What is an Automatic Thread Cutter in a Sewing Machine?

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Automatic thread cutters are a feature in sewing machines that can accommodate a variety of different sewing needs. Thread is typically sewn from the top down and will start to fray if it comes out of the fabric in any other way. Automatic thread cutters generally work by snipping threads near the pattern, usually near an edge or after completing one row of stitching. This ensures that when you continue stitching on another line there will be no loose threads dangling underneath your project, causing snags and general annoyance.

In an automatic thread cutter, the thread will pass through a cutter and along with a guide. The thread is cut by the cutter and disappears. The guide is usually either a vertical or horizontal bar that guides the fabric after it has been cut, therefore preventing the snip from happening at an angle.

Automatic thread cutters also come in handy if you want to sew two different fabrics together, as they will allow you to sew two different threads but keep them together as one line of stitching on your sewing machine.

Some automatic thread cutters also have a gate on them. A gate is typically used to keep the fabric in place while sewing and will also allow you to sew two different threads. With a gate, you can start stitching one side of a project with one thread, then turn around and stitch the other side of the same project with another thread.

This could be particularly helpful if you are making a quilt or sewing something that needs different colors or textures of fabric sewn together. The gate will hold the material in place as you switch from one row to another without having loose threads hanging out underneath your project.

One of the best features to look for when selecting a thread cutter is to make sure that you purchase one that will fit your machine. Some machines have automatic thread cutters that are built-in, while others will have an accessory, such as a foot pedal, to help you cut your threads with ease.

Automatic thread cutters are very helpful in cutting off loose threads from your project and every sewing machine needs one. Try out different models and see which one works best for you, then save money by purchasing an accessory for your sewing machine to make it even easier on yourself next time you want to sew something.

What sewing machines have automatic thread cutters?

There are many sewing machines on the market, and some of them come with automatic thread cutters. Some sewing machines have built-in automatic thread cutters, while others have accessories that make it easy to use an automatic thread cutter.

You will want to buy a sewing machine that comes with an automatic thread cutter if you plan on doing a lot of sewing projects that need snips in the threads. Some sewing machines come with multiple different accessories for you to use when you are making your project, but other models only have a foot pedal or button for you to push in order for the machine to go and make quick snips in your threads.

There are many different brands of automatic thread cutters. Some examples of companies that offer these types of products are Singer, Brother, Janome, and Bernina.

different models of these brands come with automatic thread cutters. We will discuss each brand in detail in the next section so keep reading the article.  You will be able to find a list of all their different products there as well as their prices and other information.

automatic thread cutter in a sewing machine

How to use a thread cutter on a sewing machine?

To use an automatic thread cutter on a sewing machine, you need to thread your machine. Then put your needle in the stitch position. This will help you to see where you are going to cut your thread. For this type of automatic thread cutter, you need to pre-cut the threads before using it. 

Put the machine in your work area and make sure that there is no extra fabric hanging over the side. To cut the threads, put one hand on either side of the cartridge at the front of your machine and press down while turning clockwise and unscrew it with your other hand. Then put this lever in place, step over it and drop it into place under its cover again.

Then you should re-thread the machine.  Prepare a good length of thread and pass it through the needle. Put the thread in such a way that it comes out from the back of your machine. Finally, you can try again to use your automatic thread cutter.  You can start sewing.

Note : Always remember to re-thread your machine again after you are done with it!

Types of Automatic Thread Cutters in a sewing machine

On most sewing machines, you’ll find manual thread cutters to wrap, pull, and trim the thread manually.

Automatic thread cutters come in two different types with sewing machines. You will find both automatic thread cutting and manual thread cutting in your next sewing machine, so pay attention to the nuances when choosing one.

  1. Thread Cutting Button 

The earliest type of sewing machine consisted of a thread-cutting mechanism, usually a pair of scissors. Upon pressing this button, the machine trims the top and bottom bobbin threads automatically.

By depressing the foot controller pedal, you can cut threads on some machines.

  1. Programmable Automatic Thread Cutting

Many sewing machines come with a programmable automatic thread cutter that can be very handy when you are making a project. This type of cutter will automatically cut the thread after a certain number of stitches, or after it has reached the end point of your project.

