Last night I opened up my machine I did see that yellow dot but for a million years I would have never thought a screw would be there to tighten. My machine is driving me bananas. I’m trying everything to fix the thread from wrapping around the bobbin area and from pulling in the fabric. Hope this will work. Thanks a million.
I bought my first sewing machine (Janome) twenty years ago and it finally gave out. The bobbin tension was easy-peasy to adjust. I can't believe the ridiculous amount of work it takes with this new Singer machine just to adjust the bobbin tension!! So disappointing. But I thank you for your very helpful tutorial, it saved the day! You rock. ✌️😁
Glory and Praise be to God! I've been trying for a while now to get this bobbin case back into the machine. Finally, I prayed to God and He sent me to this video! Thank you so much! Every other video I've come across did not mention that I might need to unscrew that bar to get the bobbin case out or back in for that matter. Thank you!
Me as well, just bought my machine and it keeps bird nesting. Glory to Jesus for answered prayers, no matter how simple the request is. God never fails
Thank you kind Sir! I just got a Singer 6800C and I’ve been trying for 2 hours to get the tension right before I pick up an old project on a new machine. The manual only discusses top tension thread and I just couldn’t get it right. Watched this video and viola! In 15 min I was up and running! Thank you kindly.
Thank you for posting this. My machine is 2wks old and I was ready to throw it out the door, but your video helped to fix it and now it's working perfect....
Many troubleshooting videos out there pointing to incorrect top threading but not showing how to adjust the bobbin thread. Thank you for this. It has saved me a lot of aggravation.
YOU ARE A GENIUS!! Never called anyone a genius before, but you, you are a GENIUS!!!!!!!!! I think I’ve just fallen in love with you. My thread wouldn’t hold together when I sewed, followed your first video on where the thread should be and it made things better but not fixed, followed onto this video and now my baby is sewing perfectly!!! I am amazed!!!!
Worked perfectly!! Thanks so much. My whole 4452 machine was jammed and would not move in any direction by hand or peddle, so my problem was much more than bobbin tension. At less than six months old and already looking at a service repair, I thought things were really messed up inside somewhere and was really disappointed in the 4452. I followed your excellent instructions, and yes, those inside screws are really tight! That was a great tip, I would have given up trying to move them if you had not mentioned how from the factory they are in there. I finally had to use a screw bit with a small 1/4 inch flat wrench to get them loose. I didn't follow your instructions to leave them in there but took one out to get at the other. It was another good tip because they are tricky to get started back in so much better not to take them out. My bobbin holder was jammed in there and would not slide out as easy as in your video. This convinced me to try and get it loose and out, hoping it would free the machine. Once I gently pried it loose and took it out, the machine moved freely again. More than I every wanted to know about a sewing machine, but thanks again, your video saved me big time.
I so appreciate your technical videos for this machine. I was gifted this when I couldn't afford one, and it's turned out to be such a workhorse. It's also fantastic way to learn how to fix and maintain a machine. The manual says not to touch the bobbin tension. I just used a small screwdriver to peel away the sticky yellow gunk over the screw. The screw never shakes out of place after I adjust it, so I don't know why they glued it. I loosen both and remove one of the forward screws, it's easier than the back ones for me. I've oiled the wick under the bobbin once or twice, it makes a big difference.
Stitch Wishes I am glad to help. I am so use to adjusting bobbin tension in my industrial machines that it makes sense to me you should know how to do it in any machine. It is like the sewing machine mfgs. think you only sew with one type of thread, which is the same they test with, so you never need to adjust your bobbin tension. Good for you for oiling the bobbin area. You are correct in that it makes a big difference.
I was reluctant to do these steps at first but then I took it apart and found a broken needle inside the casing along with a bunch of dust/fabric fuzz. Now seems to be working perfectly. I feel pretty badass that I fixed my own machine! Great video.
Thank you for your video. My problem: I have singer 4432, it has been working fine since I got it but since yesterday I couldn't sew anything the thread bunches up at the bottom. Please how do I fix it? Thank you
Check that your top thread is set up properly, make sure your tension is good (around 5 is usually good) and pull both threads back as you begin to sew.
I thank you very much for this video it was exactly what I needed and it helped solve the problem I will refer to you and your videos whenever I have issues with my sewing machines thank you
I found this video a couple of years ago, and without this I could not have fixed the problem with my machine. In fact I had to find it again , because I forgot about the tension on the bobbin case. Thanks again excellent directions.
My problem seems to be with the top tension. I have to have the tension on 9 to get a decent stitch. The top looks fine but when you turn it over the loops from the top haven't pulled the bottom thread tight. You can pull the bottom thread right out of the fabric. Does this mean the bottom tension is too tight? I don't see a way to fix the top tension. It is a brand new machine and came with this issue!
Take a look at this video as a starting point. ruclips.net/video/8TPB2yzw-1Y/видео.html If that doesn't help I have another video showing how to tighten the thread tension here: ruclips.net/video/ddFcH5lnnjY/видео.html
@@kevinsews Thanks for your reply. I think part of my problem was that I was doing upholstery and did have a fine upholstery thread. When I finished with my couch I put the machine away because we would be travelling over the winter months. I ordered a new bobbin case, put in a 14 needle and used different color top and bottom threads, cotton wrapped polyester on the bottom and the top seems cotton but the label is off. I got a decent stitch at 7 top tension. Anything below that and I could still pull the bottom thread out. I watched both above videos and of course the original video. I don't see on the second video here where you take the whole machine apart to clean, where you show how to tighten the thread tension. I looked on your actual page and didn't see the follow up videos (cleaning and tention adjust) but I think they are probably there and I'm just not finding them. Anyway, not comfortable taking a machine apart like that yet. I can work with a 7 tension if I have to but I may try to loosen the original bobbin case tension and see what happens. The new bobbin case seems to work fine, although not sure why I need a seven and not a 5ish for top tension. Was hoping a new machine would work right out of the gate. Don't want to spend more money bringing it for maintenance and also living on an island with only ferry transit makes it a pain.
I didn't need to actually mess with my bobbin tension but this video totally helped me get my bobbin case out! I couldn't find any information anywhere about how to actually get my bobbin case out until I saw this video and saw you unscrewing those two little screws on the side. I'd even written the Singer company and their instructions didn't mention it either. Now that I've seen this video, I can get the bobbin case in and out easily! Thank you so much!!!
This video was published eight years ago but it is still helpful today. I recently purchased a new Singer denim sewing machine and I had to adjust the bobbin tension as it was a bit too tight and the needle thread was still showing up on the bottom side regardless of the needle tension adjustment. I was getting somewhat positive results at the max. needle tension of 9 but you can't always use the max. tension setting for the needle. Now, I am getting great results at default 4 for the needle. Thank you for posting this video.
Kevin please leave this vid and your others up for the help they assist. I realize success comes not from getting a better machine, but from practice which threads/materials/speeds work together. It is quite an effort to get going. Like if I had top line basketball shoes, only using them playing basketball will make me better, not just the shoes.
Okay. I guess my bobbin tension is fine as my top always looks perfect but the bottom is loose. Not enough to nest all the time but say for a zig zag ... it's not exactly a zig zag on the bottom. Is it the machine tension or the foot pressure ? I have a singer Heavy Duty 4411 and my kids often play with the foot pressure dial. Please help
Create a video (cellphone?) showing me what you are experiencing and post it on your channel. Let me know once you post it and I'll take a look and see if I can help you.
Thank you, sir!!! I was gifted and old singer 9005 with no manual years ago and have been off and on trying to figure out how to use it. Got a cheap Aldi machine to learn how to even begin and you just put the last puzzle piece together for me!!! You are a Saint! I was so close to giving up. Thank you!
I am a beginner with sewing machine and it jammed on the first day I began using it! I followed your tutorial and one other that helped me solve a jamming issue. God bless you!
