What is thread tension in embroidery?

The balance between the pull on the top thread and on the bobbin thread, which decides where the two lock together in the fabric.

Machines and thread

Thread tension, explained

With balanced tension the threads lock on the underside, so only top thread shows on the front and the back of a satin column shows bobbin thread down roughly its middle third. Bobbin thread showing on top usually means the top tension is too tight; loops and birdnests usually mean the top thread is too loose or misthreaded. Rethread and test before turning the tension dials.

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