Tools for Threading a Sewing Machine
When starting a new project, one of the first steps that you need to do is thread your sewing machine. Whether you are an experienced sewer or a beginner, learning how to thread your machine correctly will help guarantee successful results every time. To make sure this process is smooth and fast, it is important to have the necessary tools and know how to use them.
Bobbin and Spool Pins
The bobbin and spool pins are the two small metal pins located near the top of the machine – the bobbin pin is the smaller one, while the spool pin is the larger one. The bobbin pin holds the bobbin, which is the spool of thread that loads into the bottom of the machine. The spool pin holds the spool of thread that feeds through the machine.
Threading Hook
The threading hook is a metal arm that hangs down from the top of the machine. Its purpose is to guide the thread through the upper tension discs and eyeleted area of the machine, and it can be easily removed for cleaning and lubricating if necessary.
Threading Needles
Threading needles are the small pointed needles inserted into the eyelet to help guide the thread through the tension discs and into the final take-up lever. In some machines, the threading needles can be adjusted to create different tensions depending on the type of fabric being sewn.
Threading the Bobbin
The first step to threading a sewing machine is to thread the bobbin. To do this, start by pulling a length of thread from the spool of thread and feed it through the hole in the top of the bobbin. Then, wrap the thread around the bobbin in a clockwise direction until it is fully loaded. Finally, insert the bobbin into the bobbin pin and secure it.
Threading the Spool Pin
Once the bobbin is secure, the next step is to thread the spool pin. Start by unspooling a length of thread from the spool and feeding it through the hole in the top of the spool pin. Then, wrap the thread clockwise around the spool pin several times, making sure to leave a few inches of thread loose for later. Finally, feed the thread through the threading hook.
Threading the Tension Discs
Once the spool pin is threaded, the next step is to thread the tension discs. This can be done by resting the thread through the two metal tension discs located in a V-shape at the side of the machine. Feed the thread through the right side of the V and then through the left side of the V, ensuring that the thread is securely in the groove between the two discs.
Threading the Eyelet and Take-Up Lever
The final step for threading a sewing machine is to thread the eyelet and take-up lever. To do this, use the threading needle to guide the thread through the eyelet and then feed it through the take-up lever. Pull the thread from the spool pin to tighten the thread and ensure that it is secure.
Wind the Bobbin
Once the machine is threaded, the next step is to wind the bobbin. To do this, press the bobbin winder on the side of the machine and hold onto the thread with one hand while holding onto the bobbin with the other. This will ensure an even tension as the bobbin is being wound. Once it is full, press the bobbin winder again to stop winding.
Draw Up the Bobbin Thread
The last step to threading a sewing machine is to draw up the bobbin thread. To do this, pull up the thread from the spool pin and hold onto it, then press the bobbin winder to draw up the thread from the bobbin. This will draw the thread from the bobbin so it sits through all the tension discs.
Loading the Needle
Once the machine is threaded, the next step is to thread and load the needle. To do this, start by selecting the correct needle for the fabric and thread being used. Insert the needle into the machine and turn the hand wheel until the needle is at its highest point before threading it with the thread from the spool pin.
Secure the Thread with a Knot
Lastly, it is a good idea to secure the thread with a knot at the end of the spool pin so that it cannot come undone during sewing. To do this, knot the thread a few times around the spool pin before cutting off the excess thread. This will ensure that the thread is securely in place and will reduce the chance of any threading issues.
Troubleshooting Threading Issues
Sometimes, it may be difficult to thread the machine properly even after following the instructions above. If this happens, the first step is to check the tension discs to make sure they are all at the same tension setting. If the tension discs are off, adjust them as necessary to ensure the thread is going through properly.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your sewing machine is important for achieving optimal performance. Make sure to regularly clean the thread and needle area of the machine, and lubricate any moving parts as needed. This will help prevent any threading issues or machine malfunctions.
Practice and Patience
Threading a sewing machine correctly takes time and practice. Do not be discouraged if it takes a few tries to get the hang of it. With patience and practice, threading your machine will become second nature and you will be able to complete this task quickly and easily.
