
What kind of bobbin case do I Need?
Metal bobbin cases are usually used with metal bobbins. These are more common with older sewing machines; it is very rare to see a metal inset bobbin case in a modern residential sewing machine. Plastic bobbin cases are usually used with plastic bobbins.
Can you replace a bobbin case on a sewing machine?
Replacing parts of your sewing machine bobbin case is possible and used to be common practice for our grandparents, but it isn't advised today. Signs of damage on a particular part of the case indicate a worn product. Replacing the entire bobbin case so that it wears evenly is ideal.
Why won’t my bobbin case stay in the machine?
There could be several reasons why your bobbin case will not stay in the machine. Follow the steps below to resolve your issue. 1. Turn the power off. 2. Remove the bobbin case from the machine, according to manual instructions.
Why do I need a primer on bobbins&bobbin cases?
I hope this primer on bobbins & bobbin cases helps you understand how your machine functions. In the future, I will cover more parts of the typical sewing machine – if you want to see something in particular, let me know!

How do I know if I need a new bobbin case?
1:082:07Bobbin Case Problems? How to Test Your Bobbin Cases - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIf you're using a paper sight bobbin the paper sights could be miss struck. If the same symptomMoreIf you're using a paper sight bobbin the paper sights could be miss struck. If the same symptom exists then the bobbin case is probably out of round. And needs to be replaced.
How do you test a bobbin case?
To test your bobbin tension, remove the bobbin case and bobbin from your machine and hold the end of your bobbin thread. Swiftly pull up on the thread. The thread should unwind just slightly and the bobbin case should drop an inch or two.
How do you fix a broken bobbin case?
2:205:22Singer | Sewing Machine | Broken Apollo Bobbin Case | Fix - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI just grabbed a seam ripper to move it out of the way. Okay now that you move this lever out of theMoreI just grabbed a seam ripper to move it out of the way. Okay now that you move this lever out of the way go ahead and remove your broken. Bobbin.
Why does my bobbin case keep jamming?
This can be caused by several things, such as a thread getting tangled, the fabric not being fed evenly, or a build-up of lint or dust in the machine. Jams can also be caused by the needle hitting something inside the machine, so it is important always to keep an eye on the needle while sewing.
Why does my thread keep bunching up underneath?
0:282:10Sewing Machine Problem: Thread Bunching Under Fabric - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipDial is too low. Maybe you're wondering oh how did the tension dial get moved you never know you mayMoreDial is too low. Maybe you're wondering oh how did the tension dial get moved you never know you may have brushed it accidentally.
Why does my bottom thread keep bunching?
A: Looping on the underside, or back of the fabric, means the top tension is too loose compared to the bobbin tension, so the bobbin thread is pulling too much top thread underneath. By tightening the top tension, the loops will stop, but the added tension may cause breakage, especially with sensitive threads.
How often do you need to replace a bobbin case?
As long as you take good care of your bobbin case, it will perform well. However, eventually, it will cease to sew smoothly and will need to be replaced. Sometimes people think they only need to replace certain parts of the bobbin case, like the tension spring or the tension screw.
Why does the bobbin case pop out?
- Make sure you are using the correct bobbin for your machine. - Check that the thread was wound correctly on the bobbin. - Make sure the bobbin was properly inserted. Re-install the bobbin if necessary.
Why is my sewing machine needle hitting the bobbin case?
The needle is not fitted properly in your machine. 2. The needle clamp screw is loose. Firmly tighten the needle set screw.
What tension should I use for cotton?
Cotton requires a moderate tension setting, usually between three and four. Always start adjusting your tension settings with your upper tension.
Why does my top thread keep getting stuck in the bobbin?
This can be caused if the top thread tension is too tight, or if the bobbin thread is not in the bobbin case tension. Check that the upper thread is feeding freely without obstruction (like getting stuck behind the spool cap or getting caught on any rough spots o the thread spool itself).
How do I stop my bobbin from jamming?
Make sure upper thread or needle thread is threaded correctly. 2. Make sure your bobbin thread is wound evenly on the bobbin. If the thread is wound uneven make sure the bobbin thread is through the bobbin thread winding thread guide when you start to wind your bobbin.
How often do you need to replace a bobbin case?
As long as you take good care of your bobbin case, it will perform well. However, eventually, it will cease to sew smoothly and will need to be replaced. Sometimes people think they only need to replace certain parts of the bobbin case, like the tension spring or the tension screw.
Why is my bobbin thread not catching?
- Make sure the bobbin is wound evenly and has been inserted into your machine properly. - Check for scratches on the bobbin case. - Make sure that the bobbin thread is pulled completely under the pretension, to assure that the bobbin is wound evenly. - Make sure you are using the correct bobbin in the machine.
How does the bobbin case work?
0:001:43How a sewing machine bobbin works - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThis rotary bobbin mechanism has a hook that rotates around the bobbin case the top thread isMoreThis rotary bobbin mechanism has a hook that rotates around the bobbin case the top thread is grabbed by the hook. And forms a loop which the bobbin thread is pulled into.
Why does the bobbin case pop out?
- Make sure you are using the correct bobbin for your machine. - Check that the thread was wound correctly on the bobbin. - Make sure the bobbin was properly inserted. Re-install the bobbin if necessary.
Do bobbin cases wear out?
Are you still using the bobbin case that came with your sewing machine? Well, congratulations! Hopefully, it lasts as long as your sewing machine i...
Do bobbin cases wear out?
Eventually, your bobbin case will wear out when you use your sewing machine frequently. The bobbin case supports the bobbin in the sewing machine t...