The current Singer is just a name to put on machines that a Corporation that owns Singer, Pfaff and Husqvarna VIKING. Recently they added Husqvarna VIKING machines to the www.singer.com web site. They have decided to market the Singer machines the lower end and less expensive marketplace. The usually means the quality control is the first thing to go. People go out and buy a Singer Heavy Duty Series at Walmart and something goes wrong and there is no dealer to take it back to for repair. They tell them to ship it to a repair center at their on cost. This is usually close to the machine cost. Then the user trashes the machine online. I am in the process of completely tearing down a machine and showing how to fix timing issues. I am hoping this will help some people going forward that have simply somethow thrown their machine out of timing fix it themselves and get them back to sewing quickly. Unless you pay a lot more for a machine to a Dealer this is what you will have to do. It you want a dealer that will take care of your machine then you will need to generally pay a few thousand dollars for it to get them interested. With all this being said.... how can I help you?
You sir, are an everyday hero. I was getting ready to bring my machine in, which was very odd, as it's a very new machine. And came across this video. Problem solved and back in action'
Thank you for your video and your patience answering all the questions. You’re a very kind person, and the world would be a better place if everyone were like you.
Just wanted to thank you for doing this video...had no idea what was wrong with my machine and now it works great. The yellow paint got in the way of unscrewing the tiny screw, but after some effort it finally turned. So grateful
You, sir are an absolute lifesaver! I was on the verge of tears and ready to throw this machine out the window until I found your channel. Thank you thank you thank you!!!! You are a god among men.
THANK YOU!!! I'm new to sewing and I just got this machine (first bottom load bobbin too.) I was getting so frustrated with the birds nests and jams. I just found your video and I adjusted the bobbin...it worked! Thank you so much for this video.
This video saved my sanity! I have been fighting for days with bunching. I'd gone through my manual, threaded, re-threaded, wound new bobbins, practically everything. Searched the Internet for causes and fixes. You are the first person I found that said anything about fixing the bobbin thread. I could not find how to tighten the bobbin thread in the manual. Thank you so much!
I'm not very familiar with top loading bobbin systems but this video helped me to understand how it is put together. I bought a machine off marketplace today and the bobbin casing seemed to be popping up after a few stitches. I fixed it thanks to you.
Thank you so much! I just bought a display model C7220 and could tell after a short test that the bobbin tension was way too loose. I found your video and then followed your instructions. My tension is perfect now. Your video is the best!
Very enjoyable video and quite informative, too. Not to put too fine a point (no pun intended) on it, but I did notice that you inadvertently "needle-wrapped" the thread when you threaded the needle (see video). I believe this is why the topside tension was slightly greater right at the needle which created just enough added tension to create more 'pull' which drew the bobbin thread upward with slightly greater tension. Thank you for showing the bobbin tension screw's access as this is often overlooked as a common solution to this problem. Your narration was very smooth and informative as I said. Mike Kirwan - Kenmore, WA
My pleasure! I address the issue you pointed out when I uploaded this video a few years ago in the video description area. I guess I should recreate it at some point.
Your videos are truly awesome! Between your thorough instructions on how to clean and oil a Singer Heavy Duty and this one, you saved me a trip to the service centre and a bunch of money! Thank you!!
Had a bit of weird tension problems after cleaning and a clunking sound, so I did a bit of trouble shooting based on advice you gave other people: - Took the bobbin case back out - Added a bit more machine oil - Adjusted the bobbin tension a random amount - Put it back in the way you showed here - Added a new needle - Made sure to thread it properly - Tested it with a successful outcome! I noticed that you don't use the little felt liner in the bobbin case. Am I supposed to remove that?
I was literally loosing my mind with my machine until I found this video!! Thank you so much! I had my tension set at zero! I didn’t even know bobbin tension was a thing. Also I found another video showing the difference in threads and placement on the machine. I was doing that wrong too!!
Thank you so much for this! I was dismayed why my new 6700C kept leaving huge loops on the bottom and the upper tension adjustment did nothing. My husband convinced me to go for it and it worked!
Thank you!!! I have been having intermittent tension problems for MONTHS and this has finally solved it after trying 5 or 6 different things. I needed to tighten that screw almost an entire turn.
I let some material get sucked through the throat plate and had to take out the bobbin case to unjam it. And then I couldn't figure out how to get the bobbin case back in correctly -- until I found this! Thank you so much!
Thank you so much! Your instructions were easy to follow and to understand. you did not rush and Your video was very clear to hear and understand!!! I haven't used my machine in nearly three years and found a new project and got started and completely forgot how to fix the tension!!!
Thank you for this video! I’ve been trying to figure out why my thread kept getting stuck and wrapped around the bobbin casing - I didn’t seat the case in right. But your demonstration and explanation of how to reinsert the bobbin case was spot on. Thanks again!! 😅
Thank you so much for your videos with this machine! I just got mine and the instructions i got said nothing about bobbing tension or oiling. So i'm so happy to see these videos. Easy and clear instructions. Just like they should be!
Thank you! Wish I had seen this great video before purchasing a Janome 5300qdc electronic. The good news is the Singer makes better stitches (and they hold) and because of this video it is back in service. Janome and it’s loose stitches and inability to sew over thin elastic will now be used strictly for piecing.
Thank you so much!!! I recently bought a Singer Talent sewing machine and it’s been driving me nuts!!! I was thinking of giving it away to someone else but then who’d want it if it doesn’t sew good stitches? I kept researching on the internet about tension and found that the bobbin tension is too high. I wanted to modify it but then there was that dot of paint or whatever it is, I tried to remove it but it wouldn’t go away and gave up. I understood that I probably shouldn’t mess with it… Now I want to try again, I have to get this machine to work well. I don’t get it why they set it like that from the factory, why would anyone want a sewing machine with bad tension and that causes a lot of frustration and stress? Becouse I can’t use it like this, even if I raise the needle tension, the fabric puckers, it’s too much tension on both sides.
Thank you Kevin. This help me a lot. I have been having problems with my bobbin thread for two days. I knew the thread was to loose but I didn't know how to fix it. So I became inspired and decided to ask youtube, and there you were. I was wondering what that yellow thing was sticking out of my bobbin case. I FIXED MY BOBBIN THREAD, YEA ME!
Me too. I have the same problem after I bought this sewing machine, and I didn't know how to fix. I found several videos in RUclips until I saw this one. This video is very clear and very detail. I found my problem and fixed. Now this machine is perfect! Thank you so much. I am very happy today.
Thank you so much Kevin! This video showed exactly what I needed to do to fix my bobbin issue! Next time I have a problem with my sewing machine I will definitely turn to your videos for help!
Thank you this actually helped me fix a tiny problem with the bobbin going back in. When you said it should rock back and forth and hit the stop - my metal stop was sticking out and catching my top thread and that helped me understand what it was there for and I bent it back. Super thx
Thank you so much for your video. I am a beginner with a Singer 4423 given by a friend. Thread keeps being broken itself. I will tend to fix it following your video tonight to see if it works. Wishing you a nice day, sir.
I bought a slightly used Singer4423. I can't get the bobbin case out. I tried everything and then stumbled upon your video. Thanks so much for sharing!
Thank you for this video Kevin, I just bought my Singer 4423 Classic and after one day of using it my bobbin case got stuck..you have a very good narrator skills and all the time helpful ( found your Singer Classic introductory video and i keep on getting back to it every time i feel like i need to practice something) .P.S I still find the automated needle threader as easy as rocket science :)! All the best from Spain
Love your videos and helpful instructions, and I don't mean to complain and seem ungrateful, but when you were adjusting the tension, all I could see was your fingers... couldn't see which way you were turning the dial or how far... I've learned a lot about the care and health of my little Heavy Duty thanks too you and would love to see exactly what and how the bobbin tension was adjusted... Thank you so much for the videos, except for this minor issue, I really do enjoy them... :-)
I'm a beginner and having trouble threading the needle and marrying the bobbin thread to the needle thread. Do you have a video that shows this procedure VERY slow and up close? This video tightening the bobbin helped. I think my bobbin is very loose which might be contributing to other mysteries. Thank you, Old retired guy
Even though this did help me to free up my 4452, it took hours with many tries with lots a jammed thread and disassemble/reassembles to get it to sow properly again. Once you loosed those two very tight screws, it's trail and error to get the little bracket back in the exact position for the machine to sow correctly again. I think it's finally working again but almost afraid to try it on something other than a piece of scrap after so many jam ups.
