Sewing Machines Logo

Related Topics:

Angie Solseng Posted on May 10, 2018
Answered by a Fixya Expert

Trustworthy Expert Solutions

At Fixya.com, our trusted experts are meticulously vetted and possess extensive experience in their respective fields. Backed by a community of knowledgeable professionals, our platform ensures that the solutions provided are thoroughly researched and validated.

View Our Top Experts

I keep getting the "check upper and bobbin thread" error message repeatedly on 3 different needle bars. It stitched fine for 5015 stitches then the error message appears. How can I fix this?

2 Answers

R.A. Ellis

Level 3:

An expert who has achieved level 3 by getting 1000 points

Superstar:

An expert that got 20 achievements.

All-Star:

An expert that got 10 achievements.

MVP:

An expert that got 5 achievements.

  • Sewing Machines Master 12,731 Answers
  • Posted on May 11, 2018
R.A. Ellis
Sewing Machines Master
Level 3:

An expert who has achieved level 3 by getting 1000 points

Superstar:

An expert that got 20 achievements.

All-Star:

An expert that got 10 achievements.

MVP:

An expert that got 5 achievements.

Joined: Jun 12, 2012
Answers
12731
Questions
2
Helped
2619104
Points
59176

It's possible the thread sensors are dirty.

Jimmie Sill

Level 3:

An expert who has achieved level 3 by getting 1000 points

All-Star:

An expert that got 10 achievements.

MVP:

An expert that got 5 achievements.

Vice President:

An expert whose answer got voted for 100 times.

  • Sewing Machines Master 706 Answers
  • Posted on May 10, 2018
Jimmie Sill
Sewing Machines Master
Level 3:

An expert who has achieved level 3 by getting 1000 points

All-Star:

An expert that got 10 achievements.

MVP:

An expert that got 5 achievements.

Vice President:

An expert whose answer got voted for 100 times.

Joined: Apr 28, 2011
Answers
706
Questions
18
Helped
126811
Points
2291

It is likely you have the bobbin tension and/or upper tension not set properly. When your foot is down give the bobbin tension and upper tension a tug. The amount should be equal with each other but not so tight to test the thread for strength. In others words you may have to loosen the tension or tensions. Also, be very sure that your upper tension has the thread going between the tension plates.

Ad

5 Related Answers

Anonymous

  • 3 Answers
  • Posted on May 22, 2008

SOURCE: Bernina Bernette 600 Deco embroidery machine

It could be that there is a loose piece of thread, or some fluff which is obstructing the tension gauge. Try blowing around the theading area (or even run the hoover pipe near it to see if you can **** it out). I cleared mine by folding a piece of non fluffy material and rubbing gently between the tension dial and machine.

Good luck

Ad

Anonymous

  • 111 Answers
  • Posted on Jul 08, 2009

SOURCE: my macine is new and i cant fix the bobbin tension

the problem is always on the other side of the fabric - if thread bunches up underneath, the top tension or threading is wrong

Anonymous

  • 1238 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 17, 2011

SOURCE: Stitch tension problem - bobbin

Good day!

please try this simple tips:

Good day!

A sewing machine operator can often help themselves when their machine does not operate properly.
Here are some simple instructions, which if properly used can save time and mechanics service calls.
TROUBLE;UPPER THREAD KEEPS BREAKING;
This could be trouble;================Do this;
1.Top tension to tight================loosen tension 1 turn
2.Machine improperly threaded=========check threading
3.Thread twisted on guide post========"
4.Thread twisted out of tension======="
5.Take up spring bent or broken=======Check action of spring
6.Thread jumped off pull off finger===Check threading
7.Needle bent or burred===============new needle
8.Bad cone of thread==================try another cone
TROUBLE;LOWER THREAD KEEPS BREAKING;
1.Bobbin tensionspring to tight=======Loosen tension slightly
2.Bobbin threaded wrong===============check threading
3.Bobbin wound to tight or uneven=====try new bobbin
4.lint or thread on bobbin case=======clean inside case
5.Lint or thread inside hook==========clean inside hook
6.Bobbin case nicked bent or burred===check/change case
TROUBLE;MACHINE STARTED SKIPPING STITCHES;
1.Needle bent or burred===============change
2.Needle set in crooked===============Check
3.Thread jumped off take up spring====check threading
4.Thread jumped off pull off finger===check threading
TROUBLE STITCHES SHOWING LOOPS;
1.Forming loops on top of cloth=======Tighten bobbin tension
======================================or loosen top tension.
2.forming loops on bottom of cloth====Tighten top tension
3.Bobbin placed in case incorrectly===remove and replace
4.Bobbin thread slipped from under====check threading of
tension===============================bobbin case
5.Lint or thread in top tension=======clean between tension discs


Thank you and good luck.

