Evelyn, three weeks ago I was a beginning sewer, but after watching your videos, I learned how to thread my machine and bobbin, clean and oil my machine, address tangles, change my needle, and use a walking foot, and because of you I have been able to sew over two hundred masks for our nurses and first responders here in New Hampshire. I also have referred others in my group of 2,000 (!) volunteer seamstresses to your tutorials. Not only are we able to make better masks faster, we’re making our machines work better and preventing breakdowns, developing sewing enjoyment and benefitting mentally from being able to do some thing tangible to help. I’ve helped my daughter learn to sew, so now another person has the ability and joy of sewing ! I can’t thank-you enough ! I love your personality and share your love for the past. Thanks for all you do !
I been sewing for over 60 years so jams are not TOO often a problem. However, one of your tips is my absolute favorite: WALK AWAY for a while if something is frustrating you. It happens to all of us now and then, so this is brilliant! Have coffee and a cookie, take the dog for walk or call a friend you haven't spoken to in a while. It will calm you down. Then you can come back with a "clear head" as my dear mother would have said. Both she and my grandmother taught me to sew. My Granny (God bless her) always had to check my hems and seams. I learned early in life how to make tidy finished seams. Very little got past Granny's sharp eyes! Back in the 60's, Mom wouldn't allow me to make my skirts too short, so when I walked through the kitchen Granny (in her favorite rocker) would grab me and demand, "let me see that hem!" She'd take it from me under the pretense of examining it and an hour later I'd get it back - shorter! Mom rolled her eyes a lot. I'm not a true seamstress as Granny was (she didn't need a pattern and she could copy anything), but I've made just about everything from my own little cowgirl skirt when I was eight to bathing suits to wedding gowns and most everything has turned out well (except for that cowgirl skirt, it was awful!) I can't imagine life without a sewing machine, or 10!
you sound like my sister, she started sewing when she was 15 yrs old & sh'e 70 & a beautiful seamstress ! I admire her skills. When I get into a 'jam' I phone her, she can usually help me out 😘
@@janicebutler442 I think your sister and I have a lot in common! I started at age 8 and am now 72. I'm glad you have a sister/mentor. I had a younger sister. Sadly, I lost her to cancer 22 years ago. When we were teenagers, I sewed for her, t-shirts, skirts, prom dresses, Halloween costumes, etc. She would have been in her late sixties now had she lived, and I most likely would have been sewing for her still - unlike you, she wanted no parts of a sewing machine!!!
Mine was the wrong bobbin. Looked similar yet flat! 😱 after three days of adjusting the tension, changing needles and thread, cleaning machine! I then started watching different videos and trying different corrections. After 7 videos your the only one who said check to see if you have the correct bobbin! Thanks
One other instance that I have observed this occurring in, is when stitching over a thick seam or starting to sew through thicker fabrics. It causes the presser foot to tilt up to get over the thickness, therefore reducing the normally even pressure on the dog feeds. The fabric won't feed through correctly and thread nest is the result. This can be fixed by having a piece of folded up fabric (to about 1/8-1/4 inch thick) on hand. When you come to a thick spot, stop, raise the presser foot, insert the assist fabric behind the needle making sure it won't get caught by the needle. Lower the presser foot and observe if the presser foot is now level, and then proceed to sew once it is. After I learned this trick, I've never been without my fabric presser foot assist. Mine is a folded up scrap quilting square which I stitched together for a permanent addition to my sewing supplies. Hope this helps!
@@Evelyn__Wood just realised from reading this, that I got a hump jumper with my machine when it was new! I had no idea what it was or what it was for... would have been useful yesterday when I refashioned an old pair of jeans into a dungaree dress.. those bulky seams were giving me endless issues! Well now I know that I already have a tool to help!
Soooo, I have changed the needle, adjusted the tension, took my machine apart and cleaned it, pulled the thread loooooong and held it before starting, haven't started from the tippy toppy end of the fabric either! Finally I took a breather as recommended, counted till ten and rethreaded my machine! FINALLY!! Maybe that should have been your first tip as it actually the easiest one to try!! Thanks for the tips! You saved my machine from going to the bin! That's how frustrated I was!!
Well you have definitely described my main problem as “operator error”! Your insightful tips are true and true all of the way, loved them and thank you! Yes, you are right I’ve replayed a few of your videos to assist me. Stay safe Evelyn, I hope that you & your Family are well. We are in lockdown in my town and staying home too. Happy Sewing Everyone!! 🧵👗🧵
I have been fighting with my machine literally all day. I finally stumbled across your video and changed my thread… Problem fixed! Thank you! Thank you!
OH MY GOSH IT WAS THE FREAKING THREAD CHOICE THAT KEPT MAKING MY MACHINE JAM FINALLLLLLLLLLYYYYYYY ! (i deserve likes on this comment you dont know how much stress i've been under from this lol)
@@ronhorner4060 Thanks...Might need to throw away all my threads and start again. Bought them from the market stall for cheap as a beginner sewer and starting to wonder if that is not the main causes for my issues 🤔
It had been 20 years since I've sewed. I took my machine in for a tune-up because it was jamming. Over a 3 month period I would bring it back 3 times (under tune-up warranty) and they couldn't find anything wrong. It worked well for them but when I would start sewing it would jam, thread bunching underneath at last 100 times!!! I was at my wits end until I remembered that my husband always looked to UA-cam to figure things out. This video was the best refresher course I EVER came across! I can now finish my curtains I started over 3 months ago! I was over wounding the bobbin, Tension was off and I was not holding the thread when I start sewing. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you from San Diego, California!!
I thank you so much! Experienced sewer here. My bobbin was jamming, rethreaded top and the bobbin, nope didn't help, cleaned inside, rethreaded top and bobbin again, nope, tighten my bobbin tension, nope, OH! the NEEDLE, 😆, I KNEW this, I hate getting old, senior duh moment. THANK YOU!
It’s amazing how much missing one little step in threading the top thread can cause such a huge problem and I didn’t even think to check it. Thank you so much. I’m a fan for life
I followed several of your steps and got my sewing machine to work flawlessly again. I rethreaded the top thread and bobbin and pulled them out longer like you suggested. I also used a can of dust spray for keyboards in the bobbin tray, and then I adjusted the tension and stitch length recommended by google for what I was sewing. I did not have anymore jammed thread after that. Thank you so much for this video!
Oh my god Evelyn, you are a life saver. I only started sewing 2 days ago and my sewing machine started jamming up, It was so annoying I almost Screamed but I stopped to watch this video and found out it was something as simple as not having the thread in the pressure disks! Honestly you don't get enough praise
Whyyyyyy!? 😭 I can never figure out where to start solving it, so it just keeps happening once it begins. I have caused many UGLY stitches before realizing I should hold the thread😄 ❤️ Your videos!
Great tips. Not much is more frustrating while sewing than getting a jam like this. Thank you so much for your tips. I can think of 2 more things to check, (don't ask me how I know these!) 1. Check that your bobbin is seated in the bobbin case so that the thread is coming off the bobbin in the correct direction. (generally counter or anti-clockwise, but check manuals) 2. Begin sewing with the needle moving in a downward direction. (get use to using the 'needle up-need down" function if you have one on your machine.)
I came very close to throwing a brand new Singer in the trash! My husband & I completely refurbished my great-grandmother's Singer, that Granpa bought for her brand new in 1927, and it was beautiful! Still runs better than anything on the market today. I took my own advice with my new machine and put everything away and came back to it the following weekend. This time, I rethreaded it and realized I had completely jumped out of the tensioner and the thread was doing a weird dance every time I put my foot on the pedal. So, now it's working great, Grandma's machine is my backup for heavy-duty sewing and I'm happily learning how to use my new serger! Thank you for your videos, since even an old dog like me can still learn a few new tricks!
Thank you Evelyn. I struggled with this issue; and was disappointed because my project was coming along so nicely. Thank you for helping me to figure it out: I am so happy with the results and am glad I did not quit.
Evelyn, thank you so much. As a beginner sewer, I spent a good couple of hours watching other videos, trying to narrow down why my machine was jamming. It was the operator error, all working now!
