Let’s start with a confession: I used to think I was invincible when it came to sewing machines.
I’ve been in the crafting game for over a decade—leading workshops, curating DIY spaces, and guiding others through their sewing projects—but there was one little problem I didn’t expect: machine error codes.
Yep, you guessed it. I once faced an E6 error on my Brother sewing machine, and let me tell you, it threw me off more than a poorly sewn hem!
It was one of those moments when you feel like your sewing machine is throwing a tantrum, and you have no idea why.
If you’ve stumbled upon the infamous E6 error on your Brother sewing machine, I’m here to break it down for you.
Whether you’re a sewing newbie or a seasoned crafter, understanding why this error happens and, more importantly, how to fix the E6 error can save you a ton of frustration.
So, grab your favorite cup of tea (or coffee, I’m not judging), and let’s get to it.
What Does E6 Mean on a Brother Sewing Machine?
Image source- help.brother-usa.com
First things first—let’s tackle the basics. If you’ve ever encountered the E6 error, chances are you were in the middle of a fun sewing project when suddenly, BAM!
The machine stops, flashes the dreaded E6, and you’re left wondering what went wrong. So, what does E6 mean?
The E6 error on a Brother sewing machine typically signals that the motor is either locked up or there’s a mechanical problem causing resistance.
This could be due to a variety of reasons, like a jammed thread, an issue with the bobbin, or a needle that’s misaligned or broken. And just like that, your creative flow is interrupted!
But don’t panic—it’s totally fixable, and I’m here to walk you through it.
How Do I Fix the E6 Error on My Brother Sewing Machine?
Ah, the moment you’ve been waiting for: the fix!
The E6 error isn’t as terrifying as it seems once you understand how to resolve it. Here’s how to get your Brother sewing machine back in action:
1. Turn off the machine and unplug it
Image source- Sewing Machine Repair Guy
First things first: Always turn off your sewing machine and unplug it before you start fiddling around. Safety first, right?
2. Check for thread jams
Image source- help.brother-usa.com
A thread jam is one of the most common culprits of the E6 error. Remove the bobbin and any threads that may be stuck.
Sometimes, a stray thread or tangled fibers can cause the machine to lock up, so give everything a good clean-up. Make sure the bobbin is properly seated back into its case.
3. Inspect the needle
Image source- Sewing Machine Repair Guy
A bent or broken needle can also trigger the E6 error. Take a close look at your needle. If it’s even slightly bent or damaged, swap it out for a new one.
And remember: Always insert the needle with the flat side facing toward the back of the machine.
4. Clean the bobbin area and shuttle
Image source- Sewing Machine Repair Guy
The area around the bobbin can accumulate lint and dust over time, which can lead to a jam or misalignment. Use a small brush or lint remover to clean out the bobbin case and shuttle.
5. Test the machine
Image source- Sewing Machine Repair Guy
Once everything is clean and reassembled, plug the machine back in and turn it on. Test it on a small scrap piece of fabric to ensure everything’s running smoothly.
How Do I Fix the E6 Error on My Singer Sewing Machine?
You might be wondering: “What if I have a Singer machine, not a Brother?” Well, good news—fixing the E6 error on a Singer sewing machine is pretty much the same as on a Brother machine! The key difference is in the machine’s build and the way it processes thread and fabric.
Start by following the same basic troubleshooting steps as above. Look for thread jams, check your needle for damage, and clean the bobbin area.
If the issue persists, you might need to inspect the motor or seek professional help for more serious mechanical issues.
How to Fix Looping Stitches on a Brother Sewing Machine?
Ah, looping stitches—the bane of any sewist’s existence.
If your machine is churning out stitches that look more like tangled spaghetti than neatly sewn seams, you’ve got a problem on your hands.
While the E6 error is one issue, looping stitches are often the result of something else entirely, like thread tension or improper threading.
Here’s a quick fix for looping stitches on your Brother machine:
1. Re-thread the machine
A lot of times, looping stitches happen when the upper thread is incorrectly threaded. Double-check that you’ve followed your machine’s threading instructions carefully. Also, make sure the thread is in the tension discs correctly.
2. Adjust the tension
Image source- Brother Sews USA
If your stitches are still looping, try adjusting the upper thread tension. Start by setting it at the manufacturer’s recommended level (usually around 4). If it’s too loose or too tight, your stitches won’t form properly.
3. Check the bobbin
Image source- Brother Sews USA
If your bobbin is wound unevenly, it can cause tension issues that lead to looping stitches. Rewind the bobbin, making sure it’s evenly wound and inserted correctly.
4. Replace the needle
A damaged needle can mess up the stitch formation and cause loops. Make sure you’re using the right type of needle for your fabric.
FAQ: E6 Error and Other Brother Sewing Machine Issues
1. Why does my Brother machine keep showing the E6 error?
The E6 error usually happens when the sewing machine’s motor experiences too much resistance—this can be due to thread jams, a broken needle, or other mechanical issues.
Start by cleaning the bobbin area and replacing the needle to see if the issue resolves itself.
2. Can I fix the E6 error myself?
Yes! The E6 error is relatively simple to fix yourself. Just follow the steps mentioned above: clean out the bobbin area, check for thread jams, and inspect your needle. If the issue persists, it might be time to take it to a professional.
3. What if my Brother machine keeps giving me the E6 error after I’ve tried everything?
If the error continues, there could be a more serious mechanical problem with the motor or internal components. In that case, it’s best to take your machine to a professional repair service for a thorough inspection.
4. How can I avoid the E6 error in the future?
The best way to avoid the E6 error is to perform regular maintenance on your machine. Clean out the bobbin area regularly, replace your needle as needed, and keep your machine properly threaded. These small steps can help prevent most common issues.
Final Scoop Before You Jump In
Well, there you have it—everything you need to know about the E6 error on a Brother sewing machine, plus how to tackle looping stitches and the occasional hiccup with Singer machines.
With a little patience and a few simple fixes, you’ll be back to stitching in no time. And hey, now you’ve got this extra knowledge in your DIY arsenal!
Remember, every machine has its quirks, but that’s part of the fun.
So, next time you run into an E6 error, just take a deep breath, grab that lint brush, and get ready to solve the mystery like the sewing pro you are!
And if all else fails, I’m always here to help you troubleshoot and get you back on track. Happy sewing!
