Problem with your machine? CHECK HERE FIRST! How to properly insert your bobbin.

[cheezy]

From jungrrl:

Hey all!

I'm merging a honkin' ton of threads all about the same issue.  So let's just start off by saying what's wrong and what can be done to fix it!

The number one problem that people come to the boards with is threads bunching up, wadding up, making a general mess on the underside of whatever they're sewing. This is probably a simple fix!  Make sure your machine's bobbin is threaded properly! This is the most likely cause for all your issues.

How to properly insert your bobbin
(This tute is for Front load bobbins NOT Top load bobbins, sorry!)

Take out your bobbin casing and your bobbin. Set them this way, with the bobbin casing arm sticking up and the thread on the bobbin winding COUNTER-CLOCKWISE.
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Flip your bobbin case over to the other side (Don't turn it, flip it!)


Pick up your bobbin and put it in the case. Make sure you have the thread in hand.


With the bobbin now inside the casing, pull the thread into the channel on top of the casing.


Now pull the thread over toward the left and under the metal piece.


Keep pulling the thread over toward the opening until it snaps into the correct position.


You now have the bobbin in the casing correctly!

Now, turn the casing around.


Pulling on the flap (I don't know the real name!) insert the bobbin case into the housing. You'll see a notch were the case arm should go, make sure you're heading that way!


Put the arm in the correct place and let go of the flap.


That's it!


Now, when the top thread is threaded correctly (this will vary by machine) You can see how the top thread (black) will come loop around the bobbin casing and pull the bottom thread up.


You're ready to sew!


this is off topic, but i cant figure it out: how do i use a sewing machine?i have it all threaded but i dont know....am i supposed to just go one stitch @ a time? also: my thread bunches and breaks...any suggestions?thanks so much!

[Monkeypooshoes]

hiya - if the thread is bunching and breaking then it sounds to me like you've got it threaded up wrong.  can you check some instructions?  if you are sure it is right, the stitch size and tension might need adjusting.  depending on what sort of machine you've got, there will be dials and switches for doing that. 

[lilleftie818]

PLEASE HELP ME!!!

For a while now ive been wanting to learn how to use my sewing machine. Today I asked my grandma to show me how since she kinda knows about it. Well its acting weird and not sewing!!! it gets all  tangled and the bottom thread wont even grab. we tried threading it so many ways but its just not working! I dont know whats going on or how to do anything! and my gramma got fed up and left! 

what do i do??  [/b]

[sarah_1980]

lilleftie818, don't get upset about it!

Sewing machines are the craziest things - sometimes I believe that my sewing machine won't work because its cold or because its too hot or just because I left it on for too long and things like that!

Without actually seeing what's happening I can't really say what might be causing the problems for you.

I would recommend you go get the machine serviced, especially if its an older machine. Its a little bit pricey but once you have a well oiled machine you can feel the difference.

Sorry I couldn't help you further 

[olga]

Maybe take it to a nice fabric store ( Jo-Ann's) where the people are freindly, and maybe just maybe they will be able to help.

[Elphabia]

If it's an older machine and you don't have the manual for it, try doing an internet search for the make and model to find the manual. Most companies now have downloadable manauals and it should show you exactly how to thread it. If it is threaded correctly, I'd try the following things before taking it into the shop:

Try changing the needle, often your needle (especially if the machine hasn't been used for awhile) gets tiny burrs on it and wont work properly.
Try adjusting your tension on the top thread, you may have to play with it a little before you get it right.
Clean the machine. Find a small brush or use a clean old toothbrush and clean all the fuss out of it, you can also use compressed air to get in the small nooks and crannies.
Oil it, basic 3-in-1 oil, or buy sewing machine oil.  Oil all the moving parts. But be sure to run scrap fabric through the machine a couple of times before sewing any "good" pieces to make sure all the excess oil is removed.
Try calling a sewing machine outlet, you may find a kind person willing to help you and not charge unless there is truely something wrong with it.
Hope this helps...good luck

[stajdaml]

are you winding your bobbin right?

sometimes the thread comes loose from my bobbin and it does exactly what you are describing.

find a picture showing you exactly how to thread you bobbin.

the first time i learned to sew on a machine, my grandma hadn't done it in so long, she forgot how to thread the bobbin.

[Lalage]

Make sure your bobbin is in the case properly--it should go in so the thread is winding clockwise. Thread the needle  from left to right, or front to back depending on how the shaft holds the needle---these are two common mistakes people make. And always get servicing on older models (or any model that has been sitting for more than a year in less than optimum storage situations)

[Lavender Rose]

It might be helpful to know what kind of machine you have, the model, how old it is and whether you have the owners manual.  Some machines are just plain trouble.  Other machines, once you get them threaded, work just fine.  Maybe you, or your grandma, know someone else who can get the thing threaded up for you.

[primashonna]

SO... What does this mean?  This is the back of what I was sewing.. the front looks totally normal.
Can anyone give me a hint on how to fix this?  I'm pretty new to sewing...




I'd be greatful for any clue!

thanks!