The question of whether you can use a sewing machine on the floor is an interesting one. On the one hand, it would seem that a machine that is only used with a table might be unsuitable for the floor. On the other hand, more and more professionals in the sewing and tailoring industry are looking to the floor to provide a stable and ergonomic platform to allow them to work faster and more accurately.
What are the benefits of using a sewing machine on the floor? The main advantage is that it puts the user in the correct ergonomic position for prolonged periods of use. As most sewing machines require you to lean over in order to properly view and feed fabric, having the machine at the correct height can make all the difference in terms of comfort and productivity. Additionally, it allows the user to create a sturdy base to sew on, free from wobbles or movement.
Experts suggest that you should measure the distance between the floor and the machine’s work surface to ensure you have the right height for comfort and effective operation. They recommend a height of between 18 and 24 inches, depending on the user’s height.
The next consideration is the type of floor surface you want to work on. Ideally, you should choose wooden flooring or carpeting, as these surfaces are both relatively soft and can be used safely with a sewing machine. Laminate, tile and other hard surfaces should be avoided as they can be abrasive and can create a lot of vibration.
When using a sewing machine on the floor, it is also important to make sure that the machine is secured correctly. Some machines may come with a bracket or feet that can be used to secure the machine to the floor, however, it is important to ensure that the machine is tightly secured so that it does not move around while in use.
Finally, you should also take into account the fact that some machines may be too heavy to be moved around safely. Any machines that weigh more than 30 pounds should remain on a solid table as attempting to move them could result in injury or damage to the machine.
Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, it’s important to ensure that the machine is kept clean and free of dust and debris. If the floor gets dirty, you should try to vacuum it regularly or use a damp rag to wipe away any dirt. Additionally, you should also check the machine for any dirt or grit that may have gotten stuck in the moving parts, as this could damage the machine over time.
Finally, you should also be sure to use a machine that is of good quality and is suitable for the projects you want to undertake. Using a machine that is of inadequate quality could result in poor quality results or even damage your projects.
Accessories
When using a sewing machine on the floor, it’s important to consider the accessories you might need in order to get the best quality results. For example, the use of a cutting mat can help to protect the floor surface, while a machine cover can help to keep the machine clean and free of dust. Additionally, a table skirt can be used to hide any cords and accessories that might be lying around.
It is also important to consider the extra space you might need. If you do not have enough space on the floor, you might want to consider using a larger table or other surface to give you the space you need.
Finally, if you are using a machine on the floor, you may also want to consider the use of an extension cord. This can help to reduce clutter and ensure that the machine is able to get the power it needs.
Safety
It is important to be aware of the safety aspects of using a sewing machine on the floor. For example, it is important to avoid any trailing wires that could be a trip hazard, and to ensure that the machine is not placed on an unsteady surface. Additionally, if you have young children or pets in the house, you should also take the necessary steps to keep them away from the machine.
You should also make sure that the machine is correctly secured, as even a small movement can cause a project to be ruined. Additionally, you should always use the correct tools when working with a machine, such as an appropriate pair of scissors, a ruler and a tape measure.
Finally, it is also important to know how to turn off the machine in a hurry in the event of an emergency. It is also advised that you wear eye protection when using a machine on the floor, as there is a risk of sawdust or other debris being thrown up into the air.
Productivity
In order to get the best quality results from your sewing machine, it is important to be aware of the most efficient way to use it. For example, it is important to measure twice and cut once. This will help to ensure that you get the best quality results and do not waste any time on inaccurate cuts or seams.
Additionally, it is important to keep the machine clean and free of dust and debris. This will help the machine to run smoothly, and will reduce the risk of it malfunctioning or jamming.
Finally, it is important to make sure that you use the correct presser foot for each project. Different presser feet can be used for different fabric types and weights, so it is important to make sure that you are using the correct one for the task at hand.
Storage
Having a good storage system can help to keep the area neat and organised. This can help to ensure that all of the required tools and materials are kept together and can be accessed easily.
The most important item to keep in storage is the thread. Different thread weights and colors can easily become tangled and mixed up, so it is important to keep them organised to prevent them from becoming unusable. Additionally, any scraps of fabric should also be kept as they can often come in handy at a later date.
Finally, it is also important to keep your machine covered when not in use. This will help to ensure that dust and debris do not accumulate in the machine, which can lead to problems with the thread tension or other machine issues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to use a sewing machine on the floor, provided that the correct measures are taken to ensure the safety of both the user and the machine. By making sure that the machine is kept on a sturdy surface, using the correct accessories, and properly maintaining and storing it, you can make sure that your sewing projects are a success.