Sewing Machines with Automatic Thread Cutter

There are many different brands of automatic thread cutters that can be found on sewing machines, such as Singer, Brother, Janome and Bernina. Even though these machines have many different features, you can find automatic thread cutters in every brand that you see.

Let’s take a look at some famous machines of different brands with automatic thread cutters.

Janome Sewing Machine with Automatic Thread Cutter

Janome is a very well-known company that makes sewing machines with automatic thread cutters. Models such as the Janome 49360, 1600P-DBX, and 3160QDC-B do not even need an accessory for you to snip your threads with ease.

You can find automatic thread cutters in these models, like an empire machine.  They also have other accessories that will help you make your projects easier, such as the buttonhole foot, zipper foot and button sewing foot.

Janome sewing machines are mainly focused on the production of quality products. One of the famous models of Janome is the 49360, one of the few sewing machines to be equipped with a memorized automatic thread cutter.

But what if your thread cutter stops working on Janome machines?

The thread cutter is almost always clogged with lint when this occurs. The blades of Janome’s automatic thread cutters are relatively simple, but lint stuck between the blades of the cutter can also prevent it from cutting, just as it would prevent scissors from cutting when the blades are loose. 

As a beginner when I faced this problem on my Janome 3160 QDC, I took it to the mechanic but now I am quite familiar with my machine and know how to deal with this problem.

All you have to do to clean up the lint that is stuck in an automatic thread cutter’s threads is pluck the lint and gently push it out toward the back of your machine.

When you do this, the thread cutter will function normally again. 

The automatic thread cutters on Janome machines are not just made for standard sewing projects, but also for quilting. The machine has a long reputation of producing great results when sewing quilts and home décor projects such as tablecloths, curtains and bedspreads.

If your machine is not working properly, first check if there is any dust in it. If you see dust, clean it carefully. You may need to take apart your machine a bit to get all of the dust-out and make sure everything is in order again. Make sure you check all of the parts of your machine before washing them off with water or by using a vacuum cleaner.

Brother Sewing Machines with Auto Thread Cutter 

Brother is one of the oldest brands in the sewing industry that currently maintains its headquarters in Japan. They are known for their quality and durability, as well as their creative ideas and designs.

Most models of Brother sewing machines come with automatic thread cutters that can be very useful whenever you are making something that requires quite a lot of thread.

In some cases, these types of machines use an electric rapid arm that allows you to cut the threads super fast and easily. 

A few models of Brother have been updated to have an automatic thread cutter such as Brother SE1900, Brother PS500, Brother PQ-1500SL, and Brother CS6000i thread cutter instead of the old rapid arm device.

Brother sewing machines with automatic thread cutters are best known for their quality and durability. Even though there are many companies that produce sewing machines with automatic thread cutters, Brother stands out from the rest because of their long-lasting products. One of their famous models is the Brother CS6000i model, which you can use not only for normal sewing projects but also for quilting work.

If you have any problem with your automatic thread cutter on this machine, do not panic! Most people will not have any problems with this feature whatsoever.

Even if your automatic thread cutter stops working on Brother machines, you might be able to fix the problem yourself. Here are some steps that you can take so that your machine will become as good as new again:

First of all, make sure your machine’s threads are very clean. Use a soft cloth and carefully wipe it down to remove any lint or dust. 

It is best to check under the machine because this is where most problems are found. Sometimes, this can be tricky but with a little patience and determination, you should be able to find where it is causing the problem in no time at all.

The next step is to look for any loose pieces of lint that may have gotten stuck during the cleaning process. If you see any, remove it and make sure your threads can move freely.

Finally, if you still have problems with your automatic thread cutter after trying everything that’s been mentioned above, you should probably take your machine to the repair shop.

Singer Sewing Machines with Auto Thread Cutter

Singer sewing machines are the most famous sewing machines to have automatic thread cutters. They are known for their reliability and durability, as well as their top-notch quality of work.

One of Singer’s famous models is the  Singer Quantum 9960 which has been loved by the customers. It has a few models such as the Singer 8060 sewing machine line and other modern models that have automatic thread cutters.

