Need canvas sewing help

[allen13458]

I decided I wanted to learn how to do my own canvas work. This also means I have to teach myself how. I purchased an older singer machine last week. My first practice projest is a cover for my lawn tractor. The problem i'm having is the upper stitch is tight, but the lower stitch is loose. I know thread tension is the problem. I see how to adjust the upper but can't find any adjustment for the lower. I know there must be an expert here. Any ideas?

 

[Clayton Fawcett]

Bobbin Tension

I'm not familiar with your machine, but if it takes a bobbin from below then you should be able to adjust the tension on the lower thread. If there is a bobbin, then you just simply need to tighten a small crew on the bobbin carrier to tighten the lower thread. Be careful not to over-tension the bobin thread. I usually adjust mine in 1/4 turn increments. Good Luck,Clayton

 

[allen13458]

Thanks for advise.

Thanks i will look at that again.

 

[TJ-LJ Champion]

also adjust the top thread

Once you find the screw on the bobbin carrier as Clayton suggested tuning both upper and lower will achieve the right tension. If the upper is tight, loosen it to about a 3-4 tension if your machine has number increments on your lever.Then tighten the lower till they both feed into the fabric evenly.You probably know that already, tension in a machine is always tricky, also remember to use the right size needle for the application your sewing, sometimes if your needle is too heavy or too light it can effect your thread tensions.Good luck with your canvas, kudos for attempting the project!Laurie

 

[Ralph18422]

Setting tension

Additionally, I have learned that if you set your bobbin tension first by:1. hang onto the thread from the bobbin, like a yoyo. And let the bobbin hang.2. pull up suddenly on the thread, and the bobbin should release some thread and then hang again.3. Insert back into the machine4. Thread the upper thread through the machine and needle and pull the thread. If the tension is similar to the pulling of the thread on the lower thread (from the bobbin)then you are close. If not adjust the upper tension so that you are close.5. Sew 2 pieces of material together and look at the stitching. If each thread is crossing in the middle between the two pieces of material you have it set right.HTH

 

[Brian]

Learn from Sailrite

Go onto the sailrite.com web site. They have a host of diy info and tips, some refering to their own machines but the bulk is applicable to any machine. I did my own sail covers, bimini, dodger etc and everything I learned was from this web site and info in there catalog. Good Luck and hang in its worth it, Brian. "Hosanna" '88 272LE

 

[allen13458]

sailrite

Thanks. I found the lower adjustment but still not adjusted correctly. I had to walk away from it yesterday. But have not given up.

 

[letterman]

what size thread?

v-69 is the biggest you can get away with on most machines.