How to Thread a Bobbin on a Sewing Machine

12 November 2024

Sewing is so much fun, you can make your own clothes, home decor or gifts. If you’re just starting out, learning how to put thread on a bobbin is a basic skill that will get you off to a great start. This will walk you through each step with tips and examples to make it as easy as possible.

Why Threading a Bobbin is Important

As a beginner, you need to understand the role of the bobbin in sewing. Threading a bobbin correctly will give you even and strong stitches. The bobbin, a small spool of thread underneath the needle plate of your sewing machine, works with the top thread to form a stitch. This partnership is key to a neat and durable seam.

If your bobbin isn’t threaded correctly your sewing machine will skip stitches or produce tangled threads and you’ll be frustrated. Master this skill and you’ll not only improve your sewing projects but also your confidence as a new sewist. In this guide you’ll learn about different types of bobbins, how to prepare your machine and how to troubleshoot common problems.

Your Bobbin

Before you start, get to know your sewing machine’s bobbin. Bobbins come in different sizes and materials, plastic and metal. Each machine requires a specific type of bobbin so always check your manual for compatibility. Using the correct bobbin for your machine will prevent jamming and make it smooth sailing.

Some machines have drop-in bobbins, others have front-loading or side-loading bobbins. Drop-in bobbins are easier for beginners as they are inserted directly into the machine’s bobbin case. Front-loading bobbins are inserted into a bobbin case separately and then into the machine. Knowing your machine’s bobbin system is key to efficient threading. Using pre-wound bobbins will save you time and reduce mistakes but make sure they are compatible with your machine.

And make sure your bobbin is empty before you start. Using a partially filled bobbin will give you uneven stitches or thread breakage. If your bobbin isn’t empty remove any thread remnants before you continue.

Bobbin Thread

Bobbin thread is a key part of the sewing process and understanding it is important for a professional finish. The bobbin thread is the thread that is wound onto the bobbin and used to form the underside of the stitch. It’s usually a thinner, more delicate thread than the top thread and designed to be less visible from the outside of the fabric.

When choosing a bobbin thread consider the fabric you’re working with and the color and weight of the top thread. A good rule of thumb is to match the weight of the bobbin thread to the weight of the top thread and choose a color that matches the top thread. This will give you balanced stitches and the bobbin thread will blend in with the fabric.

Also note that some machines have specific requirements for bobbin thread. Always check your machine manual for the recommended bobbin thread for your machine. Using the correct thread will prevent jamming or uneven stitches and make for a smooth sewing experience.

Your Sewing Machine

Before you thread your bobbin make sure your sewing machine is ready. Gather all your materials, your machine, a spool of thread, an empty bobbin and your machine’s manual. Having everything ready will make the process easier.

Next plug in your machine and turn it on. Make sure it’s on a stable surface so you don’t have any accidents while using it. Get to know your machine’s parts; know where the bobbin winder, spool pin and tension disk are.

And consult your machine’s manual for your specific machine. This guide is a general guide, each machine has its own features and quirks. The manual will have the detailed instructions and diagrams to help you understand your machine better.

Bobbin Winding with Bobbin Winder

The first step in threading a bobbin is bobbin winding which is winding the bobbin with thread. Place your chosen spool of thread onto the spool pin. Some machines have horizontal pins, others have vertical pins. Make sure the spool is capped if your machine requires one.

Now pull the thread from the spool and guide it through the thread guide and tension disk. Make sure the thread is snug and secure so there’s no slack while winding. This is important for even tension on the bobbin thread for smooth stitching later on.

Now engage the bobbin winder. Place the empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle and push it to the right to lock it in place. Hold the thread end with one hand and press the foot pedal or start button with the other. Let the bobbin wind until it’s full then cut the thread and remove the bobbin from the spindle.

Bobbin under the Needle Plate

Now your bobbin is wound, it’s time to put it in your machine. Remove the bobbin cover which is usually on top or front of the machine. This will expose the bobbin case where you’ll put the wound bobbin.

Top loading bobbin systems are different from front loading systems where the bobbin is placed directly into a compartment on top of the machine so you can see the thread levels. For best use make sure the bobbin thread is pulled up properly especially if your machine doesn’t have a built-in thread cutter.

For drop-in bobbin, just put the bobbin into the bobbin case with the thread tail hanging out. Make sure the bobbin rotates counterclockwise when you pull the thread tail. This is for proper threading and stitch formation.

For front loading bobbins, first put the bobbin into the bobbin holder with the thread tail hanging out. Then put the bobbin holder into the machine and make sure it clicks in. Pull the thread tail through the tension spring to complete.