Any guidance on how to adjust that little bracket? There's quite a bit of variability as to how much play the bobbin casing has to rock back and forth.
I bought a 4411 over a year ago, and it has sat on the floor most of that time. I also had bad bird nest issues with the bottom thread. I had been using metal bobbins from my old Kenmore, recently started using bobbins that came with the machine and, as if by magic, the bird nests seem to have abated!
That’s why it comes with plastic bobbins. There is an issue with metal bobbins because there is a magnet built into the aluminum frame beneath the bobbin case area. It will affect your stitches. In your case, it seems to have created a nest - although, generally you will get nesting if you don’t hold both threads firmly behind the presser foot when you begin sewing for at least the first few stitches. What happens if you don’t hold the threads? Well, the bobbin thread tangles in the bobbin case, taking the needle thread with it on a bad trip! They tangle and form a nest. How to avoid a nest: Make sure fabric covers the feed dogs (metal moving “teeth” located under the presser foot) BEFORE you step on foot control, holding the needle thread & bobbin thread under the presser foot and BACK past the presser foot so the feed dogs can’t “eat” your thread by swallowing it down past the moving teeth and into the hole. Get in this habit until it is second nature. Also, never turn the flywheel (big wheel on the right of the machine) away from you. NEVER! Always turn the flywheel toward you and always LOWER needle into fabric before continuing to sew. This machine does not automatically lower the needle into the fabric for sewing; you must remember this step to avoid operator error. Have fun sewing. Read your manual, and learn all you can to enjoy your machine more and more!🙂😉
Use class 15 (not 15J) plastic bobbins. Plastic bobbins don't bend the way today's cheep metal bobbins do. They stay nice and smooth and allow the thread to glide around the edges. A metal bobbin usually warps slightly and can have some burs along the edge. This causes all kinds of problems. You can find Class 15 Plastic Bobbins at Walmarts that carry sewing supplies. Otherwise, order them online or visit a local sewing store. Amazon has them as well. After you give that a try come back here and let us know the results. If you are still having a problem then post as many details as you can and we'll see if we can help you out.
YAY thank you SOOOOOOOOOOO much I fixed it ... I tried everything. new needle.. tension on top... new bobbins.. cleaned it nothing worked.... UNTIL NOW THANK YOU I had no idea there was a screw on the bobbin ..
I am so happy I found your video!!! I was getting ready to return machine to store and get a different brand since I have been having lots of issues with singer brand! Your a lifesaver!
Thank you so much for the video! Fixed my probelm saving me lots of time and money. Now I know that it was my bobbin tension all along that was giving me so much probelm. Subscribed 👌
Thanks for the explanation about the bobbin tension. I felt that my bobbin tension was too weak when I pulled on it compared to the tension of the top spool. And I wasn't getting too good of a stitch. Probably my fault because I've only been sewing for about three days, or about three hours in reality. I bought a 4423 last week to try to do some auto upholstery in hopes of changing my career of 37 years as an auto tech and repair business owner. I need out. Badly. I'm burned out and finally realizing it. This media driven scare festival has caused my business to drop off in half. This all may turn out to be a cloud with a silver lining for me though, as I contemplate shutting my shop down after 20 years of success. But I digress, sorry. My question to you is, shouldn't the top spool and the bobbin have the same feel, physically, as to the tension? My bobbin felt so loose compared to the top tension. So I adjusted my bobbin to feel the same tension as the top spool a few hours ago. I saw this and I did it exactly how you did except for that I removed the front thingamajigga under the plate instead of the back thingamajigga to remove the bobbin holder. Either way, it worked out fine and seems to be correct. I also realize that this so-called "heavy duty" sewing machine is definitely not for auto upholstery. This shows my ignorance in the sewing world. So I ordered a Juki DNU-1541 that's supposed to arrive today sometime.
I use a 1541 as well. It will be great for upholstery. I changed out the thread tension plate to one with double tension and it is much more versatile now.
I love your videos!!! my machine started acting up, the thread in the top looked awful while the one in the bottom was perfect and this fixed it right up! I did have to try a couple of times before i got the bobbin case in the right position because the small piece (even though i left the screws in) moved a bit and the thread was getting super tangled. But now it is working perfectly, I also learned how to put in the bobbin properly in this video haha :) I bought this machine because of your videos, THANK YOU!!!
Thanks for a very informative video. Can you tell me how to be sure my bobbin tension needs adjusting? I have a new singer 4423 that is sewing way too loosely on the bottom side of fabric. I triple checked my threading and then cranked the top tension all the way up and got a better (but still loose) stitch. I'm wondering if the bobbin tension is too low or if I need to send the darn thing back. All I can find on youtube is people telling me to thread with the presser foot up and, yep, I got that one :)
First, make sure you foot is raised when you thread the machine. Next, when you lower the foot and thread the needle pull on the thread and see if the needle very slightly bends. This will tell you if the thread is seated between the tension disc.
5 year old video just helped me out! Thanks, I am having a problem with timing and the bobbin holder. But I see how it works now. Thanks. I think my bobbin holder spins a bit. I am going to check that little hold down bar, it might be bent. I have the same machine without the needle threader. Thanks--Sewing is all new to me...
I'd like the thank you for the video. I watched countless videos that just popped the casing back in and didn't explain that fact with the notch and it was frustrating me to no end why mine was nt sitting right. You explained it do simply and thoroughly. My machine is all assemble nicely again.
looks like a great demonstration only your finger is is the way when you tighten the tension. Which way do we turn the screwdriver clockwise or counter clockwise please thanks
Hi Kevin , the video is helpful in understanding how this really works. My machine also has this tension problem. I don’t know how. I opened the plate , removed the bobbin n needle out. Also the presser foot. But the 2 screws to remove the bobbin case is so tight, that I simply cannot do it. Can you assist me as to how should I adjust the tension. Appreciate your help 😊
Thanks for your video! I took my bobbin case apart and the yellow screw was pretty much falling out. It was not even threaded. I tightened it quite a bit since it was not in there at all. It helped a lot but I still have slight top threads showing through to the bottom with tension set at 4 and stitch length at 3. I’ve rethreaded, cleaned, used different bobbins, etc. Any pointers are appreciated!
@@LaurynSmith-j6k See my video on getting to a starting point here: ruclips.net/video/8TPB2yzw-1Y/видео.htmlsi=ONSmvKpF9ia6EOuP In the end it is a balancing act to get it just right.
@@kevinsews Oh know, I'm so sorry to hear this. Please accept my sincere condolences. 💐 Those dear hearts sure do stay with us forever. Sweet babies they are. Have a wonderful evening.
You are so good to explain, i have a problem with tension but even if Change needles or threads moving the wheel of tension from 0 to 9 i have always the same stitch with the same problem. The upper therad is show on the back stitch. How can I adjust it?
Use the technique I show in the video: ruclips.net/video/8TPB2yzw-1Y/видео.html If moving the tension dial doesn't change the tension then raise the pressure foot then hold the thread before you thread the eye of the needle and then grab the thread on the top side of the machine and pull tight to ensure it is going between the tension disc. Then lower the foot and repeat the test.
I find a little bit easier to adjust the tension on the bobbin case of my Bernina 1008. Since I am thinking about buying a Janome HD3000, it seems that the same manner will be done on the Janome. Thank you for showing this.
orestesdd Yes, the old style front loading bobbin systems make adjusting the bobbin tension much easier than top loading bobbin systems. The trade off is not being able to see how much thread you have in your bobbin and that was always an issue that people didn't care for with front loading bobbin systems.
Great video Kevin -- I just got my first Singer machine (sewed on this kind of machine in Home Ec 30+ years ago). First thing after I read the manual I was like, why it doesn't say how to adjust the lower thread tension? Anyway, in comments you mention you do videos on timing and other more complicated stuff... but I want to know if that is generally the same for other brands of machines (I have both a Shark and a Brother machine and each of them basically stopped doing anything but basic straight and zig-zag stitches at some point. So no overcast, etc.) Funny they are both under warranty, but the cost to ship was going to be almost as much as my new Singer and anyway what would I get back but a reconditioned machine that broke once already from new... so yeah, I'd like to still see if I can fix either of them anyway to maybe give to my kids.
