Why is my embroidery machine making a grinding noise?
The most common reasons an embroidery machine makes a grinding noise are a jammed thread, a needle or hoop hitting something, a problem in the bobbin area, or an issue with the machine's moving parts.
Stop the Machine First
A grinding noise is not something you should ignore. Stop the machine and turn it off before checking anything. Continuing to run the machine could make a small problem worse.
Thread May Be Jammed
Thread can become wrapped around the bobbin, hook, needle, or other moving parts. Remove the hoop and check carefully for tangled or trapped thread.
The Needle May Be Hitting Something
A bent needle or incorrectly installed needle can hit the needle plate, presser foot, or another part of the machine. Replace the needle and make sure it is installed correctly.
The Hoop May Be Hitting the Machine
If the hoop is loose, incorrectly attached, or positioned too close to another part of the machine, it can cause a loud grinding or knocking sound. Check that the hoop is securely attached and has enough clearance to move freely.
Check the Bobbin Area
Lint, broken thread, or a bobbin that is not installed correctly can interfere with the hook mechanism and cause unusual noises. Remove the bobbin and inspect the area carefully.
The Design May Be Causing a Problem
If the grinding only happens while stitching one particular design, check whether the design was resized, converted, or is unusually dense. A problem with the file can sometimes cause unexpected machine movement.
The Machine May Need Cleaning
Lint and thread buildup around moving parts can interfere with normal operation. Clean the areas recommended in your machine's owner's manual.
The Machine May Need Servicing
If the grinding continues after checking the needle, thread, hoop, and bobbin area, the machine may have a mechanical problem. Do not continue stitching if the noise is loud or persistent. Have the machine inspected according to the manufacturer's service recommendations.
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
- Stop the machine and turn it off.
- Check for tangled or trapped thread.
- Replace a bent or damaged needle.
- Make sure the needle is installed correctly.
- Check that the hoop is securely attached.
- Inspect the bobbin and hook area.
- Remove lint and thread buildup.
- Check whether the noise happens with every design or only one.
- If the grinding continues, stop using the machine and have it inspected.
Best Tip
If your embroidery machine suddenly starts grinding, stop stitching immediately and look for a simple obstruction such as tangled thread, a broken needle, or something hitting the hoop. If you cannot find the cause, it is safer to have the machine checked than to continue running it.
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.