How to Adjust Thread Tension & Stitch Length

Properly adjusted tension will produce uniform stitches on both sides of the fabric.

When changing between thread and material types, you may find that you need to adjust the thread tension and stitch length settings on your sewing machine. While many people are comfortable changing the stitch length, they have feelings of uncertainty regarding the tension dial. However, both thread tension and stitch length are adjustable and can be returned to their previous settings if you adjust it incorrectly. After a little experimenting, you'll be confident with your ability to adjust thread tension and stitch length to complete professionally sewn projects.

Things You'll Need

• Sewing machine
• Paper
• Pen
• Thread
• Scissors
• 2 small pieces of scrap fabric

Instructions

How to Adjust Stitch Length

1. Find the display on your sewing machine that features stitch length. Most machines will have either a numbered knob that is turned to adjust stitch length or a digital display above a small keypad that is used to adjust stitch type and length.

2. Record the current stitch length with paper and pen. If you want to return to the current settings, it will be easy by referencing the recorded setting.

3. Press the keypad button that relates to stitch length. You will see the number change on the digital display. If your machine has a knob for adjusting, turn the knob to change the stitch length. The higher the number, the longer the stitches will be; the lower the number, the smaller the stitches will be.

4. Test your adjusted stitch length on a piece of scrap fabric. When you find a stitch length that works on your fabric, record the fabric type and stitch length on your paper. Save the paper for future reference.

How to Adjust Thread Tension

1. Find the tension dial control on your machine.

2. Record the current tension setting with paper and pen. If you want to revert to the current setting, it will be easy by referencing the recorded setting.

3. Check your thread guides to be sure that you haven't missed any of them when threading the machine needle.

4. Turn the tension dial to a higher number to increase the amount of pressure on the thread. You will want to increase tension when using a very thin or delicate thread.

5. Turn the tension dial to a lower number to decrease the amount of pressure on the tread. You will want to decrease the tension when using a thick thread.

6. Sew two pieces of scrap fabric together using a straight stitch.

7. Examine the stitches on the scrap fabric. When the tension is properly adjusted, you will see smooth stitches on both sides of the fabric. If you see small knots in the stitches on the top fabric, decrease the tension. If you see small knots in the stitches on the underside of the fabric, increase the tension.

8. Record proper tension setting and the thread type with paper and pen when you find a setting that works properly for the thread you're using.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're unable to get smooth stitches after adjusting the tension with the dial, you may need your lower tension adjusted. Lower tension adjustments are typically made by a repair person at sewing machine store.

• Before making tension adjustments, check that your bobbin is properly loaded, your machine is clean and that your needle isn't damaged. All of these things can contribute to improper stitches.

• Longer stitches provide more stretch than shorter stitches.

References

• Sew 4 Home; "Selecting Machine Stitch Length"; Janome America; April 17, 2009
• Threads Magazine; "Understanding Thread Tension"; Nov. 2, 2008