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Helpful Hints to solve machine problems

Problem	Causes	Solutions
Upper thread breaks	Incorrect threading Knots or twists in thread Needle too small Tension too tight Damaged/ old needle	Re-thread machine with presser foot up Try a different spool of thread Replace needle Set top & bottom tensions separately.
Bobbin Thread breaks	Bobbin case not correctly threaded Bobbin case incorrectly inserted in machine Bobbin does not move smoothly in bobbin case Lint in bobbin case Bobbin tension too tight	Remove bobbin & make sure when you hold the bobbin case in your hand, the bobbin goes around clockwise when you pull the thread. Check that bobbin case & bobbin is perfectly round Clean bobbin case & hook area of the machine & oil. Check & re-set bobbin tension
Skipped Stitches	Thread tension too tight Damaged needle Needle wrong size Sewing machine out of time.	Check top & bobbin tensions one at a time Replace needle Change size of needle Change type of needle, ie ball point, metallic, quilting etc. Take machine in for service, ask to have hook needle clearance, timing and needle bar height checked.
Frayed Stitches	Needle too small Tension too tight Damaged or poor quality thread.	Increase needle size Re-set tension Change brand of thread or color
Thread loops on the bottom	Thread not in top tension Machine not threaded correctly Top tension too loose Burr on hook	Make sure the presser foot is up when you thread machine Check to make the thread is in the take-up lever Increase top tension Have a technician remove the burr
Irregular Stitches or malformed stitches	Wrong needle size Incorrect threading Upper tension too loose Operator pulling fabric thru machine Bobbin wound unevenly	Ensure correct needle for the type of fabric you are using & thread type Un-thread machine & carefully re-thread RE-set upper & lower tensions separately Check presser foot pressure
Fabric Puckers	Excessive stitch length Needle point is dull or burr Excessive thread tension Fabric is too soft Thread displacement- too much thread in a small area Fabric not feeding	Decrease stitch length Change needle every two bobbins Check top & bottom tensions Use stabilizer or interfacing Decease density of embroidery designs Check presser foot pressure check needle plate for burrs Check feed dogs

Should I stand my thread up or should it lay sideways?????? Click here to find out.

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Purchase and download embroidery designs directly from OESD. Be sure and list "Stretch and Sew Fabrics - OR" as your local sewing dealer.

Benartex has lots of free quilt patterns on their site

Many of our products come from Brewer. See something you want that we aren't carrying? Let us know--we'll be happy to order it for you!

Scissortail Stitches is OESD's new sister website for modern embroidery designs developed with the same quality OESD.

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