Sewing machine needle threader not working

How the threader works

When you pull the threader lever down, it lowers to a fixed height and swings a tiny hook through the needle eye. You loop the thread across a guide and under the hook, release the lever, and the hook pulls a loop of thread back through the eye. You then pull the loop through by hand.

Because the hook moves to a fixed point, the needle eye must be exactly where the threader expects it. Anything that changes the needle height or position, or a needle with a different eye size, stops it lining up.

Check 1: needle position

The needle must be at its highest point. Press the needle up/down button, or turn the handwheel towards you until the needle is at the top and the take-up lever is at its highest point. On some machines the threader will not lower at all unless the needle is fully up.

Also check the needle is in the centre position for straight stitch. Many threaders do not work with the needle moved left or right, or with a twin needle fitted.

Check 2: the needle

Threaders are designed for a range of needle sizes, typically from around 75/11 to 100/16. Very fine needles have eyes too small for the hook, and some special needles are not compatible. Check the manual for the supported range.

Fit a new needle pushed all the way up, with the flat side of the shank facing the back on most domestic machines. A needle that is slightly low, twisted or bent stops the hook meeting the eye. Our needle size chart and needle size guide tool help you pick the right one.

Note:Switch off the machine before changing the needle. Do not force the threader lever if it will not lower; forcing it bends the tiny hook.

Check 3: thread and technique

Threaders work best with standard all purpose thread. Thick topstitching thread, some metallic threads and invisible nylon thread can slip off the hook.

1. 1

   Raise the presser foot so the thread can move freely.

2. 2

   Thread the upper path fully first, down to the needle bar guide.

3. 3

   Hold the thread lightly and pull the threader lever all the way down.

4. 4

   Guide the thread round the threader guide and under the hook from left to right, or as the manual shows.

5. 5

   Release the lever slowly so the hook rotates back and pulls a loop through.

6. 6

   Pull the loop out to the back to finish.

When the hook is damaged

Look closely at the threader with a light. If the tiny hook is bent, twisted or missing, it cannot pass through the eye. A bent hook is usually caused by lowering the threader with the needle not fully raised, or by forcing it. Replacement threader parts exist for many models, but fitting and adjusting them is a job for a qualified engineer.

Meanwhile you can thread the needle by hand using a hand held threader or by cutting the thread at an angle. If threading is a regular struggle, machines with an advanced or one-touch threading system are easier; our best sewing machines for beginners guide notes which models have one. For general threading steps, read how to thread a sewing machine.

See easy to thread machines →

Frequently asked questions

Why is my Brother needle threader not catching the thread? Usually the needle is not fully up or the thread is not under the hook. Raise the needle with the up/down button, then guide the thread under the hook as shown on the machine.

Can I use the needle threader with a twin needle? No. Most threaders only work with a single needle in the centre position. Thread twin needles by hand.

Why does my needle threader miss the eye? The needle may be bent, too small, not pushed fully up or not at its highest position. Fit a new needle and raise it fully.

Is a broken needle threader expensive to fix? Parts are usually small, but fitting and aligning them needs an engineer. You can keep sewing by threading the needle by hand.