A sewing machine is an invaluable appliance for projects ranging from clothing alterations to upholstery repairs. Among the most popular models is Brother, a brand with machines for occasional, everyday and industrial use. As needle sizes and types vary, you will eventually need to know how to change needle on brother sewing machine. While it may seem intimidating at first glance, you will master this skill quickly with this step-by-step guide.
Gather the right materials. Before starting, make sure you collect the appropriate needle type, size, and accessories. Brother needles come in a variety of diameters, lengths and material thickness. While you can use a standard needle for most types of fabric, a quilting needle offers superior precision for larger projects. Learning about the various needles and their uses will help you make the right selection.
Set up the machine. To change the needle on a brother sewing machine, you first need to disconnect it from the power source. Then, use a flat screwdriver to loosen the thumbscrew at the top of the needle bar. Make sure to keep the presser foot in the raised position and the handwheel unlocked.
Remove the needle. With the screwdriver and a pair of pliers, carefully pull up the old needle. To avoid injury, ensure that you keep your hands and fingers away from the needle and the shaft. Put the old needle aside and note its measurements; they will be crucial when selecting a replacement.
Insert the new needle. Before inserting the new needle, make sure that the flat side of the shaft is facing toward the back. Gently guide the needle into the presser foot and insert it as far as possible. Hand-tighten the thumbscrew on the needle bar, avoiding excess force.
Test the machine. After changing the needle on a Brother sewing machine, test the machine to make sure that the needle is in its proper position. With the presser foot in a down position and the clutch regulator in working order, the needle should move in an up-and-down motion through the fabrics.
Secure the needle. After confirming that the needle is in place, use the screwdriver to firmly secure the thumb screw. Make sure that the needle is fixed in a stable position and cannot move. Consider applying a thin coat of sewing machine oil and tightening the thumbscrew a bit further to ensure long-term durability.
Understand What You Need
The key to replacing the needle on a Brother sewing machine successfully is to first understand the variety of needles available. According to experts, some fabrics require finer needles and a different size than regular woven fabrics. Moreover, certain fabrics like organza and tulle are so thin and delicate that you should use a ballpoint needle for them. Matching the right needle to an appropriate fabric allows you to enjoy smooth sewing.
It is also essential to grasp details regarding needle sizes, as this will help you select the one that best fits your project. Common machine needles range from sizes 9/70 to 16/100. The first number indicates the diameter of the needle, while the second number, usually 70 or 100, demonstrates the length. Check your sewing machine manual or the needle packs for exact measurements.
A seemingly small detail, the direction in which the flat shaft should face is also essential. Before inserting the needle, make sure that the flat side of the shaft is facing toward the back. If you do not replace it correctly, the sewing machine will stop functioning properly.
Pay Attention to Safety
Changing the needle on a brother sewing machine does not have to be hazardous. To ensure personal safety and proper use of the sewing machine, it is recommended to follow certain precautions. Consider disconnecting the machine from its power source and wearing protective gloves to guard your hands against potential injury. Pay attention to the needle size and type and avoid eye contact with the needle. Moreover, instruct others present in the area to take all necessary safety measures.
Another safety measure is to start the machine in a low position. Check if the needle is inserted properly and then gradually adjust the speed using the foot pedal. Begin at moderate speed and then increase as needed until you reach a comfortable working pace.
If you determine that you need to change the needle but the presser foot is attached to the machine instead of locked into the raised position, contact a professional for assistance. Bypassing this step could affect the overall performance of the machine.
Keep the Machine Clean and Efficient
When you have successfully changed the needle on a Brother sewing machine, you have to make sure that the appliance remains clean and efficient for the long term. Clean up the needle area and threading path with a soft-bristled brush, paying attention to dust and lint accumulation. Removing such debris from the sewing machine prevents clogging and ensures smooth functioning.
You should also regularly perform a tension check and balance. Make sure that the tension is not too tight since a lower setting allows the bobbin winder thread to slide through the fabric easily. Similarly, make sure that the tension is not too loose. Tightening or loosening the tension dials may be required to ensure that you complete the project to your satisfaction.
Finally, consider servicing the sewing machine regularly. This procedure involves cleaning, oiling, inspecting, and making any necessary adjustments. Professional service will extend the life of your Brother sewing machine and help it remain in perfect condition.
Use High-Quality Needles
A quality sewing project is only as good as the quality of its materials. Therefore, the purchase of top-notch supplies is essential. Be sure to opt for needles from a recognized brand, such as Brother, and inspect them for indications of wear. Check for rusty patches, dull spots, and cosmetic imperfections. If in doubt, opt for a new needle.
When shopping for needles, keep in mind that the quality of the fabric may vary considerably. It is not uncommon to find needles that do not match up to the strength of the thread and the sewing machine power. Therefore, it is always wise to pick needles that can hold its own with the fabric that you are using.
What is more, experienced sewers often avoid metallic needles as they are known to cause tiny holes in delicate fabrics such as voile and lace. Finally, pay attention to the weight of the needle. Heavier fabrics need heavier needles, while lighter fabrics should be followed with a light needle.
Establish a Routine
Threading and changing needle on a brother sewing machine should become a part of your sewing skill set. By firmly following the instructions above, you will quickly become adept at replacing the needle on your sewing machine. With routine practice, you will be able to sew quickly and confidently with the utmost precision.
Moreover, you should remember that sticking to a routine helps you maintain the sewing machine. Gather supplies and inspect them for imperfections, check the tension of the machine, and service the machine once in a while; those are all tasks that should become part of your pre-sewing routine. That way, you will ensure smooth and efficient performance with every sewing project.
Finally, always keep an eye out for the latest advancements. Despite Brother sewing machines being incredibly reliable, learning about the current trends in equipment and accessories will allow you to stay at the forefront of your craft and take advantage of the options available.
