How to Thread a Bobbin Singer Case – (Getting to Know Your Featherweight Machine)

If you want to have a stress-free sewing experience, it is worth taking the time to learn how to set your sewing machine up quickly and effectively. Knowing how to wind the bobbin, insert the bobbin case properly, and needle thread your Singer, without having to consult the sewing machine manual each and every time, will prevent frustration and save you time.

If you are like many sewing enthusiasts and chose to purchase a front-loading Singer Sewing Machine, we are here to explain how you thread and insert a Singer bobbin case. Making sure your bobbin case is threaded and installed properly will help your sewing machine run smoothly. It will also ensure your stitches look neat and tidy.

If you are unsure how threading works, or how to insert the correct bobbin in your Singer sewing machine, we’ve got a handy thread guide for you!

What is a Bobbin Case?

As the name suggests, a bobbin case is a small piece of equipment that holds your bobbin while your sewing machine is operating. As long as you have selected an appropriate bobbin and bobbin case for your machine, the bobbin case will hold it snugly in place. This allows it to unravel properly, so your sewing machine can make a tidy stitch.

The bobbin case also has a secondary function – it helps add tension to the bobbin thread, which, again, helps your machine make neat and tidy stitches. Your bobbin case will be designed in a way that it automatically keeps thread at a certain level of tension, which you will calibrate to make sure it is right for your particular machine. This is why it is so important that you insert and thread your bobbin case properly.

When your sewing machine bobbin is threaded correctly, there will be resistance if you try to pull the bottom thread upwards. This tension means the thread will not unravel excessively, or be too tight for the machine to pull it with the fabric.

Removable Bobbin Cases

Removable bobbin cases are convenient alternatives to permanent bobbin cases. They can be taken out of the sewing machine when you are replacing the bobbin, which makes things much easier.

These removable cases are almost always released with a simple lever and spring system, so accessing the bobbin case and replacing the bobbin is fairly easy.

Front Loading Removable Bobbin Cases

Most Singer sewing machines use a front-loading bobbin case, rather than a side loading bobbin case. Front loading bobbin cases are removed and inserted on the side of the sewing machine that is facing the person that is operating the sewing machine.

If you are purchasing a new bobbin case for your sewing machine, it is important that you choose the correct style, as side-loading bobbin cases will not work with a front-loading sewing machine.

If you are looking for a bobbin case replacement for your machine, it is also important that you select one that is made from the correct material. Metal bobbin cases are much more durable than the plastic alternatives, which is why most people will opt for a metal version when given the choice. Some machines will also only work with bobbin cases that are made from a specific material, as the weight of the bobbin case is important. This is why it is always worth reading the instruction manual for your specific sewing machine before you go out and purchase any replacement parts.

How to Thread the Bobbin Case and Insert it Into Your Singer Sewing Machine

Most of the bobbin cases you would use with a Singer sewing machine will have a hinged latch on the outward-facing surface. This latch is used for grabbing and removing the bobbin case from the machine. It is worth familiarizing yourself with where this latch is located, as it will be important for installation.

They will also have a small screw located on the exterior of the bobbin case, which is used to increase and decrease tension. Again, you should familiarize yourself with where this adjustment screw is located, as it will be important for setting the tension correctly.

To help you get your machine running properly, it is critical that your bobbin and bobbin case are threaded and installed properly. We always recommend using high-quality bobbins with your sewing machine. More importantly, make sure that they are Class 15 bobbins, rather than Class 15J bobbins, as these are not made for front-loading sewing machines.

Instructions for Removing, Refilling, and Reinserting a Bobbin Case

Step 1:

Start by making sure the needle is in its highest position. With a front-loading Singer sewing machine, you can raise the needle by turning the needle adjustment handwheel towards you.

Step 2:

Remove the extension table from the machine and open the hinged cover. Then pull the bobbin case tab and use it to remove the bobbin case from the sewing machine.

