Bobbins Away! The Ultimate Guide to Sewing Machine Bobbins
Let's dive into the underbelly of your sewing machine—quite literally! Your bobbin may be tiny, but it plays a big role in making sure your stitches stay on point. This post will guide you through the different types of bobbins, how to load them properly, troubleshoot common bobbin problems, and even some fun storage tips. Don’t forget to check out the affiliate links for must-have bobbin supplies and accessories!
Bobbins 101: What Are They and Why Do They Matter?
The bobbin holds the bottom thread that combines with the top thread to create a stitch. Without it, sewing would be...well, knot happening!
Bobbins come in different types: (plastic vs. metal bobbins) and different sizes (Class 15, Class 66, L-style, etc.). It’s important to match them to your sewing machine.
Need new bobbins? Grab Class 15 Bobbins or Class 66 Bobbins from our affiliates to fit your machine perfectly.
The Great Debate: Plastic or Metal Bobbins?
Plastic Bobbins
Lightweight: Made from durable plastic, these bobbins are great for beginners and work well for most household sewing projects.
Pros: Less likely to rust, making them ideal for humid environments. Because they’re lightweight, they’re less likely to wear out the bobbin case.
Cons: More prone to damage if dropped, as they can crack or become misshapen over time.
Best for: Standard home sewing machines, especially when working with lighter fabrics.
Get your plastic bobbin pack here!
Metal Bobbins
Heavy-duty: Made from steel or aluminum, these bobbins are more robust and durable, which makes them great for heavy-duty sewing or industrial machines.
Pros: Long-lasting and less prone to deformation. Their weight can help maintain consistent tension, especially with thicker fabrics.
Cons: They can rust over time if exposed to moisture, and may wear down the bobbin case in some machines if not compatible.
Best for: Heavy-duty sewing machines, quilting, and working with thicker materials like denim or leather.
Snag a set of metal bobbins for your projects.
Which one suits your sewing style? We’ll help you decide!
Bobbin Size Differences
Bobbins come in a variety of sizes, and choosing the correct one for your machine is essential for proper stitch formation and tension. Here are some of the most common bobbin sizes:
Class 15 Bobbins
Shape and Size: Flat on both sides, approximately 20.5 mm in diameter and 11.5 mm in thickness.
Material Options: Available in plastic or metal.
Compatibility: Widely used for many home sewing machines, including brands like Singer, Brother, Janome, and Baby Lock.
Tip: Double-check your machine’s manual to ensure it specifies Class 15 if you’re considering this size.
Class 66 Bobbins
Shape and Size: Slightly domed on one side, flat on the other, measuring around 20.3 mm in diameter and 10.7 mm in thickness.
Material Options: Mostly found in plastic, though metal versions exist.
Compatibility: Commonly used in older Singer machines and some vintage models. These bobbins have a slightly different shape than Class 15, so they’re not interchangeable.
Tip: If your machine manual specifies Class 66, don’t swap it with Class 15, as the subtle shape difference can affect stitch quality.
L-Style Bobbins
Shape and Size: Similar in diameter to Class 15, but slimmer in thickness, measuring about 20.3 mm in diameter and 8.9 mm thick.
Material Options: Available in both plastic and metal.
Compatibility: Often used in some long-arm quilting machines, embroidery machines, and older sewing machine models.
Tip: Check the machine's specifications or test a few stitches before starting a major project to ensure it fits well.
M-Style Bobbins
Shape and Size: Larger in both diameter and thickness (approximately 24.9 mm in diameter and 10.7 mm thick).
Material Options: Typically found in metal, but plastic versions are also available.
Compatibility: Often used in industrial sewing machines and some long-arm quilting machines due to the higher thread capacity.
Tip: M-style bobbins can hold a lot more thread, making them great for large projects like quilting where you don’t want to stop frequently to reload.
How to Match the Bobbin to Your Sewing Machine
Consult the Machine Manual
Why It’s Important: Your sewing machine manual is the ultimate guide for which bobbin type, size, and material your machine requires. The manufacturer designs machines to work with specific bobbin dimensions and materials for optimal performance. Using a bobbin that doesn’t match the manual’s specifications can lead to issues like thread jams, poor stitch quality, or even damage to the bobbin case.
Where to Find the Information: Look under the “Accessories” or “Maintenance” section of the manual. It should list the compatible bobbin types, such as Class 15, Class 66, L-style, etc.
Online Manuals: If you don’t have the physical manual, check the manufacturer’s website for a downloadable PDF version or search for it online.
