Why does my machine stop when changing thread colors?

The most common reasons embroidery colors are not changing correctly are an incorrect color sequence, the wrong thread loaded at a color stop, a different thread palette, or a problem with the embroidery file.

Wrong Thread Loaded

Check the color sequence in your design and make sure the correct thread is loaded before each color change. If the spools are in the wrong positions, the machine may stitch the right design with the wrong colors.

Color Sequence Is Different

Some embroidery machines or software programs may display colors differently from the original design. Always compare the machine's color sequence with the color chart included with the design.

Different Thread Brand

Thread color numbers can vary between brands. A color listed in the design may look different when your machine is set to another thread brand or color palette.

The File Was Converted

Converting an embroidery design from one format to another can sometimes change color information or color stops. If the problem started after conversion, try the original file format supported by your machine.

Duplicate or Unnecessary Color Stops

Some designs may have several sections using the same color. Your machine may still stop between those sections even though you are using the same thread color. This does not necessarily mean there is a problem with the design.

Software Changed the Color Palette

If you opened the design in embroidery software, the program may have automatically mapped the colors to its own thread library. Check the thread palette before saving the file again.

Quick Troubleshooting Checklist

  • Check the design's color sequence.
  • Compare the sequence with the included color chart.
  • Make sure the correct thread is loaded at each color stop.
  • Check which thread brand or palette your machine is using.
  • Check whether the file was converted.
  • Look for duplicate color stops in the design.

Best Tip

If the machine stops at the correct points but uses the wrong colors, check the thread sequence and color palette first. If the color stops themselves are incorrect, try the original embroidery file rather than a converted or edited version.

Source of information: With over 200,000 customers and a private Facebook group with more than 2,000 members, we have heard just about every embroidery question and troubleshooting problem you can imagine. This question has come to us directly from customers by email, through our Facebook page, and in our private Facebook group.

Have another question? See all the answers in our machine embroidery designs FAQ.