Incorrect thread tension

When the thread tension is incorrect, check the machine according the following procedure.
 

 

1. Check that the machine is threaded correctly.

 

  • The bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the fabric. (Refer to illustration below)
  • The upper thread appears as a straight line on the right side of the fabric.
    img01

    (1) Wrong side of fabric
    (2) Bobbin thread visible from right side of fabric
    (3) Upper thread

    (4) Right side of fabric
    (5) Bobbin thread


    >> The bobbin threading is incorrect.
          Return the thread tension dial to "4", and then refer to "Upper thread tightened up".
     
     

  • The upper thread is visible from the wrong side of the fabric. (Refer to illustration below)
  • The bobbin thread appears as a straight line on the wrong side of the fabric.
  • The stitching on the wrong side of the fabric is loose or has slack.
    img02 (1) Wrong side of fabric
    (2) Upper thread visible from wrong side of fabric
    (3) Upper thread
    (4) Right side of fabric
    (5) Bobbin thread

    >>The upper threading is incorrect.
         Return the thread tension dial to "4", and then refer to "Tangled thread on wrong side of fabric".

 

 

2. Check that a needle and thread appropriate for the fabric are being used.

The machine needle that should be used depends on the type of fabric sewn and the thread thickness. If a needle and thread appropriate for the fabric are not being used, the thread tension will not be adjusted correctly, causing wrinkles in the fabric or skipped stitches.
Refer to "Combination of fabric, thread and needle" to check that a needle and thread appropriate for the fabric are being used.

 

 

3. Select the appropriate setting on the thread tension.

Select an appropriate thread tension. The appropriate thread tension differs depending on the type of fabric and thread being used.

  • Adjust the thread tension while test sewing on a piece of scrap fabric that is the same as that used in your project.
  • If the upper threading and bobbin threading are incorrect, the thread tension cannot be adjusted correctly. Check the upper threading and bobbin threading first, and then adjust the thread tension.


If the bobbin thread is visible from the right side of the fabric

img03

(1) Wrong side of fabric
(2) Bobbin thread visible from right side of fabric
(3) Upper thread

(4) Right side of fabric
(5) Bobbin thread


>> Turn the thread tension dial counterclockwise to loosen the upper thread tension.

img04
  • Set the value on the thread tension dial to a lower number. (Reduce the upper thread tension.)

 

If the upper thread is visible from the wrong side of the fabric

img05 (1) Wrong side of fabric
(2) Upper thread visible from wrong side of fabric
(3) Upper thread
(4) Right side of fabric
(5) Bobbin thread


>> Turn the thread tension dial clockwise to tighten the upper thread tension.

img06
  • Set the value on the thread tension dial to a higher number. (Increase the upper thread tension.)

If your question was not answered, have you checked other FAQs?

Have you checked the manuals?

If you need further assistance, please contact Brother customer service:

Related Models

FS60X

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