mom-6

As soon as I start to stitch it will do about three stitches and the top thread breaks.

Is this a tension problem?

This is the first time I've had any trouble with this machine (other than the foot controller issue a couple years ago).

crocee

It sounds like tension is too tight. I had this trouble with my machine and it turned out the top tension was turned all the way in. I also had to loosen the bobbin tension but that was afterwards because the bobbin thread was breaking.

tessagin

Try a new needle and check your tension! I had that problem and had a catch in the needle also my tension was a wee bit too tight. If all else fails check your manual.

Leslie333

It does sound like a tension issue, but on something like this the first thing I do is fully rethread everything, both top thread and bobbin.

gotta-sew

Could your thread be catching on the spool pin or possibly the spool itself. Make sure the spool cap your using is big enough.

mom-6

Thanks! I'm now suspecting a problem with the needle but will try rethreading first before changing out needle.

brandeesmom

I had this issue the other day and it was because I was not threading the needle correctly. Thread the needle from right to left through the needle. I hope this solves your problem, it did for me.

singerguy

also check the orientation of the needle.

When inserting a needle, make sure the needle’s FLAT SIDE is facing the left. Thread the needle ALWAYS from the right to the left on a Singer Featherweight 221.

miriam

Check around for burrs, too. Burrs can be on the needle plate or hook area.

mom-6

I'm suspecting there was a burr on the eye of the needle. Changed it out and all is well.
Thanks to all!