When should I replace my bobbin case?
A bobbin case when used with the correct bobbin size will hold it snugly in place and help the bobbin create neat stitches. The bobbin case dictate...
How do you take care of your bobbin case?
A clean sewing machine is a machine that will last. And keeping your bobbin case clean will keep your stitches smooth and neat. The state of your b...
How do you fix a bobbin problem?
You may encounter loopy and tangled bobbin threads in your sewing journey. Sewists call it “bird nesting.”
When should I replace my bobbin?
It is but natural to replace your bobbin when you run out of thread. But it is also the best time to replace your bobbin when it has dents or scratches on it. When using a metal bobbin, the time to change is when it has nicks and is rusty.
Are metal or plastic bobbins better?
Metal bobbins are hands down more durable than plastic. You should not even compare these two bobbin types. The reason behind this is that you must not use them interchangeably. Metal bobbins are for metal bobbin cases. You can only use plastic bobbins on plastic bobbin cases.
Do plastic bobbins wear out?
The plastic bobbin will wear out and develop nicks and scratches over time. It will not get rusted as a metal bobbin would. Same as the metal bobbin, a deformed plastic bobbin will create irregular stitches. The solution is to replace the damaged bobbin as soon as possible.
What is a bobbin case?
As the name implies, a bobbin case is the part of the machine that holds your bobbin when you are sewing. There are two classes of bobbin cases (which I mentioned, but did not explain, in the previous post ), “removable” and “inset”.
What is a 15 class bobbin case?
The most common removable bobbin case is called a “15 Class” bobbin case. If you read Part One of this guide, you’ll notice a similarity in names. These bobbin cases are meant to be used with Metal 15 Class bobbins, unless otherwise noted. There are a few variations of this style bobbin case, but they will always be noted.
Why is it important to thread a bobbin correctly?
This is why it is important to thread the bobbin correctly – when you pull the bottom thread up, there should be resistance on it. If there is not, re-thread the bobbin through the bobbin case. The top thread will go across the top of the bobbin case, which is why it is so important to use the correct bobbin. ...
Where are front loading bobbins inserted?
Front loading bobbin cases are removed and inserted on the side of the sewing machine facing the user. These are the most common on modern machines with a removable bobbin.
Is a bobbin case front loading or reverse loading?
These can be “front loading” or “side loading”. There are a few models of sewing machines that are “reverse loading”, but these are very rare. All removable bobbin cases will have a lever or spring that can be held to help remove and replace it.
Do you have to remove bobbins from a machine?
Inset bobbin cases, or “drop-in” bobbin cases, are more common in modern machines. These bobbin cases do not have to be removed from the machine to replace the bobbin. Generally, the customer should never need to take these bobbin cases out.
Can a front loading bobbin be used in a side loading machine?
A side loading bobbin case cannot be used in a front loading machine, but front-loading bobbin cases CAN be used in side loading machines. These bobbin cases are somewhat rare in modern (after 1980) machines. Many older machines such as Kenmore, Singer and White have this style.
Why do I wrap my bobbin in thread?
The thread needs to make a 180 degree turn in direction as it comes out of the bobbin case. If it pulls straight off the bobbin through the slot and under the tension spring, even the anti-backlash spring will not help.
Can you fit an M bobbin into an L bobbin?
You'd never fit an M bobbin into an L bobbin case. M Bobbins are almost twice the size of the Ls. There are, however, some sewing machine bobbins that look almost exactly like the L bobbins (i.e., the ones I use in Bernina) that are not L bobbins and won't work correctly. More sharing options...
Why is a bobbin case important?
A sewing machine bobbin case has important functions relating to thread tension. It gently and securely nestles the bobbin so that the machine can unravel the thread without damaging movements. The bobbin case also provides the correct tension to the thread on the bobbin which enables uniform and balanced stitch formation.
How to find parts for sewing machine?
Finding parts for your machine is easy on our website. Just type the brand and model number of your machine in our search bar on the upper-right of the page. You can also search parts by name. Don't be afraid to reach out and give us a call if you have any problems. Sewing Machines Plus has the knowledge of over 40 proud years in business and we would be happy to discuss your needs or help you with your order.
Can you replace a bobbin case?
Replacing parts of your sewing machine bobbin case is possible and used to be common practice for our grandparents, but it isn't advised today. Signs of damage on a particular part of the case indicate a worn product. Replacing the entire bobbin case so that it wears evenly is ideal. They are readily available, inexpensive and much easier to replace than they used to be.
Green Screw Bobbin Case
I am calling this bobbin case the “green screw” bobbin case, because, you guessed it, it literally has a green glob on the tension screw. This is the bobbin case that comes with your machine. The thing to note about this particular bobbin case is you CANNOT adjust the tension.
Purple Dot Bobbin Case
If you are wanting to use a different weight of thread, that is where the “purple dot” bobbin case comes in. The reason that I am calling it the purple dot bobbin case is, normally, there is a purple dot in the center of the bobbin case. Just note that there isn’t always a purple dot.
Adjusting The Tension
If you are using a heavier thread, you would need to loosen your tension. If you are using a thinner thread, you would need to tighten your thread.
Thread Weight
If you are unfamiliar with thread weights, the lower the number, the heavier the thread. For example, a 30 wt thread is heavier than your 60 wt thread. A 90 wt thread is thinner than the 60 wt.
Conclusion
I hope that this has helped you determine why you have two bobbin cases and it also helps you know which bobbin case to use and when to use it. Until next time, Happy Sewing, Everybody!
