Sewing machines are typically used to create and repair a variety of garments and accessories from fabric material. Although these machines come with a variety of features, one of the most important components is the foot. It is essential for the foot of the sewing machine to be properly adjusted for optimal performance. Fortunately, it is simple to adjust the foot of a sewing machine.
To begin, there is usually a switch or lever located at the side of the foot that switches between the regular and free motion settings. While the regular setting is suitable for most stitching, a free motion setting allows more intricate stitching and is ideal for quilting and applique. When switching between the two settings, make sure that the lever is firmly locked into place.
Next, the position of the foot must be adjusted to ensure that the needle moves through the fabric evenly. To do this, a screw at the back of the sewing machine must be adjusted. To raise the foot, the screw must be turned clockwise and to lower the foot, the screw should be turned anti-clockwise. Once the position has been adjusted, the foot can be moved to the desired position and locked in place before start sewing.
It is also essential to ensure that the presser foot pressure is appropriate for the fabric. If the pressure is too low, the fabric may shift or buckle, whilst if the pressure is too high, the fabric may not move at all. A presser foot pressure dial is typically located at the side of the machine and can be adjusted depending on the type of fabric used. If necessary, the dial can be turned to its minimum setting before adjusting based on the type of fabric. Generally, lighter fabrics require less pressure and heavier fabrics require more.
Finally, once the foot and pressure have been adjusted it is important to check that the fabric is feeding smoothly. This can be done by gently pushing the fabric to check that it is being passed through the needle evenly. If the fabric does not feed smoothly, the needle plate should be checked for any debris that may be obstructing the fabric from passing.
Practice Makes Perfect
Adjusting the foot of a sewing machine may seem intimidating at first. However, with practice, it soon becomes second nature. To make learning the process easier, it is helpful to avoid tackling complex projects at first. Start simple and work up to more complex projects as one gets accustomed to adjusting the foot of the machine.
It is also important to wipe down and tidy the machine regularly. This helps to get rid of any dirt or dust that may have accumulated on the machine, reducing the risk of any elements obstructing the movement of the fabric.
Furthermore, ensure that the size of the needle is appropriate for the fabric being used. Needles that are too thin or too thick can damage the fabric and cause misalignment or buckling.
When To Call A Professional
In some cases, the process of adjusting the foot of the machine may prove too complicated and it is best to call a professional for assistance. Professional repair technicians are typically experienced in a wide range of sewing machine maintenance and can be contacted for any further advice. Depending on the severity of the issue, the technician may be able to repair the machine on-site.
Benefits of Adjusting the Foot
Apart from allowing for more intricate stitching and reducing the amount of fabric shifting or buckling, adjusting the foot of a sewing machine helps to extend the life of the sewing machine. By reducing the stress on the components, frequent adjustments help to keep the machine lubricated and running smoothly.
Get Started Now
Adjusting the foot of a sewing machine may seem complicated at first, but with a little practice, anyone can become an expert. Get started today and see how easy it really is!
