Why does your sewing machine thread keep snapping? This is a very common problem for sewers, and it usually has a simple fix. Your thread might be breaking because of issues with the thread itself, a bad needle, incorrect threading, wrong tension, or because the machine needs cleaning. Don’t worry, we will look at each of these common reasons and show you how to fix them step-by-step so you can get back to happy sewing.
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Simple Checks First
When thread breaks, do not feel bad. It happens to everyone. The good news is that fixing it is often easy. Start with the quickest things to check.
Put Thread in Again
This is the first thing to try. It sounds too simple, but it often works. Take all the thread out of the machine, from the needle, through the guides, and off the spool. Then, put the thread in again carefully, following your machine’s guide numbers or pictures. Make sure the presser foot is up when you thread the top. If the foot is down, the thread tension discs will be closed, and the thread will not sit in them right. This is a key step when you are rethreading sewing machine. Doing this correctly is very important.
Try a New Needle
This is another super common fix. A dull, bent, or wrong-size needle can cause many problems, including upper thread breaking. Needles are not expensive. Putting in a fresh, sharp needle is a fast and easy test. Often, this one simple act solves the whole problem. It is amazing how many issues a worn-out needle can cause. So, before you do anything else tricky, try changing sewing machine needle. Use a needle that is right for your fabric and thread.
Looking at Your Thread
The thread you use matters a lot. Bad thread is a big reason for thread breaking.
Bad Thread Can Break
Is your thread old? Is it cheap? Old thread can get dry and weak over time. It breaks easily. Cheap thread might not be made well. It can have slubs (thicker spots) or be fuzzy. These things make it catch and break. Using thread quality for sewing that is good is important. Buy thread from trusted brands. Keep thread in a dry place.
Is Your Thread Right for the Job?
Using the wrong kind of thread for your fabric and needle can also cause breaks.
* Thin thread with a thick needle might snap.
* Thick thread with a thin needle or small eye might not fit or will rub and break.
* Using hand-sewing thread in a machine is a bad idea. Machine thread is made to stand up to the speed and path inside a machine.
Check your sewing pattern or fabric type. Use a thread that works well with it. For most sewing, all-purpose polyester thread is fine.
Examining the Needle
The needle is a small part, but it does a big job. Problems with the needle are a top reason for thread breaking. This falls under sewing machine needle issues.
Is Your Needle Bent?
A needle can get bent without you seeing it easily. Even a tiny bend can cause the needle to hit the bobbin case or the needle plate. This makes the thread rub and snap. Take the needle out and look at it closely. Roll the flat part on a flat surface like glass. If it wiggles, it is bent. Throw it away.
Is Your Needle Dull?
Sewing with a dull needle is like cutting with dull scissors. It does not push through the fabric cleanly. Instead, it forces its way through. This puts stress on the thread as it forms a loop for the bobbin thread. It can cause skipped stitches and thread breaks. Needles get dull faster than you might think, especially when sewing thick fabrics, many layers, or materials like denim or canvas. If you hear a popping sound as the needle goes through the fabric, your needle is likely dull.
Is it the Right Needle?
Using the wrong type or size of needle is a very common issue.
* Size: Needles have numbers like 80/12 or 90/14. The higher the number, the thicker the needle. Use bigger needles for thicker fabrics (denim, canvas) and thicker threads. Use smaller needles for lighter fabrics (cotton lawn, silk) and thinner threads. Using a needle that is too small for the thread or fabric causes stress and breaks.
* Type: There are different needles for different fabrics.
* Universal: Good for many woven fabrics.
* Ballpoint/Jersey: Has a rounded tip. Pushes knit fabric fibers aside instead of cutting them. This stops holes and skipped stitches in knits.
* Denim/Jeans: Stronger needle for tough fabrics like denim, canvas, or thick layers.
* Microtex/Sharp: Very fine point. Good for very fine fabrics, microfibers, or for getting neat topstitching.
* Quilting: Strong point to go through batting and layers.
Using a universal needle on a knit fabric might cause skipped stitches and breaks because it snags the fibers. Using a small universal needle on denim is likely to cause breaks because the needle is not strong enough and the eye is too small for denim thread.
