Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning of a sewing machine is essential for reducing wear on the moving parts and extending the life of the machine. Begin by unplugging the machine from the power source. Take off any items that have been attached to the machine like presser footers, needles and bobbins. Gently brush away loose lint and fabric fibers from the machine with compressed air or a scraper. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth or with a dedicated sewing machine cleaner. Machines should also be cleaned inside by accessing the bobbin case or bobbin compartments and removing any lint that is found there.
Troubleshooting
Consult the sewing machine’s manual for trouble shooting tips. This will help diagnose issues trouble spot and provide step by step instructions for resolving them. Some issues to look for may include a broken needle, improperly threaded upper tension, a stuck stitch, or a missing bobbin. Often the user manual provides helpful instructions for checking tension, replacing thread and needles, and more. With the help of the manual, a lot of small maintenance issues can get resolved without the need for outside help.
Oil the Machine
Most sewing machines have some type of oil that needs to be added regularly. Consult the sewing machine manual to ensure the oil being used is compatible and that the proper points are getting oiled. To properly oil your machine, turn off the power and unplug the machine, then use a drop or two of the recommended oil onto a cotton swab and apply it to the parts needing lubrication. Areas in need of oiling can be found on the underside of the machine, in or near the timing belt, on the bottom of the presser foot lever and near other internal moving parts.
Perform Maintenance Procedures
With constant use, sewing machines need to be routinely checked for wear and tear. Most sewing machines have a servicing schedule for when parts like oil, timings and needles need to be changed. All the loose parts need to be checked for signs of wear and be replaced if necessary. Sewing needles should be changed after quite a few hours of sewing time as they wear down quickly. Threads should also be routinely replaced and tension should be checked to make sure the machine is functioning properly.
Sewing Machine Maintenance Company
For more complex maintenance procedures it is advisable to take the machine to a professional for servicing. A sewing machine maintenance company should be able to adjust tension, replace belts, and diagnose any issuesthe user may be experiencing with the machine. Keep track of the maintenance visits and keep records of the service done. Many knitting, textile and crafts stores offer machine servicing and are equipped with experienced mechanics to help.
Inspect the Machine
When inspecting a sewing machine, make sure to check for worn or broken parts. Disassemble the machine, paying attention to all its inner working parts, look for broken pieces and signs of wear. If any parts look to be damaged,they should be replaced. It is often wise to replace any problematic parts before the machine actually breaks.
Replacing Needles & Other Accessories
Replacing needles and other accessories is also recommended when they show signs of damage. It is best to purchase needles, thread and other accessories from authorised sellers as they are guaranteed to fit the machine properly and won’t cause any damage. Buy quality not low price when stocking up as they can cause problems if of poor quality.
Re-Threading the Machine
Re-threading the machine is a important step in maintenance. Improperly threaded machines can lead to stitching problems. Check the user manual for threading diagrams and follow the steps for the machine to thread properly.
Check Electrical Connection
Check the electrical connection of the machine to make sure it is properly connected and not exposed to avoid any shock incidents. Worn electrical connections should be replaced as soon as possible. The power source should also be checked for any signs of wear and replaced if necessary.
Adjust Tension Settings
Adjust and test the tension settings of the machine if it is showing any stitching issues. Use a scrap of fabric and test the tension settings and adjust accordingly. If the top and bottom threads are not knotting properly the tension settings need to be adjusted.
Checking and Replacing Belts
Check the belt of the machine to make sure it is not wearing out, excessive stretching or splitting. If any of these signs are present, the belt needs to be replaced as soon as possible. Check with the service centre to see if they have the belt in stock and replace it as needed.
The footer of the machine should be inspected for damage and scratches. Any footer that shows sign of wear should be replaced. Move the footer up and down and test the settings to make sure the pressure is properly adjusted and the footer slides properly on the track.
Checking Motor
The motor of the machine needs to be checked on a regular basis. The motor should be able to maintain the same speed and should not vibrate excessively or make too much noise. If any of these symptoms are observed, the motor should be looked at by a professional and either repaired or replaced if necessary.
Checking Electronic Components
Checking the electronic components of the sewing machine is a crucial part of sewing machine maintenance, mostly for modern machines that have electronics. Excessive heat and dust can cause damage to the components, which will require replacing. Always unplug the machine before opening it up to access the electronics.
Storing The Machine
Lastly, when not in use, the machine should be stored in a dry place away from direct sunlight and dust. This will help protect components from moisture damage, dust and other elements that can corrode or rust the machine. Regularly check on the machine, even if it is stored away not in use.
