Why Is Bobbin Thread Showing on Top of Embroidery? Troubleshooting Guide for Clean Stitches

You’ve loaded your fabric, picked the perfect design, hit “Start” on your embroidery machine—and then it happens: thin, stray strands start appearing on the surface. That’s the bobbin thread showing on top of embroidery, and it’s one of the most annoying issues for both beginners and experienced machine embroiderers.

Let’s dive into the real causes behind this problem and walk through exactly how to fix it, step-by-step.

Understanding How Embroidery Stitches Work

Machine embroidery involves two threads: the top thread (which comes through the needle) and the bobbin thread (which sits underneath). The ideal stitch forms when both threads loop and lock in the middle layer of the fabric. When bobbin thread shows on top of embroidery, that loop is no longer centered—it’s been pulled too far up.

This imbalance leads to poor design quality, visible white lines in colored stitches, and even puckering in some cases.

Main Causes of Bobbin Thread on Top

1. Top Thread Tension is Too Tight

The number one reason for this problem is excessive tension in the top thread. When it’s too tight, it yanks the bobbin thread up through the fabric.

Fix: Reduce your top tension slightly, then do a small test embroidery pattern to check results. Adjust in small increments until the stitch looks even.

2. Bobbin Tension is Too Loose

On the flip side, if the bobbin tension is too loose, it can easily get pulled up by even normal top thread tension.

Fix: Try replacing the bobbin or adjusting the tension screw (very gently) on your bobbin case. If you’re unsure, use a pre-wound bobbin that’s designed for embroidery machines.

3. Thread Mismatch or Poor Quality

Using incompatible thread weights or low-quality threads can create tension inconsistencies, leading to bobbin thread showing on top of embroidery. Thicker bobbin threads are harder to control and more likely to show through.

Fix: Use the recommended combination—usually a 60wt bobbin thread with a 40wt embroidery top thread. Stick with reputable brands to avoid thread breakage or uneven thickness.

4. Incorrect Threading of the Machine

Believe it or not, many embroidery tension issues stem from threading the machine incorrectly—especially when the presser foot is down during the process. This prevents the thread from entering the tension disks properly.

Fix: Always thread the top thread with the presser foot UP. Re-thread the entire path slowly, making sure every guide is used.

5. Needle or Bobbin Case Problems

A damaged or wrong-sized needle, or a bobbin case that’s not properly aligned, can alter the stitch formation enough to cause visible bobbin threads on the surface.

Fix: Replace your needle regularly and ensure it’s the correct type for your fabric and thread. Check your bobbin case for signs of wear or looseness.

Pro Tips to Keep Your Stitches Perfect

Clean your machine regularly—especially the bobbin area.

Use stabilizer appropriate to the fabric type to prevent shifting.

Replace needles every 6–8 hours of stitching.

Run test stitches on scrap fabric before committing to your actual design.

Use the same thread brand for both top and bobbin if possible to ensure even tension response.

Conclusion

Seeing bobbin thread showing on top of embroidery can be a real mood-killer, but it’s a solvable problem. In nearly all cases, it comes down to tension issues, threading mistakes, or mismatched materials. Once you understand how your embroidery machine creates stitches, spotting and fixing these issues becomes second nature.

Remember, embroidery is a craft of patience and detail. The more time you spend understanding your setup, the more flawless and professional your results will be. Stick to quality materials, maintain your machine, and don’t be afraid to tweak tension settings until they’re just right.

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