Putting in a New Needle Right
When you are changing sewing machine needle, you must put it in correctly.
* Turn off your machine first for safety.
* Use the little screwdriver that came with your machine to loosen the screw that holds the needle.
* Take out the old needle.
* Look at the new needle. It has a flat side on the top part (the shank).
* Put the new needle up into the needle clamp as far as it will go. The flat side must face the back of the machine (on most home machines). Check your machine’s manual to be sure. This is critical for the machine to make stitches right.
* Hold the needle up tight and tighten the screw firmly, but do not force it too hard.
* Make sure the needle is facing the correct way before you start sewing. The groove on the front of the needle guides the thread.
Following the Thread Path
Even if you used good thread and a new needle, the thread can break if it is not put into the machine the right way. This means rethreading sewing machine carefully.
Did You Miss a Guide?
Sewing machines have little hooks, loops, or discs that the thread must pass through. These are called thread guides. They control the thread’s path and help keep the tension even. If you miss even one guide, the thread will not feed right. It can get caught, snag, or have too much slack or too much tension in the wrong place. This leads to breaks.
Is the Machine Threaded Right?
Take your machine manual. Follow the threading steps exactly. Go slowly. Make sure the thread snaps into the tension discs. Make sure it goes through the take-up lever (that part that moves up and down) correctly. It is easy to get this wrong, especially on a new machine or late at night! A common mistake is threading the machine with the presser foot down, which was mentioned before but is worth saying again because it is so important.
Spool Problems
Look at the spool of thread itself.
* Is it spinning smoothly on the pin?
* Is it catching on a nick in the spool?
* Is the thread unwinding from the spool neatly? It should usually unwind from the side if the pin is upright, or over the top if the pin is horizontal and the thread is cross-wound. Check your manual.
* Is the spool cap the right size? The little cap you put on the end of the spool pin should be big enough to keep the spool from falling off, but not so big that it stops the thread from coming off easily.
Any snagging or uneven pulling from the spool adds stress to the thread as it goes through the machine.
Making Tension Right
Thread tension is how tight the thread is as it goes through the machine. Both the top thread and the bobbin thread need to be at the right tension for stitches to form right. Thread tension problems are a main reason for thread breaking.
Checking Top Thread Tension
Your machine has a dial or buttons for the top thread tension. If the top thread is too tight, it will have too much pull as it forms a stitch. It cannot handle the stress and will snap, often near the needle or in the tension discs.
- Test: Sew a line of stitches on a scrap of the fabric you are using.
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Look:
- If the stitches look loose on the bottom (you see loops of the top thread on the back of the fabric), the top tension might be too loose OR the bobbin tension might be too tight.
- If the stitches look loose on the top (you see loops of the bobbin thread on the top of the fabric), the top tension is too tight. This is a sign that can lead to upper thread breaking.
- Perfect stitches look the same on both sides, like two threads locking neatly in the middle of the fabric layers.
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Fix: If the top tension is too tight (loops on top), turn the dial to a lower number. If it is too loose (loops on bottom), turn the dial to a higher number. Make small changes. Sew another test line. Keep adjusting until the stitches look good.
Make sure the thread is seated correctly in the tension discs. Sometimes lint or a piece of broken thread can get stuck in there, stopping the discs from closing right. Cleaning this area helps.
Looking at Bobbin Tension
The bobbin thread also has tension. It is usually set correctly at the factory and often does not need changing. Bobbin tension issues can cause thread breaks, but it is less common than top tension problems. If the bobbin thread tension is too tight, it puts extra pull on the top thread as they lock together, which can snap the top thread.
- Test (Advanced): For machines with a removable bobbin case, you can do a simple test. Put the bobbin in its case. Hold the thread tail coming out of the case. The case should hang there. Give a little tug up. The case should slowly drop a little, 1 or 2 inches. If it drops fast, it is too loose. If it does not drop at all, it is too tight.
