Why Is Sewing Machine Skipping Stitches?
For sewers, nothing can be more frustrating than a skipped stitch when sewing a project. Skipping stitches can cause serious problems in garment construction, with pieces not joining together properly, thread breaking, and a wavy stitch pattern.
Skipping stitches is usually caused by using the wrong type and size of thread, the incorrect tension, the wrong presser foot, or an improperly adjusted needle. Here, we look at some common causes of skipped stitches and what you can do to prevent them from happening.
The Wrong Type of Thread
The size thread that you use for your project can have a big impact on the final outcome and the process along the way. For example, thread that is too fine or too light will not provide the tension necessary for your machine to form a stitch properly. Similarly, thread that is too thick or heavy can put too much strain on the machine, leading to skipped stitches. This is why it is important to choose the right thread for your project.
To choose the right thread, you first need to know the type of fabric you plan to use. Natural fibers such as cotton, linen, and silk will require a different thread than synthetic fabrics, such as polyester or nylon. Weight is also a factor. Choose a thread weight that is appropriate for the weight of the fabric you are using.
The Wrong Needle
When sewing, the needle size and type should be matched to the thread weight, fabric type, and stitch pattern. As a general rule, you should use the smallest sized needle that can provide adequate stitch formation. The wrong needle for the job can cause skipped stitches and poor stitch formation.
Needles are made from different materials and come in different sizes and types. Universal needles have a slightly rounded point and can be used for most lightweight fabrics. For heavier fabrics, such as denim or canvas, a heavier-duty needle with a sharp point can be used. When working with synthetics and knits, use a special needle designed for those fabrics.
Incorrect Tension
Tension is the amount of resistance that the thread has in the stitch formation. Too much tension can cause skipped stitches, as can too little tension. If the tension is too tight, it can pull the fabric away from the presser foot and cause the needle to penetrate too far into the fabric, resulting in skipped stitches. If the tension is too loose, the fabric will remain loose and will be unable to form a stitch properly.
To check the tension, you should create a few stitches in a scrap of fabric and then check the stitch formation. If the stitches appear too tight, adjust the tension accordingly. You should also check the tension before starting a new project and after making any adjustments to the needle or presser foot.
Wrong Presser Foot
The presser foot is the part of the sewing machine that holds the fabric in place and feeds it through the needle as it stitches. If the presser foot is the wrong type for the fabric being stitched, it can cause skipped stitches.
Depending on the type of fabric and the stitch pattern being used, you may need to use a special presser foot. For example, when sewing knits or synthetic fabrics, you should use a teflon or ‘walking’ presser foot. These presser foots have a slightly wider base which helps the fabric feed through the needle without slipping or catching. For quilt piecing, a quilting or bias binding foot can be used to help keep the fabric edges aligned.
Incorrectly Adjusted Needle
The needle may be incorrectly adjusted if it is not positioned correctly in the needle bar or is not tightened properly. When the needle is not in the correct position it can cause skipped stitches, as well as other stitching problems. In addition, if the needle is not tightened properly it can cause the needle to slip in the needle bar and lead to skipped stitches.
To adjust the needle, first make sure that the needle is in the correct position in the needle bar. If it is not, unscrew the needle clamp and set the needle to the correct position. Next, make sure that the needle is tightened securely in the needle bar. If it is not, tighten the needle with a needle screwdriver.
Poor Thread Distribution
The thread must be properly distributed in order to create a good stitch formation. If the thread is not distributed evenly, it can cause skipped stitches or uneven stitches. To ensure proper thread distribution, check the upper thread for any tangles and make sure that it is properly wound around the spool.
In addition, check that the bobbin is wound properly, making sure that the thread comes off the bobbin in a smooth, even layer. If the bobbin is not wound properly, the thread can become tangled and cause skipped stitches. To avoid this, make sure to wind the bobbin correctly and to use a bobbin case that fits the size of the bobbin.
Improper Oiling
Sewing machines need regular lubrication in order to run smoothly and create good stitch formation. If the machine is not properly lubricated, skipped stitches can occur. To ensure that the machine is properly lubricated, you should refer to the manual for instructions on how and when to lubricate the machine.
In addition, you should regularly clean the inside of the machine and remove any lint or thread build-up to ensure smooth operation. Cleaning should be done after every use and before starting a new project. Also, make sure to regularly check the machine for loose screws or other parts that may be causing the machine to malfunction.
Running Too Fast
Although it can be tempting to run your machine at top speed, running it too fast can cause skipped stitches. When running the machine at high speed, you need to be extra careful in guiding the fabric through. The fabric should be pushed down evenly and not tugged or pulled, otherwise skipped stitches can occur.
If the fabric is not being pushed down evenly or is not being fed through at the same speed, the machine can skip stitches due to the uneven tension on the thread. To prevent this, adjust the speed of the machine to match the speed at which you are feeding the fabric through.
Incorrect Presser Foot Pressure
The presser foot pressure determines how much pressure is applied to the fabric as it is fed through the needle. If the pressure is too high or too low, skipped stitches can occur as the fabric is not held in place properly in order to form a stitch.
To adjust the presser foot pressure, refer to the manual of your sewing machine. Generally, the heavier the fabric, the higher the pressure should be, and vice versa. Make sure that the pressure is set correctly before beginning a new project to ensure proper stitch formation.
Sharp Needles
Needles can become dull over time, especially when sewing multiple layers of fabric. This can cause skipped stitches as the needle is not able to penetrate through the fabric layers properly. To prevent this, always use a sharp needle for your project and replace the needle if it is not piercing the fabric easily.
Using the correct size and type of needle can also help. If you are sewing multiple layers of fabric, choose a needle that is long enough to pass through all of the layers. Needles that are too short will not be able to penetrate through all of the layers, resulting in skipped stitches.
Thread Delays
Thread delays occur when the upper thread breaks or comes out of the needle too quickly. This can cause skipped stitches and uneven stitches. To avoid thread delay, make sure to use the right type of thread for the project and to wind the spool properly on the machine.
In addition, check that the thread is threaded correctly and that it is passing through the tension discs properly. If it is not, the tension may be too tight and the needle may be piercing too far into the fabric, resulting in skipped stitches. Also, make sure to check the bobbin before starting a project and to replace it if it is worn out.
