MAPIShould the Presser Foot Be Up When Threading a Sewing Machine?
The presser-foot position affects the upper tension system during threading, which is why Singer explicitly tells users to raise it first.
Yes. Singer instructs users to raise the presser foot before threading the upper thread. This allows the thread to seat correctly in the tension mechanism; lower the presser foot for sewing afterward.
yes
The answer
Yes. Raise the presser foot when threading the upper thread on Singer machines, then lower it before sewing.
Why
Singer's general threading instructions say to raise the presser foot lifter before threading. Singer's troubleshooting also explains that underside loops can occur when upper thread is not seated correctly in the tension mechanism.
When it is usually OK
- You are threading the upper thread path.
- Your Singer model follows the standard raised-foot threading method.
- You are rethreading to correct underside loops or bunching.
When you should not
- You are lowering the foot to begin normal sewing.
- Your exact machine manual gives a different model-specific instruction for a special operation.
- You are using a separate needle-threader step whose instructions specify another foot position.
Risks and exceptions
- Threading with the foot down may leave the upper thread incorrectly seated.
- Incorrect upper threading can cause loops or bunching under the fabric.
- Model-specific sequences can vary, so the exact manual controls.
Best practice
Raise the presser foot, follow the upper-thread path completely, confirm the take-up lever is threaded, then lower the foot before sewing.
Alternatives
- Use the machine's printed threading diagram.
- Use the exact owner manual.
- Use Singer's model-specific support.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the presser foot need to be up while threading?
Singer uses the raised position so the upper thread can seat correctly in the tension system.
Should the presser foot stay up while sewing?
No. Singer says it should be down before sewing.
Can threading with the foot down cause loops underneath?
Singer links underside loops to incorrect upper-thread seating and tells users to rethread with the foot raised.
Does every machine use exactly the same threading sequence?
No. Singer recommends checking the instruction manual for the specific model.
Sources
- How do I thread my Sewing Machine? — SingerOfficial
- Singer Machine FAQs — SingerOfficial
Written by Mapiance Editorial Team
The Mapiance Editorial Team researches, writes, reviews, and maintains practical guides and explainers for MAPIANCE.
Reviewed by Mapiance Editorial Team
Published Sep 13, 2026 · Updated Sep 27, 2026 · Verified Sep 6, 2026