Debbi's Sewing Machine Repair

  • 7365 Answers
  • Posted on May 25, 2012

SOURCE: thread keeps breaking

check to see if there are any burrs in that area

Joyce Love

  • 5 Answers
  • Posted on Jan 07, 2013

SOURCE: I keep getting "check and rethread the upper thread" error message

Hi....I also kept getting the check and rethread upper thread message, I\'d sew about 15 stitches and it\'d stop. Here\'s what I did. On the left of the machine, in the back there is a screw....loosen that screw, take cover off, then lift straigt up and out on the cover that has the 3 on it in your threading seqence. Next, I started inspecting and cleaning the thread route from top to bottom. Lo and behold....I get to the place where you come down the front of the machine and turn to go back up and I spot a little slit in the plastic piece so, when I was threading the machine I guess I was pulling it to far to the left causing it to wear a little slit in that piece....so, I finished cutting it off with a utility knife, used an emery board to smooth it down, put the covers back on and it works GREAT!!!! Who would\'ve ever that it\'d be so easy and save me a bunch of money!!! I sure hope this helps someone.

Ad

Add Your Answer

×

Uploading: 0%

my-video-file.mp4

Complete. Click "Add" to insert your video. Add

×

Loading...
Loading...

Related Questions:

0helpful
1answer

I have a babylock emp6 and it starts stitching the design then stops and says check upper or bobbin thread. THe threads seem fine it stitches a bit then says the same thing what can the problem be?

If your Babylock EMP6 embroidery machine starts stitching a design and then stops, displaying a message to check the upper or bobbin thread, there are a few potential causes for this issue:
  1. Thread tension: Improper thread tension can cause stitching issues. Ensure that both the upper and bobbin threads are properly threaded and the tension settings are adjusted correctly. Check the machine's manual for specific instructions on setting the thread tension.
  2. Thread breakage: Check both the upper and bobbin threads for any signs of breakage or tangles. A broken or tangled thread can cause the machine to stop and display the error message. If you find any issues, rethread the machine and ensure the threads are properly seated in the tension discs and bobbin case.
  3. Bobbin issues: Check the bobbin area for any obstructions, such as lint or tangled thread. Clean the bobbin case and ensure the bobbin is correctly inserted and spinning freely. If the bobbin is wound unevenly or has any defects, replace it with a new one.
  4. Needle issues: A bent or dull needle can cause stitching problems. Check the needle for any damage and replace it if necessary. Make sure you are using the correct needle size and type for the fabric and design you are stitching.
  5. Machine maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance are important for the smooth operation of the machine. Clean out any lint or debris from the bobbin area, needle plate, and thread path. Lubricate the machine as recommended in the manual.
0helpful
1answer

Error message Brother dream machine 2

Your bobbin is either threaded wrong...or to loosely.
0helpful
1answer

12 wt thread

12 wt thread generally will not work well in the bobbin...


"Aurifil 12wt Thread
Aurifil 12 wt thread is ideal for hand quilting, big stitch hand quilting and machine quilting. 12 weight thread creates a more defined and often primitive look. It's great for designs that use a longer stitch length if using a machine. When machine quilting with 12 wt thread, use 40 wt in the bobbin, increase your stitch length, lower your tension, use Topstitch size 90 needles and stitch slowly."
0helpful
1answer

Brother pacesetter ULT2003D

try using a different spool of thead on the top and bobbin
also try changing the needle
and if these suggestions don't help then call the repair shop and check
with them about the machine not sewing light fabric
6helpful
1answer

Stitch tension problem - bobbin thread lies flat or bunches. If you increase the needle thread tension there is no improvement - even at the highest needle thread tension the bobbin thread is a mess. Any...

Good day!

please try this simple tips:

Good day!

