7 Common Sewing Machine Problems and Remedies

Sewing machines are an integral part of everyday sewing and quilting projects. In the same way as other machines, it is always possible for it to wear out. Do you want to spend a bundle of money on sewing machine repair daily? In most cases, the answer is no.

Finally, learning how a sewing machine works will help you save time, money, and effort on other tasks. However, routine sewing machine problems include needle thread breakage, loose stitches, thread bunching, and sewing machine needle not moving. Luckily, you can fix all these sewing machine issues without a mechanic.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the most common sewing machine problems and remedies, along with answers to your questions.

Table of Contents

Common Sewing Machine Problems and Simple Remedies

Sewing machines are prone to issues that negatively impact projects like any other machine. Hence, you can fix many garment machine problems by learning how to do so. Here are some of the most common sewing machine troubles causes and remedies.

1. Broken Sewing Machine Needles

When you use the same needle for multiple projects, it results in needle breakage and damage. Thus, using a new compatible needle for each new project is always recommended to avoid the sewing machine needle not moving problem. Therefore, project delays and annoying or even harmful potential damage may result. Here are the best needles for fabric stuff:

Jersey needle for Knit fabrics
Sharp, sturdy needles for vinyl and denim leather

Moreover, if you have a needle break while sewing, throw it away carefully in a container. After that, replace it with a new needle and follow your sewing machine’s manual.

2. Sewing Machine Skipping Stitches Problem

Since the sewing machine’s primary function is to stitch the required material, the stitches skipping issue has several causes, so we must determine which one is the primary culprit:

Needle installed correctly
Needle is not bent or damaged
Needles that fit projects
Thread locking mechanism issues

As an answer to how to fix sewing machine not stitching, if you find that any of the above factors contribute to skipped stitches, rethread both the top and bobbin threads and check again.

I hope this will resolve the Singer sewing machine stitch problems, but if not, please take it to an expert sewing machine repair shop.

3. Sewing Machine With Bunching Thread

As part of discussing sewing machine problems thread bunching is the most complex and common. First, determining the cause is time-consuming, as several possible reasons exist. Secondly, sewing machine troubles causes and remedies for ongoing work are easier.

In most cases, the thread bunching issue occurs below the fabric, and above the fabric is rare. Likewise, the above fabric bunching thread issue usually happens when there is a loose thread or tight bobbin.

Sewing with raised presser foot
Sewing without fabric feeding
Bobbin installation error
Down feed dog
Dusty tension disks

Hopefully, resolving the thread a sewing machine bunching is very simple; just follow these remedies:

Rethread top and bottom threads
Set the presser foot lower
Sew backward through tails
Dust off the sewing machine

4. Problem with Sewing Machine Threads

In reality, thread breaking is the most common sewing machine issue that causes sewers headaches and prevents them from working. Moreover, incorrect upper threading is one of the leading causes.

As a solution, check your machine manual first and then reset your machine accordingly. Then, use a fabric to check whether the needle thread breakage issue is resolved. But if you figure out that the problem still exists, then check the following:

Bobbin
Needle
Machine tension
Machine in parts dust

5. Inconsistent Bobbin Tension

Generally, bobbin tension issues are not difficult to diagnose and treat. So first, adjust the tension at least two to three times, and if the tension persists, then the bobbin has an inconsistent tension because of its manufacturing materials.

Therefore, the plastic bobbins in the bobbin house do not maintain tension because they are loosely adjusted. To solve this, replace the plastic bobbin with a metallic one.

Often, professional sewers complain that their bobbin winders don’t work, so they can’t add thread to bobbins. Their attempt to fix the problem led to a sewing machine threaded but not stitching issues during the project. So it’s best to find out the leading cause and then resolve it per your sewing machine manual as it guides you the best.

6. Loose and Tangles Sewing Machine Thread

Sometimes, when sewing efficiently, you discover under-fabric knots, sewing machine loose stitches on bottom, and tangled thread. Besides being annoying, this damages your reputation and the fabric. When you change fabrics and materials, and this issue persists, remember it’s not the threading settings. Meanwhile, dust accumulates in the bobbin dusty area, interfering with the functioning of the bobbin.

To fix this issue, periodically clean your machine per the manual instructions. Furthermore, you can use brushes and vacuums to save time and energy. On the other hand, compressed air is better since it wipes out the nano-dust particles.

7. Sewing Machine Making Loud Noises

When you feel a bit of noise from your sewing machine, notice it immediately because it directly affects your nervous system, causing migraines and anxiety. Usually, this might be due to friction among the machine parts that require proper oiling and cleansing, so do that immediately. If that doesn’t fix it, you’ll need an expert.

Conclusion

In short, as sewing machines are an essential part of a garment maker’s professional life, it is important to maintain them to prevent any external or internal parts from malfunctioning. To facilitate your understanding, we have discussed the most common sewing machine problems and remedies above in detail. Following them can save time and energy and acquire more projects.

FAQs

Q1. Why does sewing an uneven fabric stitch occur?

Among the root causes of uneven fabric sticking on sewing machines are:
1. Inferior old thread
2. Stitching pulled fabric
3. Thread tension
Note: Do not pull the fabric while it is in the sewing machine, as it could damage it.

Q2. What is meant by Poor-quality thread in a sewing machine?

Generally, poor-quality threads are easy to break with maximum lint and result in project delays. As every thread has specific characteristics that match a particular fabric, such as cotton, silk, and wool, you must choose the best thread based on your project requirements.

Q3. Is there a recommended stitch length for cotton stuff?

The standard length for moderate-weight fabrics, including cotton and denim, is usually 2.5-3.0 mm, as these are a bit harder in stuff and can handle long stitches.

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