Embroidery Machine Making Unusual Noises - How to Fix It
Your embroidery machine should run with a smooth, consistent sound. If it's started clicking, grinding, clunking or squealing, it's telling you something needs attention. Most unusual noises have a straightforward cause - work through these steps to find and fix it.
What does the noise sound like?
Different noises point to different causes. Use this as a quick guide before working through the steps below.
Repetitive clicking
Usually a bent needle striking the hoop, bobbin case or needle plate on every stitch.
Grinding or clunking
Often a thread nest caught in the hook assembly, or the machine needs oiling.
Knocking or scraping
Check the hoop - it may not be sitting flat or could be catching on the machine frame.
Rattling
Check for loose parts - needle plate screws, presser foot or bobbin case.
Squealing
Usually a sign the machine needs lubrication.
Work through these steps in order
Start at step 1 and work your way down - most unusual noises have a simple cause that's quick to fix.
Stop the machine immediately
As soon as you notice an unusual noise, stop. Continuing to run the machine can turn a minor issue into a more serious one.
- Turn the machine off before investigating
- Don't try to sew through the noise hoping it will resolve itself
Check and replace the needle
A bent needle striking the hoop, needle plate or bobbin case on every stitch creates a sharp repetitive clicking sound. It's the quickest thing to check so always start here.
- Remove the needle and inspect it for any bending or damage
- Fit a fresh embroidery needle regardless - it rules out one of the most common causes immediately
- Make sure it's fully inserted with the flat side to the back and tightened securely
Check for a thread or fabric jam
A grinding or clunking sound is often caused by a thread nest caught in the hook assembly, forcing the machine to work against resistance.
- Remove the presser foot, needle plate and bobbin case and check carefully for any trapped thread or fabric
- Use small scissors or tweezers to clear any tangle - never pull aggressively as this can damage the hook
- Make sure the area is completely clear before reassembling
Check the hoop is attached correctly
A hoop that isn't sitting flat or is catching on part of the machine as it moves can cause a repetitive knocking or scraping sound - this is unique to embroidery machines and easy to overlook.
- Remove and re-attach the hoop, making sure it's sitting level and locked firmly in place
- Check the hoop isn't catching on the machine frame, any cables or surrounding objects during movement
- Run the machine slowly by hand if possible to check the hoop moves freely throughout its full range
Check for loose parts
A rattling or clunking sound can be caused by something that's come loose.
- Check the needle plate screws are tight
- Make sure the presser foot is properly attached
- Re-seat the bobbin case and confirm it's locked in place
Clean the machine
Lint and debris build up quickly in embroidery machines and can force moving parts to work harder, causing grinding or rasping sounds.
- Clean thoroughly around the bobbin area, hook assembly and any accessible moving parts using a small brush
- Remove the needle plate if possible for a more thorough clean underneath
Oil the machine
A squealing or persistent grinding sound can indicate the machine needs lubrication, particularly if it hasn't been used for a while.
- Check your manual to see whether your machine requires oiling and exactly where to apply it - not all machines do and oiling the wrong parts can cause damage
- Use only sewing machine oil - never WD-40 or general household oils
- If your machine hasn't been serviced recently, a professional service may be the most effective solution
Test on scrap fabric
Once you've worked through the steps, run a short test on scrap fabric and listen carefully. The machine should run smoothly and quietly. If the noise has gone you're good to return to your project.
Quick fix checklist
Run through this before contacting us - it covers the most common causes.
- Machine turned off as soon as the noise was noticed
- Fresh embroidery needle fitted, fully inserted and tightened
- Hook assembly checked and cleared of any thread or fabric
- Hoop re-attached flat and level, not catching on the machine or surroundings
- Needle plate screws, presser foot and bobbin case checked and tightened
- Machine cleaned thoroughly around bobbin area and hook assembly
- Machine oiled if required by the manual
Still having trouble? We're here to help.
If the machine is still making unusual noises after working through these steps, it likely needs a professional service. Get in touch and our team will take it from there.
Still stuck? We are happy to help.
Our service team has seen every machine in our range and can usually diagnose problems over the phone.