A sewing machine operator can often help themselves when their machine does not operate properly.
Here are some simple instructions, which if properly used can save time and mechanics service calls.
TROUBLE;UPPER THREAD KEEPS BREAKING;
This could be trouble;================Do this;
1.Top tension to tight================loosen tension 1 turn
2.Machine improperly threaded=========check threading
3.Thread twisted on guide post========"
4.Thread twisted out of tension======="
5.Take up spring bent or broken=======Check action of spring
6.Thread jumped off pull off finger===Check threading
7.Needle bent or burred===============new needle
8.Bad cone of thread==================try another cone
TROUBLE;LOWER THREAD KEEPS BREAKING;
1.Bobbin tensionspring to tight=======Loosen tension slightly
2.Bobbin threaded wrong===============check threading
3.Bobbin wound to tight or uneven=====try new bobbin
4.lint or thread on bobbin case=======clean inside case
5.Lint or thread inside hook==========clean inside hook
6.Bobbin case nicked bent or burred===check/change case
TROUBLE;MACHINE STARTED SKIPPING STITCHES;
1.Needle bent or burred===============change
2.Needle set in crooked===============Check
3.Thread jumped off take up spring====check threading
4.Thread jumped off pull off finger===check threading
TROUBLE STITCHES SHOWING LOOPS;
1.Forming loops on top of cloth=======Tighten bobbin tension
======================================or loosen top tension.
2.forming loops on bottom of cloth====Tighten top tension
3.Bobbin placed in case incorrectly===remove and replace
4.Bobbin thread slipped from under====check threading of
tension===============================bobbin case
5.Lint or thread in top tension=======clean between tension discs


Thank you and good luck.
0helpful
1answer

I have the error message that there is a mechanical problem and the guide says that the machine is stuck??? How would this be repaired?

Good day!

please try this simple tips:

Good day!

A sewing machine operator can often help themselves when their machine does not operate properly.
Here are some simple instructions, which if properly used can save time and mechanics service calls.
TROUBLE;UPPER THREAD KEEPS BREAKING;
This could be trouble;================Do this;
1.Top tension to tight================loosen tension 1 turn
2.Machine improperly threaded=========check threading
3.Thread twisted on guide post========"
4.Thread twisted out of tension======="
5.Take up spring bent or broken=======Check action of spring
6.Thread jumped off pull off finger===Check threading
7.Needle bent or burred===============new needle
8.Bad cone of thread==================try another cone
TROUBLE;LOWER THREAD KEEPS BREAKING;
1.Bobbin tensionspring to tight=======Loosen tension slightly
2.Bobbin threaded wrong===============check threading
3.Bobbin wound to tight or uneven=====try new bobbin
4.lint or thread on bobbin case=======clean inside case
5.Lint or thread inside hook==========clean inside hook
6.Bobbin case nicked bent or burred===check/change case
TROUBLE;MACHINE STARTED SKIPPING STITCHES;
1.Needle bent or burred===============change
2.Needle set in crooked===============Check
3.Thread jumped off take up spring====check threading
4.Thread jumped off pull off finger===check threading
TROUBLE STITCHES SHOWING LOOPS;
1.Forming loops on top of cloth=======Tighten bobbin tension
======================================or loosen top tension.
2.forming loops on bottom of cloth====Tighten top tension
3.Bobbin placed in case incorrectly===remove and replace
4.Bobbin thread slipped from under====check threading of
tension===============================bobbin case
5.Lint or thread in top tension=======clean between tension discs


Thank you and good luck.
0helpful
1answer

My bobbin stitch is loose. I have tried adjusting tension and have changed the needle.

A. To correct loose stitches, try the following: (1) Balance the thread tension. If the stitches are loose on top of the fabric, decrease the tension to the next lower number. If they are loose on the underside set the tension to the next higher number. (2) Make sure the needle/upper thread follows the threading path. (3) Check to see that the bobbin case is threaded properly. (4) Use a different size needle. For fine fabrics, use a smaller needle (size 9, 11); medium-weight fabrics require a size 14 or 16. And use a size 18 or "Denim" needle for heavy corduroy or denim.
0helpful
1answer

Skipping stitches and upper thread breaking on JCPenney 6600

Hello,
Here are a few things to try.

* Raise your feed dogs if your machine has this feature.