Kevin, you are absolutely AMAZING !!!!!! Thank you so much for these awesome videos. I was dreading , trying to adjust my bobbin tension. It was so easy, with your help. I appreciate you, so very much.
I have been wanting to get into making my own waxed canvass goods and was gifted a Singer 4452 Heavy Duty machine for Christmas this year and have had an issue with thread tension. As the thread loops around the bobbin, it gets pinched between the bobbin carriage/case and the bottom of the bobbin cover plate, causing resistance, which results in the top thread being pulled through the fabric, leaving loops on the bottom side of the piece. I can get a good balance of tension if I turn the tension dial up to 7 or more. I took the bobbin assembly apart and made a few adjustments and had no luck. After several failed attempts to achieve a pinch-free stitch, I used sandpaper to smooth/remove a small amount of plastic on the backside of the bobbin carriage and the underside of the cover plate. Now, when sewing denim-weight fabrics with thread tension set to 6, I get no pinching, and my stitches look good. Now, to complicate things, I've switched to using Coats & Clark heavy duty thread which is thicker than normal thread, and it pinches a bit as it loops around the bobbin. I've cranked the tension up to 9 and the top thread is still showing on the bottom side of the piece. Am I asking too much of this machine, to sew 2-4 layers of cotton duck with heavy duty thread, or do I have clearance issues with the bobbin carriage/cover plate? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Your videos are quite helpful, by the way. I've watched several!
@@kevinsews The thread I'm using is Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP Heavy 100% polyester. I don't think it's too thick for the machine. I suspect it's an issue with either quality control or my error setting up the machine. I've followed the manual instructions on setup as well as referred to a couple of your videos on setup, so I think I have it right. One thing I haven't tried is adjusting the painted screw in the bobbin carrier. Do you think loosening it would be a good idea?
@@justinluyk1746 Okay, I think you've nailed it. I've used that thread many times in my machines without any issue. It sounds like a quality control issue on your machine because that thread should work.
@@kevinsews Ok. Have you had any experience with Singer warranty/customer service? If so, how much of a hassle am I in for? haha. Thanks for your time.
@@justinluyk1746 Singer is nothing more than a name and a few employees in some small office, so you will have to deal with the company you bought the machine from. I think the warranty is only for 90 days on parts and labor. If you call them they will refer you to the closest repair facility.
This question my be totally out of space for you but here goes: I free motion quilt on my Singer heavy duty machine. The machinr sews fine on straight stitch and zigzag but when fee motioning the thread on the bottom is loopy. Do you think that is a bobbin tension problem or top tension problem. This happens even though i slow my sewing way down or even if i go top speed. New subscriber here.
Thank you for your demonstration. My machine was sewing well. I had to add thread to my bobbin and since I put it back my thread is getting tangled on the bottom of the material. Do I need to adjust the tension or do I have to attempt to replace my bobbin better?
Test it first. Then try adjusting the thread tension. If none of the above work then you may need to adjust your bobbin tension. Try only turning it 1/8 of a turn first. Then go from there.
@@bltoth1955 Thanks, yes, but I thought that can also be caused by top tension being too loose. I can get my threads to "meet in the middle" but with the top tension set at 7. That's why I'm wondering if maybe the bobbin tension is too tight.
I have been fighting a problem with straight thread on the bottom of the stitch for years! No matter how low I put the top tension, the bottom of the stitch was just straight thread... not pulled up at all. After I turned the yellow screw a about a quarter of a turn back I finally have a decent stitch on both top and bottom. Do you give classes on using sergers? Hahahahaha!
@@kevinsews I had pulled off the throat plate but couldn't see how to adjust the bobbin... My old machine the whole thing came out and there was a little screw that was easy to see and adjust... But my Singer 4452 has been a learning experience. Again, thanks.
Very clear instructions thank you but I am finding it impossible to loosen the two small screws. Why do manufacturers make it so difficult? Any suggestions as to how to loosen the screws?
@@eloundabelle Look at the other comments. Someone had another suggestion. I have put this on my todo list, but is is a long list. I'll get to it eventually.
This is great but before I try it, I want to make sure it's really what I need to do--trying to sew "swim" fabric (polyester/spandex) with a twin needle, and the stitches look good, but there seems to be some tunneling of the fabric--I'loosened the tension of the top thread to between 2 and 3, and lengthened the stitches, which helped, but didn't eliminate the problem completely. I'm pretty sure I need to loosen the bobbin tension, but doing so scares me, so I'd like confirmation. Thanks!
Buy a spare bobbin and use it to play around with the tension. That why you can always place the factory default one back in your machine. You can find one here : www.sewingpartsonline.com/bobbin-case-singer-q6a0764000.aspx?
Last night I opened up my machine I did see that yellow dot but for a million years I would have never thought a screw would be there to tighten. My machine is driving me bananas. I’m trying everything to fix the thread from wrapping around the bobbin area and from pulling in the fabric. Hope this will work. Thanks a million.
Stardust You’re welcome!
Yes. Mine was a used machine. It would always sew about 6-12" before the lower thread knotted up beneath the needle. Sold it in the end..
I bought my first sewing machine (Janome) twenty years ago and it finally gave out. The bobbin tension was easy-peasy to adjust. I can't believe the ridiculous amount of work it takes with this new Singer machine just to adjust the bobbin tension!! So disappointing. But I thank you for your very helpful tutorial, it saved the day! You rock. ✌️😁
You're welcome!
Glory and Praise be to God! I've been trying for a while now to get this bobbin case back into the machine. Finally, I prayed to God and He sent me to this video! Thank you so much! Every other video I've come across did not mention that I might need to unscrew that bar to get the bobbin case out or back in for that matter. Thank you!
You are very welcome!
Me as well, just bought my machine and it keeps bird nesting. Glory to Jesus for answered prayers, no matter how simple the request is. God never fails
Thank you kind Sir! I just got a Singer 6800C and I’ve been trying for 2 hours to get the tension right before I pick up an old project on a new machine. The manual only discusses top tension thread and I just couldn’t get it right. Watched this video and viola! In 15 min I was up and running! Thank you kindly.
You’re welcome!
Thank you for posting this. My machine is 2wks old and I was ready to throw it out the door, but your video helped to fix it and now it's working perfect....
You’re welcome!
Many troubleshooting videos out there pointing to incorrect top threading but not showing how to adjust the bobbin thread. Thank you for this. It has saved me a lot of aggravation.
You're welcome!
Omgeee, I was putting off fixing my sewing machine for 2 years and THIS WAS ALL I HAD TO DO lol. Thank you for your videos!!!!
You’re welcome. I am glad to hear it was helpful.
YOU ARE A GENIUS!! Never called anyone a genius before, but you, you are a GENIUS!!!!!!!!! I think I’ve just fallen in love with you. My thread wouldn’t hold together when I sewed, followed your first video on where the thread should be and it made things better but not fixed, followed onto this video and now my baby is sewing perfectly!!! I am amazed!!!!
Ahhh... thank you so much
Where have you been all my sewing life?!?!?! Great video.
Thank you! I am glad to hear it was helpful.
Worked perfectly!! Thanks so much. My whole 4452 machine was jammed and would not move in any direction by hand or peddle, so my problem was much more than bobbin tension. At less than six months old and already looking at a service repair, I thought things were really messed up inside somewhere and was really disappointed in the 4452. I followed your excellent instructions, and yes, those inside screws are really tight! That was a great tip, I would have given up trying to move them if you had not mentioned how from the factory they are in there. I finally had to use a screw bit with a small 1/4 inch flat wrench to get them loose. I didn't follow your instructions to leave them in there but took one out to get at the other. It was another good tip because they are tricky to get started back in so much better not to take them out. My bobbin holder was jammed in there and would not slide out as easy as in your video. This convinced me to try and get it loose and out, hoping it would free the machine. Once I gently pried it loose and took it out, the machine moved freely again. More than I every wanted to know about a sewing machine, but thanks again, your video saved me big time.
Thanks for the update! I am glad you worked it all out.
Omg thank you soooo much- two hours of trying to figure this out then I found YOU!!! Yay for me!!!
