How to Correct Tension on a Dressmaker Sewing Machine

Set the tension before you start your sewing project.

Getting the right tension on your Dressmaker sewing machine is essential for successful forays into creating your own couture. Thread tension that is too loose or too tight will compromise the precision of the stitch. Always check your tension on pieces of scrap fabric before starting your sewing project. Uses scraps from the fabric from which you have just cut your pattern. Different thicknesses of fabric may require different tensions.

Things You'll Need

• Scrap fabric

Instructions

1. Place two pieces of the scrap fabric together under the needle. Lower the foot and sew a test seam. Remove the fabric scraps and examine your seam.

2. Increase the tension if your sewing has looped at the back of the seam. Reduce the tension if the fabric has puckered. Locate the tension knob on the front of your Dressmaker sewing machine.

3. Turn the knob in a counterclockwise direction to reduce tension and in a clockwise direction to increase tension.

4. Sew another test seam to ensure that your tension is perfect. The stitches should be taught and straight with no looping of the thread or puckering of the fabric.

Tips & Warnings

• Check that your dressmaker sewing machine is properly threaded before adjusting the tension. Incorrect threading could be the reason for your problems.

References

• Sewing Manuals: Dressmaker Instruction Manuals
• YouTube: How to Fix Tension -- Don't Panic!
• Riccar: Instruction Manual

Resources

• Dressmaker: Threading Diagram