{"id":2414,"date":"2026-08-17T11:12:31","date_gmt":"2026-08-17T10:12:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/?p=2414"},"modified":"2026-08-17T13:45:30","modified_gmt":"2026-08-17T12:45:30","slug":"common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/","title":{"rendered":"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlocker<\/a> is one of the most useful machines you can own, helping you create clean, professional-looking seams in a fraction of the time it takes with a standard sewing machine. However, like any <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/sewing-machines\">sewing machine<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlockers<\/a> can occasionally develop problems that affect stitch quality or performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The good news is that most issues are caused by simple setup or maintenance errors rather than serious faults. In this guide, we&#8217;ll look at the most common <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlocker<\/a> problems, explain what causes them, and show you how to get your machine sewing perfectly again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Quick Reference<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Not sure where to start? Match your symptom to the likely cause below, then jump to the full section for step-by-step fixes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Symptom<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Most likely cause<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>No stitch forms at all<\/td><td>Incorrect threading order<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Thread keeps snapping<\/td><td>Tension too tight, or worn needle\/thread<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Stitches are skipping<\/td><td>Blunt, bent, or wrong-size needle<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Needle keeps breaking or missing stitches despite being new<\/td><td>Needle inserted incorrectly (wrong way round, or not pushed up fully)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Loops hang off the fabric edge<\/td><td>Looper tension too loose<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Seam is puckering<\/td><td>Tension too tight or differential feed incorrect<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Knit fabric waves after sewing<\/td><td>Differential feed too low<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Fabric barely feeds through<\/td><td>Lint in the feed dogs or presser foot pressure wrong<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Machine is unusually noisy<\/td><td>Lint build-up, loose screws, or needs oiling<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Blade isn&#8217;t trimming cleanly<\/td><td>Blade not engaged, or blunt<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Stitch looks uneven after changing thread count<\/td><td>Spare needle left in from 3\/4-thread mode<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>1. The Overlocker Won&#8217;t Form Stitches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">One of the most frustrating problems is when the machine runs but doesn&#8217;t create a proper stitch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Incorrect threading order<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A thread has slipped out of a guide<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The presser foot wasn&#8217;t raised during threading<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bent or damaged needles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect stitch settings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The first thing to do is completely re-thread the machine following the manufacturer&#8217;s recommended threading order. Most <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlockers <\/a>should be threaded in this sequence:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Upper looper<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lower looper<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Right needle<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Left needle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Also check that every thread is seated correctly in the tension discs and replace the needles if they&#8217;re bent or blunt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/overlocker-threading-order.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"959\" height=\"534\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/overlocker-threading-order.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2418\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/overlocker-threading-order.png 959w, https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/overlocker-threading-order-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/overlocker-threading-order-768x428.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 959px) 100vw, 959px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>The standard overlocker threading order &#8211; always work through it in this sequence.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>2. Thread Keeps Breaking<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your threads keep snapping while sewing, don&#8217;t panic &#8211; it&#8217;s one of the most common issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Thread tension is too tight<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Poor-quality thread<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect threading<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Burrs on the needle or looper<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Worn or damaged needles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thread cone seated too tightly on the spool holder<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Re-thread the machine from scratch.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reduce the thread tension slightly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Replace old needles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use high-quality <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlocker<\/a> thread.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check for damage around the needle plate and loopers if the problem continues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make sure thread cones sit freely on their holders &#8211; too tight and they can&#8217;t unwind smoothly, too loose and they wobble.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>3. Skipped Stitches<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Skipped stitches can make seams weak and untidy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Blunt or bent needles<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect needle type<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wrong needle size for the fabric<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect threading<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loose needle screw<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always use fresh <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/sewing-machine-needles\">needles<\/a> suitable for your fabric. Ballpoint <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/sewing-machine-needles\">needles<\/a> are ideal for knit fabrics, while universal or sharp needles are better suited to woven materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>If changing the needle doesn&#8217;t solve the problem, re-thread the machine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check the needle screw is fully tightened &#8211; a needle that isn&#8217;t seated firmly can miss stitches.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>4. Needles Inserted Incorrectly<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is one of the most common <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlocker<\/a> mistakes, and it&#8217;s easy to do without realising &#8211; the needle looks &#8220;in&#8221;, but it isn&#8217;t seated correctly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Needle inserted with the flat side facing the wrong way<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Needle not pushed all the way up into the clamp before the screw is tightened<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>On twin-needle machines, needles inserted at the same height instead of offset<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A regular sewing machine needle used instead of a proper overlocker needle<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check your manual for which way the flat side of the needle should face &#8211; on most machines this is towards the back.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Push the needle all the way up into the clamp until it stops, then tighten the screw firmly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>On machines with two needles, remember the left needle usually sits slightly higher than the right &#8211; check your manual for the exact offset.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always use needles designed for your overlocker model rather than substituting a domestic sewing machine needle.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>5. Loops Hanging Off the Edge<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your stitches look loose and loops are hanging over the fabric edge, your tension settings usually need adjusting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Incorrect thread tension<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stitch width too narrow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cutting width not adjusted correctly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gradually adjust the looper tensions until the stitch wraps neatly around the fabric edge.