You’re welcome!
I so appreciate your technical videos for this machine. I was gifted this when I couldn't afford one, and it's turned out to be such a workhorse. It's also fantastic way to learn how to fix and maintain a machine.
The manual says not to touch the bobbin tension. I just used a small screwdriver to peel away the sticky yellow gunk over the screw. The screw never shakes out of place after I adjust it, so I don't know why they glued it. I loosen both and remove one of the forward screws, it's easier than the back ones for me. I've oiled the wick under the bobbin once or twice, it makes a big difference.
Stitch Wishes I am glad to help. I am so use to adjusting bobbin tension in my industrial machines that it makes sense to me you should know how to do it in any machine. It is like the sewing machine mfgs. think you only sew with one type of thread, which is the same they test with, so you never need to adjust your bobbin tension.
Good for you for oiling the bobbin area. You are correct in that it makes a big difference.
Thank you so much this just rescued me from much despair.
You're welcome.
I was reluctant to do these steps at first but then I took it apart and found a broken needle inside the casing along with a bunch of dust/fabric fuzz. Now seems to be working perfectly. I feel pretty badass that I fixed my own machine! Great video.
That is great to hear!
Thank you for your video. My problem: I have singer 4432, it has been working fine since I got it but since yesterday I couldn't sew anything the thread bunches up at the bottom. Please how do I fix it? Thank you
Check that your top thread is set up properly, make sure your tension is good (around 5 is usually good) and pull both threads back as you begin to sew.
grace oluwajuyigbe youtu.be/
I was about to give up on this machine, no much experience i was frustrated, now I am so happy to see there's a solution 😀
Thank you 😊 💓
Maria Teresa Groetegoed V You’re welcome!
I thank you very much for this video it was exactly what I needed and it helped solve the problem I will refer to you and your videos whenever I have issues with my sewing machines thank you
You’re welcome!
I found this video a couple of years ago, and without this I could not have fixed the problem with my machine. In fact I had to find it again , because I forgot about the tension on the bobbin case. Thanks again excellent directions.
You're welcome!
My problem seems to be with the top tension. I have to have the tension on 9 to get a decent stitch. The top looks fine but when you turn it over the loops from the top haven't pulled the bottom thread tight. You can pull the bottom thread right out of the fabric. Does this mean the bottom tension is too tight? I don't see a way to fix the top tension. It is a brand new machine and came with this issue!
Take a look at this video as a starting point. ruclips.net/video/8TPB2yzw-1Y/видео.html If that doesn't help I have another video showing how to tighten the thread tension here: ruclips.net/video/ddFcH5lnnjY/видео.html
@@kevinsews Thanks for your reply. I think part of my problem was that I was doing upholstery and did have a fine upholstery thread. When I finished with my couch I put the machine away because we would be travelling over the winter months. I ordered a new bobbin case, put in a 14 needle and used different color top and bottom threads, cotton wrapped polyester on the bottom and the top seems cotton but the label is off. I got a decent stitch at 7 top tension. Anything below that and I could still pull the bottom thread out. I watched both above videos and of course the original video. I don't see on the second video here where you take the whole machine apart to clean, where you show how to tighten the thread tension. I looked on your actual page and didn't see the follow up videos (cleaning and tention adjust) but I think they are probably there and I'm just not finding them. Anyway, not comfortable taking a machine apart like that yet. I can work with a 7 tension if I have to but I may try to loosen the original bobbin case tension and see what happens. The new bobbin case seems to work fine, although not sure why I need a seven and not a 5ish for top tension. Was hoping a new machine would work right out of the gate. Don't want to spend more money bringing it for maintenance and also living on an island with only ferry transit makes it a pain.
@@InAHandBasket Okay, thanks for the update!
I didn't need to actually mess with my bobbin tension but this video totally helped me get my bobbin case out! I couldn't find any information anywhere about how to actually get my bobbin case out until I saw this video and saw you unscrewing those two little screws on the side. I'd even written the Singer company and their instructions didn't mention it either. Now that I've seen this video, I can get the bobbin case in and out easily! Thank you so much!!!
Teresa Grall You’re welcome!
WHY are the newer models make it so complicated?????
Convivence is why. People want it. At least they offer these simple mechanical machines still.
This video was published eight years ago but it is still helpful today. I recently purchased a new Singer denim sewing machine and I had to adjust the bobbin tension as it was a bit too tight and the needle thread was still showing up on the bottom side regardless of the needle tension adjustment. I was getting somewhat positive results at the max. needle tension of 9 but you can't always use the max. tension setting for the needle. Now, I am getting great results at default 4 for the needle. Thank you for posting this video.
My pleasure! I am glad to hear it was helpful.
Thank you so much, finally I can use my machine again!
You're welcome!
Kevin please leave this vid and your others up for the help they assist. I realize success comes not from getting a better machine, but from practice which threads/materials/speeds work together. It is quite an effort to get going. Like if I had top line basketball shoes, only using them playing basketball will make me better, not just the shoes.
No worries. I will leave them up.
Okay. I guess my bobbin tension is fine as my top always looks perfect but the bottom is loose. Not enough to nest all the time but say for a zig zag ... it's not exactly a zig zag on the bottom. Is it the machine tension or the foot pressure ? I have a singer Heavy Duty 4411 and my kids often play with the foot pressure dial. Please help
I have the same question! Any thoughts would be helpful.
Create a video (cellphone?) showing me what you are experiencing and post it on your channel. Let me know once you post it and I'll take a look and see if I can help you.
Thank you, sir!!! I was gifted and old singer 9005 with no manual years ago and have been off and on trying to figure out how to use it. Got a cheap Aldi machine to learn how to even begin and you just put the last puzzle piece together for me!!! You are a Saint! I was so close to giving up. Thank you!
@@Familyaccount-j1f You’re welcome!
Thank you! Wish I would have found this first!
You're welcome!
This video saved my life!! I have been trying to the machine for DAYS! Did this and voila, I am sewing again. Thanks!!!!!
+Annelise Collette You're welcome! I am glad to hear it was helpful.
Kevin, Could you share for a standard setting what the buttons should be set?
Tension = 4
Needle position =
Width =
Length
Thank you greatly!
Buttons or Button Holes?
I am a beginner with sewing machine and it jammed on the first day I began using it! I followed your tutorial and one other that helped me solve a jamming issue. God bless you!
You're welcome! I am glad to hear it corrected the problem.
My wife made me fix this machine. Appearently the machine was working fine. She just didnt know how to use it -.-
That is great to hear! Thank you!
I am planning on buying a Singer, I was told to seek your channel out and to believe in whatever advice you offer.
The current Singer is just a name to put on machines that a Corporation that owns Singer, Pfaff and Husqvarna VIKING. Recently they added Husqvarna VIKING machines to the www.singer.com web site. They have decided to market the Singer machines the lower end and less expensive marketplace. The usually means the quality control is the first thing to go. People go out and buy a Singer Heavy Duty Series at Walmart and something goes wrong and there is no dealer to take it back to for repair. They tell them to ship it to a repair center at their on cost. This is usually close to the machine cost. Then the user trashes the machine online. I am in the process of completely tearing down a machine and showing how to fix timing issues. I am hoping this will help some people going forward that have simply somethow thrown their machine out of timing fix it themselves and get them back to sewing quickly. Unless you pay a lot more for a machine to a Dealer this is what you will have to do. It you want a dealer that will take care of your machine then you will need to generally pay a few thousand dollars for it to get them interested. With all this being said.... how can I help you?
You sir, are an everyday hero. I was getting ready to bring my machine in, which was very odd, as it's a very new machine. And came across this video. Problem solved and back in action'
Great!
Me too
Thank you for your video and your patience answering all the questions. You’re a very kind person, and the world would be a better place if everyone were like you.
Thank you!
Just wanted to thank you for doing this video...had no idea what was wrong with my machine and now it works great. The yellow paint got in the way of unscrewing the tiny screw, but after some effort it finally turned. So grateful
You're welcome! I am glad to hear it was helpful.
You, sir are an absolute lifesaver! I was on the verge of tears and ready to throw this machine out the window until I found your channel. Thank you thank you thank you!!!!
