Steps on How to do a Buttonhole on a Brother Sewing Machine
Making a buttonhole is a complex process for any beginner who starts working with a sewing machine. Many of us get scared of the idea of making buttonholes and often abhor it. Hence, it is important to take it easy and trust the sewing machine.
Nevertheless, when it comes to a Brother sewing machine, the process gets easy with the availability of a range of features and options. Brother sewing machines can help one make the perfect buttonholes with ease. All you need to do is follow the below-mentioned steps:
Threading the Machine
The first step involves threading the machine properly. Many beginners tend to go wrong here as the threading can be a bit complex. Hence, it is better to take help from the manual for the same. Start by feeding the lower thread at the bottom of the sewing machine from the spool to the presser foot. Take it through the thread guide, then the tension disc and then through the needle.
Broken threads or incorrect thread tension can equally be a problem. Hence, it is important to check the tension of the thread before sewing. This can be done by removing the plate of your Brother sewing machine and adjusting the tension accordingly.
Making the Buttonhole
After threading the machine properly and adjusting the tension of the thread, it is time to make the buttonhole. The Brother sewing machine should be in zig-zag mode or a special buttonhole mode when making a buttonhole. Use the stitch length, width and the buttonhole foot slider as tools to get the best results.
Also, read the instructions carefully and use the necessary stabilizers when needed. To make a buttonhole, mark the fabric. The length of the buttonhole should be equal to the size of the button you are going to use.
Then select a pattern from the machine. The machine will automatically back-tack the stitch and make the required slot for the button. After the buttonhole slot is made, slowly sew the sides for a neatly finished look.
Finally, take a seam ripper and open the fabric in the center. Make sure to cut the fabric horizontally instead of cutting it on the sides as this can spoil the look. Once the buttonhole is made, sew the button in the same manner.
Caring and Maintaining a Brother Sewing Machine
Having a well-maintained sewing machine is the key to sewing better. The same is applicable for Brother sewing machines as well. As a rule of thumb, always clean the machine regularly. This ensures that all ‘unwanted’ threads and lints are removed from the machine.
Also, lubricate the moving parts of the sewing machine time to time as prescribed in the manual. Doing this will extend the life of your sewing machine. Additionally, it is also important to maintain the needle of the machine. It is important to ensure that the needle is of correct size and is not blunt. It should be replaced after every 10 hours of sewing.
Most importantly check the balance wheel of the machine. This is needed in order to make sure that the stitches are properly formed and even. If anything goes wrong in the balance wheel, the stitches may get disproportionate.
Skill Development
Having a Brother sewing machine can help you train yourself to create the perfect buttonholes. There are a lot of tutorials available online which can help one learn the basics of sewing. With time and patience, you too can easily master the art of making the perfect buttonholes on any kind of fabric.
When you are in your learning process, it is important to practice on an old fabric. By following up the practice with self-critique session one can easily learn to make the perfect buttonholes. Self-assessment is really important here to understand the right technique of making buttonholes. The trick here is practicing regularly to ensure the desired outcome.
Different Types of Buttonholes
Another great way to learn the craft of making perfect buttonholes on a Brother sewing machine is to experiment. As a beginner try experimenting with different kinds of pattern on the fabric to make various types of buttonholes. Through the experimentation, the learner can easily understand the techniques of making various types and sizes of buttonholes.
Different types of buttonholes include the keyhole, bound, stretch and bar tacks. All these types are generally used for different purposes and hence, it is important to understand their usabilities and practical applications. Additionally, it is also important to learn about the respective steps for making them.
Each type of buttonhole may have a different process of making and the measurements may also vary from one to the other. Hence, it is important to have patience and understanding the nitty-gritty associated with it.
Troubleshooting a Brother Sewing Machine
In spite of being one of the best sewing machines in the world, a Brother sewing machine can encounter some problems. Hence, it is important to understand some basic troubleshooting tips to make sure that your stitches are properly formed.
If the machine’s stitch is not even, it is important to check the thread balance. Apart from this, check if the fabric is properly secured under the presser foot. If it isn’t, it is important to secure it before continuing with the buttonhole.
Also, ensure that the fabric is soft enough to make the buttonhole. If the fabric is too firm, it won’t let the machine make even stitches. Similarly, too much fabric may also result in uneven stitches. In that case try using stabilizers with the fabric.
Replacing Parts
Once the machine starts developing any technical problems, it is important to start looking for the affected pieces. Always try to look for the original parts designed specifically for the Brother sewing machines. This is important as these parts will always be compatible with the sewing machine. Moreover, a part that has been made specifically for the sewing machine can enhance its performance.
Hence, it is important to detect the problem and get the parts replaced accordingly. Many experts suggest that one should always look for online tutorials to change the parts. This can help one understand the process of replacing the parts and also save time and money.
Maintenance Tips for Brother Sewing Machines
Once the buttonhole is made, it is important to take care of the Brother machine to ensure that it functions properly. Unlike other sewing machines, Brother sewing machines do not require much servicing. Clean the machine with a damp cloth after every few weeks to prevent thread buildup.
As a part of maintenance, one should check with the manual and make sure that the machine is well-oiled. This helps to keep it in good condition and also extends its life. Additionally, it is important to be gentle while using a Brother sewing machine and treat it with proper respect.
Storing a Brother Sewing Machine
When not in use, store the Brother sewing machine in a cool, dry place. Keep it away from direct sunlight and far from any kind of moisture. This will help protect the machine from any kind of corrosion and extend its life.
If the machine is left unused for a long period, it is important to wind the bobbin completely and tie the thread near the spool pin. This will make sure no dust enters the spool pin and thread holder which can create problems for the machine.
Also, it is important to make sure that the needle is engaged into the machine. Make sure to check the balance wheel before handling the machine. Additionally, unplug the machine after the sewing is done to avoid any kind of unwanted electricity shock.
