Adjusting the stitch tension and bias to prevent wrinkles in cushion covers

When sewing cushion covers, it’s crucial to maintain the correct stitch tension and bias to prevent unwanted wrinkles. This process might seem complicated initially, but by understanding a few basic principles, you can easily achieve smooth and neat cushion covers every time. This guide will help you adjust your sewing machine settings and techniques to create flawless cushion covers.

Understanding Stitch Tension

Stitch tension refers to the balance between the upper and the lower thread in your sewing machine. A well-balanced stitch ensures that the threads interlock within the fabric without causing puckering or wrinkles. If the tension is too tight or too loose, it can lead to distorted cushion covers.

Recognize Correct Tension

Before you begin, it’s essential to understand what correct tension looks like. Ideally, the stitches should be even on both sides of the fabric.
Neither side should have loose loops, and both should appear smooth. Run a test stitch on a piece of scrap fabric similar to your cushion cover material to check the balance.

Adjusting Upper Tension

Most sewing machines allow you to adjust the tension setting for the upper thread. A dial or digital setting usually adjusts it on the machine.
If your stitches pull tight on top and loose underneath, reduce the upper tension. If the problem is the opposite, increase the upper tension gradually until you achieve even stitches.

Check Bobbin Tension

The lower thread, or bobbin tension, is also vital. Though it often doesn’t need adjusting, if you’re still having issues after adjusting the upper tension, it might be worth a look.
Most newer machines set bobbin tension automatically, but older models might require manual adjustment.

Managing Bias and Fabric Stretch

Bias refers to the diagonal grain of the fabric, which has the most stretch. When sewing cushion covers, managing bias is crucial to prevent unwanted stretching and wrinkling.

Cutting on Grain

To minimize stretch and potential distortion, it’s best to cut your fabric on the grainline, rather than on the bias.
The grainline runs parallel to the selvage and provides stability. Cutting on grain ensures that your fabric maintains its shape during sewing.

Using Stabilizers

When sewing particularly stretchy fabrics, using a stabilizer can help maintain the fabric’s shape. Stabilizers are temporary sheets that support the fabric as you sew.
They can easily be removed once stitching is complete. This addition helps to prevent bias stretch and ensures a smooth finish.

Using the Correct Needle and Thread

Your sewing machine’s needle and thread play a critical role in stitch quality. Selecting the right ones for your fabric can significantly affect the final appearance of your cushion covers.

Needle Selection

Choose a needle size that matches your fabric weight. Medium weight cotton or linen, commonly used for cushion covers, typically requires a size 80/12 needle.
For heavier fabrics, opt for a larger needle size. A needle too small can cause puckering, while a needle too large can damage the fabric.

Thread Type

Using the correct thread type is just as important as selecting the right needle. For most cushion covers, a medium weight polyester thread works well.
It provides strength without excessive bulk. Make sure your top and bottom threads are the same type and thickness to ensure consistent tension.

Proper Sewing Techniques

Good sewing techniques are key to preventing wrinkles in cushion covers. Along with machine adjustments, these practices can help improve your sewing results.

Pressing Fabric

Before stitching, always press your fabric with an iron. This helps to remove any initial wrinkles and sets the fabric for precise sewing. Similarly, press seams after sewing to help them lay flat and maintain their shape.

Consistent Sewing Speed

Maintain a consistent speed as you sew. Speeding up and slowing down frequently can affect stitch tension and fabric movement, leading to uneven seams and wrinkles.
Practice a steady pace to keep your stitches even.

Seam Basics

When sewing seams, use a walking foot or dual feed foot if available on your machine. These accessory feet help feed the fabric evenly through the machine.
This prevents shifting and stretching which can cause wrinkles. Additionally, avoid pulling or pushing the fabric as you sew; let the machine do the work to ensure smooth and clean stitching.

Understanding and adjusting for stitch tension and fabric bias are essential skills for anyone sewing cushion covers. By making the necessary adjustments to your machine and using these techniques, you can ensure your covers are as wrinkle-free and professionally finished as possible. Keep practicing, going one stitch at a time, and soon handling these aspects will become second nature, allowing your cushion covers to come out perfectly every time.