Test for Proper Fit
How to Insert the Bobbin:
Place the bobbin into the bobbin case or drop-in compartment, depending on whether your machine is a front-loading or top-loading style.
Make sure the thread winds in the correct direction as specified by the manual (usually counterclockwise for drop-in bobbins and clockwise for front-load bobbins).
Check the Tension:
Gently pull the thread from the bobbin. It should unwind smoothly with a slight resistance. If the thread pulls too easily or feels too tight, it may indicate that the bobbin is not fitted correctly or the tension needs adjustment.
Some machines allow for manual tension adjustments on the bobbin case. If you find that your stitches are uneven or there’s puckering, adjusting the screw on the bobbin case slightly may help. Always do this incrementally and test on a scrap piece of fabric.
Spinning Test:
After inserting the bobbin, turn the handwheel to see if the bobbin spins freely without wobbling. It should rotate smoothly with consistent motion. A bobbin that’s too small may wobble or bounce, while one that’s too large may not spin at all.
Consider the Fabric and Project Type
Heavier Fabrics (e.g., Denim, Canvas, Leather):
When sewing thicker fabrics, metal bobbins are generally preferred because they are sturdier and can better handle the increased tension required for heavy-duty projects. The weight of the metal helps keep the thread tension stable.
Use a slightly thicker thread for these projects, and make sure the bobbin can accommodate it without jamming. You may need to adjust the machine’s top thread tension to match the bobbin thread.
Lightweight Fabrics (e.g., Cotton, Silk, Rayon):
Plastic bobbins are usually sufficient for lightweight fabrics and most standard sewing tasks. They are easier on the machine and reduce wear and tear on bobbin cases, especially in drop-in systems.
If you’re working with delicate fabrics like silk, using a plastic bobbin can help minimize the chances of abrasion that might come from metal.
High-Volume Projects (e.g., Quilting, Long Seams):
For quilting or projects requiring long seams, consider using a larger bobbin, like the M-style, to reduce the need for frequent thread changes. Larger bobbins hold more thread, which is helpful when working on larger-scale projects.
Pre-wound bobbins can also be a time-saver for large projects. These are available in many standard sizes and usually wound with a consistent tension.
Matching Bobbin Material to the Project
Why It Matters: The material of the bobbin (plastic vs. metal) can affect how smoothly the machine runs, especially on older models or industrial machines.
Plastic Bobbins:
Better for projects requiring frequent bobbin changes (like multi-colored thread changes in embroidery), as plastic bobbins are inexpensive and easy to switch.
Ideal for machines with drop-in bobbin systems, which are designed with plastic bobbins in mind.
Metal Bobbins:
Better suited for machines with front-loading bobbin systems, which often have cases designed to fit the weight and thickness of metal bobbins.
Offer more stability and durability for tough materials or high-speed sewing.
Thread Type Compatibility
Regular Sewing Thread: Works well with most standard bobbin types and materials.
Specialty Threads (e.g., Metallic, Elastic):
Some threads, like metallic or elastic, may require specific bobbin settings or adjustments. For metallic threads, a plastic bobbin may reduce friction, whereas metal may provide better tension control for heavier specialty threads.
Pre-wound Bobbins:
Pre-wound bobbins are popular in embroidery or quilting because they are wound with perfect tension and can save time. However, make sure they are compatible with your machine’s bobbin case specifications.
Labeling and Organizing Bobbins
Keep Track of Your Bobbins: Label bobbins with a small sticker or piece of tape to indicate the thread type or color. This can be especially helpful if you switch thread colors often.
Use a Bobbin Storage Case: A dedicated storage solution can prevent bobbins from getting tangled or lost. Consider a case that keeps the bobbins separated and secured, especially when using different sizes or types.
How to Load a Bobbin Like a Pro
Prepare Your Sewing Machine:
Turn Off the Machine: This is a safety precaution to avoid accidentally sewing while winding the bobbin.
Raise the Presser Foot: Lifting the presser foot releases the tension discs, allowing the thread to move freely.
Set Up the Thread:
Place the Thread Spool on the Spool Pin: Make sure the thread spool is secure and the thread is coming off in the correct direction as indicated in your sewing machine’s manual.
Thread the Machine for Bobbin Winding:
Pull the thread through the thread guide at the top of the machine.
Guide it through the bobbin winding tension disc (usually a small metal disc near the top of the machine). This is important for creating even tension during winding.
