Why Is My Sewing Machine Skipping Stitches When Using Zigzag Stitch?

29 October 2026 (Last Modified: 29 October 2026)

Sew and Fix Team

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Before you adjust the tension or swap the needle, check one simple thing: is your machine fitted with a straight-stitch needle plate instead of the zigzag plate? A straight-stitch plate has just one small hole for the needle, while a zigzag plate has a wide slot. If you’re trying to sew zigzag with the wrong plate, the needle will hit the plate’s edge on its side swing, bending slightly with each stitch until skipping begins. This simple setup error causes most zigzag skipping on domestic machines.

The good news is that you can usually fix this in minutes without tools or technical knowledge.

Start With the Needle Check

Needle issues are a common cause of skipped stitches on zigzag. The needle swings left and right, passing close to the hook on both sides. Even a slight bend can cause it to deflect away from the hook, preventing the thread loop from forming properly.

Remove the needle and roll it on a flat surface. If it wobbles, replace it. A bent needle will continue skipping regardless of your threading technique.

The needle type also matters. Many modern domestic machines use the 130/705 H system, but check your manual to confirm. For woven fabrics, a sharp (Microtex) needle provides clean penetration. A ballpoint or stretch needle (paid link)See on Amazon is generally recommended for knitted or elastic fabrics like jersey and Lycra, as it pushes fibres apart rather than piercing them. On denim and heavy layers, a jeans needle with its reinforced point handles multiple fabric layers effectively.

Changing the needle before significant projects is a good habit. The Schmetz Universal Assorted pack offers a practical starting point for mixed sewing kits. For frequent work with specific fabrics, buying needles by type and size is more efficient.

Check Threading and Bobbin

After examining the needle, rethread the top thread completely. Brother recommends checking and correcting the threading among its troubleshooting steps. Even if the thread looks fine, a full rethread from spool to needle resets the system.

On many machines, raising the presser foot helps the thread seat correctly between the tension discs. Thread with the foot raised, pull the thread through, then lower the foot before sewing.

The bobbin is equally important. For top-loading drop-in bobbins, the thread pulls off in a specific direction shown in your manual. For front-loading removable cases, the bobbin sits inside a case that slides in from the front. Incorrect bobbin installation can interfere with stitch formation, so follow your machine’s instructions carefully.

Unevenly wound bobbins deliver thread inconsistently, mimicking tension problems. Wind bobbins slowly and evenly, ensuring they sit flat in the case.

Lint buildup under the needle plate and around the bobbin area can also affect stitch formation. Use a lint brush like the Singer Lint Brush (paid link) or a small cleaning kit to remove fluff after several projects.

Buy Singer Lint Brush on Amazon → (paid link)

Adjust Stitch Width Settings

Zigzag skipping has a specific mechanism related to needle swing. If your stitch width is set near maximum and the needle plate slot is narrow, the needle might clip the plate edge on side swings. An incompatible stitch width or needle plate can cause needle contact, potentially bending the needle and causing skipped stitches.

Try reducing the stitch width a step or two from the widest setting. On many Singer or Brother machines, turning the stitch-width dial down until the needle clears the plate edge can resolve the issue. If you’re using a zigzag foot, verify the needle passes freely on both sides of the slot.

If width reduction fixes the skipping, your needle was likely bent. Replace it and return to your desired width setting. If skipping continues after these adjustments, the issue may require professional attention.

Considering Professional Service

If a new needle, proper threading, bobbin reloading, lint clearance, and width adjustment haven’t resolved the skipping, the cause might be mechanical: hook timing, needle-bar height, or presser-foot pressure. Consult your manual or a qualified technician before attempting these adjustments, as incorrect timing adjustments can damage the machine or worsen stitch formation.

Checking the needle and threading is a reasonable first step that resolves most cases. If you’ve exhausted these options without success, professional service may be necessary.

Matching Needles to Fabrics

When selecting a needle for your project, match the needle point to your fabric type. For woven fabrics, a sharp (Microtex) needle is ideal for fine synthetics and clean penetration, while a universal needle is suitable for general-purpose sewing. For knits like jersey, Lycra, and swimwear fabrics, a ballpoint needle is recommended. For highly elastic knitted materials, a stretch needle is the best choice, and for heavy layers such as denim, a jeans needle with its reinforced point is most effective.

Data Visualization Infographic

Common Zigzag Questions

📺 Watch: Fixing Sewing Machine Timing Issues and Skipped Zigzag Stitches

Can I use any needle for zigzag stitch?

Match the needle to your fabric type. Use sharp or universal needles for wovens, and ballpoint needles for knits. A needle that’s too small may deflect and skip. Consult a needle-size chart and match the size to your fabric weight and thread.

Why is my thread bunching underneath?

Bunching underneath is often related to upper threading or tension, but check both thread paths. Rethread with the presser foot raised and ensure the needle is correctly inserted. An unsuitable thread-to-needle match can contribute to poor stitch formation.

Does zigzag use more thread than straight stitch?

Yes, the side-to-side movement creates a longer thread path per stitch. Ensure your bobbin is reasonably full before starting zigzag projects, and check tension settings on both top and bobbin threads.

For lightweight fabrics, setting the needle position to the left side of the zigzag swing often reduces skipping by improving hook capture. If you’ve worked through these steps, our full diagnostic sequence in the Sewing Machine Stitch Problems guide covers every fault from start to finish.

Keep this checking order handy: needle first, threading and bobbin second, width adjustment third. Most zigzag skipping stems from simple setup issues rather than machine faults.

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Questions about a specific machine? Get in touch .

Sources & Further Reading

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Note: General guidance only, verify details with a qualified professional or official source.