- Fix: Bobbin tension is adjusted by a tiny screw on the bobbin case. Be very careful with this screw. Making even a small turn makes a big change. If you think bobbin tension is the problem, try all other fixes first. If you must adjust it, mark the original spot of the screw with a pen first. Turn the screw only a tiny bit counter-clockwise to loosen tension (thread breaks from tightness) or clockwise to tighten. Test again. If you turn it too much, it is hard to get back to the right setting. If you are not sure, take the machine to a repair shop.
Some machines have a drop-in bobbin. These usually have fixed bobbin tension that you cannot easily change. If you suspect bobbin tension problems with a drop-in bobbin, it might be a sign that the bobbin case area is dirty or damaged, or that you are using the wrong type of bobbin.
Using the Right Bobbin
Make sure you are using the right bobbin type for your specific machine model. Bobbins might look the same but have tiny differences that affect tension and how they fit in the case. Using the wrong bobbin can cause all sorts of stitch problems, including thread breaks.
Keeping Your Machine Clean
Lint and dust build up inside your sewing machine. This can stop parts from moving smoothly and can affect thread movement and tension. This is why regular cleaning sewing machine is important.
Lint and Dust Cause Breaks
Lint from fabric and thread collects around the feed dogs, in the bobbin area, and in the tension discs.
* Feed Dogs: Lint here stops the fabric from moving evenly. This causes uneven pulling on the thread, which can lead to breaks.
* Bobbin Area: Lint and thread bits around the bobbin case or rotary hook can snag the thread as it passes through to form a stitch. This creates extra friction and tension, snapping the thread.
* Tension Discs: Lint stuck inside the upper tension discs stops them from gripping the thread correctly or releasing it evenly. This messes up the tension and can cause breaks.
How to Clean Your Machine
- Turn off the machine and unplug it.
- Take off the needle plate (use the screwdriver).
- Take out the bobbin and bobbin case (or the drop-in bobbin).
- Use the small brush that came with your machine to gently brush away lint from the feed dogs and the bobbin area. Do not use canned air in most cases, as it can blow the lint further into the machine.
- Use a thin tool (like a dental pick or a special cleaning tool) to gently remove packed lint from the bobbin case area or around the hook.
- For the tension discs, you can sometimes slide a piece of firm thread or dental floss between the discs with the presser foot up to try and pull out lint.
- Put everything back together. Put the needle plate back on. Reinstall the bobbin and bobbin case.
Regular cleaning keeps your machine running smoothly and helps prevent thread breaks caused by dirt. Clean your machine often, especially after working with fuzzy fabrics.
A Few Other Things
If you have checked all the most common causes and your thread is still breaking, look at these other possible issues.
Presser Foot Pressure
The presser foot holds the fabric down as you sew. Some machines let you change the pressure it puts on the fabric. Presser foot pressure that is too high on light fabric can make it hard for the fabric to move. This pulls on the thread and can cause breaks. Pressure that is too low on thick fabric can cause skipped stitches or uneven feeding, also stressing the thread. Most of the time, the factory setting is fine, but if you are sewing very thick or very thin fabric, check your manual about adjusting presser foot pressure.
Bobbin Case Check
Look closely at your bobbin case (if your machine has one). Are there any nicks, burrs, or rough spots? These can snag the thread as it comes out of the bobbin. If you find one, you might be able to smooth it carefully with very fine sandpaper (like 600 grit or higher), but be very careful not to change the shape of the case. Often, it is better to just replace a damaged bobbin case. For drop-in bobbin systems, check the plastic bobbin holder area for scratches or damage.
Machine Needs Oiling or Service
Like any machine, a sewing machine needs oiling to keep parts moving freely. If your machine is not oiled (check your manual for where and how often), friction can build up. This extra resistance can stress the thread and other parts, leading to breaks. If you clean and oil your machine and check everything else, but the thread still breaks, it might be time for professional sewing machine troubleshooting and service. A repair person can check for worn parts, timing issues, or other problems you cannot see.
How to Find the Problem
Solving thread breaking is like being a detective. Do not try to fix everything at once. Go step-by-step. This is a good way for sewing machine troubleshooting.
- Turn Off Machine: Always start safe.
