Why Is My Sewing Machine Not Dropping Top Bobbin Thread?
You need to check the needle position first and adjust it. Then check the tension lever. If it’s too high, you need to lose it. Then, check the bobbin case and ensure bobbin placement if you find it faulty. After that, check the upper thread tension. You need to regulate and control to a slightly lower setting. Incorrect upper thread tension can also lead to this.Â
This is just a quick picture. Stick with the whole article to get over the situation.Â
How to Solve The Sewing Machine Not Dropping The Top Bobbin Thread?
Here are some solutions to check

Check The Needle Position:
First thing first, you need to check the needle position. Look for the needle position feature on your machine. This option enables you to use guides on your presser feet and modify the sewing machine needle’s position.
Then, utilize the machine’s controls to make the necessary adjustments to the needle position. Depending on your machine, you may be able to move the needle to the left, right, or center.
After adjusting the needle position, sew a few stitches on scrap fabric to assess the stitch quality. Also, it will help you to ensure that the needle is in the correct position for your specific project.
Check The tension lever:
If your machine is not dropping the top bobbin thread, there might be some issue with the tension lever. If the bobbin tension is too tight, it may hinder the proper feeding of the thread.Â
To address this, you can try loosening the bobbin tension by turning the tension screw counterclockwise. However, it is generally advised to avoid adjusting the bobbin tension unless it is absolutely necessary.Â
The Bobbin Case Is Too Tight:
If the bobbin case is too tight, it will not drop the top thread.
To fix this problem, you can use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the screw at the bottom of your machine that holds down your bobbin case. Then you can gently open up each side of your sewing machine’s front panel so there’s enough space to tilt it back slightly and lift it up on both sides at once.
Ensure Correct Bobbin Placement:Â
At this point, you must ensure correct bobbin placement. You may take help from the specific service manual of your sewing machine. Â
Check The Upper Thread Tension:
An overly tight upper thread tension may lead to the bobbin thread showing on the top surface instead of the bottom.Â
To address a tight upper thread tension, adjust the tension regulator or control wheel to a slightly lower setting. Conversely, for loose tension, turn the wheel to a slightly higher setting. Make gradual adjustments and test the stitch after each change until you achieve a balanced stitch.
However, it is essential to recognize the problems with the bobbin. Also, threading is more likely to be the cause if the top bobbin thread doesn’t drop properly.
Tension Adjustment Is Not Proper:
It is possible that your machine is not dropping the top thread because it’s too tight or loose.
If your sewing machine tension is too tight, you will have to loosen the screw on the side of your bobbin case. To do this, turn your machine upside down and remove any screws holding down any plastic covers over electrical connections (these are usually red).
Check for Obstructions:
Checking for other obstructions is necessary to avoid the issue. Use a flashlight or magnifying glass to meticulously examine the interior of the machine. It will help you to find any indications of obstructions, such as broken needles, metal shards, bent components, or unusual debris.Â
You need to exercise caution to avoid damaging other parts of the machine. If you find any obstructions, carefully extract them using tweezers or suitable tools. If the needle is broken or bent, remove it and replace it with a new one.Â
You must ensure the new needle is inserted fully into the needle clamp and securely tightened. Replace the needle and remove any obstructions before plugging in the machine and turning it on to make sure everything functions correctly.
Check The Presser Foot Position:
The presser foot plays a crucial role in maintaining proper tension between the upper and bobbin threads. When the presser foot is lowered, it engages the tension discs, which aids in controlling the tension of the upper thread. Ensuring that the presser foot is correctly positioned or lifted is vital, as it can impact the tension.Â
Also, it can cause issues like the bobbin thread not dropping or the upper thread showing on the bottom of the fabric.
Then, the presser foot is responsible for applying pressure to the fabric, facilitating smooth feeding through the machine. When the presser foot is not correctly positioned, it may not provide adequate pressure or grip on the fabric.Â
That results in uneven feeding and potential problems with the bobbin thread. To apply proper pressure to the fabric, make sure the presser foot lever is in the down position
Inspect The Bobbin:
The next thing you need to inspect is the bobbin. Remove the bobbin from the bobbin case or holder. Then carefully inspect it for any signs of damage, such as cracks, chips, or rough edges.
Then, inspect the thread on the bobbin for any tangles, knots, or uneven winding. Make sure the thread unwinds in the correct direction, which is usually counterclockwise.Â
Threading The Top Part of The Sewing Machine Incorrectly

If you’re having trouble threading the top part of your sewing machine, here are some tips that can help:
- Make sure you have a new needle installed in the bobbin case before threading it.
- Make sure all parts are correctly attached and securely fastened to their respective places on the machine (e.g., presser foot, handwheel, and so on).
- Check if there’s any cable damage or cracks in its housing unit and motor unit—it may cause poor performance when misused without proper maintenance done on them first!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Why Won’t Top Thread Pick Up The Bobbin Thread?
If the needle is not installed correctly, it may not be able to pick up the bobbin thread. Make sure the needle is inserted all the way up into the needle clamp and tightened securely. Moreover, if the upper thread tension is too tight, it can prevent the needle from picking up the bobbin thread. Check the upper thread tension and adjust it if necessary
How Do You Bring A Bobbin Thread to The Top of The Fabric?
To thread the bobbin thread on a sewing machine, lift the presser foot to release tension and access the bobbin thread tail. Tug on the bobbin thread to bring a loop to the top of the fabric. Hold onto the needle thread to prevent it from retracting. Lower the needle into the fabric and then raise it to create a loop. With your right hand, grab the loop and pull it through the fabric. Hold both threads and gently pull them to the back of the machine.
How Do You Adjust The Tension on A Top-Loading Bobbin?
Locate the part that holds the bobbin in place within your sewing machine. Find the small screw on the bobbin case that controls the tension of the bobbin thread, typically positioned near the edge. Decide whether you need to increase or decrease the tension of the bobbin thread based on your stitching requirements. Use a small screwdriver to make slight adjustments to the tension screw, turning it no more than 1/8 to 1/4 of a turn. Then, sew a few stitches on scrap fabric to check the tension and stitch quality. If needed, continue adjusting the tension screw until you achieve the desired results.
Why Is Only My Bobbin Thread Showing on Top?
The bobbin thread showing on top If the bobbin tension is too loose. It can cause the bobbin thread to show on top. Adjust the bobbin tension by tightening the tension screw slightly. If the top thread tension is too tight, it can pull the bobbin thread to the top. Adjust the top thread tension by loosening the tension regulator or control wheel.Â
Conclusion
Hopefully, the answer to why is my sewing machine not dropping top bobbin thread is now in your hand.Â
Go through the article carefully and do what it says. You can resolve the situation on your own. If not, you just need to seek assistance from a professional.