Singer Sewing Machine Troubleshooting Bobbin Not Catching – Reasons and Solutions

September 26, 2023October 20, 2023 Jessica 0 Comments Bobbin, Singer, Troubleshooting

Suppose humans deal with problems and break down at times, such as sewing machines. There is no exception regardless of the brand name. They are intricate pieces of kit wherein one simple mistake could mean putting other functions in a detrimental state.

When it comes to forming stitches, bobbin thread plays an integral role. Perhaps you have an irregular stitch or a broken needle or thread. You don’t need to be a sewing machine expert to start with – just troubleshooting tips to save yourself money and time.

Why Singer Sewing Machine Bobbin Not Catching?

Contents

Why Singer Sewing Machine Bobbin Not Catching?
Do All Singer Sewing Machines Use the Same Bobbins?
When Should I Replace My Singer Bobbin Case?

As someone who uses the sewing machine routinely, it’s crucial and necessary to know how to fix tricky situations. So we listed some common reasons why Singer sewing machines have faulty bobbin thread, plus possible solutions for each.

1. Your Singer Machine Bobbin Has Difficulties in Spinning

Normally when this happens, your bobbin is located the wrong way. So, check its position. In some cases, though, the bobbin winder is to blame. The bobbin will not function as it’s supposed to if the winder has an insufficient amount of pressure.

Solution – Re-adjust the Bobbin

Get a screw to make the bobbin tire wobble, then re-adjust. Tighten up the screw and return to its original place. Be careful when wounding the bobbin thread. A single mistake could put you into another trouble.

Sometimes, your needle is the root cause of the issue. Perhaps we place it towards the back or never insert it entirely. But, it can also be the thread – either too thin or thick.

You should, therefore, check if you are using the right needle and thread. Slot in the needle up and as possible, tense it up. As for your thread, use a regular all-purpose (household sewing) or all-purpose 100% polyester (quilting).

2. Your Singer Machine Bobbin Case Might Be Loose

Yes, even your bobbin case has a tensioner that makes it prone to become too loose or tight. In the case of Singer sewing machines, a wobbly bottom plate is a common occurrence.

Check to see if the bottom plate is indeed loose. If so, go to the hinged latch lock as it may be in the wrong position.

Solution – Fix the Bobbin Case

Turn the handwheel until the needle reaches the highest peak. Remove the bobbin case from where it is seated, and then reattach afterward. You will usually hear the ‘click’ sound, implying the case is already in an appropriate spot.

3. Your Singer Machine Hand Wheel Might Be Stuck

There are viable reasons for this, with bobbin gear as the main culprit. In such a case, replacement is necessary. Otherwise, your handwheel may be dealing with a few broken parts.

Solution – Get Expert Help

Unfortunately, with an issue like this, the process can be complex. The assistance of a sewing machine technician is usually required. Especially if you have recently bought the machine, you wouldn’t want to take the risk.

The damaged pieces of a handwheel are so small and delicate. Even a good DIYer should not attempt to touch anything as much as possible. If your sewing machine is still under warranty, go to your manufacturer to solve the problem.

4. Singer Machine Thread Tails Might Be Short

Do you often encounter conked-out threads the moment you start sewing? It might be due to extremely short bobbin tails. Sewing machines do not allow any stitch to pull alongside if the tails are shorter in length.

Solution – Use the Right Tail Length

The ideal dimension of thread tails is 3 to 4 inches. You may feel about going beyond to save yourself ample time. But, it is the reverse.

Longer thread tails also tend to bundle up in the machine. So, balance is everything. Another option is to hold the thread tails until you reach the desired quantity of stitches.

5. Singer Machine Bobbin Might Be Warped or Damaged

A warped or damaged bobbin produces an unattractive thread. Fortunately, it is just a simple fix that even a novice sewist can handle with utmost confidence.

Solution – Use a New Bobbin and Keep It Safe

If you are using a bobbin made of plastic material, ensure to store it in a cool, dry area. Heat is its number one enemy. Once the bobbin gets direct contact with a high temperature, it will no longer function. Neither fit well in the machine.

6. Singer Machine Hook Timing Might Be Off

The hook system is an integral piece of any sewing machine. But, at the same time, one of the most looked-out places when something goes wrong with stitching garments. For example, if your machine stopped designing a loop to make a stitch, we could say your hook timing is off.

