Mistakes & fixes

A needle that clicks against the plate or skips stitches is often bent from nicking a pin or age. Replace it immediately, since a bent needle can also throw off hook timing.

Edges or seams that stretch and lose their shape happen when fabric cut near the bias grain is handled without support. Stay-stitch bias edges promptly after cutting and avoid pulling the fabric while sewing.

Bobbin thread that pulls with no resistance, causing loopy stitches, usually means the small screw on the bobbin case has loosened. Turn it slightly clockwise and test on scrap before sewing the garment.

Dots of bobbin-colored thread on the fabric's right side mean top tension is too tight relative to the bobbin, pulling bobbin thread up through the fabric. Loosen the top tension and test on a scrap.

Lumpy, hard-to-press seams at corners or curves come from leaving full seam allowance width in places that need to fold or turn. Trim, grade, and clip curves to reduce bulk before pressing.

Threads pulling loose around a cut buttonhole usually means the stitching was too loose, the fabric wasn't stabilized, or it was cut open before sewing finished. Interface the area and cut open last with sharp scissors.

A buttonhole that won't let the button through without straining the fabric usually means it was sized to the button's diameter instead of its circumference. Measure the button's girth and test on scrap before cutting.