How to adjust thread tension on a sewing machine

Correctly setting the thread tension setting on your sewing machine is very important to create an even tie on both sides of the fabric. Despite the importance of this setting, even professional seamstresses in some cases try not to even touch the tension regulator. Setting it up may seem like a difficult task, but once you understand even the basic principles, you can do it yourself on any model of sewing equipment.

Adjusting and setting the thread in a sewing machine

To really make sure that the reason for the unsightly tie is precisely the incorrectly adjusted thread tension, you need to check the following:

1. Correct installation. This point is especially important, since most housewives install the thread incorrectly. Check using the instructions that came with the machine; it describes the only correct filling option.
2. Serviceability of the main mechanisms. You need to make sure that all mechanisms are sufficiently lubricated and that there are no shocks or extraneous noise during their movement.
3. The volume of thread that is wound on the bobbin must be the same. In addition, you need to pay attention to the diameter of the threads and needles used.

Upper thread

The regulator looks like a rotating cylinder and can be located on the side or on top of the housing. All information about where it is located exactly can be read in the instructions.

You can find out the required level of tension using a test seam. If the tie has the correct form, tension adjustment is not required. If during sewing the tie pulls the weave areas with the bottom thread towards the top of the fabric, then the balance of the tension has been moved to the top of the yarn and needs to be loosened. The same situation occurs with very low tension - areas of plexus will be noticeable, but on the reverse side of the material.

Taking into account which of the above options is marked on the line, you need to increase or decrease the tension.

Attention! There is no need to turn the adjustment wheel very sharply. Gradually increase or decrease the tension level until the tie is level.

Bottom thread

The tension occurs due to the shuttle mechanism. To find out the tension level, you need to remove and hang the shuttle, holding the edge of the thread that comes out of the bobbin. Ideally, the shuttle begins to drop no more than 4 cm, and at the same time the spool stops rotating.

If it does not fall at all, the tension is very strong. If it drops quickly and at the same time unwinds the spool, the tension is weak. Adjustment is made using a bolt.

Depending on whether it is necessary to increase or decrease the tension, you need to turn it using a small screwdriver in the appropriate direction. Perform a test tie to ensure the tension is correct.

It is necessary to begin adjusting the lower part only when the upper part has been adjusted. Most often, if the screed is uneven, the reason is in the upper node.

Reference! To easily determine the results while sewing, you can use threads of different colors that will contrast with each other.This will help you know exactly what tension needs to be adjusted.

General recommendations

Don't forget that if you use upper and lower threads of different thicknesses, this sometimes requires additional adjustments. It is best that the threads come from one bobbin. The mismatch between the needle and the thread diameter also leads to crooked lines.

The set line size also significantly affects its quality. The very short length of this indicator leads to constant clogging of material under the needle plate.

To work effectively, any housewife needs to know the features of all types of threads:

1. Wool threads are very thick. You will need a special needle and tension adjustment.
2. Polyester is a universal material. It is convenient to use while sewing and solving various tasks.
3. To work with jeans, you need a thick needle that won't break while stitching.

It is best to record the adjustment adjustments made when sewing specific items. Get yourself a notebook and mark all the settings in it. In the future, this will greatly simplify the task of regulating thread tension.