Safety Guidelines
It is important to follow safety guidelines when changing the thread on a sewing machine to avoid potential dangers. Every sewing machine is different, so make sure to read the machine’s user manual to correctly follow the process. Before starting to change the thread, turn off the power and then unplug it. Additionally, as there may be some pins or sharp edges, always use protection such as gloves, glasses, andif necessary, a breathing mask when working on the sewing machine.
Raising the Thread Tree
The thread tree is the main part of the sewing machine, and the majority of machines have a knob that is used to raise it. Turn the knob clockwise to raise the top and have access to the take-up lever. There is also a presser foot lever which must be lifted as this will keep the needle position at its highest so that the thread doesn’t clash with the machine.
Child Lock and Bobbin Changes
The sewing machine should have a child lock that needs to be activated when changing the thread. This will stop the machine from doing unintentional movements that could break the machine or hurt the user. After this, remove the bobbin case and undo the threading there before taking the old thread out and replacing it with the new one. It is recommended to insert the thread through the wider of the two thread guides.
Thread the Needle and Wind the Bobbin
Once the bobbin is filled with the new thread, insert the bobbin in the bobbin case and then thread the needle. The needle should be threaded from the back to the front. After this, start winding the bobbin. This can be completed by engaging the presser foot lever and using the special wheel which is on the machine for this purpose.
Ensure the Needle is aligned with the Thread
It is important to make sure that the needle is correctly aligned with the thread. To do this, locate the thread guide which is below the spool of thread and carefully bring the thread up and through the guide. Afterward, pull a few centimeters of thread and keep it between your fingers so it will stay in place.
Upper Thread Guide Passage
The thread must pass through other guides so it will correctly thread the entire needle. Locate the upper thread passage which is located at the right side of the needle. Insert the thread into this path and be sure to pass it over the finger-shaped part of the guide. Afterward, follow the small wheel which is near the guide and look for a place where the thread can fit in and align itself.
Presser Foot and Tension Slot
Now it is time to set the presser foot and the tension slot. Make sure to raise the presser foot lever and align the tension wheel with the slot opening. Finally, pull the thread until it feels slightly tight in order to make sure that it will stay in place.
Check for Thread Blockages
It is important to ensure that no threads are blocking the movement of the needle or its transition between stitches. Pull a few centimeters of thread until it comes out on the backside of the machine. This ensures that the thread path is clear.
Testing the Machine
After setting the thread and double checking the connections, you should test the machine by pressing the foot pedal to ensure the correct functioning. Start by making a few small stitches and monitor its movements. If the machine does not work correctly, it may be necessary to repeat the process from the beginning.
Regular Maintenance and Attention
Replacing the thread will significantly reduce the chances of breakage and malfunction. Thus, it is important to have your machine serviced regularly by a professional and to keep up to date with its maintenance. Additionally, before starting to sew anything, it is always necessary to check the thread portion as it can be affected by dust and dirt.
Taking Care of the Needles
In order to perform better stitching, use well-maintained needles by cleaning them regularly and replacing the needle if necessary. Even some of the best sewing machines can have a problem when they are not used properly. Look out for bent needles or those with worn or burred tips as this could affect the fabric being sewn.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter problems when you are sewing, it is possible that the thread may be tangled or that it is not correctly aligned with the needle. Fix these issues by carefully removing the thread from the bobbin case and checking the needle’s alignment with the thread. Additionally, make sure to check the needle tension as this can also be a possible cause of the problem.
Threading the Feed Dog
The feed dog is the part of the machine which moves the fabric while the stitches are being sewn. It is important to feed the right side of the thread into the small slot that is located at the back of the feed dog. Pass the thread around the small wheel and make sure it is in the same alignment with the upper thread.
Correct Thread Paths
It is very important to confirm that the thread is going through the right paths. This can be done by carefully opening the top of the sewing machine and checking each part of the needle. The thread should pass over each eye and, if necessary, it should be gently pushed back with a thin pin.
Thread Guides in the Bobbin Case
Another very important step is to check if the thread is going through the correct passage in the bobbin case. Ensure that the thread goes through the lower thread guide as this will keep it in place. This also helps keep the thread tight, and it is an important step to get the machine functioning properly.
Monitor the Tension of the Thread
When the machine is being tested on a fabric piece, if the stitches appear to be loose, this may be the sign that the tension of the thread is not correct. To fix this, carefully adjust the settings until the thread tension is correct and the stitches are doing the expected movements. Make sure to keep testing and adjusting the tension until the desired result is achieved.
Removing the Jammed Threads
If the threads get jammed in the machine it is important to correctly unthread them and take them out. This can be done by following the thread paths and gently untangling the thread using a thin pin or needle. If the jam is really bad and does not come out, it may be necessary to contact an expert to help remove it.
Storing the Threads
When replacing the thread and changing between different colors, it is important to properly store them in order to avoid confusion. After removing the thread from the machine, make sure to keep it in a secure place and be sure to label it. This will make working with the machine much more enjoyable.
