How To Fix Loose Stitches On Your Sewing Machine
Seeing loose or uneven stitches on your sewing projects can be frustrating. But don’t worry, in most cases it’s an easy fix! In this blog post, we’ll walk through the common causes of loose stitches and how to troubleshoot them step-by-step.
With a few simple adjustments, you can get your machine sewing smooth, even stitches again in no time.
How To Fix Loose Stitches On Your Sewing Machine
1. Check the Threading
The most common cause of loose stitching is improper threading of the upper thread. Before you make any other adjustments, thoroughly check that your machine is threaded correctly from spool to needle.
Here are the key things to verify:
- Raise the presser foot and bring the needle to its highest position.
- Ensure the thread follows the complete path from spool through all guides and tension disks.
- Thread completely under the take-up lever. This helps maintain proper tension on the thread.
- Pass the thread through the final thread guide just above the needle.
- Thread the needle from front to back.
It can be easy to miss a guide or skip a step, so go slowly and double-check. Re-threading your machine properly can fix many stitch issues.
You may also want to try a new spool of thread. Old or poor quality thread can cause tangling, fraying, and uneven feeding which leads to problematic stitches. Invest in good 100% polyester or cotton thread from trusted brands like Gutermann, Coats & Clark, or Mettler. Stay away from cheaper bargains – they’ll only cause headaches!
If re-threading doesn’t solve your issue, move on to checking the tension settings next. But in most cases, improper threading is the culprit behind loopy, uneven stitches. Taking the time to thread meticulously will get your machine back on track.
2. Adjust the Tension
The tension refers to how tight or loose the upper and lower threads are as they interlock through the layers of fabric. Proper tension is what keeps the stitches balanced and even on both sides.
When the tension is off, you’ll see the threads pulling unevenly, creating messy stitches. Examine the sample below to diagnose your tension issue:
| Symptom | Problem | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Top threads visible on bottom | Top thread too tight | Loosen top tension |
| Bottom threads visible on top | Top thread too loose | Tighten top tension |
| Uneven puckering | Balanced incorrectly | Adjust top tension |
Most machines have the top thread tension dial located near the take-up lever. The ideal setting is usually around 4-5. Turn the dial lower to loosen thread or higher to tighten as needed. Adjust in small increments and always test on scrap material first.
However, don’t go overboard tweaking your tension dials. Only make minor 1-2 notch adjustments at a time. Drastic turns of the dial can take your machine out of alignment.
3. Examine the Bobbin
Issues with how the bobbin is wound or inserted can also cause messy stitching. Check these areas:
Bobbin winding. Make sure your bobbins are wound evenly and smoothly, not too loose or tight. Any bumps or uneven winding will affect how the thread feeds and creates stitches.
Singer Bobbin Winder – Allows you to wind bobbins quickly and evenly.
Bobbin size. Your machine needs the correct bobbin size to maintain proper tension. Using the wrong style or size bobbin for your make and model can cause all sorts of troubles.
Bobbin insertion. When placing the bobbin case in the machine, ensure it clicks securely in place and the bobbin sits positioned correctly to unwind smoothly.
Bobbin orientation. Double check you have passed the thread through the tension spring and any guides as shown in your manual.
Lint removal. Take the bobbin case out and use a small brush to clear away any lint built up in the case or bobbin area. Excess lint impedes thread tension and flow.
Cleaning out your bobbins and bobbin area regularly helps prevent issues down the line. A stitch in time saves nine!
4. Change the Needle
Your choice of sewing machine needle affects the quality of stitches too.
Always match your needle size to the thickness and type of fabric you are working with. An incompatible needle can lead to skipped stitches, fraying, and uneven tension.
Follow these guidelines:
- Fine fabrics like silks and chiffon – use a 60/8 or 65/9 needle
- Cottons and midweight fabrics – 70/10 or 80/12 needle
- Denim, canvas, coats – 90/14 or 100/16 thicker needle
Damaged or dull needles also cause stitch problems. Replace needles frequently, at least every 2-3 projects. Install with the flat side facing the back and push up as far as it will go.
Never sew over pins, it damages the needle point. Hitting a pin even once can ruin the needle and your stitches.
5. Adjust Bobbin Tension
If you’ve made it through all the above steps and are still battling loose stitches, try tweaking the bobbin tension. This controls how the thread unwinds from the bobbin to interlock with the top thread.
The screw is located on the side of the bobbin case. Make minor turns in 1/4 increments and test on scraps after each adjustment. Turn right to tighten, left to loosen.
Bobbin tension needs adjustment if:
- Sewing with very fine or heavy threads
- Switching between drastically different fabric types
- Tension feels inconsistent even after cleaning
If your bobbin case has a visible spring, you can test the tension like this:
- Remove the bobbin but leave the case in the machine.
- Hold the thread tail loosely in one hand.
- Drop the bobbin, allowing it to dangle and unwind.
- If it drops quickly and spins freely, the tension is too loose.
- If the thread doesn’t unwind at all, it is wound too tight.
- A slight drop then sway is ideal.
With a little trial and error, you’ll find the bobbin tension sweet spot for perfect stitches!
Conclusion
Following the troubleshooting steps above will help identify what’s causing your machine’s loose stitching. Start by thoroughly checking the upper threading, then move on to adjusting tension dials, cleaning the bobbin area, changing the needle, and finally tweak the bobbin tension as a last resort.
Be patient, test all adjustments on scrap fabric, and consult your machine’s manual as needed. Proper maintenance and compatible settings ensure beautiful, even stitches on all your projects. Don’t let messy stitches ruin your sewing fun!
Let us know if this tutorial helped you get to the bottom of your machine’s stitch woes. Happy sewing!