Parts of a Sewing Machine
A sewing machine is made up of several parts that work together to create beautiful garments and creations from fabric. The major parts include the needle, shuttle, bobbin, bobbin case, presser foot, cutting blade, and take-up lever. Knowing each part and its purpose can help you understand how to use a sewing machine.
Needle
The needle of a sewing machine is responsible for pushing the thread through the fabric and creating the stitches. Different sewing projects will require different sized needles. For example, needles for denim and leather tend to be larger, while needles for lightweight fabrics are smaller. Sewing machine needles have several components, including an eye where you thread the needle, a blade that pushes through the fabric, and a shank, which is the part that attaches to the machine.
Shuttle
The shuttle is the part of the machine that holds the bobbin. It is usually located on the side or top of the machine and is usually clear or semi-transparent so you can see the bobbin inside.
Bobbin
The bobbin is the spool of thread that feeds the needle from the underside of the fabric. It is inserted into the shuttle before starting a project. To ensure proper tension, it should be placed in the shuttle correctly. The bobbin holds the lower thread while the needle pushes the upper thread through the fabric and creates a stitch.
Bobbin Case
The bobbin case keeps the bobbin in place so that the thread can move smoothly. It also ensures that the bobbin doesn’t come loose and is in the right position while sewing.
Presser Foot
The presser foot holds the fabric in place while sewing and is connected to the arm of the machine. It has a round rubber end that presses down on the fabric to keep it from slipping or bunching up.
Cutting Blade
Some sewing machines have a cutting blade that can be used to quickly and securely trim excess fabric after a seam is sewn. This is a great way to save time, as it eliminates the need to use a pair of scissors.
Take-up Lever
The take-up lever is responsible for pulling the needle and thread up and down when you move the fabric. It is connected to a spring that helps to tension the threads, which helps to create even stitches.
Setup and Preparation
Before you begin using a sewing machine, you will need to make sure it is setup correctly. This includes ensuring that all of the parts are properly in place and that the bobbin and shuttle are in the proper position. Following the directions in the user manual is the best way to ensure that the machine is set up correctly.
Threading the Machine
Once the sewing machine is set up correctly, you can begin threading the machine. This involves putting the bobbin in the shuttle, winding it up with thread, and threading the upper portion of the machine. Once the thread is in place, insert the needle into the fabric and you are ready to start sewing.
Using a Sewing Machine
Once the machine is set up and threaded correctly, you can begin using it to create beautiful garments and other sewn items. To start sewing, make sure that the presser foot is in the down position and the take-up lever is in the right position. Gently guide the fabric in a forward and backward motion as you sew and make sure to keep an appropriate level of tension on the thread. This will help to create even and reliable stitches.
Stitching a Seam
Before stitching a seam, make sure that the presser foot is in the raised position and that the needle is in the highest position. If necessary, raise the bobbin thread to the upper thread. Next, lower the presser foot and begin stitching by turning the handwheel and guiding the fabric in a forward or backward motion. Make sure to keep an appropriate level of tension on the thread and stitch slowly for the best results.
Seam Finishing
Once the seam is stitched, it is important to properly finish it to ensure that it is of the highest quality. This involves trimming any excess fabric on either side of the seam and using a zigzag stitch to secure the ends of the fabric together. Seam finishing will also help to make the seam look more professional and will protect the fabric from fraying.
Using a Seam Ripper
When mistakes happen while sewing, it is often necessary to use a seam ripper to undo the stitches. This is a small tool with a sharp point that is designed to easily and safely remove stitches from the fabric. When using a seam ripper, it is important to be extra careful not to cut through the fabric or accidentally rip any of the threads.
Maintaining a Sewing Machine
Properly maintaining a sewing machine is important for ensuring that it works correctly and that the results are of high quality. This involves cleaning it regularly, replacing worn-out parts, and periodically lubricating moving parts. All of these tasks can help to prolong the life of the sewing machine and provide years of quality service.
Safety Tips
When using a sewing machine it is important to be aware of the potential safety risks and take the necessary steps to protect yourself. This includes keeping an eye on the needle, never leaving the machine unattended, and never sewing over your fingers. It is also important to use the right type of thread and needle for the fabric and project you are working on.
Learning More
In order to become a proficient sewer and gain a better understanding of how to use a sewing machine, taking a class is a great idea. Students can learn a variety of techniques and get advice from experienced instructors. Additionally, there are plenty of tutorials and videos available online that can provide instruction on specific sewing projects or techniques.
Company Resources
Most sewing machine companies offer resources that can help you learn the ins and outs of their machines. This can include user manuals, instructional videos, troubleshooting guides, and more. Knowing how to use all of the features of your sewing machine can be extremely helpful and can help you get the most out of your machine.
Finding Patterns
Finding patterns is an important part of sewing. Patterns provide a template to work from and help ensure that the finished product looks the way you want it to. There are plenty of pattern companies online, as well as in most fabric stores, that offer a wide selection of patterns to choose from.
Creating Garments
Creating garments is one of the most popular uses of a sewing machine. Patterns can be used as a guide to creating a variety of garments, including pants, shirts, skirts, dresses, coats and more. It is important to properly measure the person you are creating the garment for in order to get the best possible fit.
Making Accessories
Sewing can also be used to make a variety of accessories. These can include things like purses, scarves, and hats. Working with smaller projects can be a great way to get comfortable with the machine and build your skills.
Alterations
Altering garments can be a great way to spruce up an outdated item or customize a piece of clothing to better fit your personal style. It can also be a great way to save money, as it eliminates the need to buy a new piece of clothing. Common alterations include letting out hems, taking in sides, adjusting waistbands, and replacing zippers and buttons.
Home Decor
Sewing can also be used to create home decor items such as curtains, pillows, and table runners. These types of projects are generally fairly easy and don’t require a lot of fabric or special tools. They can also be a great way to add a personal touch to any room.
Embroidery
Embroidery is another type of sewing. For this type of project, a special machine that includes an embroidery hoop, bobbin thread, and a designated area for the design is needed. This type of sewing is great for customizing garments with names, initials, or fun designs.
Quilting
Quilting is the art of making quilts. Most modern quilting is done using a sewing machine, as it is much quicker and easier than hand-stitching. Quilt blocks and patchwork are typically sewn together, and then the finished quilt top is quilted or stitched together in intricate patterns.
Sewing Machines for Kids
For budding sewers, there are special sewing machines designed for children. These machines are generally smaller, simpler, and safer to use and provide a great way for kids to get started in the creative world of sewing.
