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 !
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 🤔
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!!!
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!
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!
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
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
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 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 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
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!!
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.
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!
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!
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!!
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!
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!
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.)
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!
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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 . 😊❤
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!
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!
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
Great tips...also, get into the habit of thoroughly cleaning your machine at the end of every session, it'll save you a lot of time and money in the long run. :))
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 😍😍😍😍
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.
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!
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!!
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 :)
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
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!
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
I would have put cleaning the bobbin case much higher on the list, before changing needle, thread or fabric. Lint or a tiny hidden piece of thread have been 99% of the culprits in my experience, although I try to remember to use the little brush every 2-3 bobbin changes. And I now use tweezer and a pipe cleaner as well.
For me this is usually the problem too! Because (I think most likley for you too) I know the operator error issues, keep my needle sharp already and very experianced at threading! So I think for a more experianced sewer, you are right, it is the go to! ❤
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.
Here in NYC we're all sewing masks for first responders, workers and family/friends. I just gave away two of my sewing machines to people to learn on to sew masks. So, one good thing ... sewing is definitely making it's way back in NYC.
So true! It's how I started, and now it's a full fledged hobby. I will need to find some good fabric stores in Queens so I don't have to go into the garment district, though.
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
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 🙌
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.
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 found your channel yesterday and I already love it!! I got myself a second hand sewing machine a while ago but never really used it, too overwhelmed to know where to start. Thanks to you and your channel I feel confident enough to give it a try!!
Yes!! You can do it! You should definetly sign up for my free class/trial at vintagesewingschool.com the free lesson there will take you step by step on using and understanding your machine and getting started sewing fabric!! ❤
Hi, I'm new at it too. I made an easy skirt for my first garment and I would recommend it. It's the simplicity 8019 and I did the long skirt but really any length is good. The pattern gives you a good foundation for sewing cause it's all simple stuff like straight lines and I found the pattern easy to read. So helpful. I'm doing a pattern now that was not so easy to read but I got there in the end and now I know when people say it's an "easy pattern", they're not just talking about techniques and fabric. Goodluck with your sewing!
@@YesILoveMyMusic I will definally check the skirt out! I've seen some patterns that seemed intimidating so it will for sure help me to get the ball rolling on something beginner friendly :p You aswel best of luck with your sewing :)
@@mommy4725 good luck! I have pics on my insta of how it turned out if you want to see. Insta handle is NikitaLunala and I made 2 skirts. A blue one with a flowy cotton elephant print and a stiff cotton light pink one
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!
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
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!!!!
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.
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!
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
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.
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, 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!
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!
Make sure the bobbin is properly wound: if it is loose and janky or if the little bit that goes through the bobbin hole comes back through and gets tangled with the main bobbin thread (usually towards the end of a bobbin), or if that little thread is long enough to get tangled, that can cause this issue.
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!!!
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!
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...
Thank you for your video. Beginners here with a new machine, and we were struggling. We switched out the thread and viola, we were sewing our first stitches on test swatches.
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....
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! 😊
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!!
I love the input and tricks here. I purchased a brand new straight out of the box. Heavy duty singer sewing machine and this problem has happened with multiple types of fabrics. It's clean. It's adjusted, be and it's everything and it still wads up and freezes up my machine to the point that the material gets torn up. Trying to get it out of the mechanics of the machine where when the thread started to wind it sucked a piece of the edge of the material into it. So my project was actually stuck in the hole where the needle goes. And the machine actually freezes in place where I cannot turn the needle up or turn the needle down. It's stuck. There's no way to resolve this being a brand new factory set machine straight out of the box. All of those things basically have been done. You're right about the bobbins. I've always used metal bobbins and that was on my old machine. I had to go by plastic ones for the new singer but I'm still having a major issue and there's nothing I can do to fix it because it tears up the material that I'm using and it just takes too much time trying to fix it. I only had the machine for 2 days so I've actually called the store. I will be taking it in and returning it for a computerized singer, the next step up. I wish I had some input and could help you all with this issue, but I can't even imagine why a brand new machine straight out of the box would be causing stitching issues like this. I certainly hope that I can return to your site and watch your videos using a machine that actually sews properly. Take care and enjoy your day. Oh I nearly forgot, do you have live classes about sewing and proper machine use?
