How to put the thread in the sewing machine

Do quick learn to thread a sewing machine thanks to Bizibul.

The first question that arises : how do we put the thread on the machine ? and sometimes, the first problems surge at this stage, as the notices, the explaining schemes are not always that clear.

We will take the example of a basic mechanical sewing machine. Do take into account that the threading will follow almost the same process on each sewing machine, variations may arise this emphasizes the fact that the (famous) notice can reveal useful !

to begin

A sewing machine works with two threads

- An upper thread -> the bobin

- An underneath thread -> the bobin winder

First of all  the bobin winder  must be filled with  the thread from the coil..


Make your bobin winder 

Step 1 :

Put the bobine on its support (as shown here above)

Step 2 :

Pass the thread in the circled stretcher (if you feel a slight resistance as you pull the thread, this means that it is well positioned).

Step 3 :

Make the thread go out through the hole of the spool, from inside to outside.

Step 4 :

Put the bobin winder on its support (as shown here above)

Step 5 :

Block the support by pushing it to the right.

Step 6 :

Push slightly on the pedal of the sewing machine so as to make the spool turn and coil, by holding the thread firmly high (toward upper). Once the thread is blocked (several turns), cut very short and finish the spool out.

Install you bobin winder 

You will find the support of the spool under the needle plate. It can be positioned horizontally or vertically depending on the model (type) of the machine.

Step 1 :

Extract the metalic support by raising the tab.

Step 2 :

Place the bobin winder clockwise

Step 3 :

Insert the thread in the nick near to the screw (as shown here above)

Step 4 :

Pull on the thread to insert it in the second nick which is wider.

Step 5 :

Place again the support at its initial place under the needle plate.

Caution : a spool which is not well installed induces problems during the sewing operation (the thread can break, the machine can get blocked, nots can appear a.s.o)

In such case, don't pull on the resisting threads at all. The only thing to do is to extract the thread and the spool and start again from scratch.

Pull on the upper thread  

Step 1 :

Once the spool has been installed, pass the thread in the metallic hook. Not on the round stretcher as for the spool.

Step 2 :

Pull down the thread in the slot to the right.

Step 3 :

Push it up in the slot to the left.

Step 4 :

Place the thread in the metallic support of the needle (who has the shape of a hook). In order to position it toward the upper side and to ease the passing process, the needle of the machine must be high. In order to do that, turn the wheel on the right until the needle is in the right position (high position).

Step 5 :

Pull then down the thread in the left slot.

Step 6 :

Pass it in the hook which is situated just below the needle. To make it easier, stretch the thread with your hand.

Step 7 :

Pass the thread in the hole of the needle from the front to the rear. Pay attention not to form a curl around the needle.

You are almost right to start sewing ! But one important step is lacking.

pull out the thread from the spool

Step 1 :

Stretch the thread with one hand and turn the wheel with the other. Always turn toward yourself.

Step 2 :

Move the needle downwards, it will go and fetch the thread of the spool.

Step 3 :

Push the needle upwards, it will draw with it the thread of the spool.

Step 4 :

Push the needle up until the highest position while pulling slightly on the thread that you hold in the hand.

Step 5 :

With the help of a spike, the one of the scissors by example, pull away the loop formed by the thread of the spool. Place both threads toward the rear, ready to start.