Brother Embroidery Machine: Skipped Stitches Troubleshooting Guide

1. Bent, Dull, or Incorrect Needle high likelihood

How to tell

Stitches skip inconsistently, or consistently on certain fabric types. A bent needle may cause a slight thudding sound. A dull needle might snag fabric. Visually inspect the needle tip for bends, burrs, or dullness. Ensure the needle type (e.g., ballpoint for knits, sharp for wovens) and size are appropriate for the fabric and thread weight.

Fix

1. Power off the machine.
2. Loosen the needle clamp screw and remove the old needle.
3. Select a new needle of the correct type and size for your current fabric and thread. Consult your machine's manual for recommendations.
4. Insert the new needle fully into the needle bar with the flat side facing the back of the machine.
5. Tighten the needle clamp screw securely.

Parts involved: Needles & needle bars →

2. Incorrect Thread Tension high likelihood

How to tell

Stitches appear uneven, loops are visible on the top or bottom of the fabric, or thread breaks. Skipped stitches occur when the upper and bobbin threads do not interlock correctly. Test on a scrap piece of the same fabric.

Fix

1. Completely re-thread the upper thread path. Ensure the thread is seated correctly in all guides and tension discs, including the take-up lever.
2. Check the bobbin: ensure it's wound evenly, inserted correctly into the bobbin case, and the thread unwinds smoothly without snags.
3. Adjust the upper thread tension dial incrementally (e.g., 1/4 turn at a time). Test after each adjustment. Start with the manufacturer's recommended setting (often a middle value).
4. If upper tension adjustments don't resolve the issue, and you suspect bobbin tension, refer to your machine's manual for instructions on checking and adjusting bobbin case tension. This usually involves a small screw on the bobbin case and should be done very carefully, making only tiny adjustments.

Parts involved: Thread path & tension → Rotary hooks & bobbin cases →

3. Improper Fabric Hooping medium likelihood

How to tell

The fabric shifts or puckers during embroidery, leading to inconsistent stitch formation or gaps. The design may look distorted.

Fix

1. Remove the hoop from the machine.
2. Ensure the fabric is taut in the hoop, like a drum, but not overstretched, which can distort the design.
3. Check that the fabric is secured evenly around all sides of the hoop.
4. If using stabilizer, ensure it is appropriate for the fabric type and securely hooped with the fabric, or adhered properly if using a sticky-back type.
5. Re-insert the hoop securely into the machine's embroidery unit.

Parts involved: Hoops & frames →

4. Dirty Machine or Needle Plate medium likelihood

How to tell

Skipped stitches occur, sometimes accompanied by thread breaks or unusual noises. Lint, dust, or thread bits can obstruct the needle's path or interfere with bobbin thread pickup.

Fix

1. Power off and unplug the machine.
2. Remove the needle plate screws and lift the needle plate.
3. Using a small brush and/or vacuum, carefully clean out all lint and thread debris from the bobbin area, feed dogs, and under the needle plate.
4. Clean the tension discs by flossing with a piece of thread or a thin cloth.
5. Inspect the bobbin case for any nicks or burrs that could snag thread. If found, replace the bobbin case.
6. Reinstall the needle plate and secure its screws.

Parts involved: Lubrication & maintenance → Rotary hooks & bobbin cases → Presser feet & sewing parts →

5. Bobbin Thread Issues medium likelihood

How to tell

Skipped stitches, especially when the bobbin thread is involved in the skip. The bobbin may spin erratically, or the thread may snag.

Fix

1. Remove the bobbin and inspect it. Ensure it is wound evenly and smoothly, without lumps or loose sections.
2. If the bobbin is poorly wound, re-wind it or use a new, pre-wound bobbin.
3. Ensure the bobbin is inserted correctly into the bobbin case according to your machine's manual (e.g., clockwise or counter-clockwise rotation).
4. Verify you are using the correct type and size of bobbin specified for your Brother machine. Using an incorrect bobbin can cause tension and feeding issues.

Parts involved: Rotary hooks & bobbin cases → Threads & supplies →

6. Incorrect Presser Foot Pressure low likelihood

How to tell

Fabric shifts or puckers under the presser foot during stitching, leading to missed stitches. This is more noticeable with very thick or very thin/slippery fabrics.

Fix

1. Locate the presser foot pressure adjustment on your machine (refer to your manual for its location and operation).
2. Adjust the pressure: increase pressure for thicker fabrics to hold them more firmly; decrease pressure for very delicate or thin fabrics to prevent marking or stretching.
3. Test the adjustment on a scrap piece of your fabric until the fabric feeds smoothly without shifting or distortion.

Parts involved: Presser feet & sewing parts →

7. Machine Speed Too Fast low likelihood

How to tell

Skipped stitches occur, particularly on intricate designs, delicate fabrics, or when the machine is running at its maximum speed. The machine may not have enough time to form a proper stitch.

Fix

1. Reduce the machine's embroidery speed setting on the control panel.
2. Test at a slower speed, especially for complex areas of the design or when working with challenging materials.
3. Gradually increase speed if stitch quality remains good, finding a balance between speed and stitch integrity.