Bobbin problems on the sewing machine are a common occurrence. Determining what is wrong is a challenge to most because everything is inside the machine. However, that shouldn’t be the case, and modern machines will make it easy. This article will go through how to handle bobbin problems and the common issues you may encounter with your bobbin.
Rethread Your Sewing Machine
When you run into bobbin problems, the first thing you need to do is rethread the machine. This will enable you to see if the issue will go away.
Start by taking the bobbin to ensure there are no knots on the thread. Then, try pulling the thread slightly to ensure it runs smoothly before closing it off.
After inserting the bobbin back into the case, go for a full rotation by turning the wheels towards yourself. This will result in the needle going up and down, grabbing the bobbin.
Now pull some thread out and leave it hanging from the machine’s back. You will then be good to go. This is not assurance your problems will be solved. If the problem persists, below are other methods you may employ.
Changing the Needle
You should ensure the needle you are using is the right kind for the fabric you are sewing. You can check the needle’s number and confirm if it matches the structure and thickness of the fabric you have.
You can also check a sewing machine needle guide to be certain of the needle you need if you are not certain. Also, check whether the needle is inserted correctly and confirm if it might be bent. An uneven tip or a bent on the needle usually results in issues, especially with the bobbin.
A point to note; if you constantly have bent needles, you might be pulling the fabric too hard or too fast through the machine. You should also note that a needle may be slightly bent, though it may be hard to notice on looking at it.
Slight bends of the needle may only be noticeable if you take the needle out of the machine and place it on a flat table. You can change the needle altogether since it is a cheap item. Also, if you have been using a needle for a while and the bobbin area starts to have an issue, or you start experiencing weird sounds, it might be advisable to change it.
As mentioned earlier, make sure the needle and the fabric match. Thin needles may bend on thick fabrics. You should also fasten the needle well. A loose needle might be shattered in the machine, resulting in some expensive problems.
Ensure Your Bobbin Is the Right Size
If you find the needle is not the problem, ensure you use the right bobbin size. This is because there are different sizes of bobbins, and they are used differently. Front-loaded bobbins are different from top-loaded bobbins, while industrial models are different from home sewing machines.
The bobbin will be broader for an industrial sewing machine than a bobbin from a home sewing machine. A home bobbin will easily fit an industrial sewing machine. However, this will not be a good idea because the bobbin will swing back and forth when you sew. Therefore, you should ensure you are using the right size.
Different brands also have different sizes. If your machine is Singer, it will not be advisable to use another brand’s bobbin, for instance, Brother. The machine may appear to work well but stick to the brand to avoid issues with your bobbin. This also applies to other companies such as Babylock, Husqvarna, Janome, Pfaff, and Kenmore.
A Stuck Bobbin Case
If you find yourself in a situation where the bobbin case is stuck, gently remove it to see what the problem could be.
It might have taken a hit from leather or a heavy-duty needle. Open the latch to take the bobbin out, or try to wiggle it a little if you have a hard time removing it.
Ensure you remove the machine’s bottom plate and give it a good look. There could be a stuck thread, needle, or fabric.
You should also examine the bobbin carefully to ensure no burrs on its case. If the bobbin is stuck and you cannot get it out in any way, you might have to take it to the sewing machine repair shop.
A Loose Bobbin Case
You should ensure that the bobbin case is loose and not the machine’s bottom case. If you are certain it is the case, check if the bobbin case is properly inserted.
Also, make sure that the needle does not touch the bobbin case. Try to reinstall it another time to be certain.
If the problem does not seize, ensure the bobbin and the case are correct. If all that does not help, you might have to take the machine to the repair shop.
Weird Noise from the Case of the Bobbin
Whenever you hear weird noises coming from the bobbin case, ensure you clean the machine. The noise may be due to a stuck thread or fabric. It may also be the needle touching something in the machine.
If cleaning does not work, try to get another needle. The needle might have gotten a bend and is touching parts of the machine.
You should, by all means, avoid sewing once you hear your machine making any weird noise. The machine should always be normal without ticking or scratching noises.
Clean the Machine from the Lint
If the machine is continually causing problems after taking the above measures, ensure you clean it thoroughly. Ensure you take off all the dirt, hair, and lint from the bobbin area, so nothing gets stuck.
Lint is the fluffy stuff that accumulates in the machine as we use it. The stuff will always build up and cleaning the machine regularly will be the remedy. Cleaning will ensure the lint does not interfere with the needle or damage anything.
Give the machine a little oil after removing lint and dirt from the bobbing area. The oil should be just a small amount, and if you have a problem with the amount of oil, put a drop of oil on a brush and apply it to moving parts.
