Bobbin Is Not Winding Smoothly And Quickly: Solved!
Defective or damaged bobbins are responsible for not winding the bobbin smoothly and quickly. Replacing the old bobbin with a new one can solve it. Then, an unengaged bobbin winder can cause the issue. Before winding your bobbins, pull your bobbin pin all the way over or loosen your bobbin wheel entirely. Moreover, ensure that you use the correct size and type of bobbin since the wrong size can cause problems.
That’s not all. There is more information you need to know to fix the issue. So hang tight with the article.
Key Takeaways
- You will get the absolute reasons behind the bobbin not winding smoothly and quickly.
- You’ll get the solution to each reason.
- Then, you will get a pro tip.
Reasons | Solutions |
Damaged bobbin | Replace the bobbin |
Incorrect bobbin size | Use the correct size bobbin |
Bobbin Winder might not be fully engaged | Engage the bobbin winder |
Incorrect upper thread tension | Use the correct type of bobbin |
Bobbin Is Not Winding Smoothly And Quickly: Reasons and Solutions
If your bobbin is not winding smoothly and quickly, there could be several reasons for this issue. Here are some common troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the problem:
01. Your Bobbin Is Damaged:

The primary reason for a bobbin not winding smoothly and efficiently is often due to damage. The thread could be too thick for your machine or a warped or rough-edged bobbin may catch the thread during winding.
It is best to replace a damaged or improperly wound bobbin with a new one and ensure proper thread tension. If you are looking for a good bobbin, class 15 vs 15j vs class 66 bobbins are good options.
02. Use The Correct Size for Your Bobbin:
If you’re having trouble with your bobbin winding, it could be because you have the wrong size of Bobbin. If you’re using a too-large bobbin, the thread won’t fit properly and will come loose as you sew.
If you’re using a small bobbin with a larger one, the thread may be wound incorrectly and cause tension problems.
If you’re having trouble with your bobbin winding, be sure to check if the size of the Bobbin is correct. If not, swap in a different one and see if that fixes the problem
03. Bobbin Winder Might Not Be Fully Engaged:
The next possible reason is the bobbin winder which is not fully engaged. To solve this issue, follow the steps below.
- Ensure the power is turned on, and the machine is plugged in.
- Open the bobbin winder cover located at the top on the right side of the sewing machine. Ensure that the cover is properly closed and latched. It is mainly applicable to cover stitch machines.
- Remove the top cover and examine the winder assembly. If needed, loosen the two screws holding the assembly and nudge it closer to the handwheel side. Confirm that the bobbin is correctly inserted and seated in the bobbin winder.
- Verify that the thread is not tangled or caught on anything.
Be sure to stop the machine if the bobbin winding becomes slow, as this could damage it.

Not Holding The End of The Thread:
Failing to hold the end of the thread during the winding process can lead to unraveling or tangling. This lack of control over the thread can cause uneven winding and slower bobbin winding.
If you do not hold the end of the thread during bobbin winding, it can result in tension problems. The thread may not be guided correctly through the tension discs and thread guides, leading to inconsistent winding.
Thread Wrapped Around The Bobbin Winding Pin:
At times, a thread may inadvertently wrap around the bobbin winding pin. That leads to uneven bobbin winding without immediate notice.
To address this, use a flashlight to inspect the area around the bobbin winding pin in your sewing machine. If you spot any thread, gently remove it using sewing tweezers.
Don’t forget to be cautious not to cut the thread unless necessary to prevent it from falling inside the machine. After removing the thread, your bobbins should wind more effectively.
04. Incorrect Upper Thread Tension:
Incorrect upper thread tension can cause the bobbin to not wind smoothly and quickly. When the upper thread tension is excessively tight, it can cause the thread to pull on the bobbin too tightly. That leads to slower and uneven winding.
So, if you encounter slow or uneven bobbin winding, attempt to adjust the upper thread tension. Examine the thread quality, bobbin condition, and sewing machine itself if the problem persists.
Using The Correct Type of Bobbin:
Although sewing machine bobbins may appear similar, there are slight variations in size across different brands. Sometimes, you may use the wrong type of bobbin.
However, it’s essential to use bobbins designed specifically for your sewing machine. It will ensure even winding and avoid issues with uneven stitches during sewing.
Make Sure The Thread Is Going Through The Tension Spring:
The first thing to check is the tension spring. This thin piece of metal holds the Bobbin in place and keeps it from coming loose from its base. Which would cause your thread to become tangled or messy.
If your thread is tangled or messy, try cleaning out the bobbin area with a small brush. And make sure nothing else prevents the spring from working properly.
Finally, if you have more than one stitch setting on your machine (such as zigzag or buttonhole), try adjusting those settings. That is to see if they are also causing problems.
Winding Your Bobbin Too Fast Can Result in A Tangled Bobbin:
If you’re winding your Bobbin too fast, it could cause the thread to get tangled.
If the thread gets tangled, it will be harder to sew, and you’ll have to spend time untangling it.
This can lead to frustration, which makes it even harder for you to enjoy sewing. During winding the Bobbin, you should also pay attention to how much tension is on your machine.
Pro Tip: Always Wind the Bobbin Before Threading the Machine and Needle. This will help you avoid tangles and make sewing easier.
If your thread is tangling on itself, it might be because the bobbin thread is being wound too fast. If this happens, you should slow down how fast you’re winding it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Why Is My Bobbin Thread Hard to Pull?
An overly tight bobbin tension can cause the thread to be wound excessively tight, leading to difficulty in pulling. To remedy this, loosen the bobbin tension by turning the screw on the bobbin case counterclockwise.
Why Is My Bobbin Messy?
A poorly wound bobbin can result in tangled and bunched-up thread. Ensure the bobbin is evenly wound without any crossing of thread, loops, or visible tails to prevent such issues.
How Do I Know If My Bobbin Tension Is Wrong?
Uneven stitches with gaps or loops between them may be a sign of incorrect bobbin tension. You may have too tight bobbin tension if you can see the bobbin thread on your fabric.
Why Is My Bobbin Thread Not Looping?
Your bobbin thread is not looping because of excessively tight thread tension, uneven winding of the thread on the bobbin. Also, a worn spring on the bobbin case leads to a sharp groove.
Conclusion
Now, you know why your bobbin is not winding smoothly and quickly.
There is no need to be anxious about this. You can solve the issue by going through the article. If still the problem persists, you should seek professional assistance from an expert.