If you’re an avid sewer, you’ve probably experienced this: your machine needle falls out at inopportune moments, most likely during a seam. Why does this happen? And how can you prevent it?
The answer lies in a seemingly normal sewing machine screw. Let’s take a look at the workings of a sewing machine needle.
The needle is positioned in the needle plate, which is attached to the spindle. As you sew, the needle passes through the fabric and punctures it along its way. This is the force that holds the needle in place.
You may have noticed that when the needle is threaded through the fabric, the thread often wraps around the needle, creating a loop.
This is because the thread wraps around the needle as it goes through the fabric, and then is pulled back out and is held in place by the needle. You can use a crochet hook to turn this into a knot, called a slipknot.
There are several reasons why your needle could be falling out. And we will provide all of that in this article.
Common reasons why the needles fall out
Sewing is a great hobby and one that can be both relaxing and rewarding. However, with prolonged use and many projects, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks that can arise.
Issues such as needle breakage can be frustrating and sometimes time-consuming to deal with, especially if you’ve invested in a high-end machine.
There are several reasons why your needle could be falling out:
- Not using enough Needle’s tension
When the needle’s tension is too loose, it can cause the needle to fall out of the machine. This can be a major problem when you are using a machine that does not come with a needle threader.
Also, your sewing machine needle will fall out of the machine if the tension is too strong and the needle is bent. This can be fixed by adjusting the tension.
- The needle is attached to the bobbin
When you are sewing, the needle that comes with your machine can fall out. This happens because it is attached to the bobbin. To fix this, you have to take the bobbin out.
Your sewing machine needle should be inserted all the way into the bobbin thread and the thread should be threaded on top of the bobbin. You should check your machine’s manual for further information.
- The thread isn’t long enough
The thread isn’t long enough is one of the reasons why the needles fall out. When you need to sew a seam, you thread your needle with a new length of thread.
But if you’re using a bobbin, the thread isn’t long enough to thread the needle. The thread is stretched so tight that it can’t be pulled through the needle’s eye.
- Incorrect needle use
Even though you should always use your sewing machine needle with a guard or cover, sometimes they get lost or worn down, and this can cause a problem.
The needle most commonly comes out of the case but it can also be difficult to get it back in, especially if you already have a seam or seam line. The way you use the needle determines how well it is going to work.
How to prevent needles from falling out
The tips and tricks we give to help you get the most out of your machine are probably the hardest to take with you after you have finished using your machine.
We have all been there, and as you know there are plenty of things that can go wrong. We list these in hopes that they will help you avoid the frustration of a fallen needle.
1. In order to prevent your sewing machine needle from falling out, you should sew on a light-colored thread and ensure that the loops around the needle are tight.
2. Make sure the needle is in the correctly placed holder.
3. Make sure that the thread is not wrapped around the needle 2 times.
4. Inspect the needle holder and surrounding area to see if there is any debris that is holding the needle in place.
5. Inspect the sewing machine to see if there is a defect preventing the needle from going in the needle holder.
6. If you have any of the above issues, contact the manufacturer.
7. Keep the thread tight while sewing.
8. Use a needle threader.
