Embroidery for Beginners: Tension Test on the Halo X

As a complete beginner to embroidery, I’ve decided to spend this entire month getting to know my machine inside and out. From testing out different thread combos and learning how to balance upper and bobbin tension, to basic maintenance and making sure everything runs smoothly—this is all part of setting myself up to confidently use embroidery in my business. It’s a learning curve, but I’m excited to dive in.

The Echidna Sewing YouTube channel has been my go-to source for all things Halo X embroidery. As someone totally new to this space, these videos have been a huge help while I get the hang of using the machine.

After a week (and a bit!) of diving into embroidery, here are my key takeaways so far:

1. Hooping without a magnetic hoop requires some finesse.

Since I’m using a standard (non-magnetic) hoop, I learned to fold the fabric—especially for garments like shirts or sweatshirts—to estimate the thickness and get a snug fit between the inner and outer hoop.

Reference: How to Hoop for Embroidery Machine EASY!

2. Start your tension test by adjusting the bobbin.

Begin by checking your bobbin thread tension—aim for a reading between 18 to 22 grams-force (gf). Then, run the tension test across all your upper threads. If everything looks fairly uniform, test individual threads to fine-tune the balance. Once you dial it in, run another test to make sure they all play nicely together.

Reference: How to Adjust Embroidery and Bobbin Tension Like a Pro

3. Don’t be afraid of those upper thread knobs.

If your tension results aren’t quite right, tweak the individual upper thread knobs. It’s a little trial and error, but adjusting these helps you get that perfect stitch balance.

Reference: Resetting My Embroidery Machine Tension from Scratch

4. Choose your stabiliser based on the fabric.

Since I’m planning to embroider mostly on fleece sweatshirts, a cutaway stabiliser is ideal. But I’m not a fan of bulky stabilisers showing through, so I go for a no-show mesh cutaway—it’s soft, light, and does the job without being too visible inside the garment.

Reference: What Stabilizer Should I Use?

5. Keep your thread test swatches.

It might seem small, but keeping a record of your tension test swatches (with notes!) will help you track what works and what doesn’t as you go. It becomes a useful reference as you work with new thread types or fabrics.

Embroidery might look intimidating at first, but taking it one step at a time has made the process super rewarding. There’s still a lot to learn, but I’m starting to feel more at ease with the machine. If you’re also just starting out—don’t rush it. Take your time, test things out, and enjoy the process.