Load the Bobbin:
Insert the Thread Through the Bobbin:
Pull the end of the thread through the small hole on the bobbin’s side (if present). Some bobbins may not have a hole, in which case you can wind the thread around the bobbin a few times manually.
Place the Bobbin on the Winder Spindle:
Push the bobbin onto the spindle until it clicks into place. Make sure it is secure but don’t push too hard, as it could damage the bobbin or spindle.
Engage the Bobbin Winding Mechanism:
Depending on your machine, you may need to push the bobbin winder spindle to the right or flip a lever to engage the winding mechanism.
Wind the Bobbin:
Start Slowly: Press the foot pedal or the machine's start button and begin winding at a slow speed to get the thread evenly distributed.
Increase the Speed Gradually: Once the thread is evenly wrapping around the bobbin, you can increase the speed. The machine should wind the bobbin evenly from top to bottom.
Stop Before the Bobbin is Full:
Most machines will stop automatically when the bobbin is full, but if yours doesn’t, leave about 1/16th of an inch of space at the outer edge to avoid overfilling.
Trim the Thread and Remove the Bobbin:
Cut the Thread: Use scissors to snip the thread close to the bobbin, leaving a short tail.
Remove the Bobbin from the Winder: Slide the bobbin off the spindle, and push the spindle back to its original position.
Tips for Ensuring Even Tension While Winding
Make Sure the Thread is Properly Seated in the Bobbin Winder Tension Disc:
The thread should pass through the bobbin winding tension disc securely. If the tension is too loose, the thread will wind unevenly, leading to potential stitch issues.
Use Consistent Speed:
Maintain an even speed while winding. Starting and stopping abruptly can cause uneven thread distribution.
Avoid Overfilling the Bobbin:
Don’t fill the bobbin all the way to the edges, as this can lead to thread jams when sewing. Leave a small gap near the edge.
Check for Loops or Gaps:
If you see any loops or unevenness while winding, stop and re-thread the bobbin winder tension disc. Consistency in winding ensures better stitch quality.
Inserting the Bobbin: Top-Loading vs Front-Loading Machines
Top-Loading Bobbins (Drop-In Style)
Open the Bobbin Cover:
Slide open the bobbin cover plate located on the top of the machine near the needle area. In some machines, this may involve lifting the needle plate.
Insert the Bobbin:
Drop the bobbin into the bobbin case with the thread coming off in the correct direction (usually counterclockwise).
Pull the thread through the small slit or notch in the bobbin case and guide it into the tension spring. There may be a small diagram near the bobbin area showing the correct threading direction.
Guide the Thread Out:
Leave a short tail of thread coming out of the bobbin case, then replace the bobbin cover.
Draw Up the Bobbin Thread:
Turn the handwheel to lower the needle, then raise it again. This will catch the bobbin thread and pull it up through the needle plate. Pull both threads (top and bobbin) under the presser foot and to the back of the machine.
Front-Loading Bobbins
Access the Bobbin Case:
Open the hinged cover on the front of the machine. The bobbin case should be visible and easily accessible.
Insert the Bobbin into the Bobbin Case:
Place the bobbin into the bobbin case with the thread coming off in the correct direction (usually clockwise for front-loading systems).
Pull the thread through the slit in the bobbin case and under the tension spring until it snaps into place.
Insert the Bobbin Case into the Machine:
Hold the latch on the bobbin case to keep the bobbin from falling out, and position the case so that it fits snugly into the machine’s shuttle.
Ensure that the bobbin case clicks into place. You shouldn’t be able to move it around freely once it’s properly inserted.
Draw Up the Bobbin Thread:
Hold the upper thread, turn the handwheel to lower and raise the needle, and pull the top thread gently to bring the bobbin thread up through the needle plate. Pull both threads to the back of the machine.
Bonus Tips for Both Types
Keep Your Bobbin Area Clean: Regularly clean the bobbin compartment to remove lint or thread pieces. A clean bobbin area helps maintain consistent tension.
Double-Check Your Thread Path: Always make sure the thread is threaded correctly in the machine to avoid tension problems.
By following these detailed steps and tips, you’ll be winding and loading your bobbin like a pro, ensuring smooth and trouble-free sewing!
Don’t have a bobbin winder? Try this handy bobbin winding tool.
Bobbins Gone Bad: Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Thread Bunching or Bird-Nesting
Problem: When a tangled mess of thread forms underneath the fabric, it’s commonly known as “bird-nesting.” This issue is often due to incorrect bobbin threading, uneven bobbin winding, or improper tension settings.
