Originally Posted by
Onebyone
Try changing it when changing stitch length. You never know until you do it. I change tension all the time. I want to know what too loose and too tight look like with different threads. Machine tension is set for one type of thread at the factory so you have to adjust it. I don't know why so many sewers are afraid of that tension dial upper or lower.
FYI: I was taught to always raise the pressure foot when adjusting tension. I do this on all my machines, new and vintage.
I agree. I think of it like tuning a string instrument (I play the upright bass). You can't just buy your instrument and never tune it, at least not if you ever want to play with other musicians. I don't adjust thread tension unless there is an issue, but if there is, I'm not shy about it. I'm also not shy about adjusting lower tension, even though there seems to be a ghastly fear of that. I want my stitches to look good and hold up, so I do what I need to do to make that happen. Although, I don't have a computerized machine. I have an old semi industrial bernina, and a new brother 1500s, both are 100% mechanical.