Sewing Machine Bobbins: Types, Which One You Need, and Winding
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Bobbins look interchangeable. They aren't. Here's how to find the right one and keep it running smoothly.
Find your bobbin type
- Check the manual first. SINGER says to always use the same style of bobbin that came with your machine, and not to swap even between Class 15 transparent and Class 15 metal.
- Similar isn't the same. SINGER says Class 66, Class 15 and Class 15J are very similar, but using the wrong type can cause damage.
- Brother: its support page says to use only the included bobbin or the same type (part code SA156 (SFB: XA5539-151)), and shows the bobbin at about 11.5 mm (7/16 inch) tall.
- Common sizes: Superior Threads says Class 15, L-style and M-style are the three most common prewound sizes, that Class 15 is now the most popular style for home machines, and that some machines (certain Bernina, Pfaff and SINGER models) use exclusive bobbins.
Bobbins by type
Brother SA156
Genuine Brother clear plastic bobbins, 11.5 mm, 10 per pack, for Brother sewing and embroidery machines, per the listing.
Brother SA156 Bobbins, 10-Pack
- 10 clear plastic bobbins, 11.5 mm, per the listing
- Genuine Brother accessory for Brother sewing and embroidery machines
- Check your manual for the bobbin type your model uses
SINGER Class 15 and 15J
SINGER's Class 15 bobbins come 12 to a pack; the listing says to check your manual for the right size. Its Class 15J pack is listed for SINGER Futura embroidery machines.
SINGER Class 15 Bobbins, 12-Pack
- 12 transparent Class 15 bobbins, per the listing
- Listing says to check your manual for the correct bobbin size
SINGER Class 15J Bobbins, 12-Pack
- 12 transparent Class 15J bobbins with storage case, per the listing
- Listed for SINGER Futura embroidery series 2600s, 3900s, 7400s, 8700s and Izek 1500
Prewound bobbins
Handy for machine embroidery. These are Size A / Class 15 (SA156) bobbins prewound with 60 weight polyester, per the listing. Brother's embroidery tips call for 60 weight embroidery bobbin thread. Superior Threads says prewound bobbins hold 30 to 50% more thread than home-wound ones, a figure from a thread maker.
New brothread Size A (SA156) Prewound Bobbins, White (25)
- 25 prewound bobbins, Size A / Class 15 (SA156), per the listing
- 60 wt (70D/2) polyester filament
- Plastic sides; listed for Brother and other machines that take this size
Winding a bobbin (SINGER's tips)
- Follow the winding path in your manual. Steps vary by model.
- Make sure the thread sits snugly between the bobbin winder's tension disks. If it doesn't, SINGER says it winds loosely and stitch quality suffers.
- Don't add thread to a partially wound bobbin. SINGER's Class 15J listing says it may wind unevenly and cause the thread to tangle or break.
Brother adds that a badly wound bobbin can break the needle or throw off the tension.
Putting the bobbin in
- Drop-in (top-loading): SINGER says to raise the needle to its highest position, insert the bobbin so it turns counterclockwise when you pull the thread, and pull about 6 inches of thread toward the back under the presser foot.
- Front-loading: SINGER says to insert it so the thread runs clockwise. Other machines differ, so follow your manual.
Full steps in how to thread a sewing machine.
FAQ
Are Class 15 and 66 interchangeable?
No. SINGER says the wrong type can damage the machine.
Which bobbin for Brother?
Brother names the SA156 on its support page. Check your manual.
Why is it winding unevenly?
The thread probably isn't seated in the winder's tension disk.