Sewing felt - my thread breaks, skipped stitches underneath
by
Kathy
+6
I'm sewing felt placemats for my grandchildren. When I use the appliqué stitch (close zigzag stitch), the thread keeps breaking (not bobbin thread but upper thread) and there are many skipped stitches underneath the fabric, from the bobbin I think. I have changed thread, and the needle with no improvement. Any ideas on how to thread a sewing machine or how to fix the sewing machine so this doesn't happen?
8 answers
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your thread tensions needs adjusting
Karen Bergeron
on Jun 29, 2015
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Karen nailed it. Adjust your tensions and sew some scrap felt til you have the right stitches.
Ann
on Jun 29, 2015
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Maybe the machine is not threaded right, or maybe the thread is bunched by the bobbin
Lee
on Jun 29, 2015
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If your thread is old, it will break.
Sheri Conner
on Jun 29, 2015
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I have sewed for over 50 yrs and have found that there are a number of reasons this is taking place. Here are some general tips for sewers: #1. Always use the same thread in the bobbin that you use for the top stitch. #2 Change needle frequently. I recently watched a sewing show on PBS. The woman speaking said to change your needle every time you start a new project. Admittedly, I do not change that often, but the moment I see there is trouble with my machine, I change the needle. #3 Sometimes you do need to re-adjust tension, but not always. #4 Oil your machine frequently # 5.Use that little brush and clean lint and dust from around the bobbin, needle, etc. #6. Yes, do check your threading. Best of luck!
Winnie Bowling
on Jun 29, 2015
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You are most welcome.
Winnie Bowling
on Jun 29, 2015
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The upper thread breaking does sound like the tension is off but I'm not sure that would account for missed stitches on the underside. I would completely unthread the machine, including the bobbin and rethread it. Practicing on scraps as you adjust the tension was good advice. If that doesn't work, I would transfer the bobbin thread to a new bobbin and try again, on the off chance there is a burr or something wrong with the bobbin you are using now. Sounds like a fun project. Good luck!
Judy Borman
on Jun 30, 2015
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I just thought of something else. Perhaps you could try opening the zigzag so that it's not quite so close or try a hem stitch instead since you are using felt which won't fray.
Judy Borman
on Jun 30, 2015
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