Tension Guide
Understanding Tension
Different fabrics can affect your tensions as you sew. Think of tension like a balancing act where the top thread needs the same amount of tension as the bobbin thread. The two threads meet in the middle of the fabric.
Tensions will differ based on thickness of fabric, type of stitch being used, and stiffness of the fabric being used.
Most machines will sew between the 4 and 6 setting.
Too Loose
Tighten the top thread tension or loosen the bobbin case tension.
Just Right
Top thread will slightly show on the underside of the zig zag stitch.
Too Tight
Tighten the bobbin case or loosen the Thread tension.
Setting Bobbin Tension
To check bobbin tension on a front-loading machine, you can do the "drop test".
Hold the tail of thread after it has been threaded through the tensioner and let it drop. The bobbin should drop slightly about 1-2 inches before stopping.
If it completely falls freely, you need to increase tension by turning the screw clockwise.
If it stays perfectly still, you need to reduce tension by turning the screw counterclockwise.
These principals still apply to top loading bobbin cases that sit horizontally.
Once the thread passes through the tensioner (4), preform the drop test and adjust as necessary.
Its important to note that regular bobbin tension should be between 8-12g and embroidery bobbin tension should be 15-20g. The drop test does not apply to embroidery bobbins!