One thing that I love about Singer is the fact that it has so many different types of accessories that can be used for different types of sewing projects. In addition to the common accessories like presser feet and the various rulers, you can also find these features on Singer machines:

Singer sewing machines with automatic thread cutters are designed for exceptional results. The automatic thread cutters are very useful and helpful when you need to make something that requires a lot of thread such as a fitted sheet or quilt.

The best way to use an automatic thread cutter on a Singer machine is by turning it to the lowest speed setting. Then, you will be able to push the foot down until it is at the right height. Next, you need to push the scissors button on the machine and it will automatically cut your thread.

If this doesn’t work, you may want to try turning the machine off, then on again, and checking again that the automatic thread cutter is working.

If this still doesn’t work and your Singer is not at all working properly, bring it to a professional and they should be able to fix it very easily.

All of the problems with Singer sewing machines can be solved by a simple cleaning process. Just empty out the lint in between the two needles, use a soft cloth to wipe it down, and make sure all of the parts are working properly again.

Bernina/Bernette Sewing Machines with Automatic Thread Cutter

Bernina sewing machines have been around for ages now and are very well known for their durability and quality of work. Bernina also makes great accessories that can help you with your projects.

One of the models that come with automatic thread cutters is the Bernina 560 and 480 range which I used for a few of my projects. 

In addition to these models, there are other models that come with the automatic thread cutter such as the Bernina 770, which you can use to make fitted sheets and quilts. If you prefer something smaller, then consider getting a Bernina 725 model.

The Bernina 725 is a great little machine and a lot of customers are very happy with its performance.

Your sewing machine may have stopped working or you may have some other problems with it. If this happens, you will need to contact the manufacturer to see what can be done about it.

You don’t want your sewing machine to stop working before you finish all of your projects, do you? To keep things nice and smooth, make sure that the auto thread cutter function is always in good hands.

Even though the automatic thread cutter feature on these machines will always work properly when used properly, there can be times when this feature fails at some point in time. Here are some steps that you can take to fix this problem:

First of all, make sure that your sewing machine is not bumping into anything while it’s used. Secondly, make sure that the thread is fixed correctly on the top of the stitching area.

If these are not done correctly, you will need to take your machine to the repair shop so that they can fix it right away.

Juki Sewing Machines with Thread Cutter

Juki sewing machines are made to provide excellent results when treated properly. Juki produces some of the best sewing machines out there in terms of quality and durability. One of their products that have automatic thread cutters is the Juki HZL-G220 Machines.

In addition to this model, they also have other models such as the Juki TL-2010Q, Juki NX7, and many others. These machines can be used for various sewing projects and do well with exceptional results.

Most of these are very easy to use and a lot of people have praised the functionality of their machines for many years now.

Some people do find it difficult trying to use these machines with automatic thread cutters but after a few times, they will get the hang of it easily.

In order to make sure that your machine’s automatic thread cutter will work properly all of the time, you need to clean it every time after usage.

Kenmore Sewing Machines with Thread Cutter 

Although Kenmore sewing machines are old ones and the company is not currently producing new machines, customers can buy used machines from different online stores like eBay and Amazon. Some of them are also available in stores near you.

Kenmore sewing machines have been around for a long time and they are most known for their high quality and durability. Their old fashion designs with modern technology make them one of the greatest sewing machines ever invented.

Kenmore has different models, including the Kenmore 158, which is designed to provide excellent results. One thing that I really love about Kenmore is that they have a very simple design which makes it easy to use, and since the machine has the auto thread cutter feature, it saves me a lot of time from doing an extra step.

Kenmore sewing machines are one of the most reliable brands out there among their customers.

One model that comes with it is Kenmore sewing machine 148. This model has many features that make it a great choice for the people who want to make exceptional results.

Another good thing about this machine is that it’s very durable and has been reported to work well for many years with great results.

You will need to clean your machine every so often to decrease the risk of having problems with your machine and avoid lint buildup.

Cheapest Sewing Machine with Automatic Thread Cutter

Bernette B38

The Bernette B38 is one of the best models that come in the range of $500 out there and it has a lot of great features.

