How to Install Sewing Machine Bobbins

Proper bobbin use is an important part of making your sewing machine work properly. Installing a bobbin into a sewing machine is very easy, too. Depending on the machine you have, you will have to go through different steps, but for the most part, the process is very similar. Before beginning, you will need to see what kind of bobbin case you have--drop in or front loading.

Instructions

Drop-in Bobbins

1. Make sure your thread is on the right kind of bobbin for a drop-in bobbin holder. The right kind will come with your machine, but you can also find them in most craft departments of stores. They will be designated as drop-in bobbins.

2. Look under the sewing machine foot. The door to the bobbin holder will be there.

3. Open the drop-in bobbin door and set it aside.

4. Unwind about 6 inches of thread from your bobbin.

5. Insert the bobbin into the bobbin holder, and pull the thread back and into the crevice on the outside of the bobbin mount.

6. Place the bobbin door back on, making sure to keep the remaining thread under the cover.

7. Make sure the rest of your sewing machine is threaded, and use your sewing machine balance wheel to catch the bobbin thread. Once caught, pull it behind the machine.

Front-load Bobbins

1. Make sure you have the right bobbin before proceeding. They will look somewhat different from the drop-in bobbins but will still be marked as a front-load bobbin in the store.

2. Open the door to your front-load bobbin holder. The door for this should be on the front of your sewing machine.

3. Pull out the metal bobbin case from the machine.

4. Unwind about 6 inches of thread from your bobbin.

5. Push the bobbin into its bobbin case, pulling the thread through the tension flap on the top of the case. It is a small piece of metal on the top part of the bobbin case.

6. Push the entire case with the bobbin back into place.

7. Thread the rest of your machine and use the balance wheel to catch the bobbin thread. Pull both threads back behind the machine foot and begin sewing.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have any questions, consult the instruction manual that came with your sewing machine.

Resources

• Craftzine.com Blog: Sewing Machines : How a Bobbin Works