Guides 5 min read

    Fixing Embroidery Birdnesting (Bobbin Thread Nests)

    Birdnesting — a tangled mess of bobbin thread under the fabric — has a few clear causes. Here's how to stop it.

    Birdnesting is the snarl of thread that builds up under the hoop. It looks alarming but the causes are simple and fixable.

    Why Birdnesting Happens

    • Top thread not properly seated in the tension discs (thread with foot up).
    • Bobbin inserted backwards or not seated correctly.
    • Starting to stitch without holding the top thread tail.
    • A bobbin wound unevenly or too loosely.
    • Skipped a thread guide on the top path.

    How to Get It Right

    1. 1Re-thread the top with the presser foot raised so thread seats in the discs.
    2. 2Remove and re-seat the bobbin, checking the rotation direction.
    3. 3Hold the top thread tail for the first few stitches.
    4. 4Use a properly wound bobbin in the correct weight.
    5. 5Clean lint out of the bobbin case.

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    Foot Up When Threading

    Always thread the top with the presser foot up — that opens the tension discs so the thread seats correctly and prevents nests.

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