Solutions to common problems

Question: Why does the stitch have loops on the bottom side?

Answer: Either the top tension is not set tight enough, there is debris in the upper tension, the bobbin case is set too tight or the machine needs recalibrated. I would start with tightening the upper tension to balance the stitch first.

Question: Why is my bobbin thread coming to the top of the fabric during decorative stitching. 

Answer: If you are using a manual tension machine, you generally should loosen the upper tension when sewing decorative stitches. If this is happening on an autotension sewing machine, check that there is not debris or threads caught in the bobbin case. Ensure the bobbin case feels like the thread gets tighter when it is threaded. Otherwise, simply loosen the upper thread tensions until you achieve the desired result until you can speak with a technician to help recalibrate your tensions.

Question: Why does my thread keep tearing?

Answer: There are many reasons threads can tear. The first solution is to change the needle, bobbin, rethread the machine and see if the result improves. Next, inspect the entire thread path for any damage to the machine. If you find a sharp spot where damage occurred from a needle strike, use fine Emory cloth to smooth out the damaged area. 

Question: Which is better - A built in walking foot or a walking foot accessory?

Answer: The internal built in walking foot is the clear winner with this. The mechanics of this active system that allows the upper feed dog to work precisely in tandem with the lower feed dog gives far better results. A walking foot accessory merely passively helps feed the fabric. 

Question: Is my sewing machine worth repairing?

Answer: This is of course a personal decision but removing emotions from the solution and looking at facts alone can help make this determination. Questions you should first ask your technician include: How much would my repaired machine sell for if it were repaired? Are all parts for this machine available still? What is the overall condition of the machine? Are there other areas of this machine that are known to have issues? Is there a product that is similar that you would recommend that would accommodate my sewing and my comfort level with using my machine?

Question: How should I clean my sewing machine and how often?

Answer: Cleaning the sewing machine as general maintenance would include regularly removing the needle plate, brushing between the feed dogs, removing the bobbin case if you are confident to do so, brushing the lint out from under and around the bobbin case area, using vacuum to suck out any additional unseen debris, putting a drop of oil on the sewing hook per the manufacturer's suggestions, checking for any damage, burrs and scarring and smoothing those areas with Emory cloth, wiping any excess oil away with rubbing alcohol (be careful not to get on sewing machine finish) and reassembling. How regularly this should be done depends on how regular you sew and what projects you sew. Projects that can contribute to higher lint such as flannels or batting would need more frequent cleaning. General sewing on a regular basis would need monthly cleanings to ensure longer machine life.