Monday, February 22, 2016

Sewing Tips | Tension Settings

We always recommend you check your manual first for proper tension settings. But if you don't have the manual, or you want a different view of it, then this a good starting point.

The correct setting of the tensions is so the top and bottom threads lock in the center of the fabric (Fig1)



Bobbin Thread The bobbin thread is adjusted by the adjustable leaf spring tension (Fig 2) on the bobbin case. Turn the tiny screw on the leaf spring (Fig 3) no more then a 1/2 of a turn at a time to get the desired setting. This adjustment doesn't need to be done often, but something as simple as switching to lighter, heavier or a different thread can cause the adjustment to be off. You can quickly check the bobbin thread tension by holding the bobbin thread in your fingers (Fig 4) and pull it up in a swift motion. The bobbin case should slightly move downwards. If it doesn't move at all then most likely the tension is to strong. If the bobbin case moves downward by just holding the thread, then the tension is to weak. 


Top Thread To check the top thread tension, make sure the presser foot is down and pull a few inches of thread through by hand. You should be able to feel the tension on the thread as you pull it through. The thread should pull through nice and smooth with no snags or tight spots. Now sew a few stitches on a test fabric and compare it to the diagrams below. Adjust the tension as needed.



Never sew with more tension then needed to make a good stitch!

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