Measure thread tension with ease using the Towa Digital Tension Gauge
The digital tension gauge is the perfect way to measure bobbin tension on both commercial and domestic style embroidery machines, and needle tension on commercial machines. Also ideal for Long arm quilting machines with the Optional M Style Bobbin Case Adapter
With a precise LED read out feature and an easy to use process, it's a must have for any embroiderer. It provides increased accuracy and consistent tension in a compact, battery operated design. With interchangeable inserts it allows you to use all types of bobbin cases.
This handy gadget will be your lifesaver when setting and measuring your bobbin tension, and will help give you a better embroidery result overall.
What's included with the Towa Tension Gauge?
- L style push-in adapter
- Adapter for Brother/Janome
- Adapter for Husqvarna/Pfaff
Gary's Tip
Having the correct bobbin tension is probably the most important requirement to achieve a wellbalanced stitch. Machines of almost every brand allow the user to adjust the tension with a screw in the bobbin case. Different brands of bobbin thread can result in different tensions so it’s important to check and adjust as necessary. This tension gauge makes it easy to measure your bobbin tension and set it to the ideal range of 25 - 40 grams.
Remember when adjusting your bobbin tension screw to only ever turn 1/4 turn at a time. Turn the screw right (clockwise) to tighten or increase the tension and left (anti-clockwise) to loosen the tension.
Remember to turn right to tighten and turn left to loosen.
Measure the tension after adjusting and if necessary repeat the process until between 25 & 40 grams of tension is achieved. Use these stitched letter “F” images as a guide for what would be an acceptable result.

Outstanding
By: Susan on 23 July 2025It's a delight to review the Towa bobbin tension gauge and Echidna's service! I had never heard of such a device until I stumbled upon Gary's enlightening video. Who knew that such a genius device existed? But I live far from Australia, so I thought that I must try to find one nearer to home. Having seen that the factory model is compatible only with the latch-type bobbin case I tried and failed to source the necessary adapters in my own country. So I turned to Echidna, thinking it would involve long delays and much more expense coming from half way round the world. A) It came really quickly! B) It was much LESS expensive than the one I ordered from a hundred miles down the road, including the cost of shipping! C) The bobbin case adapters come as standard! I felt as though I'd won the lottery
(5)
Great Product
By: meekprivate on 24 June 2025A must have with embroidery machines and that's why this item was bought.
(5)
Excellent Towa Gauge
By: Christine on 9 June 2025I don't know what I would have done without this Towa gauge, I was having problems with the bobbin thread showing on top and after seeing the Echidna YouTube video on the subject, I bought the gauge. Echidna have the adaptor for my bobbin case as well (my machine Brother F540E), it only took three days to deliver to the UK, which is very impressive. The gauge has solved my tension problems and would recommend it to anyone. Thank you Echidna!
(5)