Why is my bobbin thread not picking up?

The most common reasons your embroidery machine is not picking up the bobbin thread are an incorrectly inserted bobbin, incorrect upper threading, a damaged or incorrectly installed needle, incorrect needle position, or a problem in the bobbin or hook area.

Bobbin is inserted incorrectly
Make sure the bobbin is installed in the correct direction and that the thread is properly seated in the bobbin tension guide. Remove it and reinstall it according to your machine's instructions.

Upper thread is not threaded correctly
The upper thread needs to follow the correct path for the needle to catch the bobbin thread. Completely remove the upper thread and rethread the machine carefully, making sure it is seated properly in the tension discs and thread guides.

Needle is damaged or installed incorrectly
A bent, dull, or incorrectly inserted needle may not reach the correct position to catch the bobbin thread. Replace the needle with a new embroidery needle and make sure it is inserted as far as it should be.

Needle is not in the correct position
If the needle is not positioned correctly when the machine begins stitching, the hook may not catch the upper thread loop. Check that the needle is centered and properly positioned according to your machine's instructions.

Bobbin area has lint or thread buildup
Lint and pieces of broken thread around the bobbin case or hook can interfere with the thread pickup. Turn off the machine and clean the bobbin area carefully.

Bobbin is not feeding properly
Make sure the bobbin spins freely and is wound evenly. A damaged, incorrect, or poorly wound bobbin can prevent the machine from picking up the thread correctly.

Hook or bobbin mechanism problem
If you have correctly installed the needle and bobbin and the machine still cannot pick up the bobbin thread, there may be an issue with the hook mechanism or machine timing. This may require professional service.

Best tip: Start by replacing the needle, reinstalling the bobbin, and completely rethreading the upper thread. Then use your machine's bobbin-thread pickup function or turn the handwheel as directed by the manufacturer to bring the bobbin thread to the top before starting the design.

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.