26
– PREPARATIONS
TENSION
FACTORS THAT AFFECT THREAD TENSION
• Thread color dyes affect the texture of the thread, which can affect how smoothly it slides through the embroidery
machine.
• Polyester threads would require nearly twice the amount of tension as rayon.
• If you change the weight of the thread, tension will require adjustment.
• Embroidery machine speed may affect tension – the slower the speed, the better the quality.
• Excess dust and lint along the thread path can affect thread tension.
If needed, adjust the thread tension as described in below sections.
CHECK THREAD TENSION
The tension of the bobbin and top threads affect the stitching
that comes from every needle bar. Ideally, the tension (for satin
stitching) will produce a one-third (1/3) bobbin thread running
exactly down the center of the column, with one-third (1/3)
top thread running down each side (1).
If a small amount of the bobbin thread is visible, or there are
thread loops on the right side, the top tension is too loose (2).
If a large amount of the bobbin thread is visible, the top
tension is too tight (3).
Under normal use, the user should temporarily stop the
embroidery machine and check thread tension after the first
100 stitches of each color.
Because of different types or thicknesses of cloth or backing
being used, embroidery results may be different from what is
expected; make samples before mass production.
ADJUSTING THE THREAD TENSION
Each design may require different tension settings.You can
adjust the tension of the machine even while it is running.
Experiment by making small quarter (1/4) turns on the upper
tension knobs. until you feel comfortable with your design.
• For metallic and polyester threads, turn the tension knob
counterclockwise once.
• For light color rayon threads, turn the tension knob
counterclockwise 1-2 times.
• For white rayon thread, turn the tension knob
counterclockwise 1-2 times.
• For medium color rayon threads, turn the tension knob
counterclockwise 1-2 times.
• For dark color rayon threads, turn the tension knob
counterclockwise 2-3 times.
• For black rayon thread, turn the tension knob
counterclockwise 3 times.
1
2
3
