Why is bobbin thread showing on the top of embroidery?

One of my least favorite things about embroidery is troubleshooting problems. For example, bobbin thread showing on the top of an embroidery design.

Bobbin thread showing on the top is caused by an imbalance between the tension on the top and bobbin threads.

However, don't immediately adjust your machine's tension--the culprit is usually something else that disrupts the delicate balance between the two threads.

If you are troubleshooting bobbin thread problems, here's a selection of issues you can easily fix!

1. Ensure the upper thread isn't getting caught anywhere.

2. Clean upper thread path and rethread with presser foot up.

3. Check bobbin orientation, and make sure the thread passes through the tension spring.