When you’re sewing with a machine, one of the most important things to get right is the tension, but there is so much debate about what tension should be used for different fabrics, stitches, and applications that it’s often confusing to figure out. Before you start stitching up a project, it’s important to educate yourself about the tension settings on your machine and to understand when and why to use certain settings.
Understand the Basics of Tension
The tension on your sewing machine is like a seesaw – if you raise one side, the other has to go down to balance it out. In this case, the bobbin thread and the top thread have to stay in equilibrium to produce even stitches that look the same on both sides of the fabric. This balance is determined by the tension dial on your machine, which can range from 0 to about 10.
When the tension is too tight, the bobbin thread won’t come through to the top of the fabric. And, if the tension is too loose, the bobbin thread will appear on the top of the fabric or the stitches won’t be secure. Either way, it’s important to pay attention to the tension of your machine in order to get the best results for what you’re sewing.
Adjust the Tension for Different Fabrics
The tension of the machine should be adjusted depending on the type of fabric you’re sewing with. For lighter fabrics, like chiffon or silk, the tension should be set to a lower number because these fabrics tend to be more delicate and require a lower tension to keep them from tearing or fraying. On the other hand, heavier fabrics, such as denim or canvas, need higher tension to provide a secure and even stitch.
In addition to the fabric itself, the type of stitch you’re using may also determine the tension setting you need. For example, zigzag stitches or decorative stitches might require tighter tensions than straight-line stitches. You should always refer to the manual for your sewing machine to determine the tension settings for different types of stitches because these may vary slightly from machine to machine.
Test Tension Before Starting
Once you’ve set the tension for your particular project, it’s always a good idea to test it before you start sewing. To test the tension, start by sewing a few stitches on a scrap of fabric that is similar to the one you’ll be using. Then, turn the fabric over and check to make sure the stitches look even on both sides. If they don’t, you may need to adjust the tension setting until they do.
Another useful tool for testing the tension is a tension gauge, which is a small device that fits onto the needle thread. You can then adjust the tension of the machine until the gauge registers a certain number; this number will vary depending on the type of fabric and stitch you’re using. A tension gauge is especially helpful if you’re dealing with fabrics that are difficult to see the stitches on, such as velvet.
Prevent Tension or Thread Problems
Sometimes, tension can be affected by the thread itself. If you’re using a thread that is too thick for the fabric, it can make the tension too tight. This can lock up the bobbin thread and cause the fabric to bunch up. To prevent this from happening, make sure you always use the proper weight of thread for the fabric you’re sewing.
Ultimately, learning how to adjust the tension on your sewing machine can be a bit of a learning curve, but with some practice and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to get the settings just right. Knowing how to set your tension correctly can make the difference between a successful sewing project and an unsuccessful one.
Practice Makes Perfect
Once you understand the basics of tension settings and understand how to adjust them depending on the fabric and stitch, you can then start to practice more complex stitches and fabrics. Trying out different combinations of fabric and thread will help you get to know your machine even better. With enough practice, you’ll be able to quickly set the tension for any project you have in mind.
The most important thing when it comes to tension settings is to experiment and take notes. Write down the settings that worked best for a particular project so you can easily reference them in the future. This will save you time and help ensure your projects come out looking flawless.
Understand the Different Feet
When it comes to setting the tension for certain projects, the type of sewing foot you’re using may also play a role. Certain feet, like the twin needle foot or the free motion quilting foot, will require different tension settings than regular presser feet. Refer to your manual to determine the best tension settings for the type of foot you’re using.
In addition to the usual presser feet, there are a variety of specialty feet and attachments that can help you create unique and impressive stitches. Each of these feet may require slightly different tension settings, so it’s important to experiment and find the right tension for each type of foot.
Do Not Over Tighten the Machine
Lastly, it’s important to note that it’s always better to err on the side of too loose rather than too tight. Having the tension too tight can cause the fabric to bunch up, while too loose can cause the stitches to be uneven. Paying close attention to the tension settings, as well as the type of fabric and stitch you’re using, will help you produce professional-looking projects every time.
