The Upholstery Forum

I guess this machine is primarily a leather machine but I have a bunch of canvas work that recently fell in my lap.
I'm doing 2 - 3 layers of Sunbrella canvas.
I can't keep the bottom thread from pulling up to the top.
Even when I reduce the top thread tension to the point of rat nesting the bottom thread knot clearly shows on top.
I have ordered a new bobbin case hoping that is the culprit but this one seems fine.
I sure could use some help with this one.


BTW...Im using 138 - T135 bonded UV thread with 140 needle.

Ive used this machine for some time now. I know how to set the tension.The problem is somewhere else.
Thanks anyway.

Can you post a picture?

After checking you needle is correct, check your timing..... some machines just slowly go out of time from the consistent pounding.

I hear ya. I check timing every few days.
But I didn't know that timing could cause a problem like this.
Ill post a picture once I can break from my work and bobbin up some dark thread so it will be easier to see.
But really it just looks like bobbin thread tension is just too low for this material.
Which is why I suspect the bobbin case. I just don't have any point of reference to know how tight a "good" bobbin spring should be on this machine. Its never been a problem with vinyl or leather.

Hey @ebm010
I missed the part about the thread size your using. 138 is pretty thick and 2-3 layers of canvas is pretty thin compared to vinyl or leather. You will never be able to hide the knot in the middle of 3 layers of canvas. You will have to chose if you want it to show on the top or the bottom. I also would suggest using size 92 thread. The knot will be much less noticeable. I use 92 on almost everything. Hope this helps

Hi ebm010! I was wondering if you were able to resolve the issue? I am currently having the exact same problem with my brand new (got it 2 days ago) pfaff passport 2.0 . This is actually my first machine so I really have no idea what to do. Changing the tension isn't helping at all, every tension from 0 to 7 gives the same problem in varying degrees (i have the least issues with the tension being around 2). Do you think your solution might work for my machine as well?

@Yolonny I would go back through your manual and make %110 sure that everything is threaded properly.Usually when adjusting the tension knob does nothing the thread is not routed properly.