Threading the Machine
Sewing machines are used for stitching fabrics and other materials together and most come with an instruction manual that will explain how to thread them properly. Threading a sewing machine can be one of the most daunting tasks in sewing, but it will be much easier with a Singer sewing machine. The bobbin is part of the threading process and plays a very important role in putting everything together.
To start, locate the bobbin holder. It should be located near the needle and the spool of thread. Open up the Bobbin door and use the bobbin guide to thread the bobbin. It is important to remember to wind the thread clockwise, as this will ensure the thread is properly wound.
Once the thread has been wound around the bobbin, place the bobbin into its holder. Be sure to make sure the bobbin turns in the correct direction, which will depend on the model of the machine. There should be a mark or arrow on the bobbin holder that shows which way the bobbin should be placed.
After the bobbin has been placed in the holder, it is time to select the tension adjustment. Generally, the tension should be on the lowest setting when starting, as this will help ensure the bobbin is correctly threaded. Put the thread in the tensioner before returning the presser foot to its original position.
Then, pull the bobbin thread up and pull it under the presser foot. The bobbin thread should then show up near the needle. To get the bobbin thread in the right position, raise the presser foot and hold the top thread with one hand. Turn the handwheel so the needle goes down and up then, hold the bobbin thread with your other hand and pull it out.
Testing the Tension
Once the top and bobbin threads are correctly threaded, it is important to check the tension. To do this, put the spool holder in the highest position and check that it is secure and not loose. Then, lower the presser foot and turn the handwheel one or two times in a counterclockwise direction. This should bring the needle down and pull up the bobbin thread. If the bobbin thread is in the right position, the tensions is properly set.
If the top and bobbin threads are not even, it means that the tensions are not set correctly. In this case, adjust the tensions. This can be done by turning the tension adjuster in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, depending on the model of the machine. The manual will provide more detailed instructions on how to set the tensions.
Once the tensions have been set, it is time to give the machine a test run. Make sure the presser foot is still in its lowered position and the stitch length is set to the correct size. Starting from the left side of the fabric, test the stitch by pressing down the foot pedal. The fabric should move forwards and the stitches should be even.
If the top thread is not looping through the material, check that the threaders are correctly aligned and that the tension is not too tight. It may also mean that the upper thread tension needs to be adjusted. Once these are set, the machine should stitch correctly.
Troubleshooting Tips
If the bobbin thread is looping between the layers of fabric, the tensions are too tight. Loosening the tensions should fix this problem. If the top thread is looping around the bobbin thread, the tensions are too loose and will need to be tightened accordingly.
When the bobbin runs out of thread, it will be time to re-thread the machine. To do this, first locate the bobbin and empty it of all thread before winding the bobbin with new thread. The threads will then need to be rethreaded through the machine, as detailed above.
Singer sewing machines come with a wide range of features that make threading easier. One of the simplest features is the automatic bobbin winding, which will wind the bobbin for you and make the task of threading much easier.
Cleaning and Maintaining Threads
To keep the bobbin thread from tangling and breaking, it is important to clean and oil the machine regularly. Remove the lint from under the bobbin and clean off the bobbin holder. After every use, oil the machine, as this will keep components working smoothly and keep the machine running longer.
Threads should also be changed regularly, as old or weakened threads can cause problems with the machine. Make sure to use quality thread, as cheaper thread is prone to tangling and breaking.
Finally, never leave a spool of thread attached to the machine. This can cause tension problems and the machine may not perform properly. It is also a good idea to unplug the machine when it is not in use, as this will help prevent any dust and dirt from getting into the machine and damaging its components.
Bobbin Types and Sizes
Singer sewing machines use a variety of bobbins that come in a range of types and sizes. The type of bobbin will depend on the model of the machine and the fabric being used, so it is important to select the right size and type.
The most common type of bobbin is the class 15, which is suitable for lightweight fabrics. Class 66 bobbins, on the other hand, are suitable for heavier fabrics. As well as these two, there is also the class A bobbin, which is suitable for all fabrics.
The size of the bobbin will also depend on the model of the machine. Most Singer machines use the same size of bobbins, which is 15/16 inch by 5/16 inch. However, some older models may use a different size, so it is important to check the manual of the machine before purchasing a bobbin.
Choosing the Right Bobbin
When selecting a bobbin for a Singer sewing machine, it is important to consider the type and size of the bobbin. The bobbin type should be compatible with the fabric type, and the size should be compatible with the particular model of the machine.
As well as the type and size of the bobbin, it is important to select a bobbin that is compatible with the top thread. Different threads can require different bobbins, so it is important to ensure the bobbin and the thread match.
It is also important to make sure the bobbin is properly wound. This will help to ensure the bobbin thread is properly tensioned and that the machine will run smoothly.
Finally, it is important to make sure the bobbin is made of high-quality materials. High-quality bobbins will be able to handle the pressure of the machine better and will last longer, so it is important to make sure the bobbin is of good quality.
