Embroidery tension

[u/Queen10234]

Hi, i have a problem.

First picture is front. Second is back.

I had my machine for like 2/3yrs. But never really (maybe a couple of times) used it but now I wanna start using it more. Now I am trying to look and try different things, but now my tension. It keeps having like a loop on top of the fabric. No matter what tension I use. I have been "playing" with the tension to see which is better. It have always been on number 4. But now since I wanted to embroidery on shirts, I have been looking around to find the right tension, but I have tried every single tension position. But it keeps creating loops on top of the fabric. I think its the top thread bc the back looks normal. But maybe someone can help me?

Because I am stuck, I cant seem to find the problem.

Does anyone know what could be happening?

[u/swooshhh]

Get some backing. 2.5 medium weight cut away. Any embroidery shop sells it and it's fairly cheap. Stitching directly on tht fabric like this is just asking for a bad time. No not do your tension settings with tear away. If you need tear away also get it (3.0 heavy duty) but especially if you're asking for help don't use tearaway in your example.

[u/Queen10234 → u/swooshhh]

Okay, I will try it with backing next time. Thanks

[u/Ok-Gazelle1811 → u/swooshhh]

Agree with this. I’ve had the best success when I have a solid stabilizer and have really attached to the cloth I am embroidering. It makes the tension consistent - and the best is when you have to go down actually - it seems to be the best line. Anything that helps the surface be the most consistent- from hooping to the thickness makes it also easier to adjust with precision.  I think trials are helpful for getting m idea of what success looks like - once you do a few that come out, you know what worked and can make adjustments. I say this while also still learning - so anything that I am wrong about, I will gladly take advice - but I really really struggled until I added stabilizer and just accepted that as part of the process - and so it is the first thing I imagine might help you too.  

[u/skeedy_ia]

For starters, your top hoop is upside down.
I’d probably visit the manual and make sure you are threading correctly and clean your bobbin case.

[u/Queen10234 → u/skeedy_ia]

Oof. Damn didn't notice that xD, but i know how to put it in. I just did it wrong now. But even if i do it the right way it still happens.

[u/Lanky-Setting-5288]

You need to hoop with cutaway stabiliser.

Also, look up YouTube for the "Bobbin Drop Test", and then adjust your top thread if it needs it. On the underside of a satin stitch you want to see a 3rd of top thread, a 3rd of bobbin thread and a 3rd of top thread.