Why Is My Sewing Machine Skipping Stitches? Top 7 Causes and Fixes for Chennai Tailors

1. Using the Wrong Type of Needle

One of the most common causes of skipped stitches is using the wrong needle for the fabric. A thick needle on delicate fabric or a fine needle on denim can cause the needle to deflect, bend, or skip stitches.

Fix

• Use fine needles for thin materials like chiffon or silk.
• Use strong needles for denim, canvas, and thick materials.
• Change needles regularly — especially if you sew daily.

A fresh needle alone solves more than 50% of skipped stitch problems.

2. Bent or Blunt Needle

Even if your needle is the right size, a bent or dull needle cannot pick up the bobbin thread correctly. This results in gaps, missed stitches, or uneven seams.

Fix

• Replace the needle immediately at the first sign of bending or noise.
• Never use a damaged needle for boutique or customer orders.

3. Improper Threading of the Machine

Incorrect threading is a major reason for skipped stitches. If the upper thread hasn’t passed through the tension discs or guides correctly, the needle can’t form a proper loop with the bobbin thread.

Fix

• Re-thread the machine completely, top and bottom.
• Always thread with the presser foot raised so tension discs open properly.
• Ensure the thread flows smoothly through all guides.

4. Poor Bobbin Winding or Incorrect Bobbin Placement

An unevenly wound bobbin or a wrongly inserted bobbin can disrupt stitch formation. This causes irregular stitches, thread looping, or skipped stitches.

Fix

• Wind the bobbin evenly at a steady speed.
• Ensure the bobbin rotates in the correct direction.
• Clean the bobbin case and check for lint build-up.

5. Incorrect Thread Tension Settings

High or low tension affects how the upper and lower threads interlock. If the tension is incorrect, the machine struggles to catch the thread properly — causing skipped stitches.

Fix

• Adjust tension gradually based on fabric thickness.
• Test on a scrap of the same material before stitching the garment.
• Keep tension balanced for smooth, consistent stitches.

Tailors working in Chennai’s high-volume shops often overlook tension settings during rush orders — but a single adjustment can fix the issue instantly.

6. Machine Not Properly Cleaned or Lubricated

Dust, lint, and thread fragments accumulate inside the machine, especially around the hook and feed dog area. This increases friction and interferes with stitch formation.

Fix

• Clean the bobbin area after every few hours of stitching.
• Remove lint from the feed dogs and under the needle plate.
• Oil the machine if recommended by the manufacturer.

A clean, well-oiled machine stitches better and lasts longer.

7. Using Poor-Quality Thread

Cheap or weak thread breaks easily or gets stuck in the guides, leading to irregular or skipped stitches. In Chennai’s tailoring hubs — T. Nagar, Sowcarpet, and Chromepet — this is one of the most common issues tailors report.

Fix

• Use good-quality thread suitable for your fabric.
• Avoid old or sun-damaged thread that becomes brittle.
• Match the thread weight to your needle and fabric.

High-quality thread improves stitch accuracy and prevents machine stress.

Final Thoughts

Skipped stitches are frustrating but usually easy to fix once you identify the cause. Most issues come from needles, threading, tension, or maintenance — all of which can be resolved in minutes.

Whether you’re a Chennai tailor handling daily customer orders or a beginner learning sewing at home, regular cleaning, proper needle choices, and correct threading will keep your machine running smoothly and professionally.

If you need a reliable sewing machine with warranty, free demo, doorstep installation, and after-sales service, explore the genuine range available at Popular Agencies, trusted across Vellore, Ranipet, Tirupathur, Tiruvannamalai, and Chittoor.