Skipped Stitches

You’re all set to sew, the fabric’s in place, and what’s this? Gaps in your stitching? Skipped stitches are annoying, but they’re also common and usually easy to fix. Here’s a guide to help you troubleshoot the issue and get back to smooth sewing in no time.

1. Start with the Needle

If your stitches are skipping, your needle is the first place to check. It does all the heavy lifting, after all.

Swap it out if it’s bent, dull, or has just been in your machine for a while. A fresh needle can work wonders.
Use the right needle for the job:
- Universal: Great for most woven fabrics
- Ballpoint: Perfect for knits and stretchy fabrics
- Sharp/Microtex: Ideal for delicate or tightly woven fabrics
- Denim/Leather: Built for tough or thick materials
Make sure it’s installed correctly - flat side to the back (in most machines), pushed all the way up and tightened securely.

Sometimes, just changing your needle is all it takes.

Not sure which needle to use for your next project?
Download this handy pocket guide from Schmetz – it’s the perfect quick reference to help you choose the right needle for the task at hand!

2. Double-Check Threading and Tension

Threading issues are another top cause of skipped stitches and they’re sneaky!

Re-thread everything from scratch, top and bottom. Yes, it’s tedious, but it works. Be sure the presser foot is up while you thread, this opens up the tension discs so your thread sits where it should.
Watch the tension:
- If stitches are loose or missing, try increasing the upper thread tension a bit.
- If you’re working with stretchy or delicate fabrics, easing off the tension slightly can help keep things smooth and skip-free.

A fresh re-thread and a small tension tweak can make a big difference – even if you’ve already done it a few times. It’s always worth going through the threading process again slowly and carefully, as even a tiny misstep can cause stitching issues. Taking a moment to double-check can save a lot of frustration later on!

3. Take a Look at the Bobbin

Next up: the bobbin. It might be small, but it’s mighty.

Check the wind. If your bobbin looks uneven or messy, rewind it. Make sure the thread goes through the bobbin tension guide so it winds tightly and evenly.
Insert it correctly. This can vary by machine, so check your manual if you’re unsure whether it should turn clockwise or counterclockwise.
Thread it through the tension slot properly. Missing this step can throw off your stitch formation.

Don’t underestimate the bobbin; it’s half of your stitch equation!

4. Think About Your Fabric and Thread

Your materials might be the real challenge.

Use quality thread. Cheap, fuzzy, or old thread can mess up your tension and cause skipped stitches. Use good-quality polyester or cotton thread that suits your fabric.
Avoid mixing thread types or weights between the top and bobbin. They should play well together.
Match your settings to your fabric:
- For thick fabrics or multiple layers, lengthen your stitch and consider using a walking foot.
- For slippery or tricky fabrics, a sharper needle or a bit of stabiliser can help keep things steady.

Good materials make sewing easier and more enjoyable.

5. Clean and Care for Your Machine

Sometimes, your machine just needs a little TLC.

Clear out the lint from the bobbin area and feed dogs. A tiny brush or vacuum attachment can help here.
Check the feed dogs. If they’re down, they won’t move your fabric and skipped stitches are sure to follow.
Oil the machine if needed. Not all machines require it, but if yours does, a few drops in the right places (according to your manual) can keep everything running smoothly.

A clean, well-maintained machine is a happy machine.

6. Always Test First

Before you jump back into your project, test your stitches on a piece of scrap fabric, ideally the same kind you’re working with. This is your moment to make any last-minute tweaks.

Your Quick Fix Checklist

The needle is new, the right type and installed correctly.
Machine is threaded correctly (with the presser foot up!).
Tension settings are balanced.
Bobbin is wound evenly and threaded properly.
The thread and fabric are a good match.
Machine is clean and well-maintained.

Still having trouble?
We’re here to help! If you’ve worked through the steps and your machine still isn’t quite right, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We’ll do our best to get you back up and sewing as soon as possible!