Beginner's Guide: How To Insert Bobbin Into Singer Sewing Machine

Putting the bobbin into your Singer sewing machine is a basic step. It’s needed to make stitches. The bobbin holds the bottom thread. The machine needs both top and bottom threads to sew. Getting the bobbin in right helps your sewing go smoothly. If it’s wrong, stitches can look bad. They might loop or break. So, knowing how to insert the bobbin is very important for beginners. This guide will show you how. We will cover winding the bobbin, finding the right parts like the Singer sewing machine bobbin case, and putting it all together correctly.

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Parts of Your Bobbin System

Before you put the bobbin in, it helps to know the parts. Your Singer machine uses a bobbin. A bobbin is a small spool. It holds the lower thread. Some machines use a bobbin case. This is a metal or plastic holder. The bobbin sits inside it. Other machines don’t need a separate case. The bobbin just drops into a spot in the machine.

You will also use the Singer bobbin winder spindle. This is a small post on top of your machine. It’s used to wind thread onto the bobbin. Knowing these parts makes inserting the bobbin easier.

What is a Bobbin?

A bobbin is like a little spool. It holds the thread that makes the bottom half of your stitch. It spins as you sew. This lets the thread come off evenly. Bobbins come in different sizes. Make sure you use the right size for your Singer machine. Check your machine’s manual if you are not sure. Using the wrong bobbin can cause problems.

Discovering the Bobbin Case

Some Singer machines have a bobbin case. This is a small part that holds the bobbin. It usually looks like a small metal or plastic cup with a handle. The bobbin fits snugly inside this case. The bobbin case has a small tension spring on its side. This spring helps control how tight the bobbin thread comes out. Machines that use a bobbin case are often called front-loading machines. This is because you load the bobbin case from the front or side of the machine.

Grasping the Bobbin Winder Spindle

Every Singer machine has a bobbin winder. This is how you put thread onto an empty bobbin. The Singer bobbin winder spindle is a small post that sticks up from the top or front of your machine. It might have a little clip or spring on it. You put your empty bobbin onto this spindle. Then you guide thread from your spool pin to the bobbin. There is usually a small guide or path for the thread to follow for winding. Your machine manual will show you the exact path. There is also a bobbin winder stop. This is a small lever or disc. It stops the winding when the bobbin is full.

The First Step: Winding the Bobbin

You need thread on your bobbin before you can sew. This is called winding the bobbin. It’s a simple process on your Singer machine.

Getting Ready to Wind

Get an empty bobbin.
Pick the thread you want to use. Put the spool of thread on the spool pin of your machine. This is usually on top.
Look for the bobbin winder spindle. It’s often on the top right side of the machine.
Place the empty bobbin onto the bobbin winder spindle. Push it down until it clicks or sits firmly.

Guiding the Thread

Take the end of the thread from the spool.
Find the thread guide for bobbin winding. Your machine has a special path for this. It might be a hook or a disc. Follow the pictures in your machine manual.
Wrap the thread end around the bobbin a few times. Do this by hand. Wrap it clockwise or counter-clockwise. Again, check your manual. Often, there’s a small hole in the bobbin rim to thread through first. This helps hold the thread start.
Slide the bobbin winder spindle to the side. This engages the winder. It connects the winder to the machine’s motor. It might click into place.

Winding the Thread

Hold the thread end you wrapped on the bobbin. Keep a little tension on it at first.
Gently press the foot pedal. The machine will start winding thread onto the bobbin.
The thread will wrap around the bobbin. It should wind smoothly and evenly.
Watch the bobbin fill up. The bobbin winder stop will automatically stop the winding when the bobbin is full.
Let go of the foot pedal when the winder stops or when the bobbin looks full but not overfilled.
Slide the bobbin winder spindle back to its resting position. This takes it out of winding mode.
Cut the thread connecting the filled bobbin to the spool. Your bobbin is now ready!

Tips for Good Winding

Don’t wind too fast at the start. Let the thread catch on the bobbin.
Make sure the thread winds evenly across the bobbin. If it piles up on one side, the tension might be off later. Re-wind it if it’s very uneven.
Don’t overfill the bobbin. If it’s too full, the thread can spill over the sides. This causes tangles inside the machine.
Use the same type and weight of thread on the bobbin as you use on top. This helps create balanced stitches.

