Working with thick fabric on a sewing machine is all but straightforward, as the fabric needs to be pulled taut while working. The machine must be configured accordingly, and the tension settings should be adjusted to match the fabric that is being sewn. While it times a bit of practice, the rewards of consistently mastering this technique can be seen in the resulting clothing. Let’s explore the details of how to adjust tension on a sewing machine for thick fabric.
To set up for thick fabric, the thread should be fed through the machine’s tension discs with the help of a thread guide. The size of the discs determines the tension, as it should be larger to accommodate the strain from a thicker thread. This should be adjusted first, as thick fabrics may require a thread much thicker than what is used for normal fabrics. As the thread passes beneath the tension discs, it should be pulled along firmly to ensure that it winds evenly, avoiding any kinks or kinks in the process.
The next step is to adjust the presser foot pressure. Typically, this is done by turning the knob located just below the needle. Increasing the pressure ensures that the thicker fabric remains firmly in place while sewing, avoiding any puckering or skipping of stitches along the way. The pressure should not be too intense, as too much pressure could cause damage to the machine or fabric itself.
The final adjustment to make is to the tension dial. This dial should be adjusted so that the thread is pulled lightly and evenly over the length of the fabric. For thicker fabrics, the tension should be a bit firmer and tighter than when working with lighter fabrics, as the fabric is likely to be heavier and more resistant to sewing. Experienced sewers recommend testing the tension on a swatch of the same fabric and adjusting accordingly.
By following these basic and simple steps, any sewer can successfully adjust the tension on a sewing machine for thick fabrics. Once all the settings are adjusted properly, the machine will be ready to tackle even the most demanding projects. As with all sewing machine techniques, it is important to practice regularly with a variety of fabrics to perfect this skill.
Alternative Foot Pressure
Not all sewing machines provide independent control of the presser foot pressure. In such cases, the same effect can be achieved by using an additional device such as a foot pedal. Foot pedals allow the user to manually adjust the presser foot pressure, providing a greater range of fabrics to work with.
While some machines are equipped with a foot pedal right out of the box, others may require an additional purchase. The benefits of using a foot pedal are two-fold; first it allows for greater control of the presser foot pressure, and second, it works simply and efficiently.
Apart from its convenience, the foot pedal also helps to reduce strain on the fabric. This is particularly beneficial when sewing thick fabrics, as it prevents the fabric from being overstretched.
The foot pedal is a great tool for all sewers, but especially for those working with heavier fabrics. With its help, thicker fabrics can be adjusted accordingly to produce a perfect stitch every time.
Threads and Guides
Threads are an essential part of any sewing job, especially when working with thicker fabrics. The thread chosen should be of equal or greater strength than the fabric it is intended to sew together. In this way, the fabric will not suffer from broken stitches or loose threads, despite having to sustain the added tension from the thicker fabric.
Thread guides are equally important for thicker fabrics, as they help ensure that the thread is properly surrounded and protected from becoming tangled. It is recommended to choose a larger thread guide to accommodate any additional strain from the thicker fabric. Along with the proper thread, a well-chosen thread guide should help ensure a smooth and even stitch throughout the work.
Check Tension
It is also important to remember to check the tension of the thread regularly. This is best done using a tension gauge on the fabric itself, as the pressure should be evenly distributed along the entire length. Regularly checking the tension helps to avoid any potential problems that could arise during the sewing process.
In the case of machines that are not equipped with a tension gauge, manual checks can be done using a few simple steps. To check the tension, pull the fabric taut and check that the threads can easily slide over it without any snagging or puckering. If the threads move too easily and without resistance, it means the tension is too low. Likewise, if the threads do not move at all and are excessively tight, the tension is too high.
Sew and Test
Finally, the best way to get comfortable with thicker fabrics is to sew and test on a sample fabric. This will allow the sewer to gauge the tension of the thread and the pressure of the presser foot. Gently tugging and pulling on the fabric can also help to identify if any areas are too tight or too loose.
In most cases, experienced sewers have a good feel for the optimal settings for a particular fabric. This is why it is important to keep experimenting and learning new techniques, as sewing machines vary and each will require its own fine-tuning. With a bit of practice, even thick fabrics can be sewn with ease and perfection.
Know Your Thread
It is important to keep in mind that not all threads are created equal. When working with thicker fabrics, it is best to opt for a heavier thread that is able to withstand the additional strain and tension. Thread weight is essential to consider when adjusting the tension on the sewing machine, as using a thread that is too lightweight or too thin can cause the fabric to stretch and pull.
The type of thread should also be taken into account, as some threads may fray or break under certain stitching conditions. The thread chosen should have a higher tensile strength to ensure that it doesn’t break easily. In addition to the thread, the needle sizes used should also be tailored to the type of fabric being sewn.
Some experienced sewers also suggest investing in a specialty thread if the project requires it. This type of thread is designed specifically for thick fabrics and is made with higher levels of friction resistance. As such, it ensures that the fabric remains secure and not pulled too tight.
Protection From Stresses
When adjusting the tension on a sewing machine for thick fabrics, it is important to pay attention to the overall technique. To prevent the fabric from being overstretched or pulled too tightly, some sewers opt to sandwich the fabric between two layers of lightweight batting. This adds an extra layer of protection and helps to spread the tension evenly across the fabric.
In addition to protection, the batting also helps to create a more even stitch by providing a bit of cushioning under the foot of the presser. This can be especially helpful for fabrics that are prone to puckering or shifting. Even the most experienced sewers will find this tip helpful if working with thick fabrics.
A steady hand is also advisable when stitching thick fabrics. The needle should be moved slowly over the fabric, so that the threads don’t become bunched or twisted in the process. Skipping stitches or going too fast can also lead to uneven tension, so it is best to stitch slowly and consistently.
Maintenance for Machines
Adjusting the tension when working with thick fabrics can take a toll on any sewing machine. To keep machines functioning optimally, it is important to regularly check the tension, needle and presser foot. This should be done after every few projects, as even intermittent low-tension sewing can wear out the needles or thread guides.
Further maintenance can be done by ensuring that the drive and power belts of the machine remain free from debris or wear and tear. These belts ensure that the tension is kept even and consistent throughout the entire stitching process. If these belts are not checked and replaced when necessary, it could result in uneven tension or even cause damage to the machine itself.
Finally, it is important to use the right oil and lubricants to keep the tension regulating parts working as they should. A few drops of light oil can go a long way in keeping the parts in pristine condition and in turn, help maintain optimal tension when working with thicker fabrics.
