Embroidery Machine Bobbin Thread: How to Fix on Top
Bobbin Thread Use In Embroidery
One of the most important key players in the world of machine embroidery is bobbin thread. Machine embroidery bobbin thread is different from regular thread. It is relatively thinner than embroidery thread. It comes in light-weights (60 and 70) than the top thread. The fine gauge makes the bobbin thread perfect to avoid thread assembling at the back side of artwork embroidery. For more about threads. Then you can visit: Machine Embroidery Thread
Specifically, the weight of the bobbin threads is light, around 60-weight. These are thinner than regular embroidery threads, which are usually 40-weight. Lighter threads minimize bulk and allow to create more intricate artwork designs.
It comes in various spool sizes and a range of colors like top (needle) thread. The purpose of the bobbin thread is to create the bottom thread of the stitches in embroidery. It is essential for embroidery unless the design needs to be reversible.
Differences Between Bobbin Thread and Embroidery Thread
It typically has fewer twists per inch, therefore making it smooth and easy to stitch with. According to one school of thought, in their experience, another difference is bobbin thread which commonly comes in white. So, save your money on investing in a collection of thread colors, because the only colored bobbin thread you will need is white.
Whereas others are of the view that your bobbin thread should always match to your top thread. Because, if your bobbin thread is exposed in your stitching. And a mismatched top and bobbin thread look sloppy. So, you should stitch a bobbin thread with the same color as your top thread and use that for your stitching.
Why Is Your Bobbin Thread Showing On Top?
Bobbin thread on the top of embroidery design is shown due to the following factors; when you stitch very narrow satin stitch, narrow tatami stitch lines, and when there are issues in your machine like tension or lint debris.
The incorrect tension in the bobbin thread can affect the quality of embroidery stitches. When the top thread is showing on the bottom of the design, then there is a chance that the top tension thread is too loose or the bobbin thread tension is too tight.
The incorrect needle or thread may not be appropriate for the fabric. And this factor may also cause issues in the artwork designs to show bobbin thread on the top.
Fix the Tension by Modifying the Thread:
The suggestion is to get help by adjusting the tension settings or flipping the bobbin thread which may cause positive changes. Furthermore, If the thread is looping try to adjust the top thread tension.
The root cause of bobbin thread showing on the top side of machine embroidery is tension.
It's your job as an embroidery detective to regulate the causes of the tension or issues to avoid headaches to work smoothly. Learn to determine usual issues in bobbin thread and their solutions as well.
Understanding Thread Tension
In the artwork of machine embroidery, you don’t need an evenly balanced tension in normal stitching. You want the bobbin thread to pull the top thread to the back. If you are feeling a tug of war between the top (needle) thread and the bobbin thread, the stronger thread will pull the other weaker thread.
If the bobbin thread is showing on the top, it means that the top thread is pulling owing to more tension. That points, either the top thread is too tight, or the bobbin thread is too loose.
Factors That Affect Tension
Machine setting is the first thing that comes to mind. Most machines are adjusted automatically at home when switching into embroidery mode. Some machines also use different thread bobbins for embroidery.
The other major factor that causes tension is thread weight both on top and bottom. Thinner threads decrease tension while thicker threads increase tension.
If you are using a thicker thread in the needle, you may get more bobbin thread on top of your work.
If you are using fine thread in the needle, then you may get a lesser bobbin thread on the back in satin columns. Stitch length also affects tension. Longer stitches feel fluffier and have more chances to loop due to some machines' worse quality and control at looping. Short stitches tend to pull the fabric tightly and have more chances to pull the bobbin thread on the top.
How Do I Stop Bobbin Thread From Showing On Top?
If bobbin thread is showing on top of your embroidery work, you can try these steps:
Adjusting the Bobbin Tension: If you are using the same types of threads and you have cleaned your machine, have a new embroidery needle, and know everything is done correctly, you may still need to adjust your bobbin tension.Because, It will lose over time.
Adjust the bobbin case: Bobbin cases are developed for long use. Some machines have two bobbin cases.
Check the top thread: Make sure the top thread is threaded correctly and detach any twists.
Check the bobbin: Remove the bobbin and make sure it's threaded properly in the shuttle race. Check for loose threads or lint in the shuttle race.
Adjust the tension: The top thread tension might be too tight. You can try loosening the tension. You can also try tightening the side screw on the bobbin casing about half a turn to the right.
Use stabilizer: Confirm that you're using a stabilizer on the back of the fabric.
Use the right bobbin thread: Make sure you're using the correct bobbin thread. You should use the right-weight bobbin thread.
Check the needle: The needle should not be defaced.
Service the machine: You should have to schedule regular maintenance.
Best bobbin thread: Choose the best bobbin thread for your projects to avoid any inconvenience. A good quality 60-weight polyester thread is a reliable choice for general use.
Keep your bobbin case clean and free of lint and dust: For multi-needle users, always follow the machine manual on oiling your machine. Dry-dragging bobbins can create problems. Over-oiling can leave a spill of oil which can slow things down.
Slow down your machine:
Your machine can go 800-1000 stitches per minute then it does not mean that it will produce the best. The faster the machine goes, the less “rebound time” for the thread. The top thread can then pull up your bobbin thread. Use bobbin thread for your bobbin: It is designed to be thinner, adding less bulk to your stitch-out and allowing it to glide easily. Most bobbins come pre-wound in black or white. Magnetic bobbins are also an option for multi-needle machine users. The magnetic hold on the metal bobbin case reduces the “rebound” of the bobbin and allows the thread to be evenly released.
Summary:
Gain an understanding of thread weight, types, and brands, uncover the best solutions for your embroidery project.If you are a proficient professional or beginner in the world of machine embroidery and you understand that the embroidery thread has a certain impact on the quality of your artwork. You must have to know that there is a large range of embroidery threads accessible.
Here is (above mentioned) some research conducted evaluating the weight of threads, its types and brands accompanying various points concerning use of thread in your crafts. If you want to be distinctive and proficient in the embroidery field, keep your embroidery machine free of dust and lint and avoid over-oiling. Try to follow the instructions given in the booklet of your embroidery machine. Try to learn the art of stitching to avoid mishandling.
FAQ:
Why is my bobbin thread showing on top of my embroidery design?
The bobbin thread can show on top because of improper tension. The situation can imbalance when the tension of the top thread is too strong or the bobbin thread is loose. Other contributing factors include narrow satin or tatami stitches, presence of lint in the machine, and improper threading.
How do I adjust the tension of my embroidery machine's bobbin thread?
To adjust the tension, locate the bobbin case screw and make slight adjustments—tighten it to increase tension or loosen it to reduce tension. At the same time, ensure that the top thread tension is not too tight. Always test on scrap fabric before proceeding with your project.
What is the difference between bobbin thread and embroidery thread?
Bobbin thread is thinner and lighter, usually 60-weight, whereas embroidery thread is 40-weight. This keeps bulk to a minimum and creates flexibility for intricate designs. Bobbin thread is more often smooth, with less twist, ideal for the underside of embroidery stitches.
How do I get my bobbin thread from showing on top?
Make sure to correctly thread both the top and bobbin threads, check tension settings, and clean out any fluff or debris in the shuttle race. Then, stabilize your fabric with a stabilizer and use the right needle and thread for your project. Sometimes, it helps to slow down the machine.
What weight bobbin thread should I use for embroidery?
Most embroidery projects require 60-weight polyester bobbin threads; they have a fine gauge, meaning less bulk with smooth stitching. Also very effective in maintaining even tension are pre-wound bobbins and magnetic bobbins.