You may also notice it doesn’t pick up your bobbin thread. These can cause knotting, huddling, and related issues. That’s because both the needle and bobbin are not in the exact location and are not working right.

Solution – Adjust the Hook Timing

Perform a checkup first. Gently lower down the needle through the plate. Does the needle thread meet the bobbin thread in a synchronized manner to produce a stitch? If no, then your hook timing is thrown off.

While it is possible to handle the issue alone, it is still best to visit an experienced mechanic. Just be sure to turn the handwheel towards your direction the next time you need to use the machine. Hence, you will be less likely to face a similar disaster.

7. Singer Machine Bobbin Case Might Be Full of Lint

When was the last time you did check and clean up your bobbin case? The presence of lint might be least of your concern. But when ignored completely, it will accumulate and cause creasing, wrongly starting, and thread breaks.

Solution – Clean Your Bobbin Case

Clean your bobbin case. Remove lint, dust, as well as fabric and thread fragments that have accrued inside. Next, access the throat plate and shuttle area.

You can use a small handheld vacuum cleaner or a special brush. If there is further cleaning required, consult your user’s manual as each model might be different. Remember, you must be careful about cleaning your machine frequently to keep its working condition.

8. Singer Machine Bobbin Winding Might Be Incorrect

An incorrectly or loosely wound bobbin is also to blame why your thread often gets twisted or caught. It eventually leads to thread jams, thread breaks, and irregular stitches.

Solution – Inspect the Bobbin Winding

After winding the bobbin, check whether the thread winding is steady. In case it is positioned unsuitably, you may consider getting the service of a qualified repairman. Some manufacturers offer a free-standing bobbin winder as a replacement for a defective winder.

Moreover, do not wind the bobbin thread too fast or too full. It restricts the bobbin case from spinning generously. As a result, you will have a damaged or hard-to-pick thread.

9. Incorrectly Inserted Singer Machine Bobbin

Perhaps, it is a misplaced bobbin that gives you a headache from creating complete stitches. It will cause thread and needle breaks. The thread gets caught up, though in some cases, you may hear a popping sound. The latter usually happens if the bobbin thread is close to getting ripped.

Solution – Insert the Bobbin Correctly and Use It Accurately

Different Singer sewing machines have different working mechanisms. For example, some versions require the thread to function right-handedly (clockwise).

Likewise, others need it to go left-handedly (counter clockwise). If you are unsure which direction your sewing machine should follow, you can always check your manual.

10. You Might Be Using an Incorrect Bobbin

Sewing machines come with about three to five bobbins. Too small or too big a bobbin can result in messy knots. In addition, the needle might bend or get damaged.

So, it is critical to determine which bobbin is specifically designed (or at least compatible) for your machine.

Besides, there’s a difference between an industrial machine and a household model, which is another thing to consider. The former classically has a broader bobbin.

Solution – Use the Right Bobbin According Singer Machine Model

The physical resemblance of bobbins may easily confuse you. But when it comes to size, it is where their difference becomes noticeable.

Failure to get the right bobbin would produce light to serious issues. But, again, you can consult your user manual or head directly to your manufacturer to give you peace of mind. That seems like an easy solution to fix all issues related to the bobbin.

Do All Singer Sewing Machines Use the Same Bobbins?

Each machine has a specific type of bobbin to use. It is exceptionally unique and will not fit any other model. You can ask for advice from a local manufacturer or check your owner’s manual.

It is always helpful to use a similar class or style of the bobbin as your machine. As tempting as it is, do not substitute. Otherwise, you will end up with a spoiled tension or machine.

When Should I Replace My Singer Bobbin Case?

The bobbin’s cyclic spinning tends to weaken the inner parts of the case, which causes it to fit scantily. Wear and tear is another culprit for a defective bobbin case.

You may notice it moves backward and forward in a chaotic manner when assembling inside. Whichever is the case, it is best to switch your old bobbin case with a new one.

Most Singer sewing machines have a detachable drop-in style case, so replacement should be easy and fast.

Author
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Jessica

I'm Jessica Flores, a professional fashion designer and an expert seamstress.

Crafting has always been a deep-seated passion of mine, one that has flourished and evolved over the years.

I've dedicated considerable time to both studying and practicing in the realm of fashion and sewing, amassing a wealth of experience and skills.

It brings me great joy to share these insights and experiences with you all, hoping to inspire and foster a similar passion for the art of sewing.