Overall Process
Removing the bobbin from a sewing machine might seem complicated to an unexperienced sewer, but once you carry out the process it is straightforward. It consists of identifying the bobbin compartment of your machine, taking out the bobbin, removing the bobbin case and removing the needle plate latch from the sewing machine. Understanding each process will result in efficient removal of the bobbin from the sewing machine without causing any damage to the machine itself or any of the components.
Identifying the Bobbin compartment
In order to start removinb the bobbin from the sewing machine, the sewers must first identify the bobbin compartment. Different sewing machines have their unique placement of the bobbin compartment. Sewers must refer to the manual of their sewing machine and locate the bobbin compartment. One of the most common placements of the bobbin compartment can be found on the top or side of the sewing machine.
Taking out the Bobbin
Once the sewers have identified the bobbin compartment, the next step is to take out the bobbin from the compartment. The sewers must firmly grip the empty bobbin and hold it in their hand, together with the bobbin thread, keeping the threaded bobbin firmly in hand. Pulling both the free ends of the threads is one of the most important parts of this process. Pulling the bobbin out with the tension on it is necessary, as it loosens the tension in the bobbin area which allows the bobbin to be removed more easily.
Removing the Bobbin Case
The bobbin case is a small plastic piece which holds the bobbin in the bobbin compartment. The sewers have to remove the bobbin case before they remove the bobbin from the sewing machine. Since the bobbin case is a small plastic piece, it is dangerous to remove it with a sharp object. To remove the bobbin case from the bobbin compartment of the sewing machine, the sewers must carefully insert a paper clip that has been bent into a straight shape at the top of the bobbin case and gently pull up on the paper clip. Once the bobbin case has been removed, the bobbin can be removed from the bobbin compartment of the sewing machine.
Removing the Needle Plate Latch from the Sewing Machine
The last step of the process to remove the bobbin from the sewing machine is to remove the needle plate latch. The needle plate latch holds the bobbin in place and therefore, it is necessary to remove the latch before the bobbin can be successfully taken out. The needle plate latch can be removed with the help of a screwdriver by unscrewing the screws and the latch itself. Once the needle plate latch has been removed, sewers can easily remove the bobbin from the machine.
Storage and Re-Installation Tips
When a sewers takes out their bobbin from the sewing machine, it is important for them to store the bobbin properly in a dry area. Using a plastic zipper bag can help keeping the bobbin dust free and keeping any damage from occurring to the bobbin in the storage.
When re-installing the bobbin into the sewing machine, it is necessary to make sure that the tension of the thread is correct in order to avoid any potential issues with the thread tangling during the sewing process.
Advantages of Having a Clear Bobbin Case
Having a clear bobbin case can help sewers to identify if the bobbin is empty or full, as the clear casing can throughly examine the thread condition on the bobbin. A clear bobbin cases also makes it easier to re-install the bobbin, as sewers can easily identify if the thread inside is wound in the desired direction or not.
Cleaning the Bobbin Case
It is important to keep the bobbin cleaner and oiled in order to ensure proper functioning. Over time, lint and dust tends to accumulate on the bobbin case and inside the bobbin compartment which can lead to malfunction of the machine. To prevent this from happening, sewers must make sure to clean the bobbin case on a regular basis. This involves using any soft cloth to gently clean the case and wiping away any lint or dust from the bobbin.
Correct Bobbin Winding
Wind the bobbin correctly in order to avoid the tension of thread being off balance. To achieve this, the spool must be set in the correct direction and wipe away any lint or thread from the bobbin spool before winding. Make sure the tension release lever of the sewing machine is set to low before starting the process and then wind the bobbin as per the direction.
Improper Threading of the Bobbin
To prevent the improper threading of the bobbin, sewers work ensure that the bobbin thread is inserted correctly. Begin by placing the bobbin thread in the left corner slot of the bobbin compartment and wind the thread towards the right. After this step, sewers must pull the thread towards the front and thread the bobbin through the tensioner.
Having Spare Bobbins Available on Hand
Having spare bobbins on hand will help you quickly swap bobbins during the sewing process. The advantage of having a spare bobbin is that you can quickly replace the bobbin to continue sewing without losing any of the thread tension.
Recommended Bobbins
The most recommended bobbin to use on a sewing machine is the 100% polyester core/wrapped bobbin as it optimizes the performance of the sewing machine. The polyester core ensures that the tension of the thread is steady and prevents any slippage of the bobbin thread.
Keep The Bobbin Thread Loosely Coiled
On the bobbin thread, sewers must keep the thread loosely coiled. This is because a tightly wound thread can affect the tension of the sewing machine and lead to problems with the sewing process. Keeping the thread loosely coiled makes it easier for the machine to provide seamless and efficient stitching.