Two Main Ways to Insert a Bobbin in Singer Machines

Singer makes different sewing machines. The way you put the bobbin in depends on the model. There are two common types:

Front-Loading Bobbin: These machines use a separate Singer sewing machine bobbin case. You put the bobbin into the case first. Then you insert the case into a shuttle area, usually in the front or side of the machine, under the needle plate.
Top-Loading (Drop-In) Bobbin: These machines have a spot on top of the machine, usually under a clear cover near the needle plate. You just drop the bobbin directly into this spot. There is no separate bobbin case.

You need to know which type your machine is. Check your machine manual. Look at the area under the needle plate. Is there a metal case that comes out? That’s front-loading. Is there a clear plastic cover you lift up to see a space for the bobbin? That’s top-loading.

Bobbin Insertion Steps: Front-Loading Machines

If your Singer machine is a front-loader, you will use a bobbin case. This is a common type, especially on older machines or some heavy-duty models.

Getting Ready for Insertion

Make sure the machine is off. Safety first! Unplug it if you are unsure.
Raise the needle to its highest position. You can do this by turning the handwheel towards you. The handwheel is on the side of the machine. Turn it until the needle is all the way up.
Open the cover to the bobbin area. This cover is usually on the front of the machine, below the needle. It might flip down or slide off.

Loading the Bobbin into Case

Pick up your filled bobbin.
Pick up the Singer sewing machine bobbin case.
Hold the bobbin so the thread unwinds in the correct direction. This is very important! Look at the bobbin case. There is a slot where the thread needs to go under the tension spring. The thread needs to come off the bobbin so it can pass smoothly under this spring.
- Tip: For most front-loading Singer cases, the bobbin should spin clockwise when you pull the thread. Hold the bobbin in your hand. Pull the thread up. If the bobbin spins like the hands on a clock, that’s the right direction.
Place the bobbin into the bobbin case. It should fit right in.
Guide the thread from the bobbin into the slot on the side of the bobbin case. Pull the thread down through the slot. Make sure it slips under the small metal tension spring. This is the spring that controls the lower thread tension. You should feel a slight pull or resistance as the thread goes under the spring.
Pull about 4 to 6 inches of thread out. This is called the bobbin tail.

Putting the Bobbin Case into the Machine

Look into the open bobbin area in your machine. You will see a round metal part. This is the shuttle. The bobbin case fits inside the shuttle.
Hold the bobbin case by its latch or handle.
Line up the bobbin case with the shuttle area. There might be a notch or a pin in the machine that lines up with a notch or opening on the bobbin case.
Push the bobbin case firmly into the shuttle. You might hear a click when it locks into place. Make sure it sits flat and doesn’t wobble. The latch or handle on the bobbin case should usually stick out a bit.
Leave the bobbin thread tail hanging out.

Finishing Up

Close the bobbin area cover.
Now you need to bring the bobbin thread up. Hold the end of the top thread (the one coming from your needle).
Turn the handwheel towards you slowly for one full turn. As you turn the handwheel, watch the needle go down and come back up. The needle thread will make a loop around the bobbin case.
As the needle comes back up, the top thread will catch the bobbin thread. You will see a loop of bobbin thread appear.
Use your finger, a pin, or small scissors to pull this loop up through the needle plate hole.
Pull the bobbin thread tail the rest of the way up.
Pull both the top thread and the bobbin thread tails. Slide them under the presser foot and towards the back of the machine.
Your bobbin is now inserted and the lower thread is ready.

This completes the Bobbin insertion steps for a front-loading Singer sewing machine bobbin case.

Bobbin Insertion Steps: Top-Loading (Drop-In) Machines

Many newer Singer machines use a top-loading or drop-in bobbin system. These are often considered easier for beginners.

Getting Ready for Insertion

Turn the machine off. It’s always best to power down when you are working near the needle.
Raise the needle to its highest position. Use the handwheel on the side of the machine. Turn it towards you until the needle is fully up.
Remove the accessory tray or storage box if your machine has one in front of the needle plate.
Open the clear plastic bobbin cover on the needle plate. This cover usually slides off or flips open. You will see a space inside for the bobbin.