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.
Quilters use an “old maid”, a small sacrificial piece of scrap fabric, to prevent the thread ball in the first place! Start on the old maid, then sew off and onto your project without stopping. There will be a few stitches in between, easy to clip off later. Quilters make a “chain” of all the blocks ready to sew, then sew off the last seam and onto the old maid. No thread balls! It’s a great way to stop and start when you don’t have automatic needle up/down. You can reuse the old maid until it’s too thick to work with, although I usually lose them first :) Also, all that fluff in your bobbin case destroys your thread tension.
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!!
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!
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.
Evelyn, you're the greatest! Jamming keeping me from doing sa small, importantproject.Your threetop tips saved my sanity, maybe my marriage!.Many Thanks!!
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!
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 youuu! I figured out it was dusty as heck under the bobbin thing. I thought I cleaned it out but checked again & lifted it out of the machine it was full of dust bunnies. Now it’s fixed 😊
I picked up an older Singer machine and while it’s very nice, I seem to be having all kinds of problems with it. I will follow your steps and suggestions and see what happens. I’ll keep you posted!!
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 😊
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 😍
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!!!
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
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!
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!
For me, changing the needle for a brand new one was the solution. Thank you!
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
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!
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!! ❤
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!!
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 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
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 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
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!!
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.
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
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!
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!!
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!
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!
You helped me just by holding the long tails!!! Please give this woman a raise. OMG, you’re awesome!!!!!
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.)
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!
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
Thank you. Thank you a million times. I spent an hour troubleshooting and didn’t consider just rethreadinf the top bobbin.
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 . 😊❤
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!
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!
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
Great tips...also, get into the habit of thoroughly cleaning your machine at the end of every session, it'll save you a lot of time and money in the long run. :))
YES!!!!! ✔😃
I stop about every hour and clear out all the lint. It's the same stuff that's in the dryer.
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! 😀
Thanks so much, I needed to rethread both the upper and bobbin threads
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.
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!
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! 😀
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 :)
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
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!
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
I would have put cleaning the bobbin case much higher on the list, before changing needle, thread or fabric. Lint or a tiny hidden piece of thread have been 99% of the culprits in my experience, although I try to remember to use the little brush every 2-3 bobbin changes. And I now use tweezer and a pipe cleaner as well.
For me this is usually the problem too! Because (I think most likley for you too) I know the operator error issues, keep my needle sharp already and very experianced at threading! So I think for a more experianced sewer, you are right, it is the go to! ❤
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.
I am your student in India after watching your video I feel so comfortable to sewing lucky to have you
Here in NYC we're all sewing masks for first responders, workers and family/friends. I just gave away two of my sewing machines to people to learn on to sew masks. So, one good thing ... sewing is definitely making it's way back in NYC.
So true! It's how I started, and now it's a full fledged hobby. I will need to find some good fabric stores in Queens so I don't have to go into the garment district, though.
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
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 🙌
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.
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 found your channel yesterday and I already love it!!
I got myself a second hand sewing machine a while ago but never really used it, too overwhelmed to know where to start. Thanks to you and your channel I feel confident enough to give it a try!!
Yes!! You can do it! You should definetly sign up for my free class/trial at vintagesewingschool.com the free lesson there will take you step by step on using and understanding your machine and getting started sewing fabric!! ❤
Hi, I'm new at it too. I made an easy skirt for my first garment and I would recommend it. It's the simplicity 8019 and I did the long skirt but really any length is good. The pattern gives you a good foundation for sewing cause it's all simple stuff like straight lines and I found the pattern easy to read. So helpful. I'm doing a pattern now that was not so easy to read but I got there in the end and now I know when people say it's an "easy pattern", they're not just talking about techniques and fabric.
Goodluck with your sewing!
