Thread BunchingUpdated a month ago

Also called “bird’s nests,” thread bunching can be frustrating. Usually, the upper thread causes it, not the bobbin. If your machine jams and fabric gets stuck, follow these careful steps to fix it without damage.

1. Clear the Jam

• Stop sewing immediately to avoid worse tangles.
• Raise the presser foot and needle to release pressure.
• Gently snip tangled threads with small scissors until fabric is free.
• Remove the needle plate and clean the bobbin area of loose threads or lint.

2. Check the Upper Thread

Most bunching happens from incorrect threading.

• Completely remove and re-thread the upper thread from scratch.
• Raise the presser foot while threading to seat the thread properly in the tension discs.
• Make sure the thread passes through the take-up lever and final thread guide.
• Check for snags, knots, or tangles in the thread or spool.
• Use the correct spool cap size to prevent thread catching.

3. Check the Bobbin

Even though the upper thread is usually the issue, check the bobbin too.

• Rewind and reinsert the bobbin evenly.
• Insert according to your machine’s direction (clockwise or counterclockwise).
• Make sure the thread is pulled through the bobbin tension slot properly.
• Clean the bobbin case of lint or stray threads.

4. Adjust Thread Tension

Incorrect tension can cause bunching.

• If upper thread tension is too loose, the bobbin thread pulls too much, causing loops underneath.
• Try tightening the upper tension slightly and test on scrap fabric.
• If your machine allows, check bobbin tension too, but only adjust if necessary.

5. Check the Needle & Fabric

A damaged or wrong needle can worsen tension problems.

• Replace bent, dull, or damaged needles.
• Use the right needle type for your fabric (ballpoint for knits, sharp for woven). If you are not sure which type of needle to use, download a useful free guide here.
• Match thread weights in upper and bobbin threads to avoid uneven stitches.
• Use good-quality thread like Gutermann to prevent breakage and tension issues.

6. Hold Thread Tails at Start of Sewing

To prevent threads pulling under at the seam start, hold both upper and bobbin thread tails for the first few stitches.

7. Clean & Maintain Your Machine

Regular maintenance helps prevent bunching.

• Remove lint and dust around the bobbin case, feed dogs and tension discs.
• Check if your machine needs oiling as per your manual.
• Make sure the feed dogs are raised and working properly.

Final Step: Test on Scrap Fabric

After adjustments, sew on scrap fabric similar to your project to ensure stitches form correctly before continuing your work.

By following these steps, you’ll fix thread bunching quickly and enjoy smooth, frustration-free sewing again!

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!