Placing the Bobbin

Pick up your filled bobbin.
Look at the bobbin space. There might be a picture showing the correct direction for the thread to unwind. This is very important for proper lower thread tension.
- Tip: For most top-loading Singer machines, the bobbin should spin counter-clockwise when you pull the thread. Hold the bobbin in your hand. Pull the thread up. If the bobbin spins the opposite way of clock hands, that’s usually the right direction.
Drop the bobbin into the bobbin space. It should lie flat.
Find the thread path cut into the metal or plastic around the bobbin space. This path guides the thread. It often has numbers or arrows.
Guide the bobbin thread into this path. Pull the thread along the path. It will go into a tension area built into the machine. You might feel a slight click or see it slip under a small bar or through a slot. This sets the lower thread tension.
Pull about 4 to 6 inches of thread out, following the path. This is your bobbin thread tail.

Finishing Up

The machine usually brings the bobbin thread up automatically when you start sewing. However, some people prefer to bring it up manually first. To do this:
- Hold the end of the top thread (from the needle).
- Turn the handwheel towards you for one full turn. The needle will go down and come back up.
- As the needle comes up, it will catch the bobbin thread. You will see a loop of the bobbin thread come up through the needle plate hole.
- Use your finger or a tool to pull this loop up.
- Pull the rest of the bobbin thread tail up.
Pull both the top thread and bobbin thread tails. Slide them together under the presser foot and towards the back of the machine.
Close the clear bobbin cover.
Put the accessory tray back on if you removed it.

Your bobbin is now inserted and the lower thread is ready for sewing on your top-loading Singer.

Checking Bobbin Thread and Tension

Once the bobbin is in, it’s good to quickly check a couple of things.

Confirming the Bobbin Thread

Did you pull the bobbin thread up through the needle plate? If not, do that now.
Is the bobbin thread sitting under the presser foot with the top thread? They should go back together.
Does the bobbin spin freely inside its case or spot? It should not feel stuck or tight.

Interpreting Lower Thread Tension

Proper lower thread tension is key for balanced stitches.

Front-Loading: The tension is set by the spring on the bobbin case. You should feel some resistance when you pull the thread out of the bobbin case before putting it in the machine. If the thread pulls out too easily, the tension is too loose. If it’s hard to pull, it’s too tight. Some bobbin cases have a small screw to adjust this. For beginners, make sure the thread is correctly seated under the tension spring.
Top-Loading: The tension is controlled by the thread path you followed when inserting the bobbin. Make sure the thread is fully in the groove or slot. You should feel light resistance when you pull the thread tail.

The best way to check tension is to sew a test seam on a scrap of fabric.

If loops appear on the top of your fabric, your bobbin tension might be too loose, or your top thread tension is too tight.
If loops appear on the bottom of your fabric, your bobbin tension might be too tight, or your top thread tension is too loose.

Usually, you adjust the top thread tension first. But bobbin insertion errors, like the thread not being under the bobbin case spring or in the drop-in groove, are common causes of bad tension. Correct bobbin insertion sets the base for good lower thread tension.

Where the Bobbin Fits: Sewing Machine Thread Path

Inserting the bobbin is just one part of getting your machine ready. The bobbin thread is the lower part of the whole sewing machine thread path.

The Upper Path

The top thread starts on the spool pin. It goes through guides, maybe tension discs, a take-up lever, and finally through the needle. Threading a Singer sewing machine correctly is just as important as the bobbin.

The Lower Path

The bobbin thread comes from the bobbin, through its tension control (case spring or drop-in groove), and up through the needle plate hole.

Making a Stitch

The machine makes a stitch when the needle goes down, carrying the top thread. As the needle starts to come back up, a loop forms in the top thread. A hook in the machine grabs this loop. This hook passes the loop around the bobbin case or the bobbin itself (depending on machine type). As the loop goes around, it catches the bobbin thread. Then the take-up lever pulls the top thread tight, pulling the bobbin thread up through the fabric, and locking the stitch.

If the bobbin is inserted wrong, or the lower thread tension is off, this loop catching and tightening process doesn’t work right.

Troubleshooting Bobbin Issues

Sometimes, even if you follow the steps, you might have problems. Most bobbin issues show up in your stitches.

