Common Sewing Machine Problems and Easy Fixes

Sewing machine problems happen to everyone, not just beginners and not just to cheap machines. Tension issues, broken needles and jammed fabric are some of the most common problems most people face.

The good news is that these sewing machine problems are usually minor and can be fixed at home. Usually just a minor change and things will be running smooth again

Below are the most common sewing machine problems and easy fixes you can try right away.

If you are learning to sew, check out these neat posts

Thread Bunching Under the Fabric (Bird Nesting)

What it looks like:
A messy tangle of thread on the underside of your fabric.

Common causes:

Upper thread not threaded correctly
Presser foot was down while threading
Incorrect tension setting

Easy fixes:

Completely re-thread the machine with the presser foot up
Make sure the thread is seated properly in the tension discs
Start with the default tension setting and adjust gradually

This issue is almost always caused by the upper thread, not the bobbin, even though it seems like it is a bobbin issue.

Skipped Stitches

What it looks like:
Uneven stitches or visible gaps in the seams

Common causes:

Dull, bent, or incorrect needle
Needle inserted incorrectly
Using the wrong needle for the fabric
Presser foot not attached properly

Easy fixes:

Replace the needle with a brand-new one
Insert the needle fully and in the correct direction
Match the needle type to your fabric (denim, etc.)

Thread Keeps Breaking

Common causes:

Old or poor-quality thread
Thread catching somewhere
Upper tension set too high

Easy fixes:

Switch to a good-quality thread
Check the entire thread path for anyplace it could be caught
Slightly lower the upper tension and test again and repeat and test again if needed

Fabric Not Feeding Properly

What it looks like:
Fabric doesn’t move forward or stitches pile up in one place. The fabric usually feels jammed

Common causes:

Presser foot not lowered
Presser foot not installed properly or has fallen loose
Feed dogs lowered
Very thin or slippery fabric

Easy fixes:

Double-check that the presser foot is down properly
Make sure the feed dogs are raised
Use a walking foot or place tissue paper under thinner fabric

Needle Breaking Frequently

Common causes:

Pulling or forcing the fabric while sewing
Using the wrong needle for thick layers
Sewing over pins or bulky seams

Easy fixes:

Let the machine feed the fabric naturally (slow down)
Use a heavier needle for thick or layered fabrics (denim, canvas, leather, etc.)
Remove pins before sewing over them

Uneven or Loopy Stitches

Common causes:

Incorrect tension
Poor-quality thread
Dust buildup inside the machine

Easy fixes:

Clean dust from the bobbin area
Re-thread both the top thread and bobbin
Test stitches on scrap fabric before every project

Machine Sounds Loud or Feels Rough

Common causes:

Dust buildup
Machine needs oiling
Thread jammed inside the machine

Easy fixes:

Turn the machine off and remove the needle and bobbin
Clean out dust using a small brush
Check your machine manual to see if oiling is required( oil if so with the recommended oil)

When to Call a Professional

If your sewing machine:

Smells like burning
Won’t turn on
Makes grinding noises even after cleaning

Final Thoughts

Sewing machine problems happen to everyone. Don’t assume the machine is broken and don’t rush to call a professional, save your money and troubleshoot first. Sometimes a simple fix is all you need.

Common Sewing Machine Problems and Easy Fixes