Adjust the Needle Thread Tension
for a Straight
Stitch
• Correct tension
_1_ Needle thread (Top thread)
Bobbin thread (Bottom thread)
To loosen
To tighten
The ideal straight stitch has threads locked between two
layers of fabric, as illustrated (magnified to show detail).
If you look at the top and bottom of a seam, notice that
there are no gaps. Each stitch is smooth and even.
When adjusting the needle thread tension, the higher the
number, the tighter the needle thread tension.
Results depend on:
- stiffness and thickness of the fabric
- number of fabric layers
- type of stitch
•Tension is too tight
_1_ Needle thread (Top thread)
Bobbin thread (Bottom thread)
To loosen
Right side (Top side) of fabric
Wrong side (Bottom side) of fabric
If the bobbin thread shows through on the right side (Top
side) of the fabric, and the stitch feels bumpy, turn the dial
to a lower tension setting number to loosen the needle
thread tension.
• Tension is too loose
_1_Needle thread (Top thread)
Bobbin thread (Bottom thread)
To tighten
Right side (Top side) of fabric
Wrong side (Bottom side) of fabric
If the needle thread shows through on the wrong side
(Bottom side) of the fabric, and the stitch feels bumpy, turn
the dial to a higher tension setting number to tighten the
needle thread tension.
Adjust bobbin tension
@_Adjusting screw
Increase tension
Decrease tension
In some instances, you may need to adjust the bobbin
thread tension.
Turn the adjusting screw @_ in the direction of _when
the
bobbin thread tension is too tight.
Turn the adjusting screw@_ in the direction of_
when the
bobbin thread tension is too loose.
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