Some of its features are the extra-high sewing speed, which makes it great for those who want to make their projects quickly. It’s also equipped with different size bobbins and needles so you won’t have to worry about replacing them for a very long time.

One feature that I love about this machine is that it has an automatic thread cutter (a nice one) built into it, which helps me out a lot when making garments and home decor projects.

Brother SE600

The Brother SE600 sewing machine is another great model that comes in a wide range of $400. It has all of the features that you’ll ever need to make your projects easier and more fun to make. It’s also equipped with 103 built-in stitches, which makes it easy to stitch different materials with all the different sizes available.

It has an automatic thread cutter, plus it’s very lightweight which makes it easy for me to move around when I need to work on other projects.

Brother CS6000i

Another great model that you can get for about $209 is the Brother CS6000i sewing machine. This sewing machine also has automatic thread cutters, so you won’t need to worry about doing that step this time.

The Brother CS6000i has lots of features such as 60 built-in stitches, which allows you to make extra parts of your projects in a short period of time.

With different length needles and size bobbins, you’ll never have to think about finding replacements for some time. There are many other good models out there so don’t be worried if you’re not familiar with a certain brand name or company.

FAQs about Automatic Thread Cutter in a Sewing Machine

What is the best sewing machine with an automatic thread cutter?

There are various models on the market today. Some of the most popular brands out there are Singer, Brother, Kenmore and Juki. Each sewing machine has great features with both pros and cons, but most of all they are all easy to use even for beginners.

In terms of automatic thread cutters, I would say that Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is one of the best choices out there available right now. It’s less expensive than other sewing machines but it’s definitely worth it because this machine will last a long time without breaking or malfunctioning. It also has many great features and you’ll have no problem getting used to it in no time at all. You can also check out our detailed article about the best sewing machine with an automatic thread cutter.

What sewing machines have a built-in thread cutter?

There are several models of sewing machines with built-in thread cutters.

Most sewing machines have their thread cutters built into the machine so you won’t need to worry about finding one. Having an automatic thread cutter is actually an advantage because you can finish your projects faster and have more time to work on other things that you need to do.

What to do when Brother automatic thread cutter is not working?

It’s common for the automatic thread cutter to get clogged with lint and sometimes it’s difficult to clean it out if you’re not familiar with the process.

  • To remove the thread clog, you need to first turn off the machine.
  • The next thing to do is disassemble and separate all of the parts by removing screws or plates that hold them together.
  • It’s also important that you clean each part individually before putting them back in again.
  • Finally, after cleaning all of the parts, put them back together and try using your machine again.
  • After properly cleaning your sewing machine, you will be able to finish your projects without any problems at all.

Can industrial sewing machines have automatic thread cutters?

It’s very common for industrial sewing machines to come with all kinds of features, including automatic thread cutters. Many manufacturers make it a top priority to add these features because they make it easier for sewers and tailors to finish their projects quickly.

Final Thoughts

There are many sewing machines with automatic thread cutters available and all of them have their own advantages and disadvantages.

I personally believe that the most important thing to remember is that you should choose a brand and model based on your personal needs and budget.

There are lots of good sewing machines out there with automatic thread cutters, but it’s your choice which one you should buy.

Who knows maybe one machine will be better than another for all the reasons above, so take your time and pick out the best sewing machine for you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Maria HOWARD

I have been working as a seamstress since I was 12 years old, and I would be happy to teach you what I know. I, along with the rest of my team, investigate numerous sewing, quilting, embroidery, and fabric related how-to guides, and present our findings to you.

2 thoughts on “What is an Automatic Thread Cutter in a Sewing Machine?”

  1. Bobbin thread disappears when I use the automatic thread cutter, then it’s too short to catch with the top thread. My machine is Juki TL 2010Q. Thanks

    Reply
    • Well, we already have reviewed Juki TL-2000Qi which is quite similar to TL-2010q. And, both have pretty much smooth automatic thread cutters. But, in this case, the automatic thread cutter seems faulty. Make sure to repair your automatic thread cutter and double-check the alignment of the cutter.

      Reply

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