Adjusting the Thread Tension; Changing the tension of the; Correct thread tension- Page 62

SEWING BASICS 

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56

Adjusting the Thread Tension

The tensions of the upper thread and of the bobbin thread (thread tension) should be adjusted so that they are 
equal.

Changing the tension of the
upper thread

If the thread and needle combination is correct for 
the type of fabric being sewn (according to “Needle 
types and their uses” on page 36), the thread tension 
will automatically be adjusted to the appropriate 
setting. However, if the preset thread tension does 
not give the desired result or if you are sewing with 
special thread or on special fabric, use the thread 
tension dial on the left side of the machine to adjust 
the tension of the upper thread.

■

Correct thread tension

The upper thread and the bobbin thread should 
cross near the center of the fabric. Only the upper 
thread should be visible from the right side of the 
fabric, and only the bobbin thread should be 
visible from the wrong side of the fabric.

1

Wrong side of fabric

2

Right side of fabric

3

Upper thread

4

Bobbin thread

■

Upper thread is too tight

If the bobbin thread is visible from the right side 
of the fabric, the upper thread is too tight.

1

Wrong side of fabric

2

Right side of fabric

3

Upper thread

4

Bobbin thread

5

The bobbin thread is visible from the right side of 
the fabric.

Turn the thread tension dial downward to loosen 
the upper thread.

■

Upper thread is too loose

If the upper thread is visible from the wrong side 
of the fabric, the upper thread is too loose.

1

Wrong side of fabric

2

Right side of fabric

3

Upper thread

4

Bobbin thread

5

The upper thread is visible from the wrong side of 
the fabric.

Turn the thread tension dial upward to tighten the 
upper thread.

1

Thread tension dial

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

4

5

5

1

2

3

4

Loose

Tight

S3_brotherE.book  Page 56  Wednesday, February 12, 2003  11:49 AM