Common Problems and What to Check

Loops on top of the fabric: This often means the bobbin thread is too loose.
- Check Bobbin Insertion: For front-loading, is the thread securely under the bobbin case tension spring? For top-loading, is the thread fully in the tension groove?
- Check Bobbin Winding: Was the bobbin wound too loosely? Re-wind it with a bit more tension.
- Check Upper Thread: Is the top thread threaded correctly? Is the top tension set too high?
Loops on bottom of the fabric: This often means the bobbin thread is too tight.
- Check Bobbin Insertion: Is the thread catching on something? Is the bobbin case dirty or damaged? Is the bobbin itself damaged?
- Check Bobbin Winding: Was the bobbin wound too tightly? Re-wind it.
- Check Upper Thread: Is the top thread threaded correctly? Is the top tension set too low?
Thread breaking (especially bobbin thread):
- Check Bobbin Quality: Is the bobbin cracked or damaged?
- Check Bobbin Winding: Was the bobbin wound unevenly? Did you overfill it? Is the thread piled up on one side? Re-wind it correctly.
- Check Bobbin Case/Area: Is there lint or threads caught in the bobbin case or the bobbin area of the machine? Clean it out.
- Check Thread Path: Is the bobbin thread catching on anything as it comes out?
- Check Needle: Is the needle bent or dull? A bad needle can stress both threads.
- Check Bobbin Type: Are you using the correct type of bobbin for your specific Singer machine?
Machine is jammed or makes strange noises:
- Check Bobbin Area: Did you insert the bobbin correctly? Is the thread tangled underneath? Is the bobbin area clean? Loose threads or lint can cause jams. Remove the bobbin and bobbin case (if applicable) and clean the area well.
- Check Bobbin Winding: Was the bobbin wound properly? Overfilled or uneven bobbins can cause jams.
Skipped stitches:
- Check Bobbin Insertion: Is the bobbin fully seated? Is the thread coming out smoothly?
- Check Needle: Is the needle inserted correctly? Is it the right type for your fabric? Is it bent or dull?

A Simple Troubleshooting Process

Stop sewing.
Turn off the machine.
Remove the fabric. Cut the threads if needed.
Remove the top thread completely.
Remove the bobbin and bobbin case (if you have one).
Clean the bobbin area. Use a small brush. Get rid of all lint and thread bits. This is very important!
Check your bobbin. Is it wound well? Is it the right type? Re-wind it if needed.
Re-insert the bobbin correctly, following the steps for your machine type. Make sure the thread direction is right and the thread is in the tension path/spring.
Re-thread the top thread completely, following your machine’s threading path exactly. Make sure the presser foot is up when threading the top. This lets the thread sit right in the tension discs.
Put the presser foot down. Bring the bobbin thread up (manually turning the handwheel). Pull both threads under the foot and to the back.
Sew on a scrap piece of fabric. See if the problem is fixed.

Most bobbin and tension problems can be solved by correctly winding, inserting, and threading, along with keeping the machine clean.

Caring for Your Bobbin Area

Keeping the bobbin area clean is vital. Lint and small thread bits build up. This can mess up bobbin spinning. It can affect lower thread tension. It can even cause jams.

Use the small brush that came with your machine.
Open the bobbin area cover.
Remove the bobbin and the bobbin case (if you have one).
Brush away all the lint you see. Get into the grooves.
Sometimes you might need to remove the needle plate. Your manual shows how. This lets you clean the feed dogs and the area below them where lint gathers.
A small vacuum attachment or canned air (use carefully, blow away from the machine) can also help, but brushing is key for stubborn lint.
Do this cleaning often. Do it after each project or after several hours of sewing.

Clean parts help your machine run smoothly. They help the bobbin spin just right. This gives you better stitches.

Deciphering Different Bobbin Types

Not all bobbins are the same, even for Singer machines. Using the wrong bobbin is a common problem.

Class 15 Bobbins

These are very common. They are flat on the top and bottom. They might be plastic or metal. Many Singer machines use Class 15 bobbins. Sometimes they are called Class 15J bobbins. They look similar but can be different heights or have slightly different centers. Always check your manual or look at the bobbin that came with your machine.

Other Bobbin Types

Singer uses other bobbin types too, like Class 66. These often have slightly rounded tops and bottoms. They were common in older Singer models.

Why Using the Right Bobbin Matters

Fit: The wrong bobbin might not fit in the bobbin case or the drop-in space correctly.
Spinning: The wrong bobbin might not spin smoothly. It could rub or wobble.
Height: If the bobbin is too tall, it can hit the needle plate or other parts.
Weight/Material: Metal bobbins can affect tension differently than plastic bobbins. Mixing them might cause issues.
Winding: The bobbin winder spindle is designed for a specific bobbin size. The wrong bobbin might not wind correctly or stop properly.

