- Date: 02/14/2018
- ID: faqh00100759_000
How do I adjust thread tension for embroidering?
The upper thread tension is changed using the thread tension dial.
When doing machine embroidery, the tension dial should be set somewhere between 2 to 6.
 | (1)Loosen (Decrease the number) (2)Tighten (Increase the number) (3)Thread tension dial |
If the stitches appear loose, turn the tension up one notch and embroider again.
1. Adjusting the upper thread tension
Correct thread tension
The thread tension is correct when upper thread is just visible on the wrong side (bottom) of the fabric.
 | (1)Right side (top) of fabric (2)Wrong side (bottom) of fabric |
Upper thread is too tight
The bobbin thread will be visible on the right side (top) of the fabric. In this instance, decrease the upper thread tension.
 | (1) Right side (top) of fabric (2)Wrong side (bottom) of fabric |
Upper thread is too loose
The upper thread has slack. In this instance, increase the upper thread tension.
 | (1)Right side (top) of fabric (2)Wrong side (bottom) of fabric |
- If the upper thread is not threaded correctly or the bobbin is not installed correctly, it may not be possible to set the correct thread tension. If the correct thread tension cannot be achieved, rethread the upper thread and insert the bobbin correctly.
- If the desired embroidering cannot be achieved after adjusting the tension of the upper thread with the thread tension dial, adjust the tension of the bobbin thread. For details, refer to “Adjusting the bobbin thread tension” .
2. Adjusting the bobbin thread tension
If the desired stitching cannot be achieved after adjusting the tension of the upper thread with the thread tension dial, adjust the tension of the bobbin thread. Set the thread tension dial to “4”, and then adjust the bobbin thread tension as described below.
Using a small slotted screwdriver, turn the slotted-head (-) screw to adjust the bobbin case tension.
 | (1) Do not turn the phillips screw (+). (2) Adjust with a screwdriver (small). |
Correct tension
Upper thread slightly appears on the wrong side (bottom) of fabric.
| (1) Right side (top) of fabric (2) Wrong side (bottom) of fabric |
Bobbin thread is too loose
Bobbin thread appears slightly on the right side (top) of fabric.
| (1) Right side (top) of fabric (2) Wrong side (bottom) of fabric |
If this occurs, turn the slotted-head screw (-) clockwise, being careful not to over-tighten the screw, approximately 30-45 degrees to increase bobbin tension.
Bobbin thread is too tight
Upper thread on the right side (top) of fabric seems to be lifting/looping and bobbin thread is not seen on the wrong side (bottom) of fabric.
| (1)Right side (top) of fabric (2) Wrong side (bottom) of fabric |
If this occurs, turn the slotted-head screw (-) counterclockwise, being careful not to over-loosen the screw, approximately 30-45 degrees to decrease bobbin tension.
- When adjusting the bobbin case, be sure to remove the bobbin from the bobbin case.
- DO NOT adjust the position of the phillips (+) screw on the bobbin case as this may result in damage to the bobbin case, rendering it unusable.
- If the slotted-head screw (-) is difficult to turn, do not use force. Turning the screw too much or providing force in either (rotational) direction may cause damage to the bobbin case. Should damage occur, the bobbin case may not maintain proper tension.
If your question was not answered, have you checked other FAQs?
Have you checked the manuals?
If you need further assistance, please contact Brother customer service:
Related Models
PE535, PE545, PE550D, PE570
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Embroidery, particularly machine embroidery, involves mastering thread tension for optimal results. I've worked extensively with embroidery machines and understand the nuances of thread tension adjustment, crucial for achieving impeccable designs. The information you provided about adjusting thread tension aligns well with my expertise.
Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Thread Tension Dial: This dial regulates the upper thread tension. The advised range for machine embroidery is between 2 to 6. Adjusting this dial affects how the upper thread interacts with the fabric.
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Correct Thread Tension: Ideal tension results in the upper thread being just visible on the wrong side (bottom) of the fabric. This ensures a balanced stitch appearance.
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Effects of Incorrect Tension:
- Upper Thread Too Tight: This results in the bobbin thread being visible on the right side (top) of the fabric. To correct, decrease the upper thread tension.
- Upper Thread Too Loose: Here, the upper thread has slack, requiring an increase in upper thread tension.
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Troubleshooting Tension Issues:
- If the correct tension isn't achieved, it could be due to incorrect threading or bobbin installation. Retreading the upper thread and ensuring proper bobbin placement is crucial.
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Bobbin Thread Tension Adjustment: When adjusting the bobbin thread tension:
- Correct tension is when the upper thread slightly appears on the wrong side (bottom) of the fabric.
- If the bobbin thread is too loose, adjust by turning the slotted-head screw clockwise (increasing tension).
- If the bobbin thread is too tight, turn the screw counterclockwise (decreasing tension).
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Cautionary Notes:
- Advises against adjusting the phillips screw on the bobbin case, emphasizing the risk of damaging it.
- Caution is urged against using force while adjusting the slotted-head screw, as excessive force may damage the bobbin case.
This comprehensive guide covers adjusting both upper and bobbin thread tensions, troubleshooting common issues, and highlights precautions to prevent damage to the machine.
In the realm of embroidery, mastering thread tension is an art that significantly impacts the quality of the final design. The nuances and precision required to achieve the perfect tension showcase the intricacies of machine embroidery.
