What is the tension for this machine?

The standard setting when the machine leaves the factory is the midway point between high & low number. However, over time with use, that setting may shift. The ideal tension setting for your machine is when the top and bobbin threads meet in the middle of the fabric.


threads sewing machine tension Google Search

Most likely there are jamming threads at bobbin room under the machine stepping pedal, try to dismantle it to get rid of these threads.

try changing the needle first and see if that solves the problem

Forget factory settings, main one is top tension should be about 4 or 5

1. make sure your machine is threaded right.2. set the tension between 3 and 4 and play with the tension as you need it to adjust it.3. make sure the bobbin is threaded right.make sure to visit the site below; it has solutions to multiple problems and instructions how to thread the needle or bobbin. Good luck.htt://Fix Looping/Knotting Thread Fix Knotting/Bunching Thread Looping Bunching & Knotting Thread

why dont you visit this website and read up some of the general info on sewing machines, should help you get started.

http://sewing.about.com/od/sewingmachineindex/bb/sewingmachines.htm

Usually you should only need to adjust the top tension a little bit for different fabrics but generally it should be fine on 5. Bottom tension is set by a little screw on the bobbin case (if yours is a removable front loading type) or sometimes a little dial if fixed horizontal bobbin case design. If machine has been set up correctly from new then bottom tension should not need to be touched at all.

It sounds more like your machine is not threaded properly, causing the thread bunching up to occur. If you don't have a manual you may find a threading diagram at www.sewusa.com or www.singerco.com, the Singer website has instruction manuals for download free for many models.

It sounds like you may be a beginner sewer, in which case, I highly recommend taking a few classes to learn how to best utilise your machine and save lots of frustration too.

I would tend to set all tensions on "0". If this does not work, move each one up or down slightly and stitch again. use a spare peice of fabric or one similar to your project.

Sometimes a blunt needle causes tension problems.

usually 3 or 4 is the tension setting

Have you lost your manual?
You can download one free from the Singer site.
http://www.singerco.com/accessories/manuals.html
Just type in 3116 and click on search.
On the next page click on free download!
It ould help with the tension and stitch settings etc.

Please visit the website below for a distributor in your country:

http://www.singer-sam.com/index.htm