Gaps in stitching

Gaps

• If the embroidery design is not aligning properly and there are gaps in the stitching, inspect the embroidery thread. Make sure the top thread goes through all the guides correctly and has not broken or slipped out of place during stitching.
• Next, examine the bobbin. Again, check for breakage and be sure that the bobbin is inserted into the case and/or machine properly.
• Check the embroidery needle. If it is dull, bent, or has even a slight burr, it can cause improper stitching. It should be changed after 3-4 hours of stitching time; if in doubt, change the needle. It's a fast and inexpensive solution to many problems.
• Make sure the inner hoop is flush with the outer embroidery hoop. If the inner embroidery hoop is not in contacts with the bed of the embroidery or sewing machine, the needle can't make a proper stitch. The inner hoop should be flat on the machine bed.
• Clean the embroidery machine. Sometimes the tiniest speck of embroidery (sewing) thread or dust in the bobbin and/or hook area can create havoc with your stitching. Clear the lint away and oil your embroidery sewing machine according to the manufacturer's directions.

• If the fabric has not been removed from the hoop and one or two color sections have gaps, simply restitch those portions of the machine embroidery design. Most embroidery machines allow movement (without stitching) through the design, color by color, or in small increments, sometimes stitch by stitch. Move to the part of the machine embroidery design that needs repair and position the needle as needed. Begin stitching, watching the needle carefully so you can stop it when the oversewing is complete.
• For minor inconsistencies in the stitching of a finished embroidery design, use permanent ink markers to color the gaps. They will blend into the stitching and become invisible.