Sewing machines are a valuable tool for creating clothing, curtains, and various other textile items. But when the thread keeps breaking, it can be tremendously frustrating and time consuming. From an inexperienced user to a professional seamstress, this problem can be irritating. But why does the thread keep breaking?
One possible reason thread might keep breaking is the sewing machine tension being either too low or too high. When the tension is low, the thread is not tight and can slip through the needles, causing breaks in the thread. When too much tension is applied, the thread can be overstretched and snap. To find the right tension, a seamstress should use a set of sewing machine needles of the same size and a simple stretch test. This includes tugging on the thread at the same time as it is being pulled through the machine. If the thread is consistently pulling and the stitches begin to break, the tension needs to be adjusted.
Another frequent cause of sewing machine thread breaks is poor needle selection. The wrong size of needle can be the problem. For example, if the thread is too thin for the needle, it will weaken the thread, leading to frequent breaks. Too thick of a needle can rapidly wear down the thread due to the increased amount of friction.
Additionally, the thread itself could be a cause of frequent breaking. Inconsistencies in the quality of the thread, such as thin and thick spots, weak areas, and knots, can be a regular cause of thread snapping. It is important to use strong, high-quality thread of the same size in order to make sewing projects smoother. Low-quality thread can also be a hazard due to fibers such as cotton and linen that can fray, catching and knotting in the machine.
Also, it is not uncommon for a seamstress to accidentally break the thread while they are sewing. This can occur if the user has not softened the thread by stretching it lightly between their hands before threading the machine needle. Threading the needle with a super stiff thread can lead to greater stress and tension on the thread, which may result in sudden thread breakage.
In some cases, sewing machine thread breakage could be the result of a defective part or a dirty machine. It is essential to lubricate any parts that come into contact with the thread, like the bobbin case, feed dogs, and needle plate. Furthermore, make sure to clean the lint and debris in the needle plate on a regular basis. It is important to ensure that the machine is compatible with the thread – both in terms of tension and type.
Finally, sewing at too high of a speed can be a major cause for breaking thread. There is a trade-off with running the machine at the highest speed possible. Although it can be you to complete tasks faster, it can also be a hazard due to the increased tension on the thread. It is best to practice sewing materials at a slow to medium speed and gradually increase the speed as the stitching technique continues to improve. It is also important to make sure that the fabric is not bunched up or caught in the tension discs, as this will weaken the thread.
Thread Types and Precision Needles
Threads come in a variety of types – each with different properties. For example, cotton thread has a high tensile strength and is suitable for heavy duty sewing, while polyester thread is more suitable for stronger materials like denim. It is important to consider the thread type when selecting the right sewing machine needles. Some types of needles can be more accurate when used with certain types of threads, such as precision needles with a hooked tipped and a rounded eye – this helps reduce breakage and fraying. It is also important to pay attention to the size of the needle. As a general rule, the machine needle should be two sizes larger than the thread.
The Best Sewing Thread
When shopping for the best thread for a machine, it is important to choose the right type of thread for the project. For example, nylon thread is ideal for stitching delicate fabrics and elastic, while cotton and rayon thread is best for straight seams. Furthermore, all-purpose thread is a great option for garment construction as it is strong and resists snags. It is also important to choose the correct thread weight, as this will affect how the thread lays on the fabric. Thread weight is measured in either Tex or denier, which is the weight in grams of 9000 meters of thread. As a general rule, heavier weight threads are best suited for heavier fabrics and needle sizes.
The Effect of Heat
Heat can also be an important factor in sewing machine thread breakage. Thread, like any other material, has an optimal temperature threshold. If the thread is exposed to extreme heat or cold, then it can weaken and break easily. Furthermore, certain types of threads are more sensitive to temperature than others. Heat-sensitive thread, such as polyester and nylon, should not be exposed to high temperatures as this can cause thread breakage.
Needle Care
Keeping needles in good condition is another factor to consider when preventing thread breakage. Worn out needles can cause harm to the thread and even misshapen stitches. Make sure to regularly examine the needle for wear – if it has a burr or is especially dull, then it is best to replace it. It is also important to consider the angle of the needle when making stitches. The needle should necessarily angle down, causing the thread to move back and forth and reducing fraying. Additionally, the needle should always be parallel to the feed dogs, as this will make the stitches smoother and with less risk of thread breakage.
Presser Feet and Feed Dogs
To reduce thread breakage and produce smoother fabrics, it is important to use the correct presser foot for each project. A straight-stitch presser foot has the best contact with the fabric, allowing for a smoother seam with less chance of breakage. A presser foot that is too high can cause extra tension on the thread, leading to weak areas and eventual breakage. Additionally, if the presser foot is too low, then it can miss-feed the fabric, causing problems such as puckered fabrics and missed stitches.
Feed dogs also play an important role in reducing thread breakage. Properly adjusted feed dogs help the fabric to move more smoothly through the machine, reducing strain on the thread and helping to prevent weak areas. Poorly adjusted feed dogs can cause the fabric to bunch up or move erratically, leading to frequent thread breaks.
Conclusion
Sewing machine thread breakage can be a major problem for many seamstresses. There are a variety of possible causes, from inexperienced user errors to worn out needles. Understanding why the thread is breaking will help the seamstress better adjust their machine and make the necessary changes to produce beautiful finished results. It is essential to use the correct thread and needles, adjust the sewing machine tension, lubricate any parts coming into contact with the thread, check for defective parts, and sew at a slower speed.
