Unravelling the Mystery of Threading a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine
Taking up sewing for the first time can be intimidating without a little guidance about how to use the sewing machine. Even though all sewing machines are different and require different operating procedures, for a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine most of them follow the same threading process.
Threading is one of the fundamentals of sewing, however, it is not difficult to master. Following the appropriate steps to thread the sewing machine and learning how to recognize the directions on the machine will ensure successful threading every time.
To thread a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine, begin by pressing the feed dogs up. This will allow the needle plate to move freely. If a cover plate is present, open the cover plate, and remove the bobbin. If a drop-in bobbin is present, just open the bobbin cover.
Next, insert the spool of thread onto the spool pin, and pass the thread behind the thread guide, and then the thread guide is passed through the thread slot, the first thread guide or clutch, the second thread guide and the thread tension discs. After threading the needle, the thread should be pulled down through the eye of the needle, and the end of the thread should be knotted at the back of the needle.
Once the thread tension discs have been threaded with the core of the thread, the thread should be pulled around the thread take-up lever and the thread should be directed up through the thread eye. The thread should then be wrapped around the thread take-up lever, and thread should be passed behind the thread guide, before being pulled down towards the bobbin.
In order to thread the bobbin correctly, the same thread should be wrapped around the bobbin in the same direction as the bobbin’s spool pin. The thread should be brought under the thread release spring, before being pulled up through the bobbin, at the back of the needle plate, and then the bobbin should be reinserted into the sewing machine.
Once the bobbin has been inserted, the thread should be pulled off the bobbin, and the thread should be inserted under the needle plate, in order to lock the thread securely in the groove of the needle plate. Insert the thread in the groove beneath the bobbin case, and pull the thread into the hook, near the bobbin case.
Once the bobbin thread has been secured in the hook, the opposite end of the thread should be pulled up towards the front of the sewing machine, and the above procedure needs to be repeated for the top thread.
Setting the Thread Tension
Once the thread has been inserted into the Singer Tradition Sewing Machine, the thread tension needs to be adjusted. The thread tension dial should be set at a medium level, between 4 and 6. The presser foot should also be raised before adjusting the thread tension.
If the thread slackens, the tension needs to be increased. If the thread loops, the tension needs to be loosened. The thread tension should be tested on a sample piece of fabric, before sewing a project.
Type and Thickness of the Thread
The type of thread to be used in a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine depends on the thickness and the weight of the fabric being sewn. The type of thread used should be suitable for the fabric being sewn, or else the sewing machine may not function properly.
Thin fabrics require thin weight thread, while heavier fabrics may require thread of a medium to heavyweight. Different types of threads may also need to be used for woven, knit, or stretch fabrics.
In general, polyester thread is considered the best thread for most fabrics and applications. This type of thread does not shrink or stretch and is resistant to most chemicals. Cotton threads are also popular, but may shrink when exposed to water.
Maintenance of Singer Tradition Sewing Machines
Routine maintenance of a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine is essential to ensure that the machine functions properly. Regular cleaning and oiling of the machine will ensure that the machine remains in top condition.
One should start cleaning the machine with a dry cloth, and then use an air compressor or canned air to remove any lint or dust from the internal components of the machine. A small brush should be used to remove lint or dust from the bobbin area.
Another important maintenance tip is to regularly check the needle size, thread tension, and accessories of the machine. A bent or damaged needle can cause the fabric to pucker, and should be replaced as soon as possible. The thread tension should also be adjusted frequently in order to ensure that the machine is producing the correct tension on the fabric.
Familiarise Yourself with the Machine
It is important to first familiarize oneself with the Singer Tradition Sewing Machine before attempting to thread it. All the pieces and parts of the machine need to be identified and their purpose understood. To understand how the machine works, one should read the instruction manual or watch tutorial videos.
One should also take the time to get comfortable with the threading process and the different settings on the machine before using it for projects. As with any skill, practice makes perfect, so it is important to practice and get comfortable with the threading process before attempting a sewing project.
Essential Tools Used for Threading a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine
In order to properly thread a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine, the following tools are essential:
- A spool of thread
- Scissors
- A seam ripper
- Needles of various sizes
- A small brush
- An air compressor or canned air
- A cloth
- A thread guide
- Thread tension discs
- Thread take-up lever
- Bobbin
Tips for Threading a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine
When threading a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine, certain tips should be kept in mind:
- If one is having difficulty threading the machine, the thread and the needle should be changed.
- The thread should be replaced frequently to avoid thread breakages.
- The needle should be replaced regularly to ensure precise stitching.
- Regular maintenance of the machine is essential to ensure the machine functions properly.
- The type of thread should be chosen according to the thickness and weight of the fabric.
- The thread should also be tested on a sample piece of fabric before sewing a project.
- The thread tension should also be adjusted depending on the type of fabric and the type of stitch.
Conclusion
Learning how to thread a Singer Tradition Sewing Machine can be intimidating at first, but with a little guidance and practice, one can master the art of threading a sewing machine. Following the steps outlined above, and learning how to recognize the different parts of the machine will ensure successful threading every time.