* When you start to sew a seam, hold the upper and bobbin thread tails. Hold them back and out of the way as you sew your first couple of stitches. This will keep them from getting caught in your machine.

* Your fabric may require a different needle. Generally, heavier fabrics require larger needles and thinner fabrics, smaller needles. You may also need a larger needle if you're sewing through many layers of fabric. And make sure to use a ballpoint needle for knit fabrics and a sharp needle for woven (or a universal needle for either). And make sure your needle is appropriate for the type of thread you're using.

* Adjust the pressure of your pressure foot, it may be too light for your fabric.

* If your upper thread and bobbin threads are different types, try using the same thread for both. And use a good quality, brand name thread.

* Change your needle plate. Try switching to a needle plate with a smaller hole (a straight stitch needle plate).

Important Note: If you change your needle plate, check to make sure your needle aligns perfectly with this smaller hole before starting to sew. A misaligned needle could hit the plate and break, which could be dangerous. And make sure to change your needle plate back for zigzag and other wide stitches.

I hope this helps.
3helpful
1answer

Hi, my problem is my bobbin. The tension is fine, it is when I put the bobbin into the bobbin holder. When I thread it through the plate with the top thread, it is so hard to pull out. It seems really...

TENSION: As you change projects and start sewing on different weight materials, you should test stitch on a piece of scrap material of the same weight before beginning the actual project so you can adjust your upper tension to that particular fabric. As an example, if you're changing from a denim type fabric to a silky fabric, you would definitely want to make sure the tension is correct and the stitching looks right before you start to sew the garment.

To determine whether the upper tension is too tight or too loose for the fabric you're wanting to use, try the following test. Take a small scrap of the fabric, fold it, and stitch a line ON THE BIAS of the fabric, using different colors of thread in the bobbin and on top. Grasp the bias line of stitching between the thumb and the index finger. Space the hands about 3 inches apart and pull with an even, quick force until one thread breaks. If the broken thread is the color of the thread in the needle, it means that the upper tension is too tight. If the broken thread is the color of the bobbin thread, the upper tension is too loose. If both threads break together and take more force to break, it means that the tensions are balanced.

BOBBIN: The most probable cause of the lower thread breaking is an improperly wound bobbin. Regardless of where you wind the bobbin, inside the machine, on the top of the handwheel or on the front side near the hand wheel, the basic "bobbin" rules apply.

** Always start with an empty bobbin. Never wind one color over another color.
** Don't wind the bobbin so full that it would be tight and hard to insert into the bobbin case. Most machines have an automatic "shut off" when the bobbin gets full, but if yours does not, be careful not to fill it too full.
** Wind the bobbin evenly across and in level layers.
** Never mix different sizes of thread in the bobbin and on the spool, unless you're doing sewing machine embroidery or some specialty type of sewing. Using different weights of thread on the spool and in the bobbin for general sewing will cause ragged stitches as well as other stitching problems.

NEEDLE: Probably 25% of machine repair jobs I go out on, the only problem was that the needle was put in backwards. I know you're probably saying "I've been sewing most of my life and I know how to put the needle in the machine"; however many times a seamstress will get in a hurry and not give the needle a second thought when putting a new one in the machine. If your machine will not pick up the bottom thread or skips stitches badly, in most cases it's because the needle is in wrong.

Each sewing machine requires that the "flat" side of the needle be put in a specific way - facing the front, the back, etc., depending on your particular make and model. If you have a sewing machine that takes a needle that doesn't have a flat side, you'll notice that each needle has a groove in it where the thread lays as it penetrates the fabric. Depending on whether your machine shuttle system faces to the front or to the left, the groove of the needle will also face front or left.

MACHINE THREADING: An additional area to check for stitching problems is whether the sewing machine is threaded properly. Each machine has a certain sequence for threading, and it only takes one missed step in the sequence to cause your machine to skip stitches. If you're in doubt, take the top thread completely out and start all over again.
Not finding what you are looking for?

134 views

Ask a Question

Usually answered in minutes!

Top Sewing Machines Experts

Cindy Wells

Level 3 Expert

6688 Answers

Brad Brown

Level 3 Expert

19187 Answers

SmartAviator
SmartAviator

Level 3 Expert

1124 Answers

Are you a Sewing Machine Expert? Answer questions, earn points and help others

Answer questions

Manuals & User Guides

Loading...