The ultimate beginner guide to sewing machine bobbins

If you’re looking to expand your knowledge of sewing this Christmas, we’re here to help with the ultimate sewing machine bobbin guide. One of the most important little parts of the puzzle, bobbins are a crucial element of sewing and below you’ll learn what they are, their purpose, and tips and tricks. 

What is a bobbin?

A bobbin is a cylinder or cone holding thread, yarn, or wire, used on sewing machines. Bobbin's thread is what is used to stitch. Made of various materials, such as wood, metal or plastic, bobbins are not fixed meaning you can take them out for threading. Some people prefer removing bobbins to fill the thread without using a device, whereas others prefer threading the bobbin with the use of a sewing machine - which can be quicker.

Styles and shapes

Bobbins come in various styles and shapes. The easiest way to identify different sizes is by thickness. Here are the basic types:

The L-Bobbin: A small bobbin ideal for small sewing machines (0.91 x 0.35 inches)

The M-Bobbin: A larger bobbin ideal for big sewing machines. (1 x 0.430 inches)

66 Class Bobbins: Similar to L-Bobbin with a shorter length (0.91 x 0.31 inches)

Class 15 A Style Bobbins: These bobbins dimensions differ amongst sewing machine brands

How To Insert A Bobbin Case

Doing anything for the first time can seem daunting, but with this simple guide, you’ll be a bobbin pro in no time at all! 

  1. Keep the thread in the spool and then transfer it to the spool rim. By doing so, you will not hassle with the thread.
  2. Push the bobbin device to the left. After fixing it into the correct position, hold the thread and firmly press the controller.
  3. To thread the bobbin in any sewing machine, push the bobbin on the left side and eradicate it. Putting thread in a bobbin is easy, but you must know the technique to do it accurately.

Different types of sewing machines require different types of bobbins. They are neither interchangeable nor universal. You must identify the appropriate bobbin size and style for your machine to avoid causing a problem with your sewing machine. You can do this by reading your sewing machine manual. If your sewing machine is more compatible with plastic, you should use that material. Choosing metal instead can reduce the power of the sewing machine. 

Final Tips

  • Always use bobbins in excellent condition. Damaged bobbins will cause more problems than they’re worth.
  • Always use the correct size bobbin.
  • When threading, make sure you have wound the thread smoothly to prevent knotting.
  • Make sure you have an extra bobbin handy

Now you’ve read our ultimate guide, and have your sewing machine, bobbin and thread spool, you should be ready to get sewing. Pay us a visit sometime in Auckland or Christchurch for more sewing advice.


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