Questions regarding sewing machine bobbins frequently arise in our sewing machine store. Here, we address some of the most common inquiries.

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1. How many bobbins are necessary?

In a nutshell, you always need MORE sewing machine bobbins.

So, how many bobbins do you truly require? In a recent survey conducted at our Club, we discovered that the average number of bobbins owned by our members ranged from 20 to 30 for each sewing machine. It's not surprising many of them have multiple machines!

Make it a habit to purchase a pack of bobbins during each visit to your favorite sewing machine store. While many machines initially come with 3 to 5 bobbins, beginners often underestimate their need for extras, leading them to return shortly thereafter to buy more. Keep adding to your collection—eventually, you'll have plenty!

2. Do all machines utilize the same bobbin?

Absolutely not! You MUST use bobbins specifically designed for your machine. Always refer to your owner's manual or consult your local sewing machine store for clarity. Using the wrong bobbin can wreak havoc on your machine's tension settings!

Just because you prefer blue bobbins does not mean they are compatible. For instance, blue bobbins are tailored for the Husqvarna Viking Designer EPIC sewing and embroidery machine.

3. Is it possible to wind a bobbin too tightly?

The short answer is YES!

If a bobbin is wound too tightly, a plastic bobbin might bulge while a metal bobbin could stretch the thread. Although these issues can be subtle, they can lead to various complications. Plastic bobbins may get compressed at the center, distorting the bobbin, while metal bobbins could cause thread to get stuck, increasing tension or making the bobbin jump in its case.

4. Can I interchange metal and plastic bobbins of the same size?

Swapping metal and plastic bobbins, even if they are the same size, is a BIG NO. Machines are calibrated to specific tension settings. If a machine is set up for a lighter plastic bobbin, substituting it with a heavier metal one will throw off the tension.

5. Are all bobbins the same?

For Bernina users:

Bernina bobbins are precision-milled, while generic ones are stamped, resulting in significant differences. If your machine uses a generic metal bobbin, you can still use a Bernina bobbin, which might run smoother than the original.

6. Can I insert my bobbin backward?

Always insert bobbins to spin in the correct direction as designated by your machine. Most machines provide a visual guide indicating the proper spin direction.

As a side note, if you sew using a Bernina 7 or 8 Series or a newer Husqvarna Viking featuring green bobbins, you're in luck—your bobbin cannot be inserted incorrectly!

If you're curious about coil bobbin plastic, don’t hesitate to reach out for an expert consultation!

7. What should I know about thread tails?

Thread tails are problematic! Never leave a thread tail sticking up through the hole in the bobbin. It can disrupt the stitching process. Always trim this tail so the thread can glide smoothly across the top of the bobbin.

8. What makes a sewing machine technician cringe?

Nothing is more alarming to a sewing machine technician than finding various types of bobbins jumbled together, particularly if none are correct for the machine. Just because a bobbin fits in the case doesn't guarantee it's the right one. Always double-check your manual or consult with your local sewing machine store to ensure you have the proper bobbins for your machine.

9. An additional point that frustrates sewing machine technicians:

While it may occasionally function, the multitude of variables—poor winding, errant tails, and so forth—makes it problematic. Always remove the thread from your bobbin or, better yet, buy more bobbins!

10. What if I dislike winding bobbins?

Very few people enjoy winding bobbins, but it's an integral part of sewing. Here, we prefer batch winding. We usually get two spools of thread instead of one, committing to completely wind one onto several bobbins.

When we open a spool of bobbin thread for embroidery, we wind the entire thread onto bobbins and store them conveniently in a bobbin ring. This method not only saves time but is also more economical than purchasing pre-wound bobbins, all while ensuring correct tension.

BONUS BOBBIN INFO&#

If you own a Husqvarna Viking, do you want to discover a nifty trick about filling your bobbins? Be sure to check out this informative video!

If you have questions about sewing machine bobbins, feel free to post them below, and we will be sure to provide you with answers.

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Other Machines We Have Filmed

I utilize the same type provided with each of my machines. I've been informed that using a metal bobbin in a machine originally equipped with plastic bobbins can accelerate wear because machines are not designed for metal bobbins and vice-versa.

If you're keen to explore more, head over to our website for details on plastic bobbin for wire.