In sewing, what does tension describe?

• A. The width of the fabric
• B. Balance between upper and bobbin threads as they pass through the machine
• C. The speed of the presser foot
• D. The color of thread

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how firmly the threads are pulled together as stitches form, specifically the balance between the upper (top) thread and the bobbin thread as they pass through the fabric. When the tension is balanced, the two threads weave neatly, locking in the middle of the fabric and producing stitches that look good on both sides. If the upper thread tension is too loose, stitches can look loose on the fabric and you may see more of the bobbin thread or loose loops, especially on the underside. If the upper thread tension is too tight, the fabric can pucker and the needle thread may pull too hard, sometimes causing the stitch to resemble a small knot or break. Practically, you adjust tension by changing the upper thread tension using the machine’s tension dial or knobs and test on scrap fabric, aiming for stitches that look balanced on both sides. The exact color or width of fabric doesn’t determine tension, and the speed of the presser foot isn’t what sets tension; those affect feed and fabric handling, not how tightly the threads interlock.