Birdnesting is when thread bunches on the back side of embroidery.

REASON # 1

IMPROPER HOOPING

This causes flagging. Flagging is when the fabric moves up and down with every penetration of the needle and causes the thread to bunch up either on top or at the bottom of the embroidery.

REASON # 2

IMPROPER TOP THREADING / TOP TENSION

This may either cause the thread to unwind too fast or it may increase the top tension causing bunching of thread. Always thread the machine with presser foot up.

REASON # 3

IMPROPER BOBBIN PLACEMENT / TENSION

It is a common mistake that every embroider does, placing the bobbin incorrectly. This cause the thread to unwind too fast and it bunches up under the needle plate.

REASON # 4

IMPROPER CLEANING OF MACHINE PARTS

Sometimes there are pieces of lint and thread either hiding on the top thread path or in the bobbin case area, this causes thread breaks and nesting. Therefore, maintain proper cleaning of these parts with a tiny brush or a can of compressed air.

It’s important to keep in mind that bird nesting can be caused by a variety of factors, so it’s a good idea to check all of them, including the thread, the needle, the tension, the stabilization, the design and the machine itself.