Fabric getting pulled into the needle plate: solving the problem

During sewing, fabric can sometimes get pulled into the needle plate. There are several reasons for this, and almost all of them can be fixed in a couple of minutes. Let's figure out what's what – a must-read for beginners! 😉

First, the problem might be a dull needle. If the tip is dull, the needle pulls the fabric into the needle plate because it cannot pierce it properly. Needles get dull simply from long use (ideally, you should change the needle often, 1 project = 1 needle) or, in case of malfunctions, from hitting metal parts of the machine. Or from hitting pins. The solution is simple – replace the needle with a new one. 😉

Second, check the ratio of needle size to fabric thickness. If you choose a needle that is too thick for a project, for example, made of chiffon, you will not only make unnecessary holes but will also likely push the delicate fabric into the needle plate. **The solution is elementary – install a needle of the appropriate size.

Third, pay attention to the hole in the needle plate. If the needle was installed incorrectly, it could have frequently hit the edges, leading to premature wear. There is a solution – replacing the plate. You will need a specialist's help here.

Fourth, check the bobbin case. If it holds the thread too tightly, the fabric can get chewed up into the needle hole. The problem is solved by adjusting the bobbin thread tension.** While adjusting, test the stitch on a scrap of the fabric you are using for the project. Loosen the tension according to your sewing machine's manual.

I have listed the main causes of this problem above. However, sometimes the sewing machine is checked from top to bottom, and the problem with fabric getting pulled into the needle plate persists. In that case, you need to pay attention to the fabric itself.

For example, if the edge of the fabric is not cut evenly (with loose threads or jagged edges), such "fuzz" is easily pulled into the needle plate by the needle and bobbin thread. In this case, it is enough to simply carefully trim the edges of the pieces before you start sewing.

This also happens when working with heavily wrinkled fabrics, especially when using a "zigzag" stitch. That is why the fabric should be ironed (or better yet, washed and ironed to avoid shrinkage).

Have you encountered this problem? What was the cause? 🙂