Singer sewing machines are traditionally a sign of quality, and having one that has been passed down through generations can be a special possession. However, with age, even a Singer will need a bit of tender love and care to restore it to its original glory. To make sure your machine is as good as new, you’ll need to clean and oil it properly.
First, you’ll want to start by unplugging your machine and taking off the main covers. Most machines will have several screws on the bottom, back, and sides, and this is when a screwdriver comes in handy. From here, you should be able to remove the needle plate and bobbin case.
Once the needle plate and bobbin case are removed, thoroughly inspect your machine. Take notice of any rusted pieces, build-up of dirt and dust, and also keep an eye out for broken and cracked parts. If something is in need of replacing, do so immediately to avoid further damage or wear and tear. You can buy these spare parts from most local sewing shops or online.
Now that your machine is visible, it’s time to start cleaning. Blow off all dirt and dust with a can of compressed air (make sure to keep the nozzle of the can at least 6 inches away from the machine). Using a non-abrasive cloth, carefully wipe off any grime and debris. You can buy sewing machine oil from your local craft store or online, but make sure it’s a high-grade oil designed specifically for sewing machines. oil the moving parts and make sure it gets absorbed in all the areas that need it.
Once your machine is free of dirt and dust and has been properly oiled, it’s time to reassemble. Put back the needle plate and bobbin case, then reattach the various covers. Make sure all the screws are tightened and secure.
To ensure your Singer sewing machine keeps running efficiently, make sure you clean it regularly and oil moving parts every 3-6 months. This prevents your machine from overheating, ensures it runs smoothly, and increases the longevity of its parts. If done correctly, your old Singer sewing machine will be good as new and will serve you for many years to come.
Additional Maintenance & Troubleshooting
It’s important to maintain your Singer sewing machine beyond just cleaning and oiling. To keep your machine running, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some of the common maintenance and troubleshooting procedures. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
First, make sure to keep your machine clean and dust-free by regularly wiping it down. Dust and lint can accumulate in parts, causing them to wear out faster. Additionally, you should use a lint brush to clean out threads that may be caught in the feed dogs and other parts. To ensure your threads move freely through the machine, check that your tension disks are free of dust.
Another important element of Singer sewing machine maintenance is regularly checking the needle. Make sure it is of the right size and type for the fabric you’re sewing. If the needle is bent, flattened, or dull, it won’t properly penetrate the fabric. Additionally, check the eye of the needle for any buildup of thread or dirt. If it’s present, clean it out with an eyeglass screwdriver or tweezers.
Finally, if your Singer machine is having problems feeding the fabric properly, check the feed dogs. If they’re bent or worn down, replace them; they’re relatively inexpensive and easy to find. Once they’re replaced, make sure to test this by stitching several patches of fabric before you move onto larger projects.
Getting the Best Results
To ensure you’re getting the best results from your Singer sewing machine, always make sure to test out a few scrap pieces of fabric before you start a major project. This way, you’ll know that the tension is properly adjusted and the needle and feed dogs are working correctly. This will help to prevent any unnecessary tears or mistakes and make sure your Singer machine is working at its best.
Additionally, follow the manual closely when using any of the machine’s settings or parts. Doing so, will help you avoid any unnecessary problems. If you’re unsure or don’t know how to adjust something, consult a professional or a skilled individual.
Finally, it’s important to maintain your Singer sewing machine throughout its life, no matter how old or new it is. Clean, oil, and service it regularly, and make sure to replace parts as needed. With proper maintenance, your Singer machine will continue to create quality stitches.
Accessories
There are many accessories available to complete your Singer sewing machine. From presser feet to embroidery accessories and more, there’s something available to meet your needs. For example, feet like the Hemmer Foot or the Rolled Hem Foot are great for creating even hems and edges. Similarly, a Quilting Foot can be used for quilting projects and curved pieces.
Additionally, many professionals recommend investing in a seam ripper in case of any mistakes. A seam ripper is a tool designed to quickly and safely remove stitches without damaging the fabric. It’s also useful for removing trims, threads, and stray needles.
For quilting projects, investing in a walking foot is a great way to make sure your quilt sandwiches move evenly and smoothly. This foot is mounted onto the base of the sewing machine and it helps to propels the fabric through the machine at the same rate on both the top and the bottom.
Finally, having a good pair of scissors is essential for any project. Make sure to invest in a pair of sharp, quality scissors so you can easily cut away excess fabric or threads.
Conclusion
Whether you’ve inherited an old Singer machine or simply purchased one new, it’s important to keep in mind the upkeep of such a quality machine. Regular cleaning and oiling along with following maintenance and troubleshooting tips can help prevent wear and tear and make sure your Singer machine is running smoothly. Additionally, investing in the necessary accessories can take your Singer machine to the next level.
