Safety First
Before attempting to thread a Brother sewing machine, it is important to turn off the power. Inspect the machine for any frayed cables or dust particles that may affect its performance. Wipe off any dust from the parts of the machine, such as the bobbin case, with a dry cloth to keep it running smoothly.
Preparation
Gather the materials required, such as the needle, thread, and extra bobbins. Prepare the needle by threading it and knotting the end of the thread so it can be used to make the proper connections. It is best to use fairly good quality thread to prevent breakage or tangling when the machine is running.
Assembly
Unhook the end of the bobbin thread and use scissors to cut away the extra. Centre the thread on the tension disc near the top of the machine. Then, fit the bobbin onto its holder. Make sure the bobbin and holder are both properly fitted and secure. Mold the end of the bobbin thread around the tension disc, bringing it over the bobbin spindle and around the spindle.
Pre-Tension
After the bobbin thread is properly in place, use your finger to pre-tension the bobbin by tugging gently on it a few times. This will help to eliminate slack so that when the machine starts up, the bobbin thread is not pulled off and tangled. Make sure there is a fair amount of tension on the thread when pulling it, as too much tension can cause it to break.
Threading
To begin threading the bobbin, turn the handwheel on the right side of the machine with your right hand until the upper thread take-up lever is slightly higher than the needle. Carefully maneuver the thread to make its way under the presser foot and through the take-up lever. Pass the thread over the bobbin holder, making sure not to kink the thread.
The Bobbin
Next, slowly pull the bobbin thread until it comes out the side of the machine. Place the finger of your left hand on top of the bobbin to keep it in place, making sure it does not spin or flip over. Now, gently tug both threads and watch as the bobbin thread loops around the edge of the upper thread. Pull tightly on the threads to make sure they are secured.
Final Step
Once both threads are fully secured, slowly rotate the handwheel counterclockwise. With a bit of force, the bobbin thread should start to quiver. This is a sign that the thread is properly in place and ready to be used. Before sewing, take care to check the balance and tension of the threads. Be sure to adjust the tension knob depending on the type of fabric being used.
Finishing Touches
Once the threads are properly balanced and tensioned, the bobbin can now be ready to be used. Turn the handwheel to move the needle up and down and watch as the threads move in tandem. If the fabric pulls or puckers when the needle is lowered, adjust the tension knob slightly to alleviate this issue. If all else fails, raise the needle and start again from the beginning.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your Brother sewing machine is still having difficulty, it is likely that the threads are not properly wound on the bobbin. Carefully remove the bobbin and check for any kinks or knots that can disrupt the thread’s movement. Make sure the thread is pulled tautly and wound smoothly from left to right. Additionally, use a bit of fabric softener on the thread to keep it from catching or bunching up during operation.
Maintaining the Machine
Regularly check the machine for any dust or thread buildup that can affect performance. Cleaning and oiling the machine will help to keep it running smoothly and reduce the cost of repairs. Disconnect all power sources before beginning any maintenance work, as electricity and sewing machines do not mix. Lastly, reduce any risks of injury by wearing protective gear, such as goggles and gloves, when using the machine.
Replace the Bobbins Regularly
To eliminate the risk of any damage or misalignment, it is best to replace the bobbins with new ones on a regular basis. Wear and tear can cause bobbins to become loose and unreliable, resulting in a decrease in speed, accuracy and quality. Check the bobbin tension frequently and replace any bobbins that are worn or frayed. Additionally, use only Brother-approved bobbins specific to your machine, to ensure the best results.
Practice Makes Perfect
With plenty of practice and patience, loading a Brother sewing machine with a bobbin becomes a quick, easy task. With the process broken down into simple steps, it is likely that you will master the skill in no time. Feel free to practice different methods of loading bobbins and consult the user’s manual for any additional information. Soon, you’ll be a pro at maintaining and using your Brother sewing machine!
