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You are at:Home - Basics of Sewing - Why Sewing Machine Not Picking Up Bobbin Thread?
Basics of Sewing

Why Sewing Machine Not Picking Up Bobbin Thread?

Anna SmithBy Anna SmithDecember 11, 202324 Mins Read
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Are you experiencing the exasperating issue of your sewing machine consistently failing to pick up the bobbin thread? If you are suffering from this issue and don’t know what to do? then worry not, we will explain the reasons for this issue in this blog.

But before diving into the reasons, let us first understand what bobbin is? Bobbin is a part of a sewing machine that holds the lower thread and plays a very important role in the stitching process. 

Earlier, this part was present in all conventional sewing machines but with time, many sewing machines are designed without it. 

Now let’s begin! 

1. Role of Bobbin

Let’s start this piece with a base understanding of what role bobbin play in the process, we all can be on same starting piece.

A bobbin is actually a small cylindrical device in your sewing machine that holds the lower thread. Bobbin holds the lower thread whereas the spool in your machine is responsible for the upper thread, they both work together to create stitches. It balances the different components together. 

If the delicate balance is disturbed, issues such as bobbin thread resistance can arise. Here are reasons why it can arise:

threads sewing needlework closeup sewing accessories
Source: Freepik

2. Reasons Why Sewing Machine Not Picking Up Bobbin Thread? 

2.1 Upper Thread Conundrum

Alright, let’s start with the most common one; the upper thread issue.

One of the most common issues and simply put, If your upper thread is threaded incorrectly then it can make the bobbin pin not effective. That’s why make sure it is properly threaded. Here is how to do it:

Firstly, you need to ensure that the pressure foot is in the right position during threading. It should be in the ” Up” position to pass thread effortlessly through the tension disks.

Also, make sure to check for any accidental wrapping the thread take-up lever. This can impede needle movement too. 

2.2 Needle Issue

Nextup, comes the needle issue.

Now, this component might seem insignificant but it plays a very significant role in the sewing process.

If you have not installed a needle in your sewing machine properly then bobbin will not work. That’s why make sure to properly installed needles in the sewing machine. 

You need to make sure that the needle you are using is not bent and broken.

high angle blue buttons thread reels with copy space
Source: Freepik

2.3 Bobbin Case Issue

Moving on to the bobbin case issue! Sometimes, there might be no any issue with the bobbin itself, but the problem lies in the case instead.

Dust and dirt can also make your bobbin ineffective. That’s why make sure to clean it regularly. So, If your bobbin is not working then you might just need to clean your bobbin case.

2.4 Using thick Fabrics

So, next let talk about one not so common issue of working with a fabric a little too thick.

In fact, thick fabric can sometime make the entire bobbin ineffectiveness. As attempting to sew through layers of fabric like a thick quilt or on thick jeans, can challenge the sewing needle’s ability to pierce.

This will result in missed bobbin catches. Your stiches will also be missed, that’s why select the right needle for fabric. Many heavy duty needles are available in the markets for thick fabric, they work best with these kinds of fabric. 

colorful threads table
Source: Freepik

2.5 The Needle Bar Height issue

Nextup, Needle bars can also cause this issue. Needle bar is a long rod that handles the needles on plays, it plays a very important role in the sewing machine’s operation. You need to adjust the needle bar to perfect height. 

In case, it is still not working then you can seek professional help. They have expertise and can fix your issue easily. 

2.6 Troubles with the Shuttle Hook

Last thing you need to check is the bobbin case. This problem occurs when the needle fails to meet the bobbin hook at the precise moment required to form a stitch. If you are seeing a small loop emerge through the needle plate, there might be a timing issue.

top view copy space surrounded by needlework
Source: Freepik

Closing Thoughts

To sum up, A bobbin is actually a small cylindrical device in your sewing machine that holds the lower thread. Bobbin holds the lower thread whereas the spool in your machine is responsible for the upper thread, they both work together to create a stitch. 

You can fix your sewing machine easily by following the method above. 

Have you tried any method yet? Share your experience with us in the comment section.

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2 Comments

  1. Adarsh Bagewadi. on December 15, 2023 3:22 pm

    Art of sewing is a dynamic art it is not easy to understand but it is easy to them who are willing to do it . Threre are many defficulties which we face while sewing and the bobbin thread is also among them , the above article resolved the problem of bobbine thread .

    Reply
  2. Ritu on January 13, 2024 5:55 pm

    This article helped me a lot with my sewing machine issues, especially with the bobbin thread. It explains things in a simple way. I now understand that the bobbin is a small part that holds the lower thread, working with the upper thread to make stitches. I appreciate how it covers different fabric challenges and the importance of adjusting the needle bar. Very practical advice for sewing machine maintenance!

    Reply
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