How do I adjust the bobbin tension on my sewing machine?
STOP! Don’t mess with the bobbin tension yet! What you’re describing is usually the result of threading with the presser foot down, so the top thread can’t enter the tension, or not putting the presser foot down when you’re sewing (easy to forget when you’re working on a thick quilt) or you’ve got lint or something stuck in the upper tension. Loops on the bottom are a sign that the top tension isn’t getting enough tension. Loops on top are a bobbin tension issue. Chances are you’ve got a misthreading issue. (And if you’ve had more than 4 hours of needle up and down time in quilting, it’s probably time for a new needle anyhow. Soooo…. 1) Stop, and give the machine a new needle and a quick clean and oil. Take all the thread off of/out of the machine. It’s faster to rethread than looking for a minor threading error. 2) Clean the top tension — dampen a piece of much-washed muslin (a bandanna or pillowcase hem is perfect) with rubbing alcohol or unflavored vodka. Raise the presser foot a
