Have you ever been interested in learning how to use a Brother sewing machine? With today’s technology at our disposal, it’s easy to learn the basics and get sewing quickly. Knowing how to thread the bobbin correctly and insert it into your Brother sewing machine, is the foundational element. Here’s a simple guide to ensure you’re off to a good start with your new sewing project.
To begin, you will need to find the bobbin casing. It’s usually located on the side of the machine, but machines will vary. Look for an openable lid, slide or clip that will access the bobbin from the side. Generally, it will be a small, round lid with a notch on one side that is used for gripping and pulling it off for access.
Once the casing has been opened, take the bobbin and press it lightly against the spring. It is not necessary to push down hard on the spring, as this could damage the bobbin and the spring mechanisms. There should be a slightly raised area or indent inside the casing, indicating the bobbin’s placement, and the side with the notch should fit in the small notch inside the casing. Make sure it seats correctly and turns in the correct direction.
You need to ensure the thread is correctly wound around your bobbin before inserting it into your Brother sewing machine. Start by inspecting the bobbin carefully, checking that the thread is wound in an evenly-spaced, anti-clockwise direction. Place your bobbin thread inside the bobbin again and press the foot pedal of your sewing machine to move the needle thread downward to ensure everything is in its correct position. Now you’re ready to place the bobbin thread spool into the special compartment provided for it on your Brother Sewing machine.
The bobbin thread itself should be spooled around the bobbin holder. You’ll need to pull the thread up and across from the bobbin edge, and you should notice a tiny slot in the spool holder to hold the thread in place. Once it’s draped nicely around the bobbin holder, press on the foot pedal. The thread should move up around the bobbin and across the needle.
Avoid pushing the foot pedal too hard when threading the bobbin reel; it needs to move slowly so that the bobbin thread catches the needle thread as it passes. Pull back on the needle thread to ensure it is secure; your sewing machine instructions will explain how to hold the bobbin thread and the needle thread together.
Once you are certain the threads are connected and the bobbin is seated inside the machine in a secure position, you can begin to engage the hand wheel. It should move freely, thereby helping you to engage the bobbin, needle and fabric for your project. You may need to adjust the tension on the needle thread, but the Bobbin should be secure and ready to go.
Inserting the Bobbin: Troubleshooting
If your thread is not catching the bobbin thread, it is likely that you have not wound the correct direction. Unwind the bobbin thread again and repeat the steps above. Ensure you hold onto both the needle thread and the bobbin thread while winding the bobbin into the machine, and again when you engage the wheel.
Also, check the tension of the needle thread. When it is too loose, it can interfere with the bobbin thread picking up. Tighten the tension if needed and the threads should catch each other. Depending on the size of your thread, you may need to adjust the tension wheel to the marked tension setting recommended by your Brother sewing machine manual.
Cleaning and Maintaining the Bobbin
After prolonged use, your bobbin will become full of lint and dust. It is important to clean the bobbin and its casing to remove these particles and keep the machine in perfect working order. Furthermore, it will help to avoid any tangles during the stitching process.
To clean your bobbin, use a brush designed specifically for this purpose. Check the instruction manual for details on where to find the brush, and brush the bobbin lightly to remove any lint, sand, dust and thread residue.
If possible, practice with a spare bobbin first before engaging in your next project, to ensure that the new bobbin is seated successfully and works properly. Additionally, always remember to replace the bobbin casing and lid after each use.
Choosing the Right Bobbin
The bobbin can make all the difference when you’re making your own clothes, quilts, bags or other crafts. Different sewing machines require different types of bobbins and the Brother sewing machine is no exception. It is important to select the right bobbin type and grade.
Selection is based on the type of thread you will be using. When in doubt, check the user manual that came with the sewing machine, or consult an expert, who will be able to direct you to the right type of bobbin, depending on the fabric you will be working with.
For example, using a heavy-weight, low-melt all-purpose thread will require a bobbin that offers sturdy construction and little to no lint accumulation. On the other hand, if you are using decorative or a fine thread, select a plastic or lightweight bobbin so that it runs smoothly. Generally, the thicker the thread, the heavier the bobbin material should be.
Brands for Bobbins
Two brands provide the majority of replacement bobbins to the market and remain reliable choices. Klasse and Schmetz bobbin products are available in a range of sizes and materials to suit your Brother sewing machine. However, there are other brands that may fit as well.
Be sure to check the specifications regarding core sizes, materials and even thickness to ensure the best fit. When obtaining a new bobbin, ensure you have the exact make and model number of your machine to hand, as bobbins are not standardised across all models.
Care and Storage
Careful storage of your bobbins is important, especially keeping them away from young children or pets. A bobbin box is the ideal solution, but be sure to sort them by material and size, as this will make future maintenance easier. Additionally, never add additional bobbins to an already full box, as this can damage the bobbins, the box, and the machine when the box is inserted into the machine.
Over time, sewing essentials such as needles and bobbins can become expensive if not looked after properly. When maintained properly, bobbins can last much longer, which will make your sewing experience much smoother and enjoyable. This is why it’s important to replace them as best you can, when they become deformed, bent or damaged in any way.
Additional Considerations
When shopping for additional bobbins for your Brother sewing machine, always check compatibility first. Every model varies slightly, so take the time to find an identical bobbin to the one you are replacing.
Similarly, reference the user’s manual or instruction book that came with the machine. They provide comprehensive information about the specific bobbin that should be used with the model, and detail instructions on how to replace and store the bobbin when not in use.
Finally, it is important to ensure your sewing machine is in good working order. Having basic maintenance done regularly will keep the machine running smoothly. Regular servicing can help identify small problems before they become major issues.
