How to Know if Tension Is Right on Sewing Machine: Explained!

To achieve the correct tension on your sewing machine, check the tension discs or springs, loops, and tension release lever. Then, you must proceed to check the bobbin case, the needle, and the thread. Using a magnifier and testing the stitch on the scraped fabric you can know the condition of the tension. 

Keep reading the article for more details. By doing the process yourself, you won’t have to deal with any obstacles or hassles. 

How to Know if Tension Is Right on Sewing Machine

Here are some steps to help you determine if the tension is right:

Check The Manual:

The first step is to check your sewing machine manual. Each machine is a bit different, so it’s important to consult the guide for your specific model. In most cases, you’ll want to start with the middle tension setting and adjust if needed.

Before sewing your final project, test the tension setting on a scrap piece of fabric. This will help you avoid any unwanted surprises!

Check for Tension Discs or Tension Springs:

If you are experiencing issues with your thread fraying or breaking, it is advisable to inspect the upper tension discs. Over time, these discs might develop slight rust, and the thread guides can also experience wear.

To address this, carefully use a lightweight, lint-free cloth to floss between the tension discs. Moreover, When the discs or springs are loose, the tension will be too slack. 

Similarly, if the discs or springs are absent altogether, the tension will also be inadequate. Make sure the bobbin area is free of lint or thread ends. 

Check for Loops:

Now, verifying the presence of loops is crucial in assessing the appropriate tension on a sewing machine. Achieving perfect sewing machine tension involves maintaining a harmonious balance between the top and bottom threads. 

This equilibrium ensures the absence of small loops on either side of the fabric. Consequently, you will get even stitching on both surfaces.

Loops in stitches are typically indicative of improper tension. Loosening the top tension or tightening the lower tension can often resolve loops on the upper side. Conversely, if the loop is on the underside, it is generally best addressed by adjusting the upper tension.

In determining whether the tension on a sewing machine is appropriate, checking for loops is a fundamental step.

Check for A Tension Release Lever: 

The tension release lever serves to disengage the tension discs. That enables you to safely remove the fabric without risking thread breakage or machine damage. 

To determine if the tension is right on a sewing machine, it is essential to grasp the fundamentals of thread tension. Then,  inspect the tension discs and springs, and evaluate the quality of the stitches. Also, checking for loops in stitches is also a crucial step in determining proper tension.

When encountering tension-related issues, you must examine the needle, threading, and bobbin. It is worth noting that achieving the ideal tension might require some trial and error. 

Check the Bobbin Case:

The bobbin case is the part of the sewing machine that holds the bobbin. The tension on the bobbin case should be checked periodically to ensure that it is tight enough to hold the thread in place but not so tight that it causes the thread to break.

First, remove the bobbin from the sewing machine to check the tension on the bobbin case. Then, holding the bobbin case in one hand, pull on the thread with the other hand. The thread should be able to be pulled out of the bobbin case quickly, but there should be some resistance. 

If there is no resistance, then the tension on the bobbin case is too loose and needs to be adjusted. If the thread breaks when you try to pull it out of the bobbin case, then the tension on the bobbin case is too tight and also needs to be adjusted.

Use a Magnifier:

Using a magnifier can be helpful in determining if the tension is right on a sewing machine. 

By using a magnifier, you can examine your sewing machine’s tension discs, tension springs, and other tension devices closely. As a result, any signs of damage, rust, or wear on the tension mechanism can be detected.

Then using a magnifier, check if both threads flow in the same amount at the same time, ensuring balanced tension. Also, a magnifier can help you make precise and accurate changes. It allows you to see the fine details and make small tweaks to achieve the desired tension

Check the Needle:

The simplest way to check tension is to sew a straight seam on a scrap of fabric, using the thread and needle you intend to use for your project.

Examine the back of the fabric. Your tension is good if the stitches are even and flat against the fabric. If the stitches are loose and look like they might come undone, the tension is too loose. The tension is too tight if the stitches are pulled too tight and pucker the fabric.

Check the Thread:

Is the thread coming off the spool smoothly, or is it getting tangled and bunching up? If it’s bunching, the tension is too loose. If the thread is breaking, the tension is too tight.

The correct tension setting also depends on what kind of stitch you’re using. For instance, if you’re just doing a straight stitch, you won’t need as much tension as you would for a zigzag or another more complicated stitch. Check your machine’s manual for specific recommendations on tension settings for different kinds of stitches.

Test Stitch on Scrap Fabric:

Performing stitch tests on scrap fabric enables you to proactively detect tension problems before commencing your main project. By carefully examining the stitches on the scrap fabric, you can identify any potential issues, such as uneven stitches, loops, or thread breakage. 

Adjust the tension discs or tension springs when tension issues are noticed on the scrap fabric. Experiment with different tension settings and observe the stitches until achieving the desired quality. That optimizes the tension for excellent results in your main project.

Check the Presser Foot:

A loose presser foot can cause all sorts of sewing problems, from fabrics not feeding properly to stitches being skipped. Suppose you’ve recently replaced your presser foot or adjusted the tension on your sewing machine. 

In that case, it’s a good idea to check that the presser foot is still securely attached. A quick way to do this is to remove the presser foot and then try to sew a few stitches. If the machine usually sews without the presser foot, the problem is most likely with the presser foot itself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How Do I Know If My Sewing Machine Tension Is Wrong?

Uneven stitches, loops, or puckers on either side of the fabric may be indicative of incorrect tension. If your thread keeps breaking, it may be a sign that the tension is too tight. 

How Tight Should The Tension Be on A Sewing Machine?

For lightweight fabrics like Chiffon, Cotton, and Lawn, use a tension setting of 2 – 4. For thick fabrics such as Denim, Leather, and Ottoman, opt for 3.5 – 4.5. Stretchy fabrics like Lycra, Spandex, and Elastane work well with a tension setting of 2 – 3. For Polyester and Synthetic Woven materials, set the tension to 4.

What Does Correct Bobbin Tension Look Like?

Hold the thread in your hand and gently pull on it. If the thread glides smoothly through your fingers, the bobbin tension is probably set correctly. Take the bobbin case out of the machine and grasp it by the thread. 

What Is The Higher Number on A Sewing Machine Tension?

On a sewing machine tension dial, a higher number signifies a tighter tension. Most machines have dial settings ranging from 0 to 9, with 4.5 typically being the default position for normal straight-stitch sewing.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you got enlightened regarding how to know if tension is right on sewing machine.  

All you have to do is go through the article and check step by step as described in the article. That’s how you can know whether the tension is right or wrong.