Why Does My Needle Keep Unthreading: Answered!
If the upper thread tension is not correct, it can keep your thread unthreading. Adjust the thread tension with the help of your users’ manual. Then, if the thread is tangled and contains knots, you must replace the thread to keep your needle threading. Also, damaged and defective needles can cause your needle to keep unthreading. To get over it, you must replace the old needle.
There are many more reasons those come with the solutions in the article. So keep reading to learn all of them. So that you can solve the situation.
Reasons for Needle Keep Unthreading on Sewing Machines
Before going into the details, let’s have a sneak peek into the main problems and solutions to the problem.

Reason | Solution |
Incorrect upper thread | Adjust upper thread |
Knotted and tangled in the thread | Replace the thread with new one |
Tight upper thread tension | Adjust the upper thread tension |
Bent needle | Replace the needle |
Incorrect thread tension | Adjust the thread tension |
The Upper Thread Was Not Threaded Correctly:
When the upper thread on your sewing machine is not threaded correctly, it can cause issues like unthreading. To resolve this issue, follow the steps below.
- First, take out the bobbin from the machine and its case to access the upper thread for correct threading.
- Then, ensure the upper thread follows the correct path and threading guide on your machine by referring to the user manual.
- After confirming proper threading, place the bobbin back into the case. That makes sure it’s correctly oriented and the thread is pulled through the tension spring.
- The thread tension should be adjusted according to your sewing machine’s instructions, using the tension dial or knob.

There Are Knots Or Tangles in the Thread:
Knots and tangles in the thread can cause the needle to unthread. You can prevent knots and tangles in the thread by following these tips:
- Examine the thread for bumps, knots, or irregularities that can cause tangling, leading the thread to get caught in the bobbin thread area rather than the fabric.
- Ensure a sharp needle to prevent issues, as a dull needle can cause knots to be caught in the bobbin thread area.
The Upper Thread Tension Is Too Tight:
If the upper thread tension is too tight, it can cause the needle to unthread. Don’t worry. You can resolve the issue of the needle unthreading due to tight upper thread tension.
First, examine the thread tension. If you find it tight, you should loosen the tension dial or knob accordingly. Then, test the machine on scrap fabric to ensure the tension is suitable for your project.
The Thread Is Tangled in the Bobbin Case:
There is a possibility that the needle will unthread if the thread is tangled in the bobbin case. To get over the situation, follow the steps below.
- First, you need to take out the bobbin and remove it from the bobbin case to access the tangled thread and remove it.
- Then, examine the needle for any bends or damage that might cause thread tangling in the bobbin case.
- Verify the thread tension on your sewing machine and adjust if necessary to prevent thread tangling. After that re-thread the machine, ensuring correct threading of the upper thread and proper insertion of the bobbin.
The Needle Is Bent Or Has a Burr on the End:
A bent needle and burr on the end of the needle is another significant cause that can keep unthreading your needle. All you can do just replacing the old needle with a new one.
Your Thread Doesn’t Match the Needle:
The first thing to check is your thread. You may need to choose a different thread type and size if it’s an embroidery or cross-stitch needle. The next thing to look at is the needle itself.
If it’s not threaded correctly, it won’t go through the fabric quickly and can cause problems with threading (unthreading).
If those aren’t factors in your case, then there could be something wrong with one of the following:
- The needle is bent or broken.
- The eye of the needle isn’t large enough to fit through your fabric.
- There’s dirt between the needle’s eye and your fabric, making it difficult to push through.
The last thing to look at is the needle itself. If it’s not threaded correctly, it won’t go through the fabric quickly and can cause problems with threading (unthreading). If those aren’t factors in your case, then there could be something wrong with one of the following:
- The needle is bent or broken.
- The eye of the needle isn’t large enough to fit through your fabric.
- There’s dirt between the needle’s eye and your material, making it difficult to push through.
Your Thread Doesn’t Match Your Fabric:
If your needle is unthreading, it could be because the thread you are using doesn’t match the fabric.
For example, if you are sewing cotton onto cotton and need to use an all-purpose or universal needle for both fabrics, you may need to switch out your needle for a sharp point or ballpoint style.
The Take-Up Lever Isn’t at the Top
When the take-up lever isn’t at the top, it can cause the needle to unthread. To solve this thing, you need to top the take-up lever.
To adjust the take-up lever on your sewing machine, turn the handwheel towards you until the lever reaches the highest position. Ensure that the take-up lever is at the top position before continuing with your sewing.
The Thread Tension Is Not Correct:
Incorrect thread tension is another issue that can keep your needle unthreading.
To prevent the needle from unthreading, examine the thread tension on your sewing machine. If it is either too tight or too loose, it can cause issues. Consult your sewing machine’s user manual for guidance on adjusting the thread tension.
If needed, adjust the tension by loosening or tightening the tension dial or knob. Then, test the machine on a scrap fabric piece to ensure the proper tension for your project.
The Needle Is Damaged Or Defective:
If your needle is defective or damaged, you should be ready for your needle to keep unthreading.
When you encounter a damaged needle, promptly replace it with a new one. That is the appropriate type and size for your fabric and project to ensure smooth sewing results.
The Necessity of the Right Needle:
Selecting the correct needle is crucial for maintaining a threaded needle. By delivering the thread from the top and tying it to the bobbin thread through the machine’s hook, the needle plays a vital role in stitch formation.
Using the wrong needle can lead to tangled or unthreaded threads, even on high-quality machines. Choosing the appropriate needle ensures the thread can slide freely in the groove, preventing skipped stitches and unthreading issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
How Do You Stop A Needle from Unthreading?
Always make sure to use the right size and proper needle. Then the upper thread should be correct along with untangled thread. Also, the bobbin case has to be perfect along with correct thread tension.
Why Does My Needle Keep Coming Unthreaded?
Incorrect thread tension is a common reason for a needle to keep unthreading. To resolve this issue, ensure that the thread tension is set correctly for your specific fabric and project. Consult your sewing machine’s user manual for instructions on adjusting the thread tension properly.
Why Won’t My Sewing Machine Needle Stay Threaded?
Your sewing machine won’t needle stay threaded because you have Incorrect thread tension. You need to adjust the tension dial or knob according to your sewing machine’s instructions. Also, using the damaged needle can keep unthreading which needs a new needle.
How Do You Always Thread A Needle?
To prepare the thread for sewing, cut a clean 2-foot length, hold the needle upright, and insert the thread through the eye. Optionally, tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it before starting your sewing project.
Conclusion
I hope you got enlightened regarding your question about why does my needle keep unthreading.
If you are facing this situation, the troubleshooting described in the article is going to help you totally. If still, you’re going through this inconvenience, go for professional help. And also, always prioritize the proper care of your machine and projects for optimal results! Happy sewing!