Keeping the sewing machine in good condition is important, but the user also needs to optimize the controls for better results.
One of these is the tension which, if not optimized for the specific cloth, can lead to problems.
The user needs to have a clear idea of how to adjust the tension and whether that would be useful for the stitching.
These prove important because the tension requirements vary based on the fabric.
Therefore, the user needs to try changes in tension and see if they work well.
We can achieve a balanced stitch from the devices controlling sewing thread and bobbin thread if they are properly calibrated.
Thus, any changes in any will have an impact on others. Here is a detailed overview of how to check and fix the tension issue.
Table of Contents
Tension’s role in stitching
The sewing machine’s main function is stitching. It can make stitches by knotting together the thread coming from the spool and bobbin.
This phenomenon means that if it doesn’t stitch well, it won’t have any purposive use.
Tension ensures the quality of stitches is not compromised.
If tension is not optimized, the quality of stitches is affected, which can be translated into low-quality stitches.
If we want to know what balance in a sewing machine is, then it can be simplified to stitches that are equal.
If the top side stitch is fine, but the low side is uneven, it will loosen soon.
For this reason, the tension in the sewing machine ensures that both sides have equal stitches.
A balanced stitch ensures that knot-formation is reliable.
The knot not only needs to be strong but also invisible. It is easy to sort out the tension problem.
If you pull the thread out of it easily, then you need to fix tension.
Therefore, it is necessary to fix the stitching issue.
This fixture will ensure that the quality of stitching is as per the requirements and doesn’t let the knots loosen.
Tension Tools
Tension is the result of different devices that work together and bring the desired results.
These tools work in coordination, and if any of these doesn’t work smoothly, it will result in problematic stitches.
Tension Disk is a tool in maintaining tension used to squeeze the thread so that it doesn’t pass uncontrollably.
A tension Regulator is used to apply pressure on the tension disk, keeping a check on the disk performance.
Thread Guides are metal bodies that are used to ensure that the thread follows the proper pathway.
These ensure that the thread reaches the needle based on the needs and doesn’t get messed up.
Bobbin Case is where the thread lies, and if there is some problem, it will mean that the tension won’t be optimized.
The user also needs to be careful about the bobbin case spring.
Steps to fix sewing machine tension
The fixing of sewing machine tension is easy. It can be done in a few steps, which are discussed as follows.
Step 1
The very first step in fixing the tension issue in the sewing machine is checking the thread guides.
If they are completely set, then there is no need to make any changes to them.
They serve as the intermediaries between the spool and needle, ensuring proper tension and flow of the thread, not letting it mess up.
If there are any changes required, you can do it by tightening or loosening.
Step 2
You have to check the tension disks and regulator as the second step in optimizing tension.
These two are called tension assembly and play the main role in the regulation of tension.
The thread passes between thread disks, and they press it to ensure that the right amount of pressure is applied.
The tension regulator’s clockwise or anticlockwise movement can be used to reduce or add tension.
The regulator can be different in sewing machines so that you can choose the direction based on the machine.
This part decreases pressure by moving apart different parts while it helps with increasing pressure by bringing parts together.
In the case of newer machines, the process is different, and tension can be changed by moving the knob.
Step 3
The bobbin holds an important place in developing tension in sewing machines.
It is the spring of the bobbin case that serves this purpose.
It can be used to add or reduce pressure on the thread. The screw behind the spring can work on increasing or decreasing pressure.
You have to tighten or loosen the screw as per your needs.
Step 4
Check the complete tension pathway.
Understand how it works and see if anything is missing in the mentioned areas.
Check if both top and low tension are equal and create proper pressure.
If all of them are working well, then you are good to go.
Step 5
The next step is checking the tension using a rough cloth for the quality of stitches.
If they work properly, then there is no need to make changes to the tension.
If this is not the case, then you should repeat the above-given process.
Final Thoughts
The use of sewing machine tension is vital in stitching.
Therefore, it is necessary to keep a check on it and optimize it for the maximum possible efficiency.
The user should keep tension in a satisfactory manner as it is requisite for sewing.
If there is any problem, then the above-mentioned steps can be helpful in bringing changes to it.
