Abstract: A regulating mechanism for needle thread between a standard thread tensioning device in the head of the upper arm of a sewing machine and the eye of the reciprocable needle employs a lever-shaped takeup member which is oscillated in the head in synchronism with the movements of the needle, and a wire spring which is mounted directly on the takeup member. The spring has a U-shaped thread engaging portion which surrounds and cooperates with a hook-shaped arm of the takeup member to define a passage for needle thread. The spring tensions the thread during certain stages of each stitch forming step.