Bobbin thread breaks can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts your embroidery projects. The good news is, there are a few common causes for bobbin thread breaks, and in most cases, they can be easily resolved. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve bobbin thread breaks.
Before we start, here's a brief video that shows you how to insert, thread, and remove your bobbin:
Causes of Bobbin Thread Breaks
Bobbin thread breaks can be caused by several different factors, including:
- Damaged bobbin case
- Poor bobbin maintenance
- Improper bobbin insertion
- Using the wrong type of bobbin
- Inconsistent bobbin tension
How to Check Bobbin Tension
The most common cause of bobbin thread breaks is inconsistent bobbin tension. As the bobbin unwinds, the tension can become uneven, causing the bobbin thread to loosen or tighten. Here's how to check the bobbin tension:
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Check the middle thread tension - If the middle thread tension is too low, it may be giving too much tension and making it difficult for the top thread to grab the bobbin thread.
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Check the bobbin tension - Ensure the bobbin tension is not too tight or too loose. A bobbin tension that is too tight could stretch the thread and cause it to break, while a bobbin tension that is too loose could cause the bobbin to pull to the top of the design.
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Check the "Length" setting (located after the "Trim" option in the "Emb Param") - Ensure the length is not too low.
Other Possible Causes of Bobbin Thread Breaks
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Check the bobbin - Ensure the bobbin (either the spring or the case itself) is not broken. If the bobbin is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
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Check the sewing arm - Locate the embroidery machine's sewing arm (the black bar that holds the rotary hook) and ensure it is not scratched. Any damage to the sewing arm could cause the bobbin thread to break.
Conclusion
Bobbin thread breaks can be frustrating, but they can also be easily resolved by following the steps outlined above. If you're still having trouble, we recommend watching the following resources below:
The Ultimate Thread Break Troubleshooting Guide
Threading a bobbin: TC/MT Machines
Why Thread Breaks Happen and How to Avoid Them
Changing the Bobbin on Ricoma Embroidery Machine
Need additional help?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for further assistance via email at service@ricoma.com or by visiting our support page at www.ricoma.com/US/support.