Always buy bobbins specifically for your Singer model. Look for “Singer Class 15” or “Singer Class 66,” or whatever your manual says. Generic bobbins might fit, but they might not work perfectly.

Putting It All Together: The Sequence

Let’s quickly review the typical order of operations.

Choose your thread.
Wind the bobbin using the Singer bobbin winder spindle. Make sure it winds evenly and stops automatically.
Prepare the machine: power off, needle up, open bobbin area.
For front-loading: Load the bobbin into the Singer sewing machine bobbin case. Make sure the thread direction is right and the thread is under the tension spring.
For top-loading: Drop the bobbin into the machine. Make sure the thread direction is right and the thread is in the tension groove.
Insert the bobbin case (front-loading) or close the cover (top-loading).
Bring the bobbin thread tail up through the needle plate (usually by turning the handwheel).
Pull both thread tails under the presser foot and to the back.
Re-thread the top thread correctly if you removed it, or just ensure it’s threaded properly.
Close all covers.
Sew a test stitch on scrap fabric to check tension and stitch quality.
If stitches are bad, troubleshoot by checking threading (top and bottom), bobbin insertion, bobbin winding, and cleaning.

This sequence covers all the key steps, from how to wind a bobbin to the final bobbin insertion steps and checking the lower thread tension. Getting this right is a big step in learning to use your Singer sewing machine.

Table: Bobbin System Types Comparison

Here is a simple look at the two main types of bobbin systems found in Singer machines.

Feature	Front-Loading System	Top-Loading (Drop-In) System
Uses Bobbin Case?	Yes, a separate Singer bobbin case is needed.	No, the bobbin drops directly into the machine.
Insertion Location	Usually in the front or side, under the needle plate.	Usually on top, under a clear cover near the needle.
Bobbin Direction	Often unwinds clockwise when pulling thread out of case.	Often unwinds counter-clockwise when dropped in.
Tension Control	Separate spring on the bobbin case.	Built-in path/groove in the machine.
Visibility	Bobbin is hidden inside the machine and case.	Bobbin is often visible through a clear cover.
Common on	Older machines, some heavy-duty models.	Many newer, beginner-friendly models.

Knowing which system your Singer has makes it easier to follow the right bobbin insertion steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does my bobbin thread keep breaking right after I start sewing?
A: This is usually because the bobbin thread is catching on something or the tension is too high. Check if the bobbin is inserted correctly (right direction, thread in the tension path/spring). Clean the bobbin area thoroughly. Check the bobbin itself for cracks or uneven winding. Make sure you are using the correct type of bobbin.

Q: My stitches look loose on the top side of the fabric. Is that a bobbin issue?
A: Yes, loops on the top mean the bottom thread (bobbin thread) is too loose, or the top thread is too tight. First, check if the bobbin thread is seated correctly in its tension path (under the bobbin case spring or in the drop-in groove). If it is, try increasing your top thread tension slightly.

Q: My machine manual says to use a Class 15 bobbin. Can I use a metal one or a plastic one?
A: If your manual says Class 15, you need Class 15. However, some machines are designed for only metal or only plastic, even within the same class. Check your manual or the bobbins that came with your machine. It’s best not to mix types unless the manual says it’s okay. Using the wrong material bobbin can affect tension and timing.

Q: How often should I clean the bobbin area?
A: It’s a good idea to clean the bobbin area after every project, or every 8-10 hours of sewing. Lint builds up fast, especially with cotton threads, and it can cause many problems, including poor lower thread tension and thread breaking.

Q: My bobbin winder spindle isn’t stopping when the bobbin is full. What’s wrong?
A: The bobbin winder stop is a small lever or disc that senses when the bobbin reaches full size. Make sure this stop part is clean and can move freely. Sometimes lint or a stray thread can jam it. Check your manual for where this stop is located on your machine.

Q: I inserted the bobbin, but when I start sewing, no stitches are formed or the thread tangles right away.
A: This could be a few things. First, ensure both the top thread and the bobbin thread are pulled under the presser foot and to the back before you start sewing. Also, double-check your threading, both top and bobbin. Make sure the needle is inserted correctly and not bent. If using a bobbin case, make sure it is fully clicked into place. If it still tangles, you might need to remove threads caught underneath or in the bobbin race area.

Knowing how to correctly insert the bobbin, whether you have a Singer sewing machine bobbin case or a drop-in system, is a core skill for any beginner. Take your time, check your manual, and practice. Soon it will be second nature.