Your sewing machine is one of your top tools for creating clothing, drapes, and more. If you are new to using your machine, it’s good to be aware of some issues that may pop up that even the most experienced sewers face. Below are five of the most common problems and what to do about them.

Common Issues With Sewing Machines

1. Bunched Thread

One of the most common issues with a sewing machine is bunched thread under the fabric. Even if the top stitch looks beautiful, there may be a mess underneath. The issue usually lies with the thread itself–not the bobbin–and stems from a lack of tension on the upper thread. Try raising the presser foot lifter so you can rethread and open the tension. Raise the needle to its highest position to ensure the tension is correct and adjust if necessary. Grab a scrap of fabric to test out the adjusted tension and new thread.

2. Broken Needles

If your needle keeps breaking you may have the wrong size needle for your project. Lightweight fabrics like chiffon should have lower-numbered needles while bigger sizes, like 18, are best used on heavy fabric such as denim. Using light needles on dense material will cause your needle to snap. Also, ensure you have the right type of needle. Ballpoints are best for knits like jersey, but leather, vinyl, and denim need sharper points.

3. Uneven or Missing Stitches

When stitches are uneven or there are skips in the line, your needle is usually to blame. Whether broken or bent, it won’t give you a nice finish. Swap out needles after about 16 hours of sewing and be mindful of forcing the fabric through your machine too aggressively as this can lead to a sloppy, uneven stitch line.

4. Frozen Machine

If your machine seizes up or stops sewing, check that your fabric is not too tough for your needles and settings. While turning the handwheel can help, too much force will cause the sewing machine to stop working. You also risk damaging your equipment. Besides replacing with the correct needle, make sure your machine is clean and free from lint or thread buildup.

5. Inconsistent Bobbin Tension

Repeated adjustments to the bobbin tension may mean you need to replace your bobbins. Plastic varieties wear down quicker, leaving the thread too loose in the housing. Switching to metal bobbins may be beneficial as these don’t degrade as quickly.

If you’re experiencing issues with your sewing machine, call Olive Juice Quilts for sewing machine repair. Located in Onalaska, WI and serving both the La Crosse and Onalaska areas, this fabric store offers top quality products and materials for your next project. In addition to repairs, they also offer quilting and sewing classes to help you hone your skills. Visit them online for more on their services or call them at (608) 782-3257 for questions on upcoming classes.