You are a god among men.
You are so welcome!
THANK YOU!!! I'm new to sewing and I just got this machine (first bottom load bobbin too.) I was getting so frustrated with the birds nests and jams. I just found your video and I adjusted the bobbin...it worked! Thank you so much for this video.
You’re welcome!
This video saved my sanity! I have been fighting for days with bunching. I'd gone through my manual, threaded, re-threaded, wound new bobbins, practically everything. Searched the Internet for causes and fixes. You are the first person I found that said anything about fixing the bobbin thread. I could not find how to tighten the bobbin thread in the manual. Thank you so much!
That is good to hear Jane! Thanks for letting me know.
I'm not very familiar with top loading bobbin systems but this video helped me to understand how it is put together.
I bought a machine off marketplace today and the bobbin casing seemed to be popping up after a few stitches. I fixed it thanks to you.
You’re welcome!
Thank you so much! I just bought a display model C7220 and could tell after a short test that the bobbin tension was way too loose. I found your video and then followed your instructions. My tension is perfect now. Your video is the best!
You're welcome!
Very enjoyable video and quite informative, too. Not to put too fine a point (no pun intended) on it, but I did notice that you inadvertently "needle-wrapped" the thread when you threaded the needle (see video). I believe this is why the topside tension was slightly greater right at the needle which created just enough added tension to create more 'pull' which drew the bobbin thread upward with slightly greater tension. Thank you for showing the bobbin tension screw's access as this is often overlooked as a common solution to this problem. Your narration was very smooth and informative as I said.
Mike Kirwan - Kenmore, WA
My pleasure! I address the issue you pointed out when I uploaded this video a few years ago in the video description area. I guess I should recreate it at some point.
Your videos are truly awesome! Between your thorough instructions on how to clean and oil a Singer Heavy Duty and this one, you saved me a trip to the service centre and a bunch of money! Thank you!!
Thank you! I'm glad it was helpful.
Had a bit of weird tension problems after cleaning and a clunking sound, so I did a bit of trouble shooting based on advice you gave other people:
- Took the bobbin case back out
- Added a bit more machine oil
- Adjusted the bobbin tension a random amount
- Put it back in the way you showed here
- Added a new needle
- Made sure to thread it properly
- Tested it with a successful outcome!
I noticed that you don't use the little felt liner in the bobbin case. Am I supposed to remove that?
No.
I was literally loosing my mind with my machine until I found this video!! Thank you so much! I had my tension set at zero! I didn’t even know bobbin tension was a thing. Also I found another video showing the difference in threads and placement on the machine. I was doing that wrong too!!
You’re welcome!
Can you please share the link to that video about threads? I’d really like to watch it!
Thank you so much for this! I was dismayed why my new 6700C kept leaving huge loops on the bottom and the upper tension adjustment did nothing. My husband convinced me to go for it and it worked!
You're welcome! I glad to hear it helped you.
Thank you!!! I have been having intermittent tension problems for MONTHS and this has finally solved it after trying 5 or 6 different things. I needed to tighten that screw almost an entire turn.
My pleasure!
That is absolutely amazing. Who knew that little yellow thing even existed. Thank you for posting this.
You are welcome!
I let some material get sucked through the throat plate and had to take out the bobbin case to unjam it. And then I couldn't figure out how to get the bobbin case back in correctly -- until I found this! Thank you so much!
You're welcome!
Thank you so much! Your instructions were easy to follow and to understand. you did not rush and Your video was very clear to hear and understand!!! I haven't used my machine in nearly three years and found a new project and got started and completely forgot how to fix the tension!!!
Allie Haddon My pleasure! I am glad it was helpful.
Thank you for this video! I’ve been trying to figure out why my thread kept getting stuck and wrapped around the bobbin casing - I didn’t seat the case in right. But your demonstration and explanation of how to reinsert the bobbin case was spot on. Thanks again!! 😅
You're welcome! I am glad to hear it was helpful.
Thank you so much for your videos with this machine!
I just got mine and the instructions i got said nothing about bobbing tension or oiling. So i'm so happy to see these videos. Easy and clear instructions. Just like they should be!
My pleasure!
Thank you! Wish I had seen this great video before purchasing a Janome 5300qdc electronic. The good news is the Singer makes better stitches (and they hold) and because of this video it is back in service. Janome and it’s loose stitches and inability to sew over thin elastic will now be used strictly for piecing.
You're welcome!
Thank you so much!!! I recently bought a Singer Talent sewing machine and it’s been driving me nuts!!! I was thinking of giving it away to someone else but then who’d want it if it doesn’t sew good stitches? I kept researching on the internet about tension and found that the bobbin tension is too high. I wanted to modify it but then there was that dot of paint or whatever it is, I tried to remove it but it wouldn’t go away and gave up. I understood that I probably shouldn’t mess with it…
Now I want to try again, I have to get this machine to work well. I don’t get it why they set it like that from the factory, why would anyone want a sewing machine with bad tension and that causes a lot of frustration and stress? Becouse I can’t use it like this, even if I raise the needle tension, the fabric puckers, it’s too much tension on both sides.
I am glad to hear it was helpful to you!
You are the Bob Ross of sewing machine instructions, man 😅 ... really helpful information, thank you very much for sharing! One more follower, too 😉
Thank you!
Thank you Kevin. This help me a lot. I have been having problems with my bobbin thread for two days. I knew the thread was to loose but I didn't know how to fix it. So I became inspired and decided to ask youtube, and there you were. I was wondering what that yellow thing was sticking out of my bobbin case. I FIXED MY BOBBIN THREAD, YEA ME!
That is so great to hear!
Me too. I have the same problem after I bought this sewing machine, and I didn't know how to fix. I found several videos in RUclips until I saw this one. This video is very clear and very detail. I found my problem and fixed. Now this machine is perfect! Thank you so much. I am very happy today.
@@cynicismccp5857 Great.
JUST bought a 6600C and have been struggling with tension. THIS video corrected the problem. THANK YOU!!
My pleasure!
Thank you so much Kevin! This video showed exactly what I needed to do to fix my bobbin issue! Next time I have a problem with my sewing machine I will definitely turn to your videos for help!
You're very welcome! Thank you!
Thank you this actually helped me fix a tiny problem with the bobbin going back in. When you said it should rock back and forth and hit the stop - my metal stop was sticking out and catching my top thread and that helped me understand what it was there for and I bent it back. Super thx
That is great to hear!
Thank you so much for your video. I am a beginner with a Singer 4423 given by a friend. Thread keeps being broken itself. I will tend to fix it following your video tonight to see if it works.
Wishing you a nice day, sir.
You’re welcome!
It helped me today too! almost 10 years after the initial video was uploaded.!
That is great to hear! Thanks.
I bought a slightly used Singer4423. I can't get the bobbin case out. I tried everything and then stumbled upon your video. Thanks so much for sharing!
You're very welcome!
Thank you for this video Kevin, I just bought my Singer 4423 Classic and after one day of using it my bobbin case got stuck..you have a very good narrator skills and all the time helpful ( found your Singer Classic introductory video and i keep on getting back to it every time i feel like i need to practice something) .P.S I still find the automated needle threader as easy as rocket science :)! All the best from Spain
I am glad you found it useful.
Love your videos and helpful instructions, and I don't mean to complain and seem ungrateful, but when you were adjusting the tension, all I could see was your fingers... couldn't see which way you were turning the dial or how far... I've learned a lot about the care and health of my little Heavy Duty thanks too you and would love to see exactly what and how the bobbin tension was adjusted... Thank you so much for the videos, except for this minor issue, I really do enjoy them... :-)
Turn the screw 1/4 at a time. Left to loosen and to the right to tighten.
I'm a beginner and having trouble threading the needle and marrying the bobbin thread to the needle thread. Do you have a video that shows this procedure VERY slow and up close? This video tightening the bobbin helped. I think my bobbin is very loose which might be contributing to other mysteries. Thank you,
Old retired guy
No, I do not at this time. Sorry!
This video was very helpful. Other videos were not really going in depth with this. Thank you for filming this video.
You're welcome!
