What is the most common cause of skipped stitches?

A dull or incorrectly placed needle is the most common reason for skipping stitches. New needle replacement and proper type for your fabric can prevent this issue.

How do I prevent my stitches from skipping?

Use proper threading, use the right needle and thread combination, apply tension levels correctly, and maintain your machine well by regular servicing and cleaning.

What thread tension should I use?

Thread tension varies with fabric and thread. Check your machine and make test stitches to determine the proper tension setting.

What needle do I use with stretchy fabric?

With knit or stretchy fabrics, a ballpoint needle will be used because it prevents snagging and skipped stitches.

How tight should bobbin tension be?

Bobbin tension should be balanced, neither too tight nor too loose. One quick test is to hold the bobbin case by the thread; it should stick out a little and fall slowly when gently bounced. If it falls too quickly, tension is too loose; if it won't move, tension is too tight. Adjust accordingly.

why embroidery machine skipping stitches

14-02-2025Embroidery Guides

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10 Reasons Why Your Embroidery Machine Skipping Stitches

Are you skipping stitches when working on your embroidery projects? I am pretty sure you are facing this issue so relax, we are here to help you in resolving all your problems because many embroiderers get frustrated due to this issue. In this blog you will be given a solution so then next time you will easily work on your embroidery projects without any tension. In this guide, we will cover 10 major reasons behind skipping stitching problems and their solution, from the wrong thread and needle to cleaning the machine and more. Let's start the informative guide without wasting time.

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Now, let's start the informative guide without wasting time.

Table of Contents

1. 1. Incorrect Thread Tension 2. 2. Dull or Incorrect Needle 3. 3. Incorrect Hooping or Stabilization 4. 4. Machine Maintenance Issues 5. 5. Design or Digitizing Problems 6. 6. Check Your Bobbin 7. 7. Check Your Presser Foot 8. 8. Check Your Acti-Feed 9. 9. Dirt and Lint Build-Up 10. 10. Multiple Layers of Thick Fabric 11. Embroidery Digitizing & Vector Art Services 12. Solution for Correcting Skipping Stitches 13. Conclusion FAQs

1. Incorrect Thread Tension

One of the most common issues in skipping stitches is wrong thread tension, because when tension is not properly tight, the thread does not form proper stitches, always check and adjust machine tension setting daily to prevent thread tension.
2. Dull or Incorrect Needle
A dull or incorrect needle leads to skipped stitches. Use the correct needle type and size for your fabric. Below is a handy needle size guide to use:

Needle Size
Fabric Type
65/9
Light fabrics (silk)
75/11
Medium fabrics (cotton)
90/14
Heavy fabrics (denim)

Replace needles regularly after heavy use to maintain stitch quality.
3. Incorrect Hooping or Stabilization
Incorrect hooping or lack of stabilization leads to fabric movement during embroidery and hence resulting in skipping of stitches. So make sure the fabric is tight in the hoop and do use the correct stabilizers to keep the fabric stable.
4. Machine Maintenance Issues
When regular cleaning is ignored, stitches are skipped. Debris build-up, dust, or lint might disrupt the machine's performance. Clean your equipment regularly and oil it as advised to keep it in the best operating condition.
5. Design or Digitizing Problems
Poorly digitized designs can cause skipped stitches. Ensure proper digitizing of your designs for embroidery. If unsure, seek the services of professional digitizers. For affordable and excellent digitizing services, contact True Digitizing.
6. Check Your Bobbin
An improperly wound or inserted bobbin can cause skipped stitches. Ensure bobbin is wound evenly and inserted correctly. Also, check for lint or debris in the bobbin case which can impede its performance.
7. Check Your Presser Foot

The fabric is secured in the right place while stitching by the presser foot. Improper setting may result in fabric movement and skipped stitches. Make sure the presser foot pressure will work for the fabric's thickness.
8. Check Your Acti-Feed
Some new machine models have an Acti-Feed system to control thread. If not adjusted properly, it can cause skipped stitches. Check your machine manually and adjust Acti-Feed settings accordingly.
9. Dirt and Lint Build-Up
Dirt and lint build-up can clog the needle motion and thread passage and cause skipped stitches. Clean the needle area, bobbin case, and other machine parts periodically to prevent build-up.
10. Multiple Layers of Thick Fabric
It might not be easy for the machine to embroider on multiple layers of thick fabric and hence it results in skipping stitches so use an appropriate needle and adjust machine’s settings to accommodate thicker material.Sometimes slowing the stitching speed can also be helpful.

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Solution for Correcting Skipping Stitches
To correct skipped stitches:

Re-thread the Machine: Ensure upper thread and bobbin are properly threaded.

Replace the Needle: Use the appropriate needle for your fabric.

Adjust Tension Settings: Set the thread tension according to your fabric and thread.

Clean the Machine: Clear the machine parts of any lint or debris.

Use Proper Stabilization: Hoop the fabric correctly and stabilize it properly.

Check your machine's guide or get help from an experienced technician if issues occur.
Conclusion
I know skipped stitches may become irritating but it is possible to achieve wonderful and flawless embroidery with due diligence if you follow the right guidance. Read the blog thoroughly, utilize proper equipment & supplies, keep your machine in clean & good condition, and last but not the least, do not hesitate to seek professional help when needed.

Author

Nick William

Embroidery Digitizer

Nick William has been immersed in the world of embroidery digitizing for over 20 years, earning 25 industry awards throughout his career. As a 3rd generation embroidery expert, Nick’s journey started in his family’s workshop, where he learned the art of digitizing before the rise of modern software. He has worked with leading commercial embroidery businesses and has shared his expertise with over 75,000 home and professional embroiderers. As an author at True Digitizing, Nick is passionate about teaching others how to create beautiful, precise designs through easy-to-follow tutorials and expert advice.