Overlocker Skipped Stitches - How to Fix It
If your overlocker is missing stitches and leaving gaps in the seam, it's almost always a needle or threading issue. Work through these steps in order and you'll have it stitching cleanly again in no time.
Work through these steps in order
Start at step 1 and work your way down - most skipped stitch problems are resolved well before the end.
Check and replace the needle
A blunt, bent or incorrectly fitted needle is the most common cause of skipped stitches on an overlocker. It's the quickest thing to check so always start here.
- Replace with a fresh needle - if you can't remember when you last changed it, it's overdue
- Make sure you're using the correct needle system for your overlocker - many require a specific type such as the ELx705, not a standard sewing machine needle
- Match the needle size to your fabric weight - too fine a needle for a heavy fabric will struggle
- Make sure it's fully inserted with the flat side to the back and tightened securely
Re-thread the machine from scratch
Threading issues are the second most common cause of skipped stitches. Even if you've already done it, go through the full process again slowly, referring to your manual rather than going from memory.
- Raise the presser foot before re-threading so the tension discs open properly
- Always thread loopers before needles - threading in the wrong order is a very common cause of stitch problems
- Make sure every thread passes through every guide in the correct order - missing one is enough to cause skipped stitches
Check thread quality
Old or poor quality thread can cause skipped stitches as well as breaking, particularly at the higher speeds an overlocker runs at.
- Use good quality overlocking thread on all four paths
- Check the thread isn't old or degraded - thread that has been sitting on the spool for years loses its consistency
- Avoid using standard sewing thread on an overlocker where possible
Check thread tension
Tension that's too tight or too loose can both affect stitch formation and cause stitches to be skipped.
- Reset all tension dials to the default or middle setting and test on scrap fabric
- Adjust gradually from there rather than making large changes
- See our Overlocker Tension Guide if you need help identifying which dial to adjust
Check presser foot pressure
Presser foot pressure that's too light can allow the fabric to lift slightly as the needle rises, which can cause it to miss forming a stitch.
- Try increasing the presser foot pressure slightly if the fabric seems to be moving unevenly
- Check your manual for how to adjust presser foot pressure on your specific model
Check machine speed
Running too fast, particularly on delicate or stretchy fabrics, can cause the machine to skip stitches.
- Slow down and let the machine work at a steady, comfortable pace
- This is particularly worth trying on fine or stretchy fabrics where the needle needs more time to form each stitch correctly
Test on scrap fabric
Before returning to your project, test on scrap fabric of a similar weight. Run a decent length of stitching and check the seam carefully for any gaps before continuing with your actual work.
Quick fix checklist
Run through this before contacting us - it covers the most common causes.
- Fresh needle fitted, correct type and size for fabric, fully inserted and tightened
- Machine fully re-threaded in correct order, loopers before needles, with presser foot raised
- Good quality overlocking thread in use, not old or degraded
- All tension dials reset to default and adjusted gradually on scrap
- Presser foot pressure increased slightly if fabric is moving unevenly
- Machine speed reduced, especially for fine or stretchy fabrics
Still having trouble? We're here to help.
If your overlocker is still skipping stitches after working through these steps, 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.
