Last Updated on 7 hours by Susan Mayrich
Those who want to know how to thread an industrial sewing machine can consider two steps. First, you’ll start with loading the bobbin, then the threading itself is relatively straightforward. We will also discuss the types of industrial threads and how you can select the appropriate one.

On the contrary, are you familiar with how to thread a handheld sewing machine? Knowing the setup of both types of sewing machines will always benefit you.
How Do You Thread An Industrial Machine?
Step 1. Load the bobbin
- Read the manual of the specific industrial sewing machine you have
- Turn off the sewing machine and remove the needle and presser foot
- Place the thread on the big spool spin, and thread it to the guides at the top of the sewing machine, then to the back and through the tension disk
- Place the bobbin on the winder and secure it in place
- Wind the bobbin and afterward, remove it and cut the thread
- Load the bobbin to its case
- Check if it will turn counterclockwise and cut around five inches of free thread
- Install the bobbin to the sewing machine accordingly
Step 2. Thread the industrial sewing machine
- Place the thread on the spool pin and have it through the designated guides
- Thread the upper tension disk so that the spring catches the thread before going through another thread guide
- Raise the take-up lever by turning the industrial sewing machine’s handwheel
- Have the thread through the guide near the needle and then through the needle itself
- Place the thread between the throat plate and presser foot then to the back of the machine
- Leave six inches of free thread out the back
- Bring the bobbin thread or bottom thread up by lowering and raising the take-up lever
- Find the bobbin thread loop and grab it out
Is An Industrial Sewing Machine The Same As A Household Sewing Machine?
Industrial sewing machines are not the same as household sewing machines. From the name itself, these models are designed for usage in businesses and factories. As a result, they can work faster for efficient production compared to household sewing machines.
More so, an industrial sewing machine can use heavy-duty threads and work on challenging materials like leather or even upholstery. It might even have features like serging, unlike household units with more specific functions. And, of course, industrial sewing machines will be significantly pricier than household units.
Since we’re on the topic of industrial sewing machines, consider reading who makes Juki sewing machines. This Japanese brand is famous for making industrial sewing machines, so you can benefit from knowing more about their company.
Industrial sewing machine vs domestic sewing machine
Industrial sewing machine
- Can be used on tough and thick materials
- Can withstand repetitive use for extended durations
- The components of the machine are heavy-duty, which also affects the size and weight of the unit
- Costs more
Domestic sewing machine
- Some models can’t handle thicker and heavy-duty materials
- Must be used intermittently to avoid overheating of the motor
- More compact and portable for easier storage
- Relatively affordable
How To Use Industrial Sewing Machine Step By Step?
- To sew two pieces of fabric together, secure the first piece with the presser foot, then place the other fabric over it
- Check the alignment of the two materials and sew one inch at a time
- Adjust the way you’re holding the fabric, depending on the design of the specific industrial machine you’re using
- Continue sewing while handling the material with one hand but without pulling
- If you’re experiencing fatigue, check the chair you’re using and sit slightly forward and to the left of the table to keep your eye and needle bar aligned with each other
What Kind Of Thread Do You Use For An Industrial Sewing Machine?
The kind of thread used for industrial sewing machines is an industrial sewing thread. You can easily distinguish it from a household thread because it is thicker to handle the heavy-duty usage demanded by industrial sewing operations. They are often made from nylon or polyester, but some are also coated or bonded, depending on the intended use.
What kind of thread do you use for a household sewing machine?
A household sewing thread is smaller and softer than an industrial sewing thread. Therefore, it can’t withstand industrial sewing operations, or it will risk breaking. In addition, the thread material is usually cotton or silk than the more durable nylon or polyester.
How To Choose An Industrial Sewing Thread
Polyester
- Most commonly used and general-purpose industrial sewing thread
- Ideal for sewing garments
- Sews like a cotton thread
Nylon
- Ideal for garments that require stretch on the seams
- Resists aging and abrasion
- Not susceptible to mildew
Kevlar
- Strongest industrial sewing thread
- Expensive
- Won’t melt and is ideal for reinforcing plastics and fire retardant applications
Tex vs Denier
- Thread sizes for industrial sewing threads
- Denier is the thread weight in grams of 9,000 meters of thread
- Tex is the thread weight in grams of 1,000 meters of thread
- One Tex is equal to 9 Deniers
Conclusion
And that’s it! To recap how to thread an industrial sewing machine, you’ll start with loading the bobbin. Then, threading is not that different from a household machine except for some directions that you can refer to in your manual.
Furthermore, don’t forget to use the correct thread because there are different types for industrial use. We hope this was a helpful read; leave us a comment if you have any.