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!)