Cause:
The bobbin is not threaded correctly or not placed in the bobbin case properly.
The bobbin thread has loose loops because it wasn’t wound with even tension.
The top thread tension is too loose, causing the thread to collect underneath.
How to Fix It:
Rewind the Bobbin: Make sure the bobbin is wound evenly without loops or gaps. Use consistent speed and proper tension while winding.
Re-thread the Bobbin and Top Thread: Take the bobbin out, and re-thread it according to your machine’s manual. Also, check the top thread path and re-thread it from scratch.
Adjust the Tension: Check the top tension settings and adjust as needed. The thread should have some resistance but not be too tight.
Clean the Bobbin Area: Lint or small threads trapped in the bobbin area can cause tangling. Clean the bobbin case and compartment regularly.
Uneven Bobbin Winding
Problem: The thread is not winding evenly across the bobbin, resulting in a bumpy or irregular appearance. This can cause uneven stitches or tension problems while sewing.
Cause:
The thread wasn’t properly threaded through the bobbin winding tension disc.
The bobbin is incorrectly seated on the winding spindle.
Winding speed was inconsistent, leading to uneven layers.
How to Fix It:
Re-thread the Bobbin Winder Tension Disc: Make sure the thread is securely threaded through the bobbin winder tension guide, providing the correct amount of tension while winding.
Check Bobbin Placement: Ensure the bobbin is correctly seated on the spindle and clicks into place.
Use Consistent Speed: Start winding at a slow, even pace before increasing the speed gradually. Avoid abrupt starts and stops.
Hand-Guide the Thread (if necessary): For some machines, you can use a finger to gently guide the thread back and forth to help distribute it evenly.
The Bobbin is Stuck in the Bobbin Case
Problem: The bobbin doesn’t move freely inside the bobbin case, or it gets stuck while sewing.
Cause:
The bobbin is the wrong size or type for your machine.
The bobbin was overfilled, making it too tight in the case.
The bobbin case has dirt, lint, or thread pieces obstructing movement.
How to Fix It:
Use the Correct Bobbin Size: Refer to your machine’s manual to ensure you’re using the appropriate bobbin size and type (Class 15, Class 66, etc.).
Avoid Overfilling: Don’t wind the bobbin all the way to the edge. Leave a small gap to ensure it spins freely.
Clean the Bobbin Case: Use a small brush or compressed air to remove debris from the bobbin case. Make sure there’s nothing obstructing the bobbin’s movement.
Thread Keeps Slipping Off the Bobbin
Problem: The thread continuously slips off the bobbin while winding or sewing, causing tension problems or tangled thread.
Cause:
The bobbin is wound too loosely, making the thread prone to slipping.
The thread was not properly secured at the beginning of the winding process.
The bobbin itself is worn out, causing poor grip on the thread.
How to Fix It:
Start with a Tight Wrap: When beginning to wind, manually wrap the thread around the bobbin a few times to secure it before engaging the winder.
Check Bobbin Quality: If the bobbin is old or cracked, replace it with a new one. Worn bobbins can affect thread grip.
Use the Correct Thread Tension for Winding: Make sure the thread is passing through the bobbin winder tension disc securely.
Incorrect Bobbin Thread Tension
Problem: If the bobbin thread is too tight or too loose, it can cause uneven stitches or puckering in the fabric.
Cause:
The bobbin tension setting is too loose or tight.
The bobbin is not threaded correctly in the bobbin case.
The machine’s top tension setting isn’t properly balanced with the bobbin tension.
How to Fix It:
Adjust the Bobbin Tension Screw: On front-loading bobbin cases, there is usually a small screw that can be turned slightly to adjust the bobbin thread tension. Turn it right to tighten and left to loosen.
Re-thread the Bobbin: Double-check that the bobbin thread is properly pulled through the tension spring of the bobbin case.
Balance the Top and Bobbin Tensions: Test stitches on a scrap piece of fabric. If the top thread is pulling the bobbin thread through to the top, reduce the top tension slightly. If the bobbin thread is coming to the top, increase the top tension.
Bobbin Case Jamming or Skipping Stitches
Problem: The bobbin case jams, or stitches are skipped during sewing. This can be frustrating and may damage the fabric.
Cause:
The bobbin is incorrectly inserted or the wrong size.
The bobbin area is dirty, with lint or debris obstructing the bobbin case.
There is a mechanical issue with the bobbin case, such as a broken spring.
How to Fix It:
Reinsert the Bobbin: Double-check that the bobbin is inserted according to the machine’s instructions.
