Why is my embroidery machine sewing but not making stitches?
The most common reasons an embroidery machine is moving and sewing but not making stitches are an incorrectly installed needle, incorrect threading, a bobbin problem, damaged thread, or an issue with the needle picking up the bobbin thread.
The Needle Is Installed Incorrectly
If the needle is not inserted correctly or is facing the wrong direction, the machine may move normally without forming stitches. Remove the needle and reinstall it according to your machine's instructions.
The Needle Is Bent or Damaged
A bent, dull, or damaged needle may not reach the bobbin thread correctly. Replace it with a new needle and make sure it is fully inserted.
The Upper Thread Is Not Threaded Correctly
If the upper thread has come out of the thread path or missed a guide, the machine may move without forming proper stitches. Completely rethread the machine with the presser foot raised if your machine requires it.
The Bobbin Is Not Installed Correctly
The bobbin needs to be inserted in the correct direction and seated properly for the machine to pick up the bobbin thread. Remove it and reinstall it carefully.
The Machine Is Not Picking Up the Bobbin Thread
If the needle is moving but the upper thread is not catching the bobbin thread, there may be a needle, bobbin, hook, or timing problem. First check the needle and bobbin before assuming the machine needs service.
The Thread Is Broken or Not Feeding
If the upper thread has broken or is caught somewhere along its path, the machine can continue moving without creating stitches. Check the thread from the spool all the way to the needle.
The Bobbin Is Empty or Not Winding Properly
An empty or poorly wound bobbin can prevent the machine from forming stitches correctly. Check the bobbin and replace it with a properly wound one if necessary.
There May Be a Problem With the Hook or Timing
If you have checked the needle, upper thread, and bobbin and the machine still will not form stitches, the hook mechanism or machine timing may need attention. This is usually something that should be checked by a qualified technician.
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
- Replace the needle with a new one.
- Make sure the needle is installed in the correct direction.
- Completely rethread the upper thread.
- Remove and reinstall the bobbin correctly.
- Make sure the bobbin has enough thread.
- Check for broken or tangled upper thread.
- Make sure the machine is picking up the bobbin thread.
- If it still will not form stitches, have the machine inspected.
Best Tip
If your machine is moving normally but no stitches are forming, start with the simplest fixes: replace the needle, rethread the machine, and reinstall the bobbin. These are often enough to get the machine stitching again.
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.