- Rethread Top and Bobbin: Take all thread out. Put it back in slowly and correctly, presser foot UP.
- Change Needle: Put in a brand new needle of the right type and size for your fabric. Make sure it is in correctly (flat side back).
- Check Thread: Is it good quality? Right type for the job? Is the spool unwinding smoothly?
- Clean Machine: Focus on the bobbin area, feed dogs, and tension discs. Remove all lint you can see.
- Check Tension: Sew a test piece. Look at the stitches. Adjust the top tension dial if needed. Do not touch bobbin tension unless you are sure and know how.
- Check Bobbin Case: Look for damage. Make sure you are using the right bobbin.
- Check Presser Foot Pressure: Is it right for the fabric?
- Sew a Test: After each step (especially 2, 3, 5, 6), sew a test line on scrap fabric. See if the problem is fixed. If not, move to the next step.
Here is a simple table to help:
| Problem Sign | Most Likely Causes | Quick Fix Try First |
|---|---|---|
| Thread breaks near needle | Bent/dull needle, wrong tension (too tight) | Change needle, rethread, check top tension |
| Thread breaks anywhere else | Bad thread, wrong threading, dirty machine | Try new thread, rethread, clean machine |
| Loops on top of fabric | Top tension too tight | Lower top tension number |
| Loops on bottom of fabric | Top tension too loose or bobbin tension too tight | Raise top tension number (or check bobbin) |
| Machine sounds rough | Needs cleaning, needs oiling, maybe service | Clean machine, oil machine |
| Fabric not moving smoothly | Lint in feed dogs, presser foot pressure wrong | Clean feed dogs, check pressure |
Stopping Breaks Before They Start
You can do things to stop thread from breaking often.
- Always start sewing with a good needle. Change it often, maybe after every 8-10 hours of sewing, or after every big project. Change it any time you sew over pins or hit something hard.
- Use good quality thread. It is worth the small extra cost.
- Clean your machine often. Make it a habit after each project or type of fabric.
- Store thread right. Keep it away from sun and dust.
- Thread your machine carefully every time. Do not rush it.
- Read your machine manual. It has specific tips for your model.
Summary
Thread breaking is a sewing problem that can stop you from finishing your projects. But it is not a mystery! Most times, the reason is one of a few simple things: a bad needle, old or cheap thread, wrong threading, tension that is not right, or lint build-up. By checking these things one by one – starting with a new needle and rethreading – you can usually find and fix the problem yourself. Keep your machine clean, use good supplies, and check your settings. With a little bit of sewing machine troubleshooting, you can get your thread running smoothly again and enjoy your sewing time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my sewing machine needle?
Change your needle after about 8-10 hours of sewing time, or after each project. Change it right away if it hits a pin or breaks. Needles get dull or bent without you seeing it, and a fresh needle prevents many problems like thread breaking and skipped stitches.
Can the wrong type of bobbin cause thread breaks?
Yes. Bobbins vary slightly in size and how they feed thread. Using a bobbin not made for your specific machine model can cause uneven tension, snagging, and lead to the top thread breaking or stitches looking wrong. Always use the type of bobbin your machine manual tells you to use.
Is more expensive thread always better?
Generally, yes. Reputable brands of thread use better quality fibers and construction. They are less likely to have weak spots, slubs, or break under tension. While you don’t always need the most expensive thread for every project, avoiding very cheap thread can save you frustration from breaks and other issues.
Why does my thread break only when I sew fast?
Sewing fast puts more stress on the thread, needle, and machine parts due to higher speed and friction. If there is a problem like a slight bend in the needle, a bit of lint in the tension discs, or slightly off tension, sewing fast will make that small problem worse and cause the thread to snap. Slowing down can help, but finding the root cause (often needle, threading, or cleaning) is the best fix.
My thread keeps breaking only on certain fabrics. Why?
Different fabrics need different needles and possibly different tension or presser foot pressure. Sewing a knit with a universal needle, or denim with a small needle, can cause breaks. Very thick or very thin fabrics might need tension adjustments. Check if you are using the right needle type and size for that fabric, and try sewing slower.