Why is my bobbin thread bunching up?

The most common reasons bobbin thread is bunching up underneath your embroidery are incorrect upper threading, improper bobbin insertion, incorrect thread tension, or a problem with the needle or bobbin area.

Upper thread is not threaded correctly
This is one of the first things to check. If the upper thread is not properly seated in the tension discs, it can become loose and create a large tangled mass of thread underneath the fabric. Completely remove the upper thread and rethread the machine carefully.

Bobbin is inserted incorrectly
Make sure the bobbin is installed in the correct direction and that the thread passes through the bobbin tension guide exactly as your machine manufacturer recommends. Even a bobbin that looks correctly installed can cause problems if the thread is not following the proper path.

Thread tension is incorrect
Incorrect upper-thread tension can cause loops and bunching underneath the fabric. Make small tension adjustments and test the embroidery on scrap fabric rather than making large changes all at once.

Bobbin is wound poorly
A bobbin that is wound unevenly, too loosely, or too tightly may not feed smoothly. Try winding a fresh bobbin evenly and make sure you are using the correct bobbin for your embroidery machine.

Bobbin area needs cleaning
Lint, loose thread, and broken thread pieces can interfere with the bobbin and hook area. Turn off the machine and clean the bobbin area according to your machine manufacturer's instructions.

Needle is damaged
A bent, dull, or incorrectly installed needle can prevent the upper thread from forming the stitch properly and may contribute to bunching. Replace the needle with a new embroidery needle if you suspect it is damaged.

Thread is catching
Check the upper thread path, spool, thread guides, and bobbin area for anything that could cause the thread to snag or feed unevenly.

Design is very dense
Very dense embroidery can create additional thread tension and friction. If bunching happens repeatedly in the same heavily stitched area, the design density may be contributing to the problem.

Best tip: If you suddenly get a big “bird's nest” underneath your embroidery, stop the machine. Remove the tangled thread, completely rethread the upper thread, check the bobbin, and test again on scrap fabric before continuing.

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.