Even though this did help me to free up my 4452, it took hours with many tries with lots a jammed thread and disassemble/reassembles to get it to sow properly again. Once you loosed those two very tight screws, it's trail and error to get the little bracket back in the exact position for the machine to sow correctly again. I think it's finally working again but almost afraid to try it on something other than a piece of scrap after so many jam ups.
Any guidance on how to adjust that little bracket? There's quite a bit of variability as to how much play the bobbin casing has to rock back and forth.
Download the manual here: www.kevinsews.com/download/SingerHeavyDutyServiceManul.pdf See page 19.
I bought a 4411 over a year ago, and it has sat on the floor most of that time. I also had bad bird nest issues with the bottom thread. I had been using metal bobbins from my old Kenmore, recently started using bobbins that came with the machine and, as if by magic, the bird nests seem to have abated!
That’s why it comes with plastic bobbins. There is an issue with metal bobbins because there is a magnet built into the aluminum frame beneath the bobbin case area. It will affect your stitches. In your case, it seems to have created a nest - although, generally you will get nesting if you don’t hold both threads firmly behind the presser foot when you begin sewing for at least the first few stitches. What happens if you don’t hold the threads? Well, the bobbin thread tangles in the bobbin case, taking the needle thread with it on a bad trip! They tangle and form a nest. How to avoid a nest: Make sure fabric covers the feed dogs (metal moving “teeth” located under the presser foot) BEFORE you step on foot control, holding the needle thread & bobbin thread under the presser foot and BACK past the presser foot so the feed dogs can’t “eat” your thread by swallowing it down past the moving teeth and into the hole. Get in this habit until it is second nature. Also, never turn the flywheel (big wheel on the right of the machine) away from you. NEVER! Always turn the flywheel toward you and always LOWER needle into fabric before continuing to sew. This machine does not automatically lower the needle into the fabric for sewing; you must remember this step to avoid operator error. Have fun sewing. Read your manual, and learn all you can to enjoy your machine more and more!🙂😉
Use class 15 (not 15J) plastic bobbins. Plastic bobbins don't bend the way today's cheep metal bobbins do. They stay nice and smooth and allow the thread to glide around the edges. A metal bobbin usually warps slightly and can have some burs along the edge. This causes all kinds of problems. You can find Class 15 Plastic Bobbins at Walmarts that carry sewing supplies. Otherwise, order them online or visit a local sewing store. Amazon has them as well.
After you give that a try come back here and let us know the results. If you are still having a problem then post as many details as you can and we'll see if we can help you out.
YAY thank you SOOOOOOOOOOO much I fixed it ... I tried everything. new needle.. tension on top... new bobbins.. cleaned it nothing worked.... UNTIL NOW THANK YOU I had no idea there was a screw on the bobbin ..
That is great to hear! You're welcome.
I am so happy I found your video!!! I was getting ready to return machine to store and get a different brand since I have been having lots of issues with singer brand! Your a lifesaver!
My pleasure!
Thank you so much for the video! Fixed my probelm saving me lots of time and money. Now I know that it was my bobbin tension all along that was giving me so much probelm. Subscribed 👌
You're welcome!
Thanks for the explanation about the bobbin tension. I felt that my bobbin tension was too weak when I pulled on it compared to the tension of the top spool. And I wasn't getting too good of a stitch. Probably my fault because I've only been sewing for about three days, or about three hours in reality. I bought a 4423 last week to try to do some auto upholstery in hopes of changing my career of 37 years as an auto tech and repair business owner. I need out. Badly. I'm burned out and finally realizing it. This media driven scare festival has caused my business to drop off in half. This all may turn out to be a cloud with a silver lining for me though, as I contemplate shutting my shop down after 20 years of success.
But I digress, sorry. My question to you is, shouldn't the top spool and the bobbin have the same feel, physically, as to the tension? My bobbin felt so loose compared to the top tension. So I adjusted my bobbin to feel the same tension as the top spool a few hours ago. I saw this and I did it exactly how you did except for that I removed the front thingamajigga under the plate instead of the back thingamajigga to remove the bobbin holder. Either way, it worked out fine and seems to be correct.
I also realize that this so-called "heavy duty" sewing machine is definitely not for auto upholstery. This shows my ignorance in the sewing world. So I ordered a Juki DNU-1541 that's supposed to arrive today sometime.
I use a 1541 as well. It will be great for upholstery. I changed out the thread tension plate to one with double tension and it is much more versatile now.
I love your videos!!! my machine started acting up, the thread in the top looked awful while the one in the bottom was perfect and this fixed it right up! I did have to try a couple of times before i got the bobbin case in the right position because the small piece (even though i left the screws in) moved a bit and the thread was getting super tangled. But now it is working perfectly, I also learned how to put in the bobbin properly in this video haha :) I bought this machine because of your videos, THANK YOU!!!
You're welcome!
Thanks for a very informative video. Can you tell me how to be sure my bobbin tension needs adjusting? I have a new singer 4423 that is sewing way too loosely on the bottom side of fabric. I triple checked my threading and then cranked the top tension all the way up and got a better (but still loose) stitch. I'm wondering if the bobbin tension is too low or if I need to send the darn thing back. All I can find on youtube is people telling me to thread with the presser foot up and, yep, I got that one :)
First, make sure you foot is raised when you thread the machine. Next, when you lower the foot and thread the needle pull on the thread and see if the needle very slightly bends. This will tell you if the thread is seated between the tension disc.
Thank you! I have been getting very frustrated, I’m so glad you helped me! Thank you from the bottom of my heart!
You're welcome!
You are a God send!!! I was so mad and about to lose my mind. Thank you for posting this. I truly appreciate your help!
My pleasure!
Thank you! I spent hours trying to figure out how to put my bobbin holder back in correctly
You're welcome!
Saved my sewing too! After a cleaning, tension went bizerk! Thank you, just followed along and it’s working again.
My pleasure!
This video saved me alot of money and a trip to the service center, and I'll be able to finish my costume. Thank you so much!
My pleasure!
5 year old video just helped me out! Thanks, I am having a problem with timing and the bobbin holder. But I see how it works now. Thanks. I think my bobbin holder spins a bit. I am going to check that little hold down bar, it might be bent. I have the same machine without the needle threader. Thanks--Sewing is all new to me...
John Ryan Ok let us know what you discover.
Thank you so much for this video! I have been tearing my machine apart all day trying to figure out how to fix this! ❤
You're welcome!
I'd like the thank you for the video. I watched countless videos that just popped the casing back in and didn't explain that fact with the notch and it was frustrating me to no end why mine was nt sitting right. You explained it do simply and thoroughly. My machine is all assemble nicely again.
+Nicole Gagnon You're welcome! I am glad it was helpful.
looks like a great demonstration only your finger is is the way when you tighten the tension. Which way do we turn the screwdriver clockwise or counter clockwise please thanks
Remember Righty Tighty Lefty Loosey. So turn to the right to tighten.
This video helps me know what to do if my machine needs adjustment on the Bobbin.
I sure do Thank You.
Good deal.
Hi Kevin , the video is helpful in understanding how this really works. My machine also has this tension problem. I don’t know how. I opened the plate , removed the bobbin n needle out. Also the presser foot. But the 2 screws to remove the bobbin case is so tight, that I simply cannot do it. Can you assist me as to how should I adjust the tension. Appreciate your help 😊
I use these: www.amazon.com/I-MART-Offset-Screwdriver-Phillips-Driver/dp/B07HDJGV92/
Thanks for your video! I took my bobbin case apart and the yellow screw was pretty much falling out. It was not even threaded. I tightened it quite a bit since it was not in there at all. It helped a lot but I still have slight top threads showing through to the bottom with tension set at 4 and stitch length at 3. I’ve rethreaded, cleaned, used different bobbins, etc. Any pointers are appreciated!
Try tightening the thread tension a bit if the thread is showing on the bottom side.
I’ve tightened it all the way back and forth from 4- 8 and not much difference showing
@@LaurynSmith-j6k See my video on getting to a starting point here: ruclips.net/video/8TPB2yzw-1Y/видео.htmlsi=ONSmvKpF9ia6EOuP In the end it is a balancing act to get it just right.
