Tufting machine not cutting yarn properly or not at all? Here’s a comprehensive list of things to check. Make sure the machine is off while you go through each step. Safety first!
- Scissor Closer Metal Bar Adjustment: Your scissor closes every time it hits an element called the Scissor Closer, a metal bar at the front right of the cut pile. If this bar is not well aligned or has been pushed out of place, it can prevent the scissors from functioning properly. Adjust the metal bar to be within 3.18 mm of the cut pile’s body.
- Scissors Misalignment or Damage: If your tufting gun’s scissors are bent or misaligned, they won’t cut the yarn effectively. This can occur from misuse or if the pile height is adjusted too high, causing misalignment. To fix this, switch off the tufting gun and adjust the pile height. Ensure the scissors are perfectly aligned for effective cutting.
- Yarn Type: The type of yarn you use can affect cutting. If the yarn is too soft, it might bend instead of being cut by the scissors. Use coarser tufting yarn, as softer yarns can be difficult for the scissors to cut through. Test the yarn with the scissors to ensure it’s suitable.
- Dull Scissors: Regular use, especially with fibers other than wool, can lead to the scissors becoming dull. In this case, the scissors need to be replaced. This is a common issue for those who tuft frequently.
- Fiber Buildup: Fibers may accumulate in the scissor channel of the machine. Regular maintenance, including brushing out shed fibers from all parts of the machine, is important to prevent this buildup.
- Smooth Yarn Feeding: If the yarn is not flowing freely from your cone to the machine, it gives some bad results. Make sure it is flowing freely.
By systematically checking these components and making the necessary adjustments or replacements, you can diagnose and resolve most issues related to a tufting machine not cutting yarn properly.
