Most often, when threads accumulate on the bottom of the fabric, it is actually an upper thread issue. If you are unable to discern whether it is the upper or lower threads, you can install a different color thread in the bobbin and retest.
There are a few things that should be the initial tests to possibly correct an upper thread issue:
Install a brand new needle. (#1 problem! Needles should be changed frequently as they become worn, nicked, bent from use and no longer perform as new needle would. Sewists are generally frugal, but it does not pay to try to save money on needles.) Also make sure that the needle, thread, and fabric are compatible.
All About Needles Remove all the thread from the machine. RAISE the presser foot and rethread from the beginning (#2 Problem!). Raising the presser foot releases the tension disks which allows the thread to seat properly.
Be sure to verify it is threaded properly (#3 problem!). Check that the bobbin is loaded and threaded in the bobbin case correctly.
Check the upper tension. Start with the setting somewhere at the midway point between the low & high numbers. (#4 Problem!) However, the upper tension is not intended to be a static setting, ie tension that works with one fabric probably won't work with a lighter or heavier weight fabric. The upper tension should be readjusted whenever the fabric, thread, and needle choice are changed.
AVOID using old, fuzzy, or bargain bin thread!! Even Coats & Clark thread causes havoc with some machines. Try to stick with brand names, ie, Mettler, Gutterman, Superior, Sulky, Isacord--there are many more. Don't be afraid to try others. Some machines just do better with some thread brands than others. Paying more for good quality thread will be well worth any sewing success and satisfaction.
On the other hand, if it is in fact a bobbin thread issue, it could be loaded or threaded improperly or there is debris in the feed dog and bobbin area. There could be thread stuck in the tension mechanism of the bobbin case. Or the bobbin case needs a tension adjustment. (Search the internet for instructions to perform bobbin case tension adjustment.) The last problem could be the bobbin case is worn or broken. NOTE: most are reluctant to purchase another bobbin case, however, it is sometimes nice to have another on hand as a backup. Also, a lot of sewists have a second bobbin case with the tension set up specifically for a particular function or thread type.
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Thank you! I checked these things several times. When I still couldn't get it working properly I tried cleaning the bobbin area which didn't help and changing the needle which also didn't help. I then changed to a another spool of thread (different type) and it stitched fine. I never would have thought of it but didn't know what else to try. I thought you might like this information for future reference. Again, thank you very much for your help.
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