Thread tension

The thread tension will affect the quality of your stitches. You may need to adjust it when you change fabric or thread.

Memo

Before beginning to change tension adjustments make sure the upper thread and bobbin are inserted correctly.

We recommend you do a test sample on a scrap of fabric before you start to sew.

Correct tension

Correct tension is important as too much or too little tension will weaken your seams or cause puckers on your fabric.

1

 

a Wrong side

2

b Surface

 

c Upper thread

d Lower thread

3

4

Upper tension is too tight

Loops appear on the surface of the fabric.

Note

If the bobbin thread was incorrectly inserted, the upper thread may be too tight. In this case, refer to “Lower threading” (page 11) and reinsert the bobbin.

 

1

 

 

 

a Wrong side

 

 

b Surface

2

 

c Upper thread

 

 

d Lower thread

 

 

e Loops appear on

3

5

surface of fabric

 

4

Solution

Reduce the tension by turning the upper tension- control dial to a lower number.

Upper tension is too loose

Loops appear on the wrong side of the fabric.

Note

If the upper thread was incorrectly threaded, the upper thread may be too loose. In this case, refer to “Upper threading” (page 13) and rethread.

1

5

2

 

 

 

 

a Wrong side

 

 

b Surface

2

 

c Upper thread

 

d Lower thread

 

 

 

 

e Loops appear on

3

 

wrong side of

 

fabric

 

 

4

Solution

Increase the tension by turning the upper tension- control dial to a higher number.

Bobbin tension is too loose

Loops may appear on the surface of the fabric when sewing thin fabric with thin thread.

1

 

 

a Wrong side

 

 

b Surface

2

 

c Upper thread

 

d Lower thread

 

 

 

 

e Loops appear on

3

5

surface of fabric

 

4

Solution

Reduce the tension by turning the upper tension- control dial to a lower number.

If the problem persists, increase the tension in the bobbin by turning the screw clockwise with a small oval screwdriver.

Be sure not to turn the screw more than one full turn. In addition, be sure to return the screw to its original position before the next time that the machine is used.

Note

The bobbin thread tension has been adjusted at the factory for general use. For most sewing applications, no adjustment is needed.

24