An Easy Fix for Skipped Stitches and Breaking Thread
Prevent Problems by Matching Needle Size and Thread Weight!
Have you ever had one of those days where the thread keeps breaking, or shreds, or the machine keeps missing stitches? Chances are there’s nothing wrong with the machine. Provided the machine is threaded correctly, it’s likely you’re using the wrong size thread with the needle.
There are many needle sizes available and each one has a differently sized eye. There are also many thread weights on the market. Each weight is a different thickness.
Anatomy of a sewing machine needle. Image from Wikipedia.
Threading a thick thread through a small eye can lead to problems. The reverse is true as well. Stitching will go more smoothly if the right thread weight is used with the needle you’re working with.
The following article from We All Sew explains thread weights and needle sizes, and outlines how to pair them for best results.
Keep in mind that the thickness of various threads (of identical thread weight) can vary by brand. If problems persist you may need to do a bit of experimenting to find the right needle/thread combination for your machine.
You’ll find the recommended needles here:
