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Fix sewing machine tension problems

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Sewing machine tension

On a sewing machine, tension is the balance of stitches between the top thread and the bobbin. And if all is going well, that tension should be balanced right in the middle of your piece of fabric. You shouldn’t see your bobbin thread on the top, nor should you see your top thread underneath.

Tension problems cause ugly stitches

Stitches like this mean you have a sewing machine tension issue

But sometimes things go horribly wrong: top threads underneath, bird’s nests of thread, and loose stitches. Fear not! Sewing machine expert Kelley is here for you.

Kelley explains

In this video, Kelley Richardson is at ABQ Sewing Studio to show you how to solve your tension problems so your stitches are perfect and you can enjoy making your project.


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Filed Under: Sewing Tips

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Ann Phelan says

    August 27, 2020 at 8:27 am

    Great video. Tension is one of those things that most of us are afraid of!

    Reply
    • Kelley Richardson says

      August 28, 2020 at 12:05 pm

      Thank you Ann I hope I have made it a wee bit less scary. Thank you for the feedback.

      Reply
  2. Brenda Miller says

    August 27, 2020 at 8:49 am

    Yes, and Kelley has a unique way of explaining it. One thing I never realized was that you need to put the foot up when threading the top thread. This is pretty important especially with the old style machines. Live and learn!

    Reply
  3. Sheila Wilton says

    August 27, 2020 at 10:36 am

    Great lesson Kelly!

    Reply
    • Kelley Richardson says

      August 28, 2020 at 11:59 am

      Thank you Sheila

      Reply
  4. Anita Windsor says

    August 27, 2020 at 11:33 am

    I love these videos! Such great advice that every sewer needs to know. Thank you so much for sharing your expertise!

    Reply
    • Kelley Richardson says

      August 28, 2020 at 12:01 pm

      Thank you Anita I appreciate your feedback.

      Reply
  5. Louise Smith says

    August 27, 2020 at 10:39 pm

    Excellent video, Kelley! I have been struggling with tension issues while trying to machine quilt & too nervous to touch anything. Thanks for explaining the technique for adjustments & the reasoning behind it. I am really enjoying these videos also:)

    Reply
  6. Kelley Richardson says

    August 28, 2020 at 12:04 pm

    Thank you Louise I know tension issues can seem scary so I am glad I was able to help out. I have also been enjoying making these videos as a way to share my experience so thank you for the feedback.

    Reply

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