Excellent tips! You covered virtually everything. I can’t stress enough that it makes a difference holding the threads out the back of the presser foot for the first couple of bites of the needle. I would add Make friends with your local sewing machine service person. Make your first service include a ‘how to’ home mini service. If you’ve bought a new machine ask your retailer (only applies if purchased from a sewing centre that has an inhouse service person) for a lesson on how to service your machine at home in between professional services. Newbies both machine and sewer will benefit from a once a year full service. (Especially if it is a cheaper plastic components machine - things break!). So see if it’s possible to sit in on the first service. Some sewing machine companies, like Bernina, offer free lessons. If your new machine comes with lessons, see if you can make one of those lessons instruction in home service. I get my machines professionally serviced once every 3-5 years unless something untoward goes wrong. If something weird starts happening with my machines, I do not try and fix outside my own expertise, but take to my service shop.. I have all metal Swiss made vintage Berninas, which are trojans, and I know how to service and fix most problems. But it has taken years to confidently let lapse between services. You too can learn to mini home service your own machine. It will extend the life of your machine and help make sewing on it a pleasure. Secondly, get a selection of mini cleaning brushes. Sets are available for a small price. They can be washed. And they last years and years. Pipe cleaners can also be used to clean under your needle plate and into the bobbin area. I don’t love them because they are more disposable and less useful than a set of mini brushes Often after a while sewing the bobbin race can develop very tiny but sharp burrs. These burrs can damage the integrity of the top thread causing it to splinter and throw off micro lint to eventually clog up under the needle plate. Burrs are one of the first things looked for in a professional service. And they are then buffed off. You can learn how to detect burrs on your bobbin race by gently wiping your finger tip back and forward on the edge of the race while oiling it. Don’t take sandpaper to it!! Let your service person buff off the burr and perhaps teach you how you can do it at hime without destroying the balance and precision of your bobbin mechanics. Oil your bobbin race every say 5-6 bobbins worth of sewing. Your machine will run more smoothly and less chance of thread snagging and catching under the needle plate. DO NOT ever blow into your bobbin area. There are mini vacuum machines available for sucking lint etc out of small areas. Worth the investment if you can afford it and you want to be more self sufficient with care of your machine. Such things eventually pay for themselves when your home care is effective enough to reliably extend the time between essential professional services. Finally I have to reiterate, if you’ve tried everything within your expertise - leave it alone and get professional help. I’ve seen fixes that would have been covered in a standard service ending up costing twice as much because of damage done by a novice operator attempting to fix outside their expertise. Happy sewing 😊
Sehryn, I wish I had read your comments before I attempted to work on my vintage Kenmore machine. I have had problems with the bobbin for many years. I had Sears service it twice, but to no avail. I haven’t used my machine in many, many years. Since I have been on quarantine for he last several weeks, I thought I would attempt to make a few masks. WRONG! I can’t tell you the problems I have created. I’m afraid at my age my vision is starting to fail me. I spent hours trying to adjust my bobbin case. Suffice to say, I made such a mess that I had to search Goggle for a replacement bobbin case to the tune of $40. When the bobbin case arrives I will attempt to put it in with new thread on the top and bottom (I can’t begin to guess how old my thread might be). Anyway, sorry to ramble. Wish me luck. When this world emergency is over, I plan to search for repair shop. Stay safe and be Blessed.
You deserve a Noble prize for this video. I have been having problems with my sewing machine for a few weeks and it never occurred to me that it might be the needle. Thank you so much, this helped incredibly!
I watched a YT video about a week ago and the sewing machine repairman mentioned that the top spool thread needs to be pulling off of the spool going to the back, away from the operator/seamstress. If the thread of the top spool is pulling to the front, towards you, it can cause problems. Great video. Thanks.
Ooh yes! I would think that some machines are more 'finicky' than others, some this won't matter, and others it will make all the difference! It's a good tip!
So interesting. I'm definitely going to try it on my machine. I have always placed my spool so that the thread is dispensing from the rear of the spool toward me. Yours is the first I've seen that says to do it the opposite way - I've seen lots of instructions to do it the way I have been - including from my own machine maker. I'm about to get up . . .. Thanks!!
Oh Evelyn, you jinxed me! I sewed many masks last week and today started on a batch. As soon as I started the first pleat, I got a horrible thread nest. I immediately thought of this video after re threading the machine completely 2 times!!! Im off to try your other suggestions😉 thanks so much! Happy sewing!
I just pulled out my machine and saved this video. So I can get back to sewing. It all of the sudden started doing that. So tomorrow I'm gonna look and try these. Thank you so very much! This was straight to the point and extremely helpful!
You're an angel. I'm a beginner and every time I've had a problem, and there have been lots, your videos have helped me work through it. I love listening to your calm voice while there is chaos in my head, your calmness helps me to focus. I really like how you link other videos when you say it might be a different problem so I don't have to start a new search. If I had not found you on UA-cam, I think I already would have given up. Thank you!
You caught us!! Or just me at least. 😂 I’ve actually taken the time to thread my own machine instead of taking my machine to my mom to do. As a 33 year old woman trying to figure this all out.... you are a SAINT!! Thank you for your lovely heart!
Thank you for all these tips! I am a self taught seamstress since the age of 14 (now 70!) And didn’t know this. Again, thank you! Please be safe. I adore your channel!
Your video illuminated so much. I was given a sewing machine and I have used it over the years. My latest project; I've been going a couple inches at time due to the thread jams! Listen, after your video, I decided to find the manual online. Not only was I using the wrong needle size, threading my machine incorrectly, loading my bobbin incorrectly, using the wrong bobbin, needed to oil the machine, using the wrong thread, not holding down the threads to start sewing, not using starting stitches for the zigzags. AND on top of it all. My machine has the WRONG bobbin case all together! Thank you for you help.
Thanks so much for this, was despairing yesterday, I got a jam, broke a needle then after that it would only sew a straight stitch, so no zig zag or decorative - the needle was making the right movements but just wasn't picking up thread when it went to the left. I watched lots of videos even getting heavy on the timing ones, googled the repair man ready to phone next morning.I couldn't sleep so got up, made a brew, watched this, you gave me heart to try all your suggestions .....it was full of lint , a good clean and its back on form yippee !!! more lessons learned lol
Also make sure your needle is all the way up. If it’s not seared correctly, it won’t take up the bobbin thread. It will also break you needle. Easy mistake to make.
THANK YOU!!! I recently started sewing earlier this year, hubby bought me an awesome machine for mothers day and I would constantly have this problem. I did everything in the manual, all the tips I could find online but nothing worked. Currently sewing now and decide to search again, come across your video and as soon as you said to hold the threads I start laughing and shaking my head cause I knew that was going to fix it! Sure enough!! Something so simple that has not been said in anything else I've seen! I've subscribed to your channel!!
Thank you!! Problem solved!! It was tip number two..which boggles my mind! After first grandbaby came I pulled out my machine (which I hadn't really used much in years) and I couldn't solve this problem ( I have many hours of sewing under my belt over the years but would still consider my self an intermediate). I ended up taking my machine in for servicing, cuz hey it had been years, so right before covid hit I got it in. They said all was well and left a test piece in the machine to prove it. They left the bobbin thread in so I threaded my top, which I can actually do in my sleep, and had the same bird's nest issue!! I was so saddened. Not wanting to chance wrecking my machine I shelved it..till tonight. I watched your video, thank you so much..I had to hit subscribe and will be checking out your website.. I figured it was maybe tip 1..which would have been embarrassing after all my sewing years..but a fast fix that I would be happy with..but nope..it still made a nest. Instantly I was feeling like I'd be getting to step 9, but I decided step by step I'd go. Step 2 was the key..I'm surprised but oh so happy because after 18 months (how old my grandbaby is) I can finally make the crib blanket I had planned on!! Interesting thing..the bobbin thread they left in is pink..I threaded white thread (top)..and in my test piece which resulted in a bird's nest all I see is white thread (top). Perhaps that is my future tell if ever I encounter this again. Anyway, one more time..THANK YOU!! May your hands continue to be blessed in all your sewing endeavors 🙌
I was about to buy another machine when I found this video!! I recently cleaned my machine & didn't put the bobbin tray back in correctly & didn't change my needle ... I had reset the tray but was still having the bunching problem then you said change your needle & I realized I haven't changed my needle since 8 dresses, 3 sets of curtains & 3 baby blankets ago ... Changed my needle & rethreaded both top & bobbin AND SHE'S SEWING LIKE A DREAM 😍😍😍😍
Just found your channel because my needle broke. Ugh! I say that because it was the first time I replaced a needle(it was an adventure) and now it's just laying the thread on top😬 I will go back tomorrow with a fresh view, thank you! Loving your style!
Hello and thank you Evelyn! I tried all of this and couldnt get my machine to sew properly EXCEPT for cleaning it. I always thought i never had to deal with cleaning it because it was relatively new (6 months old) but i was absolutely shocked by the amount of dust and fluff hidden inside. Im happy to say that you helped me so much!