Clean the Bobbin Area: Remove the bobbin case and use a small brush or compressed air to clean out any debris.
Inspect for Mechanical Issues: If cleaning and reinserting the bobbin don’t solve the problem, inspect the bobbin case for damage or wear. Consider replacing it if you find any issues.
Excessive Bobbin Noise
Problem: The machine makes unusual noises when the bobbin is spinning, which can indicate a problem.
Cause:
The bobbin case is loose or incorrectly inserted.
The bobbin itself is damaged or worn.
There is excess lint or thread in the bobbin compartment.
How to Fix It:
Check the Bobbin Case: Make sure it’s correctly locked into place and isn’t loose.
Inspect the Bobbin: If it’s cracked or bent, replace it with a new one.
Clean the Area Thoroughly: Ensure there’s no lint or thread obstructing the bobbin’s movement.
By knowing these common bobbin problems and how to resolve them, you can prevent sewing frustrations and keep your projects running smoothly. Proper bobbin maintenance and careful handling can go a long way in ensuring beautiful, even stitches every time.
Why does your bobbin keep running out of thread at the most inconvenient times? (Hint: It’s not a curse—it’s just physics!)
Bobbin Storage Solutions That’ll Keep You Organized
Fun and quirky storage ideas to keep those bobbins from rolling away.
Try a bobbin storage box or bobbin ring to keep them in order.
Upcycle solutions like repurposed mint tins—great for DIY enthusiasts!
Fun Bobbin Hacks to Make Life Easier
Use different colored bobbins to match specific thread colors.
If you’re looking for a colorful twist to your sewing project, add different color thread to the bobbin and watch the two colors wind together as you stitch.
Label your bobbins with a small sticker to remember which thread is on each one.
Turn a bobbin case into a tiny spool library—perfect for sewing on the go.
Pick up a bobbin label set to stay organized!
Bobbins in History: Did You Know?
A fun peek into the history of bobbins—how they've evolved over time, and some old-school bobbin facts that’ll make you appreciate these little spools even more.
1. The Origins of the Bobbin
The word "bobbin" comes from the French word bobine, which referred to a small reel or cylinder. Bobbins date back to the early days of textile production when hand-operated spinning wheels were used to wind thread. Early bobbins were often made of wood and sometimes even bone.
2. Bobbins and the Industrial Revolution
During the Industrial Revolution, bobbins played a crucial role in the rise of mechanized textile production. Textile mills in England and the U.S. used large, wooden bobbins in spinning machines, which helped speed up the process of creating yarn and thread. These bobbins were often quite large, much bigger than what we use in sewing machines today.
3. Bobbins as Works of Art
In lace-making, especially during the 16th and 17th centuries, bobbins weren't just functional—they were also decorative. Lacemakers used beautifully carved or painted wooden bobbins, often decorated with beads, to weigh down the thread and help manage the intricate lace patterns. These bobbins became collectors' items, with some featuring inscriptions or small trinkets as charms.
4. The Evolution of Bobbin Material
Before plastic became widely available in the 20th century, bobbins were primarily made of wood, metal, or even ivory. Wooden bobbins were common for hand-cranked and treadle sewing machines, while metal bobbins gained popularity as electric sewing machines emerged.
During World War II, metal bobbins were in short supply due to the need for metal in wartime production. As a result, some manufacturers experimented with using alternative materials like Bakelite, an early type of plastic.
5. Bobbins in Folk Traditions
In some folk cultures, bobbins had superstitions associated with them. It was believed that if you dropped a bobbin while winding it, you would have "bad sewing luck" on your next project. To counter this, some sewers would tie a knot in the thread before continuing.
6. The "Bobbin Boy"
In the 19th century, "bobbin boys" were young workers in textile mills whose job was to replace the used bobbins in spinning machines with fresh ones. This was often the first job for young boys in the mill industry, including famous figures like Andrew Carnegie, who worked as a bobbin boy before rising to prominence in business.
7. Vintage Bobbins as Décor
Today, vintage wooden bobbins from old textile mills have become popular decorative items, often repurposed as candle holders, thread spools, or even table legs. Their nostalgic appeal and rustic charm make them sought-after by collectors and crafters alike.
Old-school bobbins may seem simple, but their history is filled with fascinating details that highlight their evolution from handmade tools to industrial essentials!
Bobbins may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to creating flawless stitches. With these tips, you’ll be ready to keep your sewing projects running smoothly without any bobbin blunders. Check out the affiliate links for all your bobbin needs, and happy sewing!