Introduction
Sewing machines have been around for centuries—dating back to the first automated machine invented in 1790 by English inventor Thomas Saint. Ever since, the technological improvements introduced have made this craft even easier and more refined, and one of the most important aspects of modern machines is their adjustable tension. Properly adjusting the thread tension is the key to a successful stitch formation and achieving the right look for the project. There are a few things to keep in mind when adjusting the thread tension of a sewing machine, which this article will discuss in detail.
Why Thread Tension Matters
The thread tension of a sewing machine impacts the quality and aesthetic of the stitching and therefore, must be set up properly. When the tension of the top thread is too tight, the bottom thread pulls up from the fabric, making the seam wavy and puckered, while too loose tension causes the stitch formation to become loose and sloppy. The ideal tension for a sewing machine is one where the top thread does not pull the bottom thread away from the fabric and the overall stitch should be uniform and even.
How to Adjust the Top Thread Tension
The basic idea behind adjusting the thread tension of a sewing machine is to make sure it is balanced. The way to do this is to ensure that the top thread is not too tight or too loose. In most cases, this is done by means of an adjustment screw located on the face of the machine. This can be a little intimidating for first-time sewers, but with some practice, this process becomes quite straightforward.
To make the adjustment, start by winding the top thread onto the bobbin in the standard way. Make sure that the bobbin case is in place and fully tightened. Next, hold the top thread in one hand while turning the adjustment dial with the other hand. As you turn the dial, note the amount of tension on the thread. Keep adjusting until you feel a consistent tension. Do this for both the upper and lower threads and make sure that the tensions between the two match.
Testing the Thread Tension
Once the tension is adjusted, it’s important to check the stitch formation. To do this, sew a few rows of stitches on a piece of scrap fabric and examine the result. As mentioned earlier, the ideal stitching should be regular, consistent and even. If it’s wavy or loose, adjust the tension accordingly and repeat the process. Do this until the desired results are achieved.
Choose the Right Thread
Another key element to consider when adjusting the tension of a sewing machine is the type of thread used. For example, using a thick thread requires more tension than a thinner one. It’s also important to look at the type of fabric being used. Generally, lighter fabrics require a tighter tension while thicker fabrics require a looser tension.
Experts Insight
The importance of adjusting