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always test on a scrap piece of the same fabric before continuing with your project.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>6. Fabric Is Puckering<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Puckered seams can spoil an otherwise beautiful project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Thread tension too tight<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Differential feed incorrect<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stitch length too short<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lightweight fabric stretching during sewing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reduce the thread tension slightly and experiment with the differential feed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Most modern overlockers include differential feed specifically to eliminate stretching and puckering.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>7. Stretch Fabric Waves After Sewing<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is particularly common when sewing jersey or knit fabrics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Differential feed too low<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pulling the fabric while sewing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect stitch settings<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Presser foot pressure set too high<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Increase the differential feed until the fabric feeds evenly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Let the machine move the fabric naturally &#8211; avoid pulling it through the machine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the seam still looks stretched, try lowering the presser foot pressure slightly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>8. Fabric Isn&#8217;t Feeding Properly<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sometimes the fabric barely moves or feeds unevenly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Feed dogs clogged with lint<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Presser foot pressure incorrect<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thick seams causing resistance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Clean the feed dogs thoroughly and remove any lint build-up.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check your machine&#8217;s presser foot pressure settings and adjust them if necessary for thicker or thinner fabrics.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>9. The Machine Is Very Noisy<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A slightly louder sound than a sewing machine is normal, but excessive noise usually indicates something needs attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Lint build-up<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Loose screws<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lack of lubrication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Damaged needles<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u2022 Clean the machine thoroughly, tighten any loose screws and oil the machine if your manufacturer&#8217;s instructions recommend it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\u2022 Never ignore unusual knocking or grinding noises, as these may require professional servicing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>10. The Knife Won&#8217;t Cut Properly<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The built-in blade should trim fabric cleanly as you sew.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Blunt cutting blade<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Blade switched off accidentally<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sewing very thick materials beyond the machine&#8217;s capability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Check that the blade is engaged and clean away any lint or thread wrapped around it.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If the blade has become dull after years of use, it may need replacing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>11. Thread Keeps Tangling<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thread tangles are often caused by incorrect threading rather than a machine fault.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Thread cones tangled<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Incorrect threading sequence<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thread jumping out of guides<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>No thread tail left when starting to sew<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Remove all threads and begin again.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Although it takes a few extra minutes, fully re-threading the machine usually solves the majority of stitching problems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Leave a few inches of thread tail behind the presser foot before you start sewing, so the threads don&#8217;t pull back and tangle under the stitch plate.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>12. Stitches Look Uneven After Switching Thread Count<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;ve switched between 3-thread and 4-thread overlocking and the stitch suddenly looks wrong, the cause is often simpler than it seems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Possible causes:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A spare needle left in the machine from the mode you were using before<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Converter not engaged or disengaged correctly for 2-thread models<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How to fix it:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Remove any needle that isn&#8217;t needed for your current stitch &#8211; an unused needle left in place will throw off the tension of the whole stitch.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Double check your machine&#8217;s converter or needle plate is set correctly for the thread count you&#8217;re using.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>A Simple Tension Reset<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;ve made several tension adjustments and the stitch still isn&#8217;t right, it&#8217;s often faster to start over than to keep guessing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Turn all tension dials back to their default settings (usually marked on the dial, or 0 if unmarked).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Re-thread the machine completely with the presser foot raised, so each thread seats properly in the tension discs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjust one dial at a time, testing on scrap fabric after each change.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep a written note of the settings that work well for different fabrics, so you&#8217;re not starting from scratch next time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This reset approach is one of the quickest ways to isolate whether a problem is caused by tension or by something else, like threading or a worn needle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Preventing Overlocker Problems<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular maintenance is the easiest way to keep your overlocker running smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Good habits include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Clean away lint after every project.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Change needles regularly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use high-quality thread.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cover the machine when not in use.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Have it professionally serviced according to the manufacturer&#8217;s recommendations.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test stitches on scrap fabric before starting every project.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Keep a simple log of tension settings for different fabric types.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These simple steps can prevent many common issues before they occur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>When Should You Seek Professional Repairs?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While many problems can be fixed at home, some require expert attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider having your machine serviced if:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The timing appears to be out.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The loopers strike the needles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The motor struggles to run.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The machine makes grinding noises.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tension adjustments no longer improve stitch quality.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Internal components appear damaged.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A qualified sewing machine technician can diagnose and repair these issues safely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlocker<\/a> problems aren&#8217;t serious and can usually be resolved with careful re-threading, fresh needles, tension adjustments and regular cleaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Learning how your machine works &#8211; and taking a few minutes to troubleshoot methodically &#8211; will help you spend less time fixing problems and more time enjoying your sewing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With regular maintenance and a little patience, your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlocker<\/a> should provide years of reliable performance, helping you create beautifully finished garments and professional-quality sewing projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Need a hand?