Sewing machines have one of two styles of bobbin cases: Front/Side load or Drop in.Each bobbin case type has its benefits. Drop in bobbins are easier to use, allow quick viewing for when the bobbin is almost empty, and usually are pretty trouble free. Machines with front load bobbin cases do offer more precision, easier adjustment and most commercial sewing machines use a front load bobbin case. For embroidery machines, front load bobbin cases can be changed WITHOUT removing the hoop in the middle of embroidery.
Sewers need to purchase bobbins specific for their machine brand and model. Each machine’s bobbin case tension is adjusted for use with its standard bobbin. Bobbins vary in weight, size and materials from plastic to metal. Using the incorrect bobbin can result in uneven stitches or other complications. If you are unsure which bobbin is the true original bobbin, we would be happy to examine both the sewing machine and your collection of bobbins.
When winding thread on a bobbin, follow your sewing machine directions to properly go around the pre- tensioner. This small (but very important) tensioner, makes the thread wind tightly around the bobbin. If the thread is not in the pre-tensioner, the result is a fluffy or squishy wound bobbin. This loosely wound bobbin will not play nicely during the sewing process.
Inserting the bobbin correctly into the bobbin case is also very important. Many drop in bobbin machines will picture the correct way to insert the bobbin on the bobbin case door. All bobbin threads must double back as they go from the bobbin into the bobbin case tension area. Check the manual for pictures of which way is correct for each machine. This double back threading is what keeps the bobbin from back-lashing or spinning freely between sewing machine starts and stops.
Bobbin case tensions also need to be adjusted from time to time since they loosen after hours of use and vibration. Sewing machine technicians have a set of very fine weights to set each machines bobbin case tension. This is not a turn the screw until if feels good adjustment. If you want to see if your bobbin case is needing a little TLC, take out your bobbin case (front load or drop in) and insert the bobbin in the tension guide. Holding onto the thread, suspend the bobbin case in the air like a yo-yo. At this point the bobbin case should NOT drop. With a slight jerk of the suspended bobbin case, it should drop about one inch. If the tension is too loose, the bobbin case will probably fall straight to the ground. If the tension is too tight, the bobbin case will not drop with a slight jerk of the thread.
If working with extra thick thread in the bobbin or doing bobbin work with yarns or other heavy fibers, it is recommended to purchase a second bobbin case. This bobbin case can be adjusted as needed, while the original bobbin case is kept perfectly set for normal sewing.
Many people do use pre-wound bobbins for the convenience of extra yardage per bobbin. Again, select the size and type to fit each specific sewing machine. Most sewing machine manufactures will not recommend pre-wound bobbins due to warranty issues, but many people like the convenience too much not to use them.
Bobbin cases do need to be dusted and wiped clean of lint and build up to guarantee the bobbin spins freely in its bobbin case.
Remember these three things next time you are inserting the bobbin:
1.Use the correct bobbins for the machine in use.
2.The thread needs to be tightly wound on the bobbin.
3.Make sure the bobbin thread double-back through the bobbin case tension.
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