Step 3:

Hold the bobbin case with one hand and use the other hand to remove the empty bobbin. Insert the new bobbin in a way that the thread will move in a clockwise direction. Pull the end of the thread through the slit and under the finger.

Step 4:

Hold the bobbin case by the hinged latch and insert it into the shuttle. You should hear it click into place. Once the bobbin case is correctly seated back inside the sewing machine, release the latch.

Your bobbin case should now be installed correctly.

Checking to Make Sure it Was Inserted Correctly

To check that the bobbin case has been properly installed, turn the needle adjustment wheel slowly towards you. The needle should be able to move up and down without hitting the bobbin case.

If the needle hits the bobbin case, or if the bobbin case starts to fall out of the shuttle, remove the bobbin case completely. Once you have pulled it out, try reinserting it until you hear the clicking noise once again.

Checking Bobbin Thread Tension

To check the bobbin thread tension, you can remove the loaded bobbin case and hold it up using the end of the thread. Perform a slight snapping motion with your wrist while holding the thread between your thumb and index finger. If the thread unwinds an inch or two after you perform this snapping motion, the tension is set correctly. On the other hand, if the thread does not unwind at all, the tension is set too tightly.

If the bobbin unravels too quickly and too much, the tension is set too loose. When the tension is set too loosely, the bobbin case will unravel almost like a dropping yo-yo.

To adjust the bobbin thread tension, locate the small screw on the side of the bobbin case. Turn the screw to the left if the tension is too tight. Turn the screw to the right if the tension is too loose.

Fine-tune the tension until it is at a point that it will only unravel slightly when you hold the bobbin case up by the thread and lightly shake it.

Where to Buy a Singer Bobbin Case

As mentioned earlier, you will always want to choose a Singer brand bobbin case for your Singer sewing machine. It is also important to choose a Class 15 bobbin case if you are using a front-loading sewing machine.

Singer – Replacement Bobbin Case for Class 15 Front Loading Sewing Machines

Whether you are in need of a replacement, or you would just like to keep a spare on hand, this Singer bobbin case is ideal for any front-loading Singer sewing machine.

It is a genuine Singer accessory, so it is designed to work flawlessly with Singer’s entire line of front-loading machines. It will also fit front-loading sewing machines from some of the other major sewing machine brands, including Brother, Husqvarna Viking, Janome, New Home, Kenmore, Bernina, and more.

Prewound Sewing Machine Bobbin Sets

If you are in need of threaded bobbins for your Singer sewing machine, you can save yourself plenty of hassle by purchasing a complete set. We recommend the following options:

Singer – 12 Count of Class 15 Threaded Bobbins in Assorted Colors

As you would expect from the Singer brand, these pre-wound bobbins are of the highest quality. The thread is 100% spun polyester and each bobbin contains 50 yards worth.

The thread itself is washable and colorfast, so it will not impact the quality of your finished sewing projects. The bobbins are plastic, so they are very lightweight.

To help with storage and keeping things organized, you also get a reusable and branded carrying case, which has slots for 12 Class 15 bobbins.

Mandala Crafts – Assorted Color Prewound Sewing Thread Bobbin Set

These threaded bobbins are pre-loaded with 2-ply spun polyester thread and they are compatible with all Class 15 Singer sewing machines. They also fit removable bobbin cases, so you will not have to worry about searching for bobbins that work with your particular machine.

In addition to the 36 threaded bobbins, you also get a sturdy and transparent storage box, so you can keep your bobbins organized. As an added bonus, you even get a free measuring tape.

It comes with an assortment of colors, so you can find the right thread for just about any project. The thread in each bobbin measures 88 yards, so they will last through a significant number of sewing projects.

Final Words

By following the steps above, you can make sure that your Singer sewing machine’s bobbin case is threaded and installed correctly! If you have more questions, consider consulting the instruction manual for your sewing machine, or contacting Singer directly.