How to Fix Loose Stitches on the Embroidery Machine

Introduction

If the stitches look loose or you see thread loops on the surface of the fabric, the upper thread tension is probably too loose. This is one of the most common embroidery problems on any embroidery machine, and it’s usually fixable in under five minutes — no parts replacement needed.

Unlike bird nesting (which bunches on the back) or a thread break alert (which stops the machine), loose stitches and thread loops are a tension balance problem. The upper thread isn’t pulling tight enough, so it sits on the surface instead of locking into the fabric.

Pause the machine and follow these steps:

1. Check the Upper Threading
2. Fine-Tune the Upper Thread Tension
3. Run a Low-Speed Test

Step 1: Check the Upper Threading

First, check the upper threading. Make sure the thread passes through all thread guides and tension components correctly.

Check that the thread is not skipped, tangled, or caught anywhere, and make sure the thread spools unwind smoothly.

Step 2: Fine-Tune the Upper Thread Tension

The thread tension is controlled by three adjustment points:

• Two thread guide tension discs
• One tension check spring

To increase the tension, slightly turn the thread guide tension discs clockwise.

Or turn the check spring clockwise.

Step 3: Run a Low-Speed Test

After adjusting, use the same fabric and stabilizer to run a low-speed test.

Then check the stitches on both the front and back. Once the stitches look balanced, continue with your embroidery project.

Tutorial Video

If you prefer to follow along visually, the video below walks through the same three steps in order — from checking the upper threading to testing the tension at low speed. You can watch it before you start or use it alongside the steps above.

Conclusion

Loose stitches and thread loops are a tension balance problem, not a machine failure. Check the upper threading first, then fine-tune the tension using the two thread guide tension discs and the tension check spring. Make small clockwise adjustments, and test on the same fabric and stabilizer at low speed before resuming your project.

If the stitches still look loose after adjusting the upper tension, the issue may be on the bobbin side — check the bobbin thread tension next. And if the problem continues after both sides are checked, contact HTVRONT Support at support@htvront.com.

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