# Sewing machine not feeding fabric: fixes

Source: https://stitchandhem.co.uk/blog/sewing-machine-not-feeding-fabric
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Stitch and Hem

**In short:** If fabric will not move, check four things in order: that the feed dogs are raised (the drop feed lever or button is set to sewing), that the stitch length is not set to zero, that the presser foot is lowered with enough pressure, and that lint is not packed under the needle plate. One of these is the cause in most cases.

The needle goes up and down, but the fabric just sits there, or the stitches pile up in one spot. Fabric is moved by the feed dogs, the small toothed bars under the presser foot, working against the pressure of the foot. When feeding stops, something is usually stopping the feed dogs from reaching the fabric or the foot from holding it. These checks are quick and need nothing more than a small brush and a screwdriver.

## How fabric feeding works

Under the presser foot, the feed dogs rise through slots in the needle plate, grip the underside of the fabric, move it backwards a set distance, then drop down and return. The presser foot presses the fabric onto them so they can grip. Stitch length controls how far they move each time.

So feeding depends on three things: the feed dogs being up and moving, enough pressure from the foot, and nothing blocking the teeth. A fault in any one of them can stop the fabric.

## Check 1: are the feed dogs lowered?

Most machines let you lower the feed dogs for free motion quilting, darning and sewing on buttons. The control is often a lever or slider at the back of the free arm or under the bed, or a setting on some computerised machines. If it has been left in the lowered position, the fabric will not move. Move it back to the raised or sewing position and turn the handwheel one full turn towards you; on many machines the feed dogs only rise again once the handwheel has turned.

This is one of the most common causes of searches about a Janome sewing machine feed dog not working, and the same control exists on Brother, Singer and most other brands. Its exact location varies, so check your manual.

## Check 2: stitch length and settings

If the stitch length is set to zero, the feed dogs move up and down but not backwards, so the needle sews in the same place. Set the length to about 2.5 mm for a normal straight stitch. On computerised machines, some stitches such as bar tacks or button sewing set the length to zero automatically, so check the selected stitch too.

Also check that the reverse lever or button is not stuck down, and that the bobbin winder is not engaged, which on some machines stops normal sewing.

| Check | What to look for | Fix |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Feed dogs | Drop feed lever set to lowered | Raise them, then turn the handwheel once |
| Stitch length | Set to zero or a zero-length stitch selected | Set about 2.5 mm, reselect straight stitch |
| Presser foot | Foot up or pressure too light | Lower the foot, raise pressure if adjustable |
| Lint | Grey felt between feed dog teeth | Remove plate and brush clean |
| Fabric | Thick seam or slippery fabric | Use a walking foot or levelling aid |

Not feeding: quick checks

## Check 3: presser foot and pressure

Make sure the presser foot is lowered and fitted securely. A foot that has slipped off its holder or is not clicked in properly will not press evenly. Some machines have a presser foot pressure dial; if it is turned to the lightest setting, thick or springy fabric may not feed. Return it to the standard setting given in your manual.

Very thick layers, vinyl, leather-look fabric and fleece can resist feeding. A walking foot, which adds a second set of feed teeth on top, helps layers move together, and a non-stick or roller foot can help with sticky fabrics. Our [best heavy duty sewing machines](https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-heavy-duty-sewing-machines) guide covers machines suited to thick materials.

[See heavy duty sewing machines](https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-heavy-duty-sewing-machines)

## Check 4: clean lint from under the needle plate

Over time, fluff from fabric and thread packs down between the feed dog teeth and under the needle plate into a felt-like layer. It stops the teeth rising high enough to grip the fabric. This is common on machines that have not been cleaned for a while, especially after sewing fleece, flannel or wadding.

1. Switch off and unplug the machine.
2. Remove the needle and presser foot to give yourself room.
3. Unscrew or unclip the needle plate as shown in your manual.
4. Lift out the bobbin and, if your manual says so, the bobbin case.
5. Brush lint from the feed dogs and the area beneath with a small brush. Avoid blowing into the machine, which pushes fluff deeper.
6. Refit everything, turn the handwheel by hand to check the feed dogs move freely, and test on scrap.

Note: Switch off and unplug the machine before removing the needle plate or cleaning. If the feed dogs do not move at all when you turn the handwheel, or the machine jams, contact a qualified sewing machine engineer.

## If it still will not feed

If the feed dogs are raised, clean and moving, the stitch length is correct and the foot is down, but fabric still will not feed, the feed mechanism itself may be worn, jammed or out of adjustment. Feed dog height and timing are internal settings and should be handled by a qualified sewing machine engineer. For regular care that prevents lint build-up, see our guide on [how to clean and oil a sewing machine](https://stitchandhem.co.uk/blog/how-to-clean-and-oil-a-sewing-machine). If you are thinking about a replacement, our guide to [the best sewing machines for beginners](https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-sewing-machines-for-beginners) is a good place to start.

## Frequently asked questions

**Why is my Janome feed dog not working?** Most often the drop feed control has been left in the lowered position, or the stitch length is at zero. Raise the feed dogs, turn the handwheel one full turn and set a normal stitch length. If they still do not rise, clean under the plate and then seek a service.

**Why does my fabric only move one way or bunch up?** Pushing or pulling the fabric, a light presser foot pressure or slippery fabric can cause uneven feeding. Let the machine feed the fabric and consider a walking foot for layers.

**Why does my machine sew in one spot?** The stitch length is probably set to zero, or the feed dogs are lowered. Check both before anything else.

**How often should I clean under the needle plate?** Many manuals suggest brushing out the bobbin area regularly, for example after each project or when changing a bobbin, and more often with fluffy fabrics. Follow the advice in your manual.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-heavy-duty-sewing-machines
- https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-sewing-machines-for-beginners
- https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/janome-sewing-machines-compared
- https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-sewing-machines-for-quilting