How do I change the upper Tension on my machine

Usually, the upper tension should work in tandem with the bobbin tension so they actually pull against each other. If the upper tension is too loose, then the bobbin tension will not be pulled up into the fabric. Try tightening the upper tension and see if that makes a difference. The two threads should meet in the middle of the fabric.

However, on occasion, the bobbin tension is, in fact, too tight and can be adjusted. Be sure to mark the setting BEFORE making any adjustments (so you can reverse your changes) and make tiny incremental adjustments to the bobbin tension, ie 1/8 to 1/4 turn. A little adjustment makes a BIG change in bobbin tension.

Understanding Thread Tension Threads

Your upper and lower thread tensions are out of balance. The upper thread tension is too high or your lower thread tension is too low. Make sure your bobbin thread is correctly routed under the tension spring. There is a small screw on the bobbin case that always you to adjust tension.

Some machines do have a presser foot pressure adjustment. Since you didn't provide a make/model, we're not able to assist further. You'll have to consult your owner's manual.

The upper tension is usually totally adjustable. As a matter of fact, the upper tension is the first place to adjust tension. Just be sure to RAISE the presser foot when threading the upper thread so it will seat in the tension disk. If the upper thread is showing under the fabric, it is too loose. If the bobbin thread is pulling to the top of the fabric, the upper tension is too tight. Tension will change with needle, thread, and fabric, so before beginning a new project, always test on a scrap piece of the fabric first. The tension is correct when the upper thread and bobbin thread meet in the middle of the fabric.

As a sewist, you should become comfortable with adjusting the upper tension as needed.

..

Factory standard tension for upper thread is the midway point between the high and low number. However, that tension dial is meant to be used for tweaking tension. Generally, tweaking is required whenever the type of fabric, needle, or thread are changed, ie thicker fabric like denim should have a different upper tension setting than fine chiffon. To be successful with tension settings, one must become comfortable adjusting the upper tension.

NOTE: Accurate tension is achieved when the upper thread and bobbin thread meet in the middle of the fabric.
.
Understanding Bobbin Tension


...

Generally, tension adjustments are made using the upper thread tension. Most likely the upper tension is set too tight and is pulling the bobbin thread up. Loosen the upper tension and try again. Tension is accurate when the upper thread and bobbin thread meet in the middle of the fabric. Whenever fabric, thread & needle are changed, there may be a need to adjust the upper tension.

HINT: When threading the upper thread, make sure the presser foot is RAISED during threading to make sure the upper tension disks are open and the thread seats properly.

Bobbin tension is only adjusted when the tensions are way out of whack. Only slight turns of the bobbin case tension screw are made in graduated movements and testing occurs after each adjustment.

...

Consult the owner's manual or search the internet for:

Make + Model + the word "Manual"

Factory standard upper tension setting is halfway between the high and low tension numbers. Correct tension is when the upper thread and bobbin thread meet in the middle of the fabric.

Upper tension is meant to be the method for tweaking tension. A sewist should become comfortable with adjusting the upper tension, especially when fabric, thread, or needle are changed.

....

Tension setting is trial and error. To learn choose two color threads same weight and manufacture. placing one in bobbin other top tread.

Set the lower tension to light. The lower tension has always been lower than the top.

Depending on needle size and material the upper needs to be set.

Use the images as a guide.




Hope this helps?

The standard factory tension setting for most machines is the halfway point between the high and low number. The upper tension is not meant to be static, ie, the tension adjustment will change depending on what is being sewn.

The tension is correct when the upper thread and bobbin thread meet in the middle of the fabric.

...

Be absolutely sure that the problem lies with the bobbin tension. 99.9% of tension problems lie in the "upper tension." If upper thread is creating a birdsnest under the fabric, the upper tension is too loose. If the bobbin tension is pulling to the top of the fabric, the upper tension is too tight.

One should adjust bobbin tension only when one is very familiar with a sewing machine. Before changing anything, be sure to mark the position of the bobbin tension adjustment screw first. That way, you will be able to return it to the original position if you need to. When making bobbin tension adjustments, move the bobbin screw only 1/8 of a turn at a time. Test before making any more adjustments. Repeat, test, repeat, test...

...

Customer Support