@@YesILoveMyMusic I will definally check the skirt out! I've seen some patterns that seemed intimidating so it will for sure help me to get the ball rolling on something beginner friendly :p
You aswel best of luck with your sewing :)
@@mommy4725 good luck! I have pics on my insta of how it turned out if you want to see. Insta handle is NikitaLunala and I made 2 skirts. A blue one with a flowy cotton elephant print and a stiff cotton light pink one
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!
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
Changing the needle, blew my mind. Who would have thought!! But it worked! Thank you!
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!!!!
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.
I did all these tips and now it works! Thank you so much.
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!
I so look forward to your videos. Especially at this difficult time in “lock down”. Keep safe and well.
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
Thank you so much it was the bobbin I had never even noticed they were different on the newer machine. Thank you you saved my sanity!
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.
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. After an hour of struggle, I watched this video and fixed my problem in seconds.
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!
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!
Make sure the bobbin is properly wound: if it is loose and janky or if the little bit that goes through the bobbin hole comes back through and gets tangled with the main bobbin thread (usually towards the end of a bobbin), or if that little thread is long enough to get tangled, that can cause this issue.
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!!!
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!
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...
Thank you for your video. Beginners here with a new machine, and we were struggling. We switched out the thread and viola, we were sewing our first stitches on test swatches.
BLESS YOUR SOUL! I was definitely on the brink of attempting to hand sew and spend HOURS!!! Thanks you very much for this video!
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....
I've tried the walk away and it has worked every time so far!👍☺
😅😅
I rethreaded my machine and now it's working great again!!! thank you
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! 😊
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! 😄
I love the input and tricks here. I purchased a brand new straight out of the box. Heavy duty singer sewing machine and this problem has happened with multiple types of fabrics. It's clean. It's adjusted, be and it's everything and it still wads up and freezes up my machine to the point that the material gets torn up. Trying to get it out of the mechanics of the machine where when the thread started to wind it sucked a piece of the edge of the material into it. So my project was actually stuck in the hole where the needle goes. And the machine actually freezes in place where I cannot turn the needle up or turn the needle down. It's stuck. There's no way to resolve this being a brand new factory set machine straight out of the box. All of those things basically have been done. You're right about the bobbins. I've always used metal bobbins and that was on my old machine. I had to go by plastic ones for the new singer but I'm still having a major issue and there's nothing I can do to fix it because it tears up the material that I'm using and it just takes too much time trying to fix it. I only had the machine for 2 days so I've actually called the store. I will be taking it in and returning it for a computerized singer, the next step up. I wish I had some input and could help you all with this issue, but I can't even imagine why a brand new machine straight out of the box would be causing stitching issues like this. I certainly hope that I can return to your site and watch your videos using a machine that actually sews properly. Take care and enjoy your day.
Oh I nearly forgot, do you have live classes about sewing and proper machine use?
Redoing the thread on both the top and bobbin fixed it! Thank you!!
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.
Quilters use an “old maid”, a small sacrificial piece of scrap fabric, to prevent the thread ball in the first place! Start on the old maid, then sew off and onto your project without stopping. There will be a few stitches in between, easy to clip off later. Quilters make a “chain” of all the blocks ready to sew, then sew off the last seam and onto the old maid. No thread balls! It’s a great way to stop and start when you don’t have automatic needle up/down. You can reuse the old maid until it’s too thick to work with, although I usually lose them first :) Also, all that fluff in your bobbin case destroys your thread tension.
I recently learned this. Also keeps from having to rethread.
In my neck of the woods, we call those bits of scrap "leaders", but I think "old maid" is cute!
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!!
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!
Thank you. You have saved me an unscheduled service. The culprit - bent ( brand new) needle which happened when the top thread ran out.
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.
This fixed my problem--the top thread was the culprit! 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!!
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!
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!!!
Holding the thread while sewing worked like a charm for me thank you for all the great info!
Thank youuu! I figured out it was dusty as heck under the bobbin thing. I thought I cleaned it out but checked again & lifted it out of the machine it was full of dust bunnies. Now it’s fixed 😊
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! 😀
I picked up an older Singer machine and while it’s very nice, I seem to be having all kinds of problems with it. I will follow your steps and suggestions and see what happens. I’ll keep you posted!!