How to Thread a Sewing Machine, Step by Step

SINGER says loops under the fabric are usually caused by incorrect upper threading, so threading is the first thing to check. Every machine's path is a little different, so keep your manual open, but the steps are similar across many machines. Utah State University Extension says the process is similar between models and to check your owner's manual.

Before you start

• Presser foot up. Brother and SINGER both say this.
• Needle at its highest position. Turn the handwheel toward you. SINGER says always turn it toward you (counterclockwise), because turning it the other way may throw off the timing.
• Use all-purpose thread unless your pattern says otherwise, per Utah State Extension. See thread.

Threading the top

1. Put the spool on the spool pin and follow the first thread guide.
2. Go down and around the tension channel. Brother says to guide the thread with your left hand while holding it lightly with your right, so it seats properly in the take-up lever and tension discs.
3. Pass the thread through the take-up lever (the part that moves up and down with the handwheel).
4. Follow the guides down to the needle and thread it in the direction your manual shows. Utah State's guide threads front to back on the machine it covers; follow your manual. Many machines here list an automatic needle threader for this step.

Check it (SINGER's test)

With the presser foot raised, pull the thread through the needle; it should pull easily. Lower the presser foot and pull again: it should now resist. SINGER says if there's no increase in tension, the machine isn't threaded correctly. Rethread from the start.

Bring up the bobbin thread

1. SINGER's steps start with the power off. Insert the bobbin the way your manual shows. For SINGER drop-in bobbins, it should turn counterclockwise as you pull the thread; front-loading bobbins differ. See bobbins.
2. Hold the top thread lightly and turn the handwheel toward you, lowering then raising the needle. A loop of bobbin thread comes up.
3. Pull the loop up, then pull both threads under the presser foot and to the back before you start sewing (Utah State Extension and SINGER).

Before your first stitch

• Lower the presser foot. SINGER says sewing with it up tangles thread and jams the bobbin.
• Common settings: Utah State Extension says a common stitch length is 2.5, and stitch width 0 for a straight stitch.
• Test on a scrap. If stitches look loopy, see tension.

FAQ

Foot up or down when threading?

Up.

How do I know it's threaded right?

Thread pulls easily with the foot up and resists with it down.

Which way does the handwheel turn?

Toward you.