Pulling Up the Bobbin Thread

Pulling up the bobbin thread is an important step in sewing to get a smooth stitch. To pull up the bobbin thread follow these steps:

Hold the top thread with one hand and turn the handwheel towards you with the other hand.
As the needle goes down into the needle plate gently pull the top thread to bring the bobbin thread up through the needle plate hole.
Continue to turn the handwheel until the needle comes back up to its highest position.
Stop the machine and pull the top thread to bring the bobbin thread up.
Use scissors or seam ripper to gently pull the bobbin thread tail out from under the presser foot.

Here are some tips:

Hold the top thread gently but firmly, don’t pull too hard or the bobbin thread will break.
If the bobbin thread doesn’t come up, try pulling the thread tail or using tweezers to pull it out.
If you can’t pull up the bobbin thread, check your machine manual or consult a professional seamstress.

By following these steps and tips you should be able to pull up the bobbin thread and get a smooth stitch. This is important to start your sewing project on the right foot and get neat and professional looking stitches.

Threading the Machine

Now that the bobbin is in, it’s time to thread the machine. Raise the presser foot and thread the machine according to the manual. This usually involves guiding the thread through several loops and tension discs before the needle.

Now hold the thread end with one hand and turn the handwheel towards you with the other. This will lower and raise the needle and the top thread will catch the bobbin thread and pull it up through the needle plate.

Finally pull both threads under the presser foot and leave a few inches of thread at the back of the machine so it doesn’t get caught in the first few stitches.

Thread Tension

Proper thread tension is important for even stitches and to prevent puckering. Both top and bobbin threads should have balanced tension for best results. Adjusting tension is a basic skill for any beginner.

Most machines have a tension dial for the top thread. Start with the tension dial in the middle and test your stitches on a scrap of fabric. If the stitches are uneven or the fabric puckers, adjust the tension dial accordingly.

If adjusting the top thread tension doesn't resolve the issue, consult your machine manual for guidance on adjusting the bobbin tension.Some machines require a small screwdriver to adjust the bobbin case tension. Always make small adjustments and test your stitches again to get the perfect balance.

Bobbin Troubleshooting

Even with proper preparation bobbin problems can occur. Common problems are tangled thread, skipped stitches or a jammed bobbin. Knowing how to troubleshoot these will save you time and headaches.

Tangled thread is usually caused by incorrect threading or tension. Check that the bobbin is in correctly and that the thread is guided through the tension spring. Adjust the tension if necessary and test your stitches again.

Skipped stitches is usually caused by a dull or damaged needle. Replace the needle with a new one and make sure it’s inserted correctly. Also check that the bobbin is wound evenly and the tension is balanced.

A jammed bobbin can occur if the machine is not threaded correctly or if there is debris in the bobbin case. Remove the bobbin, clean the area and rethread the machine according to the manual.

Machine Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your machine will make it run smoothly and efficiently. Cleaning and oiling the machine will prevent dust buildup and keep the moving parts in good condition.

To clean the machine remove lint and debris from the bobbin area and needle plate with a small brush or compressed air. Be gentle don’t damage any parts.

Oiling the machine will reduce friction and wear on the moving parts. Check your manual for where to apply oil. Use sewing machine oil and apply it sparingly to the designated areas.

Choosing the Right Thread Spool

Choosing the right thread for your projects is important for best results. Different fabrics and projects require different threads and using the wrong thread can cause breakage or poor stitch quality.

Cotton thread is good for natural fabrics like cotton and linen, polyester thread is good for synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon. For stretch fabrics like jersey or spandex use a stretch or woolly nylon thread.

When winding a bobbin you should use the same thread as the top thread to maintain even tension and color continuity. Mixing thread types can cause uneven stitches and tension issues.

Practice

Like any new skill threading a bobbin gets easier with practice. Set aside time to practice winding and inserting bobbins and threading your machine. The more you practice the more confident you’ll be in your sewing.

Consider joining a local sewing group or community to connect with other beginners and share tips and experiences. Learning from others can be very helpful and supportive as you build your sewing skills.

Use online resources like tutorials and videos to supplement your learning. These will give you visual guidance and step by step instructions for threading a bobbin and other essential sewing skills.

Building Confidence in Sewing

Building confidence in sewing takes time and patience. Celebrate your progress and achievements no matter how small. Remember every project is an opportunity to learn and improve.

Set yourself achievable goals like completing a simple project or mastering a new skill. Break down larger projects into smaller steps so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

Be surrounded by a community of fellow sewists who can encourage and support you. Share your successes and challenges with others to boost your confidence and motivation.

End

Threading a bobbin on a sewing machine is a fundamental skill for any beginner. With practice and patience you’ll have the confidence to tackle any project. Once you understand the bobbin, the machine and how to troubleshoot common issues you’ll be able to make beautiful stitches. Keep practicing and expanding your skills and soon you’ll be making projects you never thought you could. Happy sewing!