It depends on what you're sewing. Once I made myself a long velvet skirt with layers of flounces. I can tell you I've been finding velvet fluff all over the house for months afterwards!
Thank you for sharing these tips on thread jamming! I bought new thread, pulled the original plastic bobbin out of the storage bag as I was using a metal one that I thought was better and replaced the needle. Now the machine works better than ever and without a hefty service fee of taking it to a repair shop. Thank you.
YOU ARE LITERALLY A LIFE SAVER! I JUST GOT A SEWINGMACHINE AND IT ALREADY STARTED JAMMING BUT THEN I FOUND OUT ITS BC I DIDNT HOLD THE THREATS BUT NOW I TRIED AND IT WORKED!! THANK YOU
This video was so helpful! I've had a second sewing machine jam and couldn't resolve it. I am borrowing the one i bought for my ex- husband 😁. The machines only cost $200 (same machines). I use it for basic sewing. It was going to cost $100 for someone to look at it. I learned early on to clear the fuzzies, so I do it often. After cleaning the fuzzies, it started jamming - same thread in the machine...etc. I wasn't sure of the type of thread in my bobbin so I made a new one with known thread, re-threaded everything, changed the needle and problem solved 🥰. I am making gifts for my son's school and the frustration of a broken machine is unbearable. Thank you so much for coming to my rescue!
Thank you SO MUCH! I’m a beginner and my machine kept jamming like that. I got so frustrated and discouraged that I just hand sewed for a while, which took for ever and was so messy. But this video was so lighthearted, helpful, and easy to understand and watch! A million thanks.
I fussed and fumed and repeatedly pulled the bobbin and bobbin case, pulled the hook and searched for bits of thread all under there - and all I had to do was rethread the upper thread. Thanks so much for alleviating my frustration and ending my afternoon of, well, not tears but a lot of cussing. Lovely job, new subscriber! Peace from Ohio …
Thank you for the bobbin jam tips. Love your decor & the fashions you wear. The best advise ever was, "Just walk away from it & try again later with fresh eyes!" I get frustrated very quickly & it helps to know that thread jam issues can happen to anybody at any time. Here goes another try...
It was the needle! I had already done everything that was suggested on the video so I was beginning to worry I was going to have to take it to a technician but a new needle fixed it. Yay! Thanks so much!
So lastnight I sewed 3/4 of my soft leather tote bag and was left to do straps....half way through machine started bursting thread....tried about 20 times and gave up ....this morning I tried again 5 times to no avail. Decided to look up and found this episode. I ended up cleaning the inside and got a small size amount furry like stuff.....machine working as normal now......thanks
Earlier today I found your channel because I was looking for reasons my sewing machine was jamming. I'm brand new to sewing. I had never touched a sewing machine before about a week ago. I have taken it up as a quarantine hobby! Right after I watched your other video you posted this one 👍 for me I think I found my issue. I was going one stitch past the end of my garment and so I actually need to fish out the thread that comes from my needle before I so my next piece because it Loops up underneath and everything jams when I start working again
Sweet Christmas... Rethreading the top thread fixed my constant jamming issue. I was so furious that sewing was going along flawlessly and then this one hiccup send my progress to a grinding halt. Thank you. I was clearing the bobbin area and double checking that everything was working properly and it was one simple error that I couldn’t see happening.
Evelyn, this frustration can follow you through your sewing life. I was helping a friend get a gown ready for a special occasion. She had to work and I started on the long, straight seam. Disaster! It would sew okay for a couple of inches. I went through all of this, and last of all, it was the wrong size bobbin for her machine. I got this from reading the instruction book! This is a great video for all of us! It is wonderful to see you looking well and eager.
Hi Evelyn, first let me say I like your videos because your upbeat and speak clearly and your funny. Your personality shines thru and love the outfits you wear. Second I'm a guy so I have been teaching myself and with the covid19 starting sewing mask and now doing grocery bags, handkerchiefs for pets and other projects I'm hooked because it's something that I am learning and it's challenging. I say women do the hard things in life and having babies and sewing are just two of them. Thanks for this video now I have two other things to check. Number 9 walk away is a very good suggestion its like working on cars when you can't get a bolt off it gets frustrating and walking away works. I know you said to take it to a shop if nothing else fails but I'm a guy so i'll tinker with it until I need help it's like the direction thing with us guys. Thanks I have learned a lot from watching.
Thank you so much for this video! I haven't had a sewing machine for 10 years, I just got one and got very frustrated, I pretty much forgot everything! Your tricks really helped me quickly get started! It was as simple as holding the threads in the beginning. Managed to fold a very LONG pair of pants in 15 minutes after watching your video (post two hours of hair pulling)! 100% operator error....
Oh my gosh I LOVE YOU!!! Been wrestling with my bobbin for the last 2 hours and turns out I didn't thread it right after refilling my bobbin. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!
Thank you so much! I bought this machine years ago and couldn't get it to work so I gave up on sewing things. I watched this video and fixed it in minutes!!
I did everything I could think of before watching this. I took off the throat plate, removed the bobbin and the little bobbin shuttle thing, cleaned and oiled everything, checked for any bits and pieces that seemed wrong, swapped out the needle, tried a different fabric, was going nuts. I was considering taking it to be checked out. Then I watched this and immediately rethreaded the top thread. Problem solved! Thank you, Evelyn!
Hi Evelyn, I did everything you suggested here, and it worked 😄 I couldn't believe it 😂😂😂 I started losing hope and thought of buying a new machine (been using mine for 4 years with no maintenance hhh), and this has saved me 👍👍👍 thank you so much ♥️♥️♥️♥️ oh and your smile makes me happy 😊
So, I have to give credit where credit is due... I am an amateur sewer and I was attaching new velcro to a headset I use at work. The first 3 sides went well then the 4th turned into a nightmare. I fought thread jam for 1.5 hours before watching this video. I adjusted tension and rethreaded the machine and bobbin several times with no solution. Finally I removed the needle and found that the adhesive from the back of the velcro had built up on the needle. It was adding it's own tension. I cleaned the needle, rethreaded, and finished with no problems. Thanks for reminding me to check EVERYTHING.
I was baffling what is happening withh my machine for HOURS 😭 Thank you so so much for the video. I didn't know that if the treat is not exactly on its place it can cause problems. I am so glad I saw it and thank you again for the video
Hi! Love your channel. But I just found a totally different reason this thread jam was happening to me and I'm so thrilled I need to share. When I threaded the machine, the take-up lever was not in its fully upright position poking up at the top, so my thread did not hook around it. I knew something didn't feel exactly right when I was doing the steps to thread the top thread into the machine, but I followed all the numbers and it seemed fine. But I needed to turn the hand wheel to position the take-up level at the very top before threading!!!! wahoo!!!!
OMG. It's working again. I was just about ready to give up and I found your video.. Dec 15th 2023.. I did everything you said.. I took it apart, cleaned it changed the needle and rethreaded the bobber. Changed the thread.. I was surprised to see how much fuzz balls were in there. I just used q-tips with rubbing alcohol. I put it all back together and voila..🎉 its working. Thank you so much . 😊❤
Oh and one more thing I learned in the first few months of sewing. Because I am new and I seem determined to make ever single new sewing mistake in the book I have found that it is better for me to buy sewing needles in bulk😉 At least the U12 and U14. When in doubt change the needle. Many of the mistakes I have made caused the needle to bend, dull and once even break. I am not worried about wasting a needle change anymore as I have what I need. I am learning each time I sit down so I am sure this will slow down but for now this has helped me many times.
Thank you Thank you Thank you. I had already tried almost everything you mentioned and the machine was still jamming. I decided to try changing thread and it is working like a dream!
YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW MUCH I NEED THIS OMG. gonna throw caution to the wind and watch right now even though it's past midnight and others in my house are sleeping
😄😄😄 Ha ha excellent! Make sure yoy watch the other video (linked in descrption)about the operator error problems too! It goes into more detail about those problems! I hope it helps!
OMG this video gifted me my patience back! I'm a new sewer and I thought I had my machine "figured out" until the birds nests started happening... I tried EVERYTHIG... or at least I thought I did! After watching this video after video I realized it was *cough* an operator error haha Re-thread your machine, silly! I feel this is the "turn off and back on" solution of sewing! That and make sure you have a quality needle and change it! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR VIDEO!
