How To Fix A Skipped Stitch On A Brother LX3817 Sewing Machine
Skipped stitches can be frustrating, especially when you’re working on a project that demands clean, even seams. The Brother LX3817 is a reliable, computer‑controlled machine, but like any sewing equipment, it can develop issues that affect stitch quality. This guide walks you through the most common causes of skipped stitches and provides a step‑by‑step process to get your LX3817 stitching smoothly again.
Identify the Symptom
Before you begin any troubleshooting, confirm that the problem is truly a skipped stitch and not a visual illusion caused by fabric or thread choice. A skipped stitch typically appears as a gap in the seam where the needle fails to penetrate the fabric, leaving an incomplete or uneven stitch pattern.
Common Causes of Skipped Stitches
- Incorrect needle type or size – Using a needle that is too small for the fabric or the wrong style (e.g., a universal needle on heavy denim) can cause the needle to bend or break.
- Poor thread quality – Old, frayed, or low‑grade thread may not feed smoothly, leading to tension problems.
- Improper tension settings – Both upper and lower tension need to be balanced for the selected stitch.
- Dirty or worn bobbin area – Dust, lint, or a damaged bobbin case can interrupt the bobbin thread’s path.
- Incorrect needle insertion – A needle that is not fully seated or is inserted upside down will not catch the bobbin thread.
- Fabric feed issues – The feed dogs may be obstructed or not engaging the fabric properly.
Step‑by‑Step Troubleshooting
1. Check the Needle
- Turn off the machine and unplug it.
- Raise the needle to its highest position using the hand wheel.
- Remove the needle and inspect it for bends, burrs, or dullness. Replace it with a new needle that matches the fabric weight (e.g., 70/10 for medium weight, 80/12 for delicate fabrics).
- Insert the needle with the flat side facing the back of the machine, then push it fully up to the stop.
2. Examine the Thread Path
- Open the upper thread compartment and verify that the thread follows the correct path: spool → tension disc → thread guide → take‑up lever → needle.
- Replace any tangled or frayed thread with new, high‑quality polyester or cotton‑polyester blend.
- Pull the thread through the tension disc, making sure it sits evenly in the tension slot.
