Parts to the Brother Sewing Machine
When it comes to adjusting the speed on a Brother sewing machine, it is essential to understand the parts of the machine and how they work together. The most basic machine components are the electric motor, bobbin winding system, feed dog, shuttle race, and stitch selectors. The electric motor is the power source for the machine, providing the energy to drive the other parts. The bobbin winding system is responsible for winding the thread around the bobbin, while the feed dog moves the fabric through the machine as it is being sewn. The shuttle race is responsible for moving the stitch plate or needle plate, and the stitch selectors determine the type of stitch to be used in the fabric.
Thread Tension and Needle Plates
Adjusting the speed on a Brother sewing machine requires setting the thread tension and needle plates correctly. Thread tension should be set to the minimum for best stitching results. To adjust the tension, simply open the spool cover and look for the tension knob located near the bobbin winder. Turn the knob clockwise to tighten the tension, or counterclockwise to reduce it. The needle plate should also be appropriately set to ensure a precise, even stitch along the fabric. To do this, check that the needle plate is flat, with the groove facing down. Otherwise, the fabric tends to bunch up.
Stitch Selectors and Control Dial
Stitch settings on the Brother sewing machine are controlled by two main components: the stitch selector and control dial. Stitch settings are indicated by a series of symbols or images on the control dial that illustrate each stitch type. To alter the speed, simply turn the control dial to select the desired stitch type and turn the knob clockwise if you want to increase the speed, or counterclockwise if you want to decrease it.
Adjustment of Speed
Once the correct thread tension and needle plates have been correctly set and the stitch type has been selected, the speed of the Brother sewing machine can be adjusted. To adjust the speed, use the control levers near the base of the machine. To increase the speed, simply pull the control lever towards the back of the machine, while to decrease the speed, pull the lever towards the front. These levers are typically marked on the machine itself for easy identification.
Test the Speed on a Fabric Piece
Before sewing a project on the Brother sewing machine, it is important to test the speed on a piece of fabric. Sew a simple line along the fabric and then remove it from the machine for inspection. Look for any uneven stitches or tension problems, such as loose threads or misaligned stitches. If the stitching is perfect, then the speed is just right. Otherwise, make necessary adjustments until the perfect speed is achieved.
Maintaining the Speed of the Sewing Machine
If the adjustment of speed on the Brother sewing machine is not done properly, it could damage the machine or lead to sewing problems. To prevent this, it is important to clean the machine regularly and inspect it for wear and tear. Additionally, it is important to check the needle and the thread tension on a regular basis in order to keep the machine running smoothly. Proper maintenance of the Brother sewing machine will make it last longer and reduce the chances of having to adjust the speed often.
Stitch Length and Width Adjustment
In addition to adjusting the speed of a Brother sewing machine, it is also possible to adjust the stitch length and width. Stitch length is the distance between individual stitches, while stitch width is the width of each stitch. To adjust these settings, look for the stitch length and width dials on the machine. To increase the stitch length, turn the dial clockwise and to increase the stitch width, turn the dial counterclockwise. The exact location of the dials varies from machine to machine, so consult the machine’s manual for further instructions.
Thread Tension Problems
If the thread tension is not adjusted correctly or is set too high, it can cause the fabric to bunch up or the machine to jam. The stitch can also be uneven if the tension is set too low. To reduce the thread tension, turn the tension knob counterclockwise or remove the fabric from the machine and re-thread the needle for a tighter tension. However, if the tension does not stabilize even after adjusting it, it is best to contact professional sewing machine repair services for help.
Caring for the Needle
The proper care of the needle is essential to keeping the machine running smoothly. The needle should be replaced when it becomes dull, bent or burred. Additionally, make sure that the needle is inserted into the machine in the correct way, with the sharp end pointing down. This will help prevent any unnecessary jams and stitch irregularities.
Lubrication of the Machine
Regular lubrication of the machine parts is also an important part of keeping the Brother sewing machine running smoothly. Use a high-quality lubricant specifically designed for sewing machine parts and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check for any tight or worn parts and replace them immediately if necessary.
Resolving Problems with the Sewing Machine
If the Brother sewing machine is not working properly or the seams are not even, it is a sign that there may be an issue with the machine that needs to be addressed. Before attempting to repair the machine, it is important to turn off the power and unplug the machine from the wall. Consult the machine’s user manual for troubleshooting instructions and if necessary, contact a professional sewing machine repair service for assistance.