OMG you saved my life, i was using a metal bobbin instead of the plastic one that came with my sewing machine. switched back and it works great! I almost gave up 😭
I have not sewn in years, and have spent most of today and last night trying to get my machine to work. I SO wish I could have a sew friend over. I'm glad I found your video; I've just subscribed to your channel, you finally made me smile today...but still frustrated with my fecking machine. :(
It has been a sheer pleasure watching you! I've been wanting to get back to sewing but I didn't know what to make of this particular issue and too embarrassed to ask anyone. So, I kept wacthing you in hopes that you would say something about it. I didn't know for sure if I ever hope to see one. I'm very blessed. You spoke of cleaning out "the fuzzies" under and around the bobbin. You taught me I could take that other plate off too. Thanks!
This video came on the very day I experienced thread jam for the first time on my new machine. I am making lots of masks for hospice workers and in my haste to get them done I had neglected some basics. Making my own bias binding to make the ties, I wasn't leaving enough of a "tail" AND after hours of sewing I had totally forgotten to change the needle! Thanks!!
Thank you SO much!! I had tried about 20 times and on another bit of fabric, but just watching this, then taking a deep breath, trying on some plaing cotton and making sure to pull the threads and the fabric through at the back helped fix my problem. Thanks Evelyn! x Best Wishes, Eilidh! x
:-) Thank you so much! I'm a total beginner and I was soooo frustrated. Thanks to your explanations I now know what I had done wrong. Now my machine is working, I'm happy and I can go on sewing some more face masks...and maybe some other things in the near future. Thank you! You made my weekend! :-)
Thank you so much for making this video! I watched your previous video that said to hold down the thread ends before sewing, but I thought I only had to hold down the top thread, lol! So this time I held down both threads & my machine stopped jamming! Hallelujah!
After going through 5 other videos that was alot of dumb run on talking that covered nothing for 5 to 15 min I was greatful to find this one that gave actual help and more then just 1 possible cause...when your already frustrated about something hearing someone rambling isn't help...this video helped alot and actually helped calm me down cause it pointed out things I wasn't thinking of like wow I haven't cleaned my internals I should do that for just good machine maintenance...thank you for the advice
This was a great video! I can add a couple more. 1) Know your machine - I haven't used mine for quite a while, but got it out to do masks. The thread kept jamming, the tension wouldn't work. I tried everything I could think of - then accidentally realized that the rod I had my upper thread on was recessed into the machine and had to be pulled up so my spool had been wobbling all over the place! 2) As you mentioned in another video, make sure your thread isn't too old. My thread kept jamming and breaking and I couldn't figure out why. After hours of messing with the machine, I got frustrated and took the big spool off the machine to put it away and glanced at the top of the spool. The price was listed as 5 cents! Turns out, it was inherited from a 92-year-old neighbor 10 years ago, so it was probably purchased in the 30s or 40s. New spool, pulled up spool holder - good as new. Definitely user-error! Love your videos and I'm hooked on sewing again!
Omg thank you so much. This video was a life saver. I'm a beginner at sewing and I started to panic as things weren’t going well. Thank you so much once again for making this video.
Heyo, wanted to say thanks for the video! Im in a rush to finish a cosplay/ Halloween costume and my machine started jamming due to my thread not making it all the way through and picking up the bobin thread. I tried everthing I could think of and your simple suggestion of re-inserting the top thread worked like a charm! You've saved my costume, thank you so so much!!!
Thank you so much! I love that you are simple and methodical in your suggestions. And you mentioned the mathematics of the machine!!! As a math teacher, that made me a fan of yours forever!!!!!
Thanks! I did my pattern making math on paper rather than use calculator, I feel like it is the only time in life I can practice times tables in my head! 😊
Girl my machine kept jamming and I was like what on earth is going on??? So idk which of your advice helped but I cleaned my bobbin area, re threaded the top and bottom and then you also mentioned something about thread tension and I was using nylon thread, increased the spacing in the stitch and smooth sailing! Thank you lots!!
Evelyn, you're the greatest! Jamming keeping me from doing sa small, importantproject.Your threetop tips saved my sanity, maybe my marriage!.Many Thanks!!
Thank you so much!! I was going crazy, it started thread jamming 3/4 of the way through a project. So, I took a breather and watched your video. Honestly, I think I was just getting lazy and not holding the tails, but I also gave the bobbin section a good blow and loads of fluff flew out!! Project finished - I can now wear those jeans that I grew out of 2years ago :)
You helped me fix my nesting issue after several different videos trying to figure it out. My machine is definitely clean now and correctly threaded. Can't wait to start using my new machine
Yay!! Thank you! Just fixed it by cleaning it and oiling it!! Walking away fixes it so many times but not this time! The one time I really needed to walk away from it, I was so tired I was forgetting to put the pressure foot down! For over an hour!
Hi Evelyn Your video helped me when I was feeling very 😠 I have a Harry Potter cloak to make for my daughter's teddy for tomorrow! My problem was caused due to me incorrectly threading the machine! Now sewing ok. I must sew more often as I forget how to thread the machine in between times. I am going to watch more of your videos and get back into dressmaking as 20+ years ago I used to make some lovely dresses on my previous Singer machine. Thanks 😀
I can’t believe it. I tried holding both threads when I started (I usually just hold the top to keep it from slipping out of the needle) and it’s working fine now. Not very pretty because I’ve got stretchy fabric, but good enough for my project. Thank you so much! I definitely need to learn more about sewing
😀 www.vintagesewingschool.com to really up-level your sewing! 😀 Leave a comment with any other tips you have for us, and well, which one solved your thread jam problem??
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You. I was about to tod out my machine. It was the top thread it came of the arm inside so I was getting massive thread jams. I am now in love with your channel. I subscribed. Thank you for sharing your tips.
Your video helped me so much! I did get so frustrated while trying to start a project and trying everything to get my fairly new machine to work. But, the last thing I tried was watching your video and then your tip about the thread. I was using some old thread that my mom donated to me and wouldn't you know it, that was it! Switched out the old thread for my usual spools and my machine started working and not jamming up. Thanks again for your video.:)
Hiya, not sure if anyone mentioned but an issue I encountered was the thread on the top ripped. I removed it, put another spool as I wanted to change colour anyway, rethreaded the machine and it constantly jammed. Now if this ever happens to you, first use a flaslight to check if the ripped thread is still in your machine along the way of the top thread guide. For me it was wound on the top tension wheel inside. To remove it, set the tension wheel to the lowest position and use the loop turners hook to grab the stuck thread. You may need to wriggle the jammed thread a little bit to get it out but thats what worked for me. It also gave me a much better understanding of how the machine works. I hope this will help you as well if you get into this same situation :)
Have been making masks for friends and family and started having this problem. ;>( I was sooooo surprised at the amount of fluff my machine had in the bobbin area. Cleaned it up, and problem sorted! Very helpful tips; thank you, Evelyn! Stay safe and healthy.
thank you, I had already tried a few, but when you said re thread, I thought Ahhh I bet that's it. I watched the rest of your video and then re threaded. SURE enough THANK YOU Miss Lovely!
Evelyn, three weeks ago I was a beginning sewer, but after watching your videos, I learned how to thread my machine and bobbin, clean and oil my machine, address tangles, change my needle, and use a walking foot, and because of you I have been able to sew over two hundred masks for our nurses and first responders here in New Hampshire. I also have referred others in my group of 2,000 (!) volunteer seamstresses to your tutorials. Not only are we able to make better masks faster, we’re making our machines work better and preventing breakdowns, developing sewing enjoyment and benefitting mentally from being able to do some thing tangible to help. I’ve helped my daughter learn to sew, so now another person has the ability and joy of sewing ! I can’t thank-you enough ! I love your personality and share your love for the past. Thanks for all you do !
😍😍 Aww this makes my day to hear it! I hope you continue sewing after the masks too! Keep up the great work! 😘
That is wonderful, you are doing great
Yep ! I'm getting turned on
@@nelshorton wtf 😥
Just because of your comment I'm subscribing. I haven't even watched the video yet but looking forward to 😊
I been sewing for over 60 years so jams are not TOO often a problem. However, one of your tips is my absolute favorite: WALK AWAY for a while if something is frustrating you. It happens to all of us now and then, so this is brilliant! Have coffee and a cookie, take the dog for walk or call a friend you haven't spoken to in a while. It will calm you down. Then you can come back with a "clear head" as my dear mother would have said. Both she and my grandmother taught me to sew. My Granny (God bless her) always had to check my hems and seams. I learned early in life how to make tidy finished seams. Very little got past Granny's sharp eyes! Back in the 60's, Mom wouldn't allow me to make my skirts too short, so when I walked through the kitchen Granny (in her favorite rocker) would grab me and demand, "let me see that hem!" She'd take it from me under the pretense of examining it and an hour later I'd get it back - shorter! Mom rolled her eyes a lot. I'm not a true seamstress as Granny was (she didn't need a pattern and she could copy anything), but I've made just about everything from my own little cowgirl skirt when I was eight to bathing suits to wedding gowns and most everything has turned out well (except for that cowgirl skirt, it was awful!) I can't imagine life without a sewing machine, or 10!
you sound like my sister, she started sewing when she was 15 yrs old & sh'e 70 & a beautiful seamstress ! I admire her skills. When I get into a 'jam' I phone her, she can usually help me out 😘
@@janicebutler442 I think your sister and I have a lot in common! I started at age 8 and am now 72. I'm glad you have a sister/mentor. I had a younger sister. Sadly, I lost her to cancer 22 years ago. When we were teenagers, I sewed for her, t-shirts, skirts, prom dresses, Halloween costumes, etc. She would have been in her late sixties now had she lived, and I most likely would have been sewing for her still - unlike you, she wanted no parts of a sewing machine!!!
