Adjusting Tensions Part 2

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In my last post, I introduced tensions. I discussed the frustrations and problems that many sewing machine users endure over tensions. The basic technique for adjusting tensions on the bobbin and upper tensions were explored.

Education is the solution to tension problems. Understanding how tensions work, why they work, and how to manage them is vital.

First let us define sewing machine tension. It has nothing to do with headaches, neckaches, or backaches, although faulty sewing machine tension may well cause all three. Tension simply means resistance, drag, or pull.

On a sewing machine there is thread drawn from a thread spool on top of the machine. It flows through thread guides, over and around tension discs, through a tension spring and a take up lever. It finally flows through the eye of the needle. At each point where the thread touches a guide, disc, spring, lever, or even the needle, the thread rubs against the surface creating drag or resistance. This drag is tension.

When most users think of sewing machine tensions, however, they think only of a dial they may turn to adjust tensions. The dial or knob turns a shaft increasing or decreasing the pressure on the thread as it passes through the tension discs.

The same is true with the bobbin tension. The thread from the bobbin draws under a tension spring that may be adjusted by slightly turning its tension screw. The only time this is usually needed, however, is when the user changes the size of thread being used. The tension may be increased of decreased as needed.

In our next post on tensions, we will discuss how to identify and solve problems with sewing machine tensions.

When you fully understand sewing machine tensions, you will save much frustration, professional sewing machine repair, money, and time.