If there is, then it needs to be removed with a clean cloth. This is important as the cutter blade rust or putty can cause snags in the thread and create bunching. If the thread has been cut off, then replace the cutter blades and make sure these are sharp. The thread should be cleanly cut instead of fraying.
Lubricate the Machine
Regular maintenance of the machine is necessary and one of the most important elements in extending the life of the machine. Make sure to lubricate all the moving parts of the machine and move the shafts to ensure the lubricant reaches them. This will make sure the machine will operate smoothly, making stitching easier and faster.
Changing a Bobbin
Sometimes a thread break is caused by an empty bobbin. It is important to check the bobbin before starting a project and ensure it is full. It is a simple process to change a bobbin on the machine but make sure to learn how to properly thread the bobbin case for the best results.
Simple Tips for Avoiding Thread Break
Thread break can be prevented in many ways. To start, choose the correct thread for the type of fabric being used. An example of this is using a polyester thread on a synthetic fabric. Secondly, make sure the needle is suitable for the type of fabric being used. Lastly, check the sewing machine is well lubricated and maintained.
Winding Thread
The process of winding a thread is a very important step in avoiding thread break in the sewing machine. Make sure the winder is working properly and the thread being wound is evenly done over the spool. Check the speeds of the winder and check the alignment of bobbin as per the requirement. Also, make sure the thread filling is done properly in terms of length and tension.
Thread Path
The thread path should be smooth and free of any knots or tangles. It is important to check the thread path before starting any sewing project and ensure the thread doesn’t become tangled in any of the components. If the thread is tangled, then gently untangle them and make sure the tread loops are in the correct direction as indicated in the manual.
Bobbin Case
The bobbin case needs to be checked periodically to ensure if it is not misaligned. It needs to be properly seated in the machine and make sure there are no burrs in the bobbin case or the shuttle. If there is any burr, then it needs to be cleared with a clean cloth otherwise it can cause breakage in the thread.
Thread Tension
Thread tension is key in maintaining the quality of stitch and also preventing any thread break. The thread needs to be evenly tensioned as per the requirement of the fabric. If the thread tension is too tight, then it can cause a thread break. So, make sure the thread tension is properly checked in each step of the project and adjusted accordingly.
Cleaning
Cleaning the machine is also very important in avoiding thread break during stitching. Make sure to clean the machine regularly with a clean cloth and remove any dust from the needle, bobbin and bobbin case. Also, make sure to clean the feed dogs and oil the machine for better performance.
Presser Foot and Seam Guide
The presser foot and seam guide should be kept clean and in good working order. The presser foot should be properly adjusted before starting the stitching. It should be adjusted as per the fabric type and the stitch selection. Also, the seam guide should be aligned properly as per the stitching requirement.
Line of Stitching
To check if the thread break is resolved, check the line of stitching. If the thread doesn’t break, then the stitching should appear even and smooth. If the stitches are not even and there is bunching and distortion, then this could be due to wrong thread tension or incorrect needle size. So, make sure to adjust the thread and needle accordingly.