Mine was the wrong bobbin. Looked similar yet flat! 😱 after three days of adjusting the tension, changing needles and thread, cleaning machine! I then started watching different videos and trying different corrections. After 7 videos your the only one who said check to see if you have the correct bobbin! Thanks
I am an experienced sewer but recently my machine has started giving me this frustrating problem. Gonna try all this. Thanks.
Zaineb Masood
Remove the lint. Clear it all out with a vacuum(?). Lint is bad! Start there always. Good luck! 👍😊
@@bmell1252 ioioiooi
@@bmell1252 ioioiooik
For me, changing the needle for a brand new one was the solution. Thank you!
One other instance that I have observed this occurring in, is when stitching over a thick seam or starting to sew through thicker fabrics. It causes the presser foot to tilt up to get over the thickness, therefore reducing the normally even pressure on the dog feeds. The fabric won't feed through correctly and thread nest is the result. This can be fixed by having a piece of folded up fabric (to about 1/8-1/4 inch thick) on hand. When you come to a thick spot, stop, raise the presser foot, insert the assist fabric behind the needle making sure it won't get caught by the needle. Lower the presser foot and observe if the presser foot is now level, and then proceed to sew once it is. After I learned this trick, I've never been without my fabric presser foot assist. Mine is a folded up scrap quilting square which I stitched together for a permanent addition to my sewing supplies. Hope this helps!
In quilting this is known as a hump jumper! Great tip!
@@Evelyn__Wood I've never heard the name for it before...that's hilarious! 😄
I bought a hump jumper years ago. Plastic u-shaped to fit under the needle.
@@Evelyn__Wood just realised from reading this, that I got a hump jumper with my machine when it was new! I had no idea what it was or what it was for... would have been useful yesterday when I refashioned an old pair of jeans into a dungaree dress.. those bulky seams were giving me endless issues! Well now I know that I already have a tool to help!
Omg. I never heard of this but it really makes sense! Thank you!
Soooo, I have changed the needle, adjusted the tension, took my machine apart and cleaned it, pulled the thread loooooong and held it before starting, haven't started from the tippy toppy end of the fabric either! Finally I took a breather as recommended, counted till ten and rethreaded my machine! FINALLY!! Maybe that should have been your first tip as it actually the easiest one to try!! Thanks for the tips! You saved my machine from going to the bin! That's how frustrated I was!!
Well you have definitely described my main problem as “operator error”! Your insightful tips are true and true all of the way, loved them and thank you! Yes, you are right I’ve replayed a few of your videos to assist me. Stay safe Evelyn, I hope that you & your Family are well. We are in lockdown in my town and staying home too. Happy Sewing Everyone!! 🧵👗🧵
😄 At least they are the easiest problems to fix right!! ❤
Spent 2 hours trying to sew one line. Watched your video and finished my project in 10 minutes. Retreaded the main thread! Thank you
I have been fighting with my machine literally all day. I finally stumbled across your video and changed my thread… Problem fixed! Thank you! Thank you!
😂😂😂🤣 no, because this is hilarious
It was my needle! After I switched it out, my sewing cleared right up! Thank you "sew" much :D
Your welcome!! Happy sewing!
OH MY GOSH IT WAS THE FREAKING THREAD CHOICE THAT KEPT MAKING MY MACHINE JAM FINALLLLLLLLLLYYYYYYY ! (i deserve likes on this comment you dont know how much stress i've been under from this lol)
Poor quality thread is often cheaper but not worth the savings lol
@@ronhorner4060 Thanks...Might need to throw away all my threads and start again. Bought them from the market stall for cheap as a beginner sewer and starting to wonder if that is not the main causes for my issues 🤔
THAT WAS THE PROBLEM FOR ME TOO IM SO HAPPYYY
Wait this can be an issue?
Same. I almost threw away my 5 month old sewing machine!! I was losing my mind lol😅😅 thanks so much for this video 😍
It had been 20 years since I've sewed. I took my machine in for a tune-up because it was jamming. Over a 3 month period I would bring it back 3 times (under tune-up warranty) and they couldn't find anything wrong. It worked well for them but when I would start sewing it would jam, thread bunching underneath at last 100 times!!! I was at my wits end until I remembered that my husband always looked to UA-cam to figure things out. This video was the best refresher course I EVER came across! I can now finish my curtains I started over 3 months ago! I was over wounding the bobbin, Tension was off and I was not holding the thread when I start sewing. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you from San Diego, California!!
You helped me just by holding the long tails!!! Please give this woman a raise. OMG, you’re awesome!!!!!
I thank you so much! Experienced sewer here. My bobbin was jamming, rethreaded top and the bobbin, nope didn't help, cleaned inside, rethreaded top and bobbin again, nope, tighten my bobbin tension, nope, OH! the NEEDLE, 😆, I KNEW this, I hate getting old, senior duh moment. THANK YOU!
Made me laugh. Thanks, fellow senior!
It’s amazing how much missing one little step in threading the top thread can cause such a huge problem and I didn’t even think to check it. Thank you so much. I’m a fan for life
I followed several of your steps and got my sewing machine to work flawlessly again. I rethreaded the top thread and bobbin and pulled them out longer like you suggested. I also used a can of dust spray for keyboards in the bobbin tray, and then I adjusted the tension and stitch length recommended by google for what I was sewing. I did not have anymore jammed thread after that. Thank you so much for this video!
Oh my god Evelyn, you are a life saver. I only started sewing 2 days ago and my sewing machine started jamming up, It was so annoying I almost
Screamed but I stopped to watch this video and found out it was something as simple as not having the thread in the pressure disks! Honestly you don't get enough praise
Whyyyyyy!? 😭 I can never figure out where to start solving it, so it just keeps happening once it begins.
I have caused many UGLY stitches before realizing I should hold the thread😄
❤️ Your videos!
Great tips. Not much is more frustrating while sewing than getting a jam like this. Thank you so much for your tips.
I can think of 2 more things to check, (don't ask me how I know these!)
1. Check that your bobbin is seated in the bobbin case so that the thread is coming off the bobbin in the correct direction. (generally counter or anti-clockwise, but check manuals)
2. Begin sewing with the needle moving in a downward direction. (get use to using the 'needle up-need down" function if you have one on your machine.)
I came very close to throwing a brand new Singer in the trash! My husband & I completely refurbished my great-grandmother's Singer, that Granpa bought for her brand new in 1927, and it was beautiful! Still runs better than anything on the market today. I took my own advice with my new machine and put everything away and came back to it the following weekend. This time, I rethreaded it and realized I had completely jumped out of the tensioner and the thread was doing a weird dance every time I put my foot on the pedal. So, now it's working great, Grandma's machine is my backup for heavy-duty sewing and I'm happily learning how to use my new serger! Thank you for your videos, since even an old dog like me can still learn a few new tricks!
Thank you Evelyn. I struggled with this issue; and was disappointed because my project was coming along so nicely. Thank you for helping me to figure it out: I am so happy with the results and am glad I did not quit.
Evelyn, thank you so much. As a beginner sewer, I spent a good couple of hours watching other videos, trying to narrow down why my machine was jamming. It was the operator error, all working now!
Excellent tips! You covered virtually everything. I can’t stress enough that it makes a difference holding the threads out the back of the presser foot for the first couple of bites of the needle.
I would add
Make friends with your local sewing machine service person. Make your first service include a ‘how to’ home mini service. If you’ve bought a new machine ask your retailer (only applies if purchased from a sewing centre that has an inhouse service person) for a lesson on how to service your machine at home in between professional services. Newbies both machine and sewer will benefit from a once a year full service. (Especially if it is a cheaper plastic components machine - things break!). So see if it’s possible to sit in on the first service. Some sewing machine companies, like Bernina, offer free lessons. If your new machine comes with lessons, see if you can make one of those lessons instruction in home service.
