Sewing machine problem!

LizD_2

tried to use my sewing machine tonight and its' tangling the thread on the back of the garment. The tension and stitch length look fine for the fabric (stretch cotton jersey). Think it might be something to do with the bobbin. Any ideas?

hardpressed

If the thread is too loose underneath it's the top tension that's too loose. Are you useing a ball point needle? An ordinary needle isn't the best to use for jersey fabrics.

LizD_2

yes, I've got a ball-point needle. Will check out the top tension tomorrow. Usually it's on 5 (Toyota machine), but maybe needs to be higher. Thanks!

chickadee

You just beat me to it hardpressed. Try a ballpoint needle. It doesn't sound like it would cause this but believe me it does!

I know it sounds obvious but is the needle threaded up correctly? Is the bobbin in the right way round?

Good luck. Hope you sort it out.

sandieb

I recently "overhauled" my machine by lubricating all the moving parts (as per the ancient manual). This resulted in a much smoother machine and the stitches flowed better. I'd had this bunching up of thread problem.

Might be worth a try - make sure of course you use some old material to soak up any residue afterwards. I used a silicone aerosol with a narrow straw like attachment.

ET03

I get bunching like this when the bobbin area gets dusty and stops the bobbin moving smoothly

LizD_2

I'll dig the vaccum and the oil out, anything not to have to pay for repairs or a new machine!

frugalfairy_3

If it's stretch jersey are you sewing with a mini-zigzag stitch? That will 'give' a little and stop puckering etc. Also remember to hold the two threads behind the foot for the first two stitches - my Bernina gobbles up the threads otherwise and I get a terrible 'bird's nest' under the fabric.

HTH
FF

LizD_2

will definitely give the zig-zag stitch a go. Normally I use straight stitch and just stretch the fabic as I sew.

WeirdoMagnet

What sort of thread are you using? I had this problem and was using cheapy cotton, but swapped to Gutterman or Silko (sp?) - problem solved. The lady in the haberdashery confirmed that it was probably the cause.

LizD_2

I always use sylko, was trained well by my mum! :rotfl: