Sewing machines are an essential part of creating garments and other items, from stitching hems to creating intricate designs. Over time, tension can get loose on your brother sewing machine, causing your stitches to become loose or even skip altogether. This can be frustrating, especially if you are trying to finish a project. The good news is it is easy to tighten the tension on your brother sewing machine. Here are some steps to help.
Check the Thread
The first thing to do when trying to find the cause of loose tension is to check your thread. Is the spool of thread empty? If so, then you need to start by replacing the thread. Make sure to use the correct thread and the correct spool type for your machine, as using the wrong thread can cause the tension to be off. Additionally, check that the thread is wound correctly onto the spool and is not tangled or looping back on itself. If the thread is incorrectly wound it can cause tension issues.
Clean Your Machine
If the thread is not the problem, then it’s time to clean the machine. Over time, dirt and dust can build up inside the machine, which can cause the tension to loosen. First, make sure to unplug the machine and then remove any attachments such as the foot pedal. Next, gently wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth, being careful not to get any moisture inside. Use a small brush to get into the nooks and crannies of the machine, and use a vacuum to clean out any lint or debris. Finally, use a lint brush to brush away any lint or thread particles that may have accumulated inside.
Adjust the Tension
The tension of your brother sewing machine is controlled by a dial or knob located on the top of the machine. To adjust the settings, simply turn the dial to the desired setting. It’s usually a good idea to start with the tension settings at the middle of the dial and make adjustments from there. Typically, the higher the number, the tighter the tension.
Try a Different Needle
Another thing to try to loosen the tension on your brother sewing machine is to switch to a different needle. Sewing machines typically come with different needle types and sizes, and some may work better than others. Needles with a larger eye can help loosen the tension, as can needles with less of a point. This can help if you are having trouble getting the thread to go through the fabric. Try a few different needles to see if one works better than the others.
Check the Bobbin Case
Sometimes the bobbin case is the culprit when it comes to loose tension. If the bobbin case is out of alignment, then the tension may be off. To check this, remove the bobbin and make sure the thread is properly loaded into the bobbin case. If it is not, then rethread the bobbin and make sure it is loaded correctly. Additionally, check that the bobbin case is pushed all the way in, as this can also affect the tension.
Check the Tension Discs
The tension discs are located inside the machine and are responsible for controlling the tension of the stitches. The discs should be clean and free of debris, and they should move freely. If they are stuck, try lubricating them with oil or a lubricant specifically made for sewing machines. If they are worn, then they may need to be replaced.
Regulate Tension Manually
If all else fails, it is possible to regulate the tension manually. This should only be attempted when all other methods have failed, as it is easy to make mistakes. Start by setting the tension dial to its lowest setting. Then, begin sewing your project. If the tension is still too loose, then slowly increase the tension dial until the stitches look even.
Test Your Stitches
Once you have finished making adjustments, it is important to test the stitches to make sure the tension is correct. To do this, sew a few lines on a scrap piece of fabric and then inspect the stitches. The stitches should be even and lay flat against the fabric. If they are too tight or too loose, then further adjustments may need to be made.
Ensure Correct Thread Path
It is also important to ensure that the thread path is correct. The thread should be passing through each of the tension discs and not through any other parts of the machine. If the thread is going through any other parts, then this could cause the tension to be uneven and cause problems.
Replace the Needle and Bobbin Regularly
Finally, it is important to remember to replace the needle and the bobbin regularly. Over time, needles and bobbins can become dull or worn and this can affect the tension. Replace the needle and bobbin as needed to ensure that the tension stays tight.
Check Your Machine’s Manual
If you are still having trouble loosening the tension on your brother sewing machine, then check the manual. Many sewing machines have detailed instructions on how to adjust the tension. Additionally, you may need to take the machine to a professional for further adjustment or repair.