I get my machines professionally serviced once every 3-5 years unless something untoward goes wrong. If something weird starts happening with my machines, I do not try and fix outside my own expertise, but take to my service shop.. I have all metal Swiss made vintage Berninas, which are trojans, and I know how to service and fix most problems. But it has taken years to confidently let lapse between services. You too can learn to mini home service your own machine. It will extend the life of your machine and help make sewing on it a pleasure.
Secondly, get a selection of mini cleaning brushes. Sets are available for a small price. They can be washed. And they last years and years. Pipe cleaners can also be used to clean under your needle plate and into the bobbin area. I don’t love them because they are more disposable and less useful than a set of mini brushes
Often after a while sewing the bobbin race can develop very tiny but sharp burrs. These burrs can damage the integrity of the top thread causing it to splinter and throw off micro lint to eventually clog up under the needle plate. Burrs are one of the first things looked for in a professional service. And they are then buffed off. You can learn how to detect burrs on your bobbin race by gently wiping your finger tip back and forward on the edge of the race while oiling it. Don’t take sandpaper to it!! Let your service person buff off the burr and perhaps teach you how you can do it at hime without destroying the balance and precision of your bobbin mechanics.
Oil your bobbin race every say 5-6 bobbins worth of sewing. Your machine will run more smoothly and less chance of thread snagging and catching under the needle plate.
DO NOT ever blow into your bobbin area. There are mini vacuum machines available for sucking lint etc out of small areas. Worth the investment if you can afford it and you want to be more self sufficient with care of your machine. Such things eventually pay for themselves when your home care is effective enough to reliably extend the time between essential professional services.
Finally I have to reiterate, if you’ve tried everything within your expertise - leave it alone and get professional help. I’ve seen fixes that would have been covered in a standard service ending up costing twice as much because of damage done by a novice operator attempting to fix outside their expertise.
Happy sewing 😊
Sehryn, I wish I had read your comments before I attempted to work on my vintage Kenmore machine. I have had problems with the bobbin for many years. I had Sears service it twice, but to no avail. I haven’t used my machine in many, many years. Since I have been on quarantine for he last several weeks, I thought I would attempt to make a few masks. WRONG! I can’t tell you the problems I have created. I’m afraid at my age my vision is starting to fail me. I spent hours trying to adjust my bobbin case. Suffice to say, I made such a mess that I had to search Goggle for a replacement bobbin case to the tune of $40. When the bobbin case arrives I will attempt to put it in with new thread on the top and bottom (I can’t begin to guess how old my thread might be). Anyway, sorry to ramble. Wish me luck. When this world emergency is over, I plan to search for repair shop. Stay safe and be Blessed.
You deserve a Noble prize for this video. I have been having problems with my sewing machine for a few weeks and it never occurred to me that it might be the needle. Thank you so much, this helped incredibly!
I watched a YT video about a week ago and the sewing machine repairman mentioned that the top spool thread needs to be pulling off of the spool going to the back, away from the operator/seamstress.
If the thread of the top spool is pulling to the front, towards you, it can cause problems.
Great video. Thanks.
Ooh yes! I would think that some machines are more 'finicky' than others, some this won't matter, and others it will make all the difference! It's a good tip!
It is always a good idea to look at the manual, and thread it exactly how it says. It definitely can make a difference, and it differs by machine.
Think I saw the same video
So interesting. I'm definitely going to try it on my machine. I have always placed my spool so that the thread is dispensing from the rear of the spool toward me. Yours is the first I've seen that says to do it the opposite way - I've seen lots of instructions to do it the way I have been - including from my own machine maker. I'm about to get up . . .. Thanks!!
Oh Evelyn, you jinxed me! I sewed many masks last week and today started on a batch. As soon as I started the first pleat, I got a horrible thread nest. I immediately thought of this video after re threading the machine completely 2 times!!! Im off to try your other suggestions😉 thanks so much! Happy sewing!
I just pulled out my machine and saved this video. So I can get back to sewing. It all of the sudden started doing that. So tomorrow I'm gonna look and try these. Thank you so very much! This was straight to the point and extremely helpful!
You're an angel. I'm a beginner and every time I've had a problem, and there have been lots, your videos have helped me work through it. I love listening to your calm voice while there is chaos in my head, your calmness helps me to focus. I really like how you link other videos when you say it might be a different problem so I don't have to start a new search. If I had not found you on UA-cam, I think I already would have given up. Thank you!
You caught us!! Or just me at least. 😂 I’ve actually taken the time to thread my own machine instead of taking my machine to my mom to do. As a 33 year old woman trying to figure this all out.... you are a SAINT!! Thank you for your lovely heart!
Thank you for all these tips! I am a self taught seamstress since the age of 14 (now 70!)
And didn’t know this. Again, thank you! Please be safe. I adore your channel!
Your video illuminated so much. I was given a sewing machine and I have used it over the years. My latest project; I've been going a couple inches at time due to the thread jams! Listen, after your video, I decided to find the manual online. Not only was I using the wrong needle size, threading my machine incorrectly, loading my bobbin incorrectly, using the wrong bobbin, needed to oil the machine, using the wrong thread, not holding down the threads to start sewing, not using starting stitches for the zigzags. AND on top of it all. My machine has the WRONG bobbin case all together! Thank you for you help.
Thanks so much for this, was despairing yesterday, I got a jam, broke a needle then after that it would only sew a straight stitch, so no zig zag or decorative - the needle was making the right movements but just wasn't picking up thread when it went to the left.
I watched lots of videos even getting heavy on the timing ones, googled the repair man ready to phone next morning.I couldn't sleep so got up, made a brew, watched this, you gave me heart to try all your suggestions .....it was full of lint , a good clean and its back on form yippee !!! more lessons learned lol
Also make sure your needle is all the way up. If it’s not seared correctly, it won’t take up the bobbin thread. It will also break you needle. Easy mistake to make.
THANK YOU!!! I recently started sewing earlier this year, hubby bought me an awesome machine for mothers day and I would constantly have this problem. I did everything in the manual, all the tips I could find online but nothing worked. Currently sewing now and decide to search again, come across your video and as soon as you said to hold the threads I start laughing and shaking my head cause I knew that was going to fix it! Sure enough!! Something so simple that has not been said in anything else I've seen! I've subscribed to your channel!!
Thank you!! Problem solved!! It was tip number two..which boggles my mind!
After first grandbaby came I pulled out my machine (which I hadn't really used much in years) and I couldn't solve this problem ( I have many hours of sewing under my belt over the years but would still consider my self an intermediate).
I ended up taking my machine in for servicing, cuz hey it had been years, so right before covid hit I got it in. They said all was well and left a test piece in the machine to prove it.
They left the bobbin thread in so I threaded my top, which I can actually do in my sleep, and had the same bird's nest issue!! I was so saddened. Not wanting to chance wrecking my machine I shelved it..till tonight.
I watched your video, thank you so much..I had to hit subscribe and will be checking out your website.. I figured it was maybe tip 1..which would have been embarrassing after all my sewing years..but a fast fix that I would be happy with..but nope..it still made a nest. Instantly I was feeling like I'd be getting to step 9, but I decided step by step I'd go. Step 2 was the key..I'm surprised but oh so happy because after 18 months (how old my grandbaby is) I can finally make the crib blanket I had planned on!!
Interesting thing..the bobbin thread they left in is pink..I threaded white thread (top)..and in my test piece which resulted in a bird's nest all I see is white thread (top). Perhaps that is my future tell if ever I encounter this again.
Anyway, one more time..THANK YOU!! May your hands continue to be blessed in all your sewing endeavors 🙌
I was about to buy another machine when I found this video!! I recently cleaned my machine & didn't put the bobbin tray back in correctly & didn't change my needle ... I had reset the tray but was still having the bunching problem then you said change your needle & I realized I haven't changed my needle since 8 dresses, 3 sets of curtains & 3 baby blankets ago ... Changed my needle & rethreaded both top & bobbin AND SHE'S SEWING LIKE A DREAM 😍😍😍😍
Happy sewing! 😀
Just found your channel because my needle broke. Ugh! I say that because it was the first time I replaced a needle(it was an adventure) and now it's just laying the thread on top😬 I will go back tomorrow with a fresh view, thank you! Loving your style!
Hello and thank you Evelyn! I tried all of this and couldnt get my machine to sew properly EXCEPT for cleaning it. I always thought i never had to deal with cleaning it because it was relatively new (6 months old) but i was absolutely shocked by the amount of dust and fluff hidden inside. Im happy to say that you helped me so much!
