Your thread tensions may be balanced but they may not be optimal. Overly tight tensions can cause puckers and registration problems.

What can you do to be sure your tensions are set correctly? Use this handy tension tamer device. It’s affordable, very easy to use and comes complete with instructions.

Tension is measured in grams. To use the thread tension gauge, simply tie the end of the bobbin thread to the gauge hook while steadily pulling the device away from the bobbin towards yourself.

The center plunger will show how many grams of force is required to pull the bobbin thread, which is the measurement used to set the tension.

Do you need a commercial machine for this? No. Machines that have a drop-in bobbin as opposed to a removable case may be a little trickier; you will need to refer to your manual to figure out how to access it.

Your thread tensions may be balanced but they may not be optimal. Overly tight tensions can cause puckers and registration problems.