Background Information
Oil is used in all kinds of sewing machines, from traditional to modern machines. It acts as a lubricant, helping to ensure a smooth, efficient performance. Without it, the parts of a machine are likely to become fouled and worn, as well as creating unnecessary noise and jerky movements. Oiling is one important maintenance task to keep your sewing machine running optimally, and if done properly, it can extend the life of your machine.
Adding sewing machine oil properly and regularly is one task that you can do yourself to have your machine running in unaffected condition. Doing this preventive action can help your machine last much longer and provide consistent efficient performance.
What is Sewing Machine Oil?
Sewing machine oil is specifically designed for machines, and it is significantly different from regular oils, such as vegetable or engine oil. Sewing machine oil is in a very light viscosity, and it has little surface tension. This allows it to penetrate narrow crevices where regular oil would have trouble working. So, it’s important to only use oil that’s specifically designed for the machine.
How to Apply Sewing Machine Oil
It’s best to oil your machine after each use and before long periods of non-use. Start by taking off the faceplate that covers the gears of the machine. The pressure foot and the needle will cover some of the gears, so you’ll want to lower the pressure foot and move the needle out of the way to expose the gears on the machine.
Using a clean brush or cotton swab, dab some sewing machine oil on the gears. Don’t use too much, just enough to lightly coat the surface of the gears. Then move onto the hook, the bobbin case and the needle plate. Take the hook out of the machine and apply some oil to the hook race. Then, use the brush or cotton swab to rub the oil over the hook race and hook. Be sure not to get too much oil in the hook, as this can make it difficult to work.
Next, look behind the needle plate. There should be a plunger that guides the needle. Apply some oil to this area and then also oil the sides of the needle plate that are exposed.
Avoid putting any oil on the faceplate of the machine or the bobbin case. Applying oil directly to those parts can mess up the timing of the machine, so it’s important to not put the oil in these areas.
Where to Get Sewing Machine Oil
Sewing machine oil can usually be purchased from any reputable fabric and craft store, or can be purchased online from a variety of sellers. It is also possible to make your own sewing machine oil by mixing equal parts of 3-in-1 oil, synthetic automobile oil and baby oil. This mixture should be strained before use, and should be kept in a tightly sealed container out of direct sunlight.
Additional Tips
When oiling a sewing machine, it’s important to keep the oil away from the motor, as it can damage the motor if it gets into the wrong places. Also make sure to keep your hands and clothing away from the oil while applying it, as it can make fabrics stain and weaken them.
After oiling, it’s important to test the machine to make sure it still works properly. To do this, run some fabric through the machine at a low speed setting. If there are any jerky movements or unexpected noises, you may need to clean the machine of excess oil or re-oil some parts. It’s also a good idea to do this test even if everything is working as expected after oiling.
When to Apply Sewing Machine Oil
Sewing machine oil should generally be applied after each use and before long periods of non-use. If you are using your machine often, however, it is not necessary to oil it every time. Instead, oil it every 20 hours of use. This makes sure the connections remain lubricated and free of any debris, keeping your machine running smoothly while extending its lifespan.
How Often to Apply Sewing Machine Oil
In general, it’s best to apply oil after each use and before long periods of non-use. If you are using your machine more often, however, it is not necessary to oil it every time. Instead, oil it every 20 hours of use. This ensures that the connections stay free of debris and lubricated, helping to keep your machine running smoothly and extending its life.
Changing Sewing Machine Oil
When changing oil in a sewing machine, it’s essential to use the correct type of oil. It should be light in viscosity with low surface tension. If this oil is not available, you can make your own mixture of 3-in-1 oil, synthetic automobile oil, and baby oil. This mixture should be strained before use and stored in a tightly sealed container away from direct sunlight.
Before adding oil to the machine, it is important to remove the faceplate that covers the gears and lower the pressure foot. You can then use a clean brush or cotton swab to carefully apply the oil to the gears, hook, bobbin case, and needle plate. Avoid putting oil directly on the faceplate or bobbin case, as this can mess up the timing of the machine and cause it to run inefficiently.
Cleaning a Sewing Machine
Cleaning your sewing machine before adding the oil is paramount. The oil will help to lubricate all of the moving parts, but if there is any grime or dirt, it could become worse and may ultimately damage your machine.
To clean the machine, you’ll first want to remove the faceplate and lower the pressure foot. Then, use a soft brush or vacuum to remove any dust, lint, thread, or other debris. Once this is done, use a cotton swab, dampened with a few drops of isopropyl alcohol, to spot clean any stubborn dirt or grime. Allow it to dry completely before adding the oil.
Storage of Sewing Machine Oil
When storing sewing machine oil, it is important to keep it in a cool, dark place and away from excessive heat, sunlight, and direct sources of moisture. It should also be stored in an airtight container, such as a vial or bottle, and should never be left open. Keeping it stored properly will help to prevent oxidation and degradation, allowing it to stay in good condition for longer.
It’s also important to remember to keep the oil away from children and pets, as it can be extremely dangerous if ingested or inhaled.