It's surprising the amount of fluff!! Once a month cleaning at least!!
It depends on what you're sewing. Once I made myself a long velvet skirt with layers of flounces. I can tell you I've been finding velvet fluff all over the house for months afterwards!
Thank you for sharing these tips on thread jamming! I bought new thread, pulled the original plastic bobbin out of the storage bag as I was using a metal one that I thought was better and replaced the needle. Now the machine works better than ever and without a hefty service fee of taking it to a repair shop. Thank you.
YOU ARE LITERALLY A LIFE SAVER! I JUST GOT A SEWINGMACHINE AND IT ALREADY STARTED JAMMING BUT THEN I FOUND OUT ITS BC I DIDNT HOLD THE THREATS BUT NOW I TRIED AND IT WORKED!! THANK YOU
This video was so helpful! I've had a second sewing machine jam and couldn't resolve it. I am borrowing the one i bought for my ex- husband 😁. The machines only cost $200 (same machines). I use it for basic sewing. It was going to cost $100 for someone to look at it. I learned early on to clear the fuzzies, so I do it often. After cleaning the fuzzies, it started jamming - same thread in the machine...etc.
I wasn't sure of the type of thread in my bobbin so I made a new one with known thread, re-threaded everything, changed the needle and problem solved 🥰. I am making gifts for my son's school and the frustration of a broken machine is unbearable. Thank you so much for coming to my rescue!
Thank you SO MUCH! I’m a beginner and my machine kept jamming like that. I got so frustrated and discouraged that I just hand sewed for a while, which took for ever and was so messy. But this video was so lighthearted, helpful, and easy to understand and watch! A million thanks.
Thank you. Thank you a million times. I spent an hour troubleshooting and didn’t consider just rethreadinf the top bobbin.
I fussed and fumed and repeatedly pulled the bobbin and bobbin case, pulled the hook and searched for bits of thread all under there - and all I had to do was rethread the upper thread. Thanks so much for alleviating my frustration and ending my afternoon of, well, not tears but a lot of cussing. Lovely job, new subscriber! Peace from Ohio …
Thank you for the bobbin jam tips. Love your decor & the fashions you wear. The best advise ever was, "Just walk away from it & try again later with fresh eyes!" I get frustrated very quickly & it helps to know that thread jam issues can happen to anybody at any time. Here goes another try...
It was the needle! I had already done everything that was suggested on the video so I was beginning to worry I was going to have to take it to a technician but a new needle fixed it. Yay! Thanks so much!
So lastnight I sewed 3/4 of my soft leather tote bag and was left to do straps....half way through machine started bursting thread....tried about 20 times and gave up ....this morning I tried again 5 times to no avail. Decided to look up and found this episode. I ended up cleaning the inside and got a small size amount furry like stuff.....machine working as normal now......thanks
Your welcome!! Happy sewing!
Earlier today I found your channel because I was looking for reasons my sewing machine was jamming. I'm brand new to sewing. I had never touched a sewing machine before about a week ago. I have taken it up as a quarantine hobby! Right after I watched your other video you posted this one 👍 for me I think I found my issue. I was going one stitch past the end of my garment and so I actually need to fish out the thread that comes from my needle before I so my next piece because it Loops up underneath and everything jams when I start working again
Sweet Christmas...
Rethreading the top thread fixed my constant jamming issue. I was so furious that sewing was going along flawlessly and then this one hiccup send my progress to a grinding halt.
Thank you. I was clearing the bobbin area and double checking that everything was working properly and it was one simple error that I couldn’t see happening.
Evelyn, this frustration can follow you through your sewing life. I was helping a friend get a gown ready for a special occasion. She had to work and I started on the long, straight seam. Disaster! It would sew okay for a couple of inches. I went through all of this, and last of all, it was the wrong size bobbin for her machine. I got this from reading the instruction book! This is a great video for all of us! It is wonderful to see you looking well and eager.
Hi Evelyn, first let me say I like your videos because your upbeat and speak clearly and your funny. Your personality shines thru and love the outfits you wear. Second I'm a guy so I have been teaching myself and with the covid19 starting sewing mask and now doing grocery bags, handkerchiefs for pets and other projects I'm hooked because it's something that I am learning and it's challenging. I say women do the hard things in life and having babies and sewing are just two of them. Thanks for this video now I have two other things to check. Number 9 walk away is a very good suggestion its like working on cars when you can't get a bolt off it gets frustrating and walking away works. I know you said to take it to a shop if nothing else fails but I'm a guy so i'll tinker with it until I need help it's like the direction thing with us guys. Thanks I have learned a lot from watching.
Thank you so much for this video! I haven't had a sewing machine for 10 years, I just got one and got very frustrated, I pretty much forgot everything! Your tricks really helped me quickly get started! It was as simple as holding the threads in the beginning. Managed to fold a very LONG pair of pants in 15 minutes after watching your video (post two hours of hair pulling)! 100% operator error....
Oh my gosh I LOVE YOU!!! Been wrestling with my bobbin for the last 2 hours and turns out I didn't thread it right after refilling my bobbin. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!!!
Changing the needle, blew my mind. Who would have thought!! But it worked! Thank you!
Thank you so much! I bought this machine years ago and couldn't get it to work so I gave up on sewing things. I watched this video and fixed it in minutes!!
Your welcome that's great news! I'm glad this video helped! 😀
I did everything I could think of before watching this. I took off the throat plate, removed the bobbin and the little bobbin shuttle thing, cleaned and oiled everything, checked for any bits and pieces that seemed wrong, swapped out the needle, tried a different fabric, was going nuts. I was considering taking it to be checked out. Then I watched this and immediately rethreaded the top thread. Problem solved! Thank you, Evelyn!
Hi Evelyn, I did everything you suggested here, and it worked 😄 I couldn't believe it 😂😂😂 I started losing hope and thought of buying a new machine (been using mine for 4 years with no maintenance hhh), and this has saved me 👍👍👍 thank you so much ♥️♥️♥️♥️ oh and your smile makes me happy 😊
So, I have to give credit where credit is due... I am an amateur sewer and I was attaching new velcro to a headset I use at work. The first 3 sides went well then the 4th turned into a nightmare. I fought thread jam for 1.5 hours before watching this video. I adjusted tension and rethreaded the machine and bobbin several times with no solution. Finally I removed the needle and found that the adhesive from the back of the velcro had built up on the needle. It was adding it's own tension. I cleaned the needle, rethreaded, and finished with no problems. Thanks for reminding me to check EVERYTHING.
I was baffling what is happening withh my machine for HOURS 😭 Thank you so so much for the video. I didn't know that if the treat is not exactly on its place it can cause problems. I am so glad I saw it and thank you again for the video
Hi! Love your channel. But I just found a totally different reason this thread jam was happening to me and I'm so thrilled I need to share. When I threaded the machine, the take-up lever was not in its fully upright position poking up at the top, so my thread did not hook around it. I knew something didn't feel exactly right when I was doing the steps to thread the top thread into the machine, but I followed all the numbers and it seemed fine. But I needed to turn the hand wheel to position the take-up level at the very top before threading!!!! wahoo!!!!
OMG. It's working again. I was just about ready to give up and I found your video.. Dec 15th 2023.. I did everything you said.. I took it apart, cleaned it changed the needle and rethreaded the bobber. Changed the thread.. I was surprised to see how much fuzz balls were in there. I just used q-tips with rubbing alcohol. I put it all back together and voila..🎉 its working. Thank you so much . 😊❤
Oh and one more thing I learned in the first few months of sewing. Because I am new and I seem determined to make ever single new sewing mistake in the book I have found that it is better for me to buy sewing needles in bulk😉 At least the U12 and U14. When in doubt change the needle. Many of the mistakes I have made caused the needle to bend, dull and once even break. I am not worried about wasting a needle change anymore as I have what I need. I am learning each time I sit down so I am sure this will slow down but for now this has helped me many times.
Thank you Thank you Thank you. I had already tried almost everything you mentioned and the machine was still jamming. I decided to try changing thread and it is working like a dream!
YOU HAVE NO IDEA HOW MUCH I NEED THIS OMG. gonna throw caution to the wind and watch right now even though it's past midnight and others in my house are sleeping
😄😄😄 Ha ha excellent! Make sure yoy watch the other video (linked in descrption)about the operator error problems too! It goes into more detail about those problems! I hope it helps!