@@LaurynSmith-j6kI’m having the same issue. Did you find a solution?
Super helpful. Thank you. I was getting SO frustrated before watching your video and taking your advice!!
You’re welcome!
@@kevinsews Your dog is so cute. Thx again!
@@kellykhallman Thanks. She passed away over 10 years ago,but she is missed.
@@kevinsews Oh know, I'm so sorry to hear this. Please accept my sincere condolences. 💐 Those dear hearts sure do stay with us forever. Sweet babies they are. Have a wonderful evening.
@@kellykhallman Thank you!
You are so good to explain, i have a problem with tension but even if Change needles or threads moving the wheel of tension from 0 to 9 i have always the same stitch with the same problem. The upper therad is show on the back stitch. How can I adjust it?
Use the technique I show in the video: ruclips.net/video/8TPB2yzw-1Y/видео.html If moving the tension dial doesn't change the tension then raise the pressure foot then hold the thread before you thread the eye of the needle and then grab the thread on the top side of the machine and pull tight to ensure it is going between the tension disc. Then lower the foot and repeat the test.
Thank you!!! My wife is a happy woman thanks to your video!
My pleasure!
Thanks so much my machine is now sewing perfectly, I didn't even know you could adjust the robin tension
You're welcome!
Omg thank you! This was so helpful! My bobbin case was driving me nuts! It works now 🎉
You're welcome!
I didn't even know there was a bobbin tension adjustment. they sure make it hard to get to. thanks!
My pleasure!
I find a little bit easier to adjust the tension on the bobbin case of my Bernina 1008. Since I am thinking about buying a Janome HD3000, it seems that the same manner will be done on the Janome. Thank you for showing this.
orestesdd Yes, the old style front loading bobbin systems make adjusting the bobbin tension much easier than top loading bobbin systems. The trade off is not being able to see how much thread you have in your bobbin and that was always an issue that people didn't care for with front loading bobbin systems.
Thanks for all your advice and opinions. They have been a great help to me.
Great video Kevin -- I just got my first Singer machine (sewed on this kind of machine in Home Ec 30+ years ago). First thing after I read the manual I was like, why it doesn't say how to adjust the lower thread tension? Anyway, in comments you mention you do videos on timing and other more complicated stuff... but I want to know if that is generally the same for other brands of machines (I have both a Shark and a Brother machine and each of them basically stopped doing anything but basic straight and zig-zag stitches at some point. So no overcast, etc.) Funny they are both under warranty, but the cost to ship was going to be almost as much as my new Singer and anyway what would I get back but a reconditioned machine that broke once already from new... so yeah, I'd like to still see if I can fix either of them anyway to maybe give to my kids.
You're welcome! I am glad it was helpful.
Kevin sir thank you so much for this video. It was so helpful and easy to follow that i don't feel worried to try and fix this issue myself.
My pleasure!
Kevin, you are absolutely AMAZING !!!!!! Thank you so much for these awesome videos. I was dreading , trying to adjust my bobbin tension. It was so easy, with your help. I appreciate you, so very much.
You’re welcome!
I have been wanting to get into making my own waxed canvass goods and was gifted a Singer 4452 Heavy Duty machine for Christmas this year and have had an issue with thread tension.
As the thread loops around the bobbin, it gets pinched between the bobbin carriage/case and the bottom of the bobbin cover plate, causing resistance, which results in the top thread being pulled through the fabric, leaving loops on the bottom side of the piece. I can get a good balance of tension if I turn the tension dial up to 7 or more.
I took the bobbin assembly apart and made a few adjustments and had no luck. After several failed attempts to achieve a pinch-free stitch, I used sandpaper to smooth/remove a small amount of plastic on the backside of the bobbin carriage and the underside of the cover plate. Now, when sewing denim-weight fabrics with thread tension set to 6, I get no pinching, and my stitches look good.
Now, to complicate things, I've switched to using Coats & Clark heavy duty thread which is thicker than normal thread, and it pinches a bit as it loops around the bobbin. I've cranked the tension up to 9 and the top thread is still showing on the bottom side of the piece.
Am I asking too much of this machine, to sew 2-4 layers of cotton duck with heavy duty thread, or do I have clearance issues with the bobbin carriage/cover plate? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Your videos are quite helpful, by the way. I've watched several!
Is your thread V69 or heavier? If so, then it will take some special care to use it with varied success.
@@kevinsews The thread I'm using is Coats & Clark Dual Duty XP Heavy 100% polyester. I don't think it's too thick for the machine. I suspect it's an issue with either quality control or my error setting up the machine. I've followed the manual instructions on setup as well as referred to a couple of your videos on setup, so I think I have it right. One thing I haven't tried is adjusting the painted screw in the bobbin carrier. Do you think loosening it would be a good idea?
@@justinluyk1746 Okay, I think you've nailed it. I've used that thread many times in my machines without any issue. It sounds like a quality control issue on your machine because that thread should work.
@@kevinsews Ok. Have you had any experience with Singer warranty/customer service? If so, how much of a hassle am I in for? haha. Thanks for your time.
@@justinluyk1746 Singer is nothing more than a name and a few employees in some small office, so you will have to deal with the company you bought the machine from. I think the warranty is only for 90 days on parts and labor. If you call them they will refer you to the closest repair facility.
This question my be totally out of space for you but here goes: I free motion quilt on my Singer heavy duty machine. The machinr sews fine on straight stitch and zigzag but when fee motioning the thread on the bottom is loopy. Do you think that is a bobbin tension problem or top tension problem. This happens even though i slow my sewing way down or even if i go top speed. New subscriber here.
With free motion is can be either. Try tightening the top tension first and see if that helps.
Thank you for your demonstration. My machine was sewing well. I had to add thread to my bobbin and since I put it back my thread is getting tangled on the bottom of the material. Do I need to adjust the tension or do I have to attempt to replace my bobbin better?
Test it first. Then try adjusting the thread tension. If none of the above work then you may need to adjust your bobbin tension. Try only turning it 1/8 of a turn first. Then go from there.
Thanks for showing the procedure. How does one know if the bobbin tension needs to be adjusted?
Watch the video! 😂😂😂
@@bltoth1955 I did - twice.
@JohnBau He defined the problem when he could see the bobbin thread from the top stitch @ 9:28?
@@bltoth1955 Thanks, yes, but I thought that can also be caused by top tension being too loose.
I can get my threads to "meet in the middle" but with the top tension set at 7.
That's why I'm wondering if maybe the bobbin tension is too tight.
@@JohnBau I’d think so. Loosen the bottom tension till you can set the top tension at 4.
I have been fighting a problem with straight thread on the bottom of the stitch for years! No matter how low I put the top tension, the bottom of the stitch was just straight thread... not pulled up at all. After I turned the yellow screw a about a quarter of a turn back I finally have a decent stitch on both top and bottom. Do you give classes on using sergers? Hahahahaha!
I am glad to hear you fixed it. No, I don't have any classes. ;)
@@kevinsews I had pulled off the throat plate but couldn't see how to adjust the bobbin... My old machine the whole thing came out and there was a little screw that was easy to see and adjust... But my Singer 4452 has been a learning experience. Again, thanks.
@@kevinsews Will you consider one?
Very clear instructions thank you but I am finding it impossible to loosen the two small screws. Why do manufacturers make it so difficult?
Any suggestions as to how to loosen the screws?
@@eloundabelle Look at the other comments. Someone had another suggestion. I have put this on my todo list, but is is a long list. I'll get to it eventually.
This is great but before I try it, I want to make sure it's really what I need to do--trying to sew "swim" fabric (polyester/spandex) with a twin needle, and the stitches look good, but there seems to be some tunneling of the fabric--I'loosened the tension of the top thread to between 2 and 3, and lengthened the stitches, which helped, but didn't eliminate the problem completely. I'm pretty sure I need to loosen the bobbin tension, but doing so scares me, so I'd like confirmation. Thanks!
Buy a spare bobbin and use it to play around with the tension. That why you can always place the factory default one back in your machine. You can find one here : www.sewingpartsonline.com/bobbin-case-singer-q6a0764000.aspx?
Kevin Sews thanks!