<\/strong> If you&#8217;ve worked through this guide and your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/shop\/overlockers\">overlocker<\/a> still isn&#8217;t stitching correctly, get in touch at <a href=\"mailto:info@gursewingmachines.com\">info@gursewingmachines.com<\/a> &#8211; we&#8217;re happy to advise, or arrange a service if your machine needs expert attention.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why has my overlocker suddenly stopped stitching properly?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Incorrect threading is the most common cause. Completely re-thread the machine in the correct order and replace the needles if necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why does my overlocker keep breaking thread?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is usually caused by excessive thread tension, poor-quality thread, incorrect threading or worn needles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why are my overlocker stitches loose?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Loose stitches are normally a sign that the looper tensions need adjusting or the stitch width needs changing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>How often should I clean my overlocker?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It&#8217;s a good idea to remove lint and fabric fibres after every sewing session. Overlockers produce more lint than standard sewing machines because they trim the fabric as they sew.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why does my stitch look different after switching from 4-thread to 3-thread overlocking?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check that you&#8217;ve removed any needle not required for the stitch you&#8217;re using &#8211; a spare needle left in place is a common and easily overlooked cause of uneven stitching.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>An overlocker is one of the most useful machines you can own, helping you create clean, professional-looking seams in a fraction of the time it takes with a standard sewing machine. However, like any sewing machine, overlockers can occasionally develop problems that affect stitch quality or performance. The good news is that most issues are [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":2415,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[96,2,5],"tags":[352,87,91],"class_list":["post-2414","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-overlocker","category-sewing","category-sewing-issues","tag-overlocker","tag-sewing-machine","tag-sewing-tips"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) | GUR Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Read Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) from GUR Sewing Machines, with sewing tips, machine advice, tutorials and project inspiration for sewists.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) | GUR Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Read Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) from GUR Sewing Machines, with sewing tips, machine advice, tutorials and project inspiration for sewists.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"GUR - The Sewing Lounge\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-08-17T10:12:31+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-08-17T12:45:30+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/common-overlocker-problems.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1672\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"941\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Pippa\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Pippa\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Estimated reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"9 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Pippa\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/1b575158715bbd6b332a6b5340c8a933\"},\"headline\":\"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them)\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-08-17T10:12:31+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-17T12:45:30+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1857,\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/08\\\/common-overlocker-problems.png\",\"keywords\":[\"Overlocker\",\"sewing machine\",\"sewing tips\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Overlocker\",\"Sewing\",\"Sewing Issues\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/\",\"name\":\"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) | GUR Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/08\\\/common-overlocker-problems.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-08-17T10:12:31+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-17T12:45:30+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/1b575158715bbd6b332a6b5340c8a933\"},\"description\":\"Read Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) from GUR Sewing Machines, with sewing tips, machine advice, tutorials and project inspiration for sewists.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/08\\\/common-overlocker-problems.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2026\\\/08\\\/common-overlocker-problems.png\",\"width\":1672,\"height\":941,\"caption\":\"common overlocker problems\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them)\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"Sewing Blog | GUR Sewing Machines\",\"description\":\"Sewing Machines, Sewing Patterns, Sewing News and more..\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-GB\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\\\/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/1b575158715bbd6b332a6b5340c8a933\",\"name\":\"Pippa\",\"sameAs\":[\"http:\\\/\\\/www.gursewingmachines.com\"]}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) | GUR Blog","description":"Read Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) from GUR Sewing Machines, with sewing tips, machine advice, tutorials and project inspiration for sewists.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/","og_locale":"en_GB","og_type":"article","og_title":"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) | GUR Blog","og_description":"Read Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) from GUR Sewing Machines, with sewing tips, machine advice, tutorials and project inspiration for sewists.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/","og_site_name":"GUR - The Sewing Lounge","article_published_time":"2026-08-17T10:12:31+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-08-17T12:45:30+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1672,"height":941,"url":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/common-overlocker-problems.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"Pippa","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Pippa","Estimated reading time":"9 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/"},"author":{"name":"Pippa","@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/1b575158715bbd6b332a6b5340c8a933"},"headline":"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them)","datePublished":"2026-08-17T10:12:31+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-17T12:45:30+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/"},"wordCount":1857,"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/common-overlocker-problems.png","keywords":["Overlocker","sewing machine","sewing tips"],"articleSection":["Overlocker","Sewing","Sewing Issues"],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/","url":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/","name":"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) | GUR Blog","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/common-overlocker-problems.png","datePublished":"2026-08-17T10:12:31+00:00","dateModified":"2026-08-17T12:45:30+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/1b575158715bbd6b332a6b5340c8a933"},"description":"Read Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them) from GUR Sewing Machines, with sewing tips, machine advice, tutorials and project inspiration for sewists.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-GB","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-GB","@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/common-overlocker-problems.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/common-overlocker-problems.png","width":1672,"height":941,"caption":"common overlocker problems"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/common-overlocker-problems-and-how-to-fix-them\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Common Overlocker Problems (And How to Fix Them)"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/","name":"Sewing Blog | GUR Sewing Machines","description":"Sewing Machines, Sewing Patterns, Sewing News and more..","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-GB"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/1b575158715bbd6b332a6b5340c8a933","name":"Pippa","sameAs":["http:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com"]}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2414","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2414"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2414\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2420,"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2414\/revisions\/2420"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2415"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2414"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2414"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gursewingmachines.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2414"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}