Hiya, playing with a cheap mini sewing machine I was gifted. I haven't used a sewing machine since Home Ec 20 years ago.
First question is so basic that it isn't covered by any of the instructions I've read or watched. When I finish sewing a section, there are two threads hanging out of each end of the stitches. One is from my thread spool, the other from the bottom bobbin (according to my machine's instructions). If I pull the bottom thread, it just comes straight out. The top thread is at least looped around the bottom thread. Am I supposed to tie these together at each end every time? Is there some trick I'm missing?
Second question is maybe about my specific machine. The loops of top thread that go around the bottom thread are really loose. Any guess what I've done wrong to cause that?
Thanks in advance.
If the top thread is the black one and the bobbin thread is the white one then your top tension is waaaaay too low. Set the tension to a middle value and adjust from there. Don't forget to rethread the top thread after adjusting the tensions by big amounts. In general it's also a good troubleshooting step.
About finishing the end threads, part of the issue is the tension. If you fix that it will get better, but the correct way to finish the seam is with a back stitch. Most machines have a button dedicated to that function, see if you can find it on yours.
In some situations it is also acceptable if you pass over one of the threads to the same side as the other one and tie the ends yourself. The back stitch is preferable because it's faster and less fidly
Welcome to the hobby, have fun! :)
I really appreciate the detailed reply!
Yes, the dark thread is the top and the bobbin is white.
I loosened the tension because the thread kept snapping, but there must be a middle ground. I'll fiddle with it.
There's no reverse or specific back stitch button, I attempted my own by stopping, lifting the foot, rotating the work piece, and putting a few stitches the other way.
Thank you very much!