1. Identifing The Problem
When using a Brother sewing machine, it is important to have the correct tension set. If the tension settings are too loose or too tight, the stitches will be damaged and the fabric may also suffer. There are just a few simple steps to take to resolve this issue.
2. Importance Of Thread Tension
The thread tension of a Brother sewing machine is determined by the relationship between the needle thread and bobbin thread and the amount of tension needed depends upon the type of fabric, the thread and the pattern of the stitch that is being used. If the thread tension is too tight it can cause the material to be sore and stitching holes to appear in the fabric, if the thread tension is too loose, the stitches will be too loose and will pull and pucker the fabric.
3. Adjusting The Tension Wheel
The tension wheel on a Brother sewing machine is located beneath the needle and is used to adjust the thread tension. Turning it clockwise will increase the tension while turning it anti-clockwise will decrease the tension. To begin with, it is best to start with a lower tension and then increase the tension if needed. As a rule of thumb, a thread tension between 4 and 6 will usually be suitable for standard sewing.
4. Adjusting The Thread Guide Plate
The thread guide plate, which can be found on the side of the Brother sewing machine, is another way to adjust the thread tension. The thread needs to be threaded through the appropriate slot on the thread guide plate in order to adjust the thread tension.If the thread is threaded through the wrong slot, the tension will be too tight or too loose.
5. Testing Your Settings
Once the settings have been adjusted, the stitches should be tested on a piece of scrap fabric to ensure that the tension has been set correctly. If the stitches are too loose or too tight, then further adjustments may be needed.
6. Automated Thread Tension
Some of the more advanced Brother sewing machines have an automated thread tension system which adjusts the tension according to the pattern and fabric used. This system is designed to reduce the time and effort needed to adjust the thread tension manually.
7. Clean The Machine
It is important to keep the machine clean and well-maintained in order to ensure that the tension remains consistent. Regularly cleaning the machine and checking that all parts are properly oiled can help to prevent the thread from becoming too tight or too loose.
8. Aided With A Consultant
If the tension settings are still not correct after adjusting the wheel and thread guide plate, it may be necessary to seek the assistance of a sewing machine technician. Professionals possess skill and expertise to quickly identify the cause of the problem and offer solutions accordingly.
9. Thread Quality
Another factor to consider when adjusting thread tension is the quality of the thread. High-quality thread can help to reduce the risk of thread tension problems. It is important to use the correct thread for the fabric being used and to ensure that the thread is in good condition.
10. Needle Types
The type of needle used in a Brother sewing machine can also affect the tension. It is recommended to use a sharp or ball-point needle when working with medium to heavy weight fabrics as these needles can help to avoid thread tension problems.
11. Change To Right Type Of Thread
The type of thread used can also affect the tension settings and it is important to use thread that is suitable for the fabric that is being used. It is recommended to use a polyester thread when working with synthetic fabrics as this type of thread is less likely to loosen and cause thread tension problems.
12. Test Every Stitch
Once the correct settings have been found, it is important to test the stitches on a sample piece of fabric. This can help to ensure that the settings are correct before beginning a larger project. It is also important to check the tension settings before beginning a new type of fabric or using a different type of thread.
13. Re-Select Thread Type
The type of thread can make a difference to the tension settings and it is important to select a thread that is suitable for the fabric being used. When working with light weight fabrics, it is recommended to use a lightweight thread and vice versa.
14. Check Needle Size
The size of the needle can also affect the tension settings and it is important to select the appropriate needle for the job. Larger sized needles can create tension problems if too much tension is applied and smaller needles can also cause thread tension problems if too much thread is used.
15. Change Tension Settings
The tension settings can also be changed depending upon the pattern being used. If the pattern requires extra tension, then the settings can be increased accordingly and if the pattern requires less tension then the settings can be decreased accordingly.