OMG this video gifted me my patience back! I'm a new sewer and I thought I had my machine "figured out" until the birds nests started happening... I tried EVERYTHIG... or at least I thought I did! After watching this video after video I realized it was *cough* an operator error haha Re-thread your machine, silly! I feel this is the "turn off and back on" solution of sewing! That and make sure you have a quality needle and change it! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR VIDEO!
OMG you saved my life, i was using a metal bobbin instead of the plastic one that came with my sewing machine. switched back and it works great! I almost gave up 😭
I have not sewn in years, and have spent most of today and last night trying to get my machine to work. I SO wish I could have a sew friend over. I'm glad I found your video; I've just subscribed to your channel, you finally made me smile today...but still frustrated with my fecking machine. :(
Thank you. After an hour of struggle, I watched this video and fixed my problem in seconds.
It has been a sheer pleasure watching you! I've been wanting to get back to sewing but I didn't know what to make of this particular issue and too embarrassed to ask anyone. So, I kept wacthing you in hopes that you would say something about it. I didn't know for sure if I ever hope to see one. I'm very blessed.
You spoke of cleaning out "the fuzzies" under and around the bobbin. You taught me I could take that other plate off too. Thanks!
My pleasure Mary!
This video came on the very day I experienced thread jam for the first time on my new machine. I am making lots of masks for hospice workers and in my haste to get them done I had neglected some basics. Making my own bias binding to make the ties, I wasn't leaving enough of a "tail" AND after hours of sewing I had totally forgotten to change the needle! Thanks!!
Wonderful!! I'm so glad it helped ans now your back to sewing! 😄
Thank you SO much!! I had tried about 20 times and on another bit of fabric, but just watching this, then taking a deep breath, trying on some plaing cotton and making sure to pull the threads and the fabric through at the back helped fix my problem. Thanks Evelyn! x Best Wishes, Eilidh! x
:-) Thank you so much! I'm a total beginner and I was soooo frustrated. Thanks to your explanations I now know what I had done wrong. Now my machine is working, I'm happy and I can go on sewing some more face masks...and maybe some other things in the near future. Thank you! You made my weekend! :-)
Thank you so much for making this video! I watched your previous video that said to hold down the thread ends before sewing, but I thought I only had to hold down the top thread, lol! So this time I held down both threads & my machine stopped jamming! Hallelujah!
BLESS YOUR SOUL! I was definitely on the brink of attempting to hand sew and spend HOURS!!! Thanks you very much for this video!
Life saver, was literally on the verge of tears and this video solved my problem in minutes 😭
After going through 5 other videos that was alot of dumb run on talking that covered nothing for 5 to 15 min I was greatful to find this one that gave actual help and more then just 1 possible cause...when your already frustrated about something hearing someone rambling isn't help...this video helped alot and actually helped calm me down cause it pointed out things I wasn't thinking of like wow I haven't cleaned my internals I should do that for just good machine maintenance...thank you for the advice
This was a great video! I can add a couple more. 1) Know your machine - I haven't used mine for quite a while, but got it out to do masks. The thread kept jamming, the tension wouldn't work. I tried everything I could think of - then accidentally realized that the rod I had my upper thread on was recessed into the machine and had to be pulled up so my spool had been wobbling all over the place! 2) As you mentioned in another video, make sure your thread isn't too old. My thread kept jamming and breaking and I couldn't figure out why. After hours of messing with the machine, I got frustrated and took the big spool off the machine to put it away and glanced at the top of the spool. The price was listed as 5 cents! Turns out, it was inherited from a 92-year-old neighbor 10 years ago, so it was probably purchased in the 30s or 40s. New spool, pulled up spool holder - good as new. Definitely user-error! Love your videos and I'm hooked on sewing again!
Omg thank you so much. This video was a life saver. I'm a beginner at sewing and I started to panic as things weren’t going well. Thank you so much once again for making this video.
Heyo, wanted to say thanks for the video!
Im in a rush to finish a cosplay/ Halloween costume and my machine started jamming due to my thread not making it all the way through and picking up the bobin thread. I tried everthing I could think of and your simple suggestion of re-inserting the top thread worked like a charm!
You've saved my costume, thank you so so much!!!
Thank you so much! I love that you are simple and methodical in your suggestions. And you mentioned the mathematics of the machine!!! As a math teacher, that made me a fan of yours forever!!!!!
Thanks! I did my pattern making math on paper rather than use calculator, I feel like it is the only time in life I can practice times tables in my head! 😊
Girl my machine kept jamming and I was like what on earth is going on??? So idk which of your advice helped but I cleaned my bobbin area, re threaded the top and bottom and then you also mentioned something about thread tension and I was using nylon thread, increased the spacing in the stitch and smooth sailing! Thank you lots!!
I rethreaded my machine and now it's working great again!!! thank you
Evelyn, you're the greatest! Jamming keeping me from doing sa small, importantproject.Your threetop tips saved my sanity, maybe my marriage!.Many Thanks!!
Thank you so much!! I was going crazy, it started thread jamming 3/4 of the way through a project. So, I took a breather and watched your video. Honestly, I think I was just getting lazy and not holding the tails, but I also gave the bobbin section a good blow and loads of fluff flew out!! Project finished - I can now wear those jeans that I grew out of 2years ago :)
I am your student in India after watching your video I feel so comfortable to sewing lucky to have you
You helped me fix my nesting issue after several different videos trying to figure it out. My machine is definitely clean now and correctly threaded. Can't wait to start using my new machine
Holding the thread while sewing worked like a charm for me thank you for all the great info!
Just found out all I needed to do was pull the thread 15cm and hold it out while I sew. Thank you so much!!!
I'm so glad it helped! 😀
Yay!! Thank you! Just fixed it by cleaning it and oiling it!! Walking away fixes it so many times but not this time! The one time I really needed to walk away from it, I was so tired I was forgetting to put the pressure foot down! For over an hour!
Hi Evelyn Your video helped me when I was feeling very 😠 I have a Harry Potter cloak to make for my daughter's teddy for tomorrow! My problem was caused due to me incorrectly threading the machine! Now sewing ok. I must sew more often as I forget how to thread the machine in between times. I am going to watch more of your videos and get back into dressmaking as 20+ years ago I used to make some lovely dresses on my previous Singer machine. Thanks 😀
I can’t believe it. I tried holding both threads when I started (I usually just hold the top to keep it from slipping out of the needle) and it’s working fine now. Not very pretty because I’ve got stretchy fabric, but good enough for my project. Thank you so much! I definitely need to learn more about sewing
😀 www.vintagesewingschool.com to really up-level your sewing! 😀 Leave a comment with any other tips you have for us, and well, which one solved your thread jam problem??
Thank You, Thank You, Thank You. I was about to tod out my machine. It was the top thread it came of the arm inside so I was getting massive thread jams. I am now in love with your channel. I subscribed. Thank you for sharing your tips.
Your video helped me so much! I did get so frustrated while trying to start a project and trying everything to get my fairly new machine to work. But, the last thing I tried was watching your video and then your tip about the thread. I was using some old thread that my mom donated to me and wouldn't you know it, that was it! Switched out the old thread for my usual spools and my machine started working and not jamming up. Thanks again for your video.:)
I never knew I was supposed to hold the tread when I start 😂😂😂
Me neither, I have learned so much from Evelyn.
Me neither and I used to work in a fabric shop 🤦🏻
Me too!!
Me too 😂 I love your videos and your personality! You teach so practically ❤. I will be watching ALL of your content 😁. GOD BLESS YOU EVELYN
I got so frustrated I ordered a new sewing machine even though I knew I was the problem! Thank you for this great info.
Hiya, not sure if anyone mentioned but an issue I encountered was the thread on the top ripped. I removed it, put another spool as I wanted to change colour anyway, rethreaded the machine and it constantly jammed. Now if this ever happens to you, first use a flaslight to check if the ripped thread is still in your machine along the way of the top thread guide. For me it was wound on the top tension wheel inside. To remove it, set the tension wheel to the lowest position and use the loop turners hook to grab the stuck thread. You may need to wriggle the jammed thread a little bit to get it out but thats what worked for me. It also gave me a much better understanding of how the machine works. I hope this will help you as well if you get into this same situation :)
Have been making masks for friends and family and started having this problem. ;>( I was sooooo surprised at the amount of fluff my machine had in the bobbin area. Cleaned it up, and problem sorted! Very helpful tips; thank you, Evelyn! Stay safe and healthy.
Your machine will love you for it! 😄
thank you, I had already tried a few, but when you said re thread, I thought Ahhh I bet that's it. I watched the rest of your video and then re threaded. SURE enough THANK YOU Miss Lovely!
I've tried the walk away and it has worked every time so far!👍☺
😅😅