Threading the Sewing Machine
Beginning a seam is often the most difficult part of a sewing project, but knowing how to properly thread a sewing machine can make the process a breeze. It’s important to understand the basics of how to thread a sewing machine in order to ensure that the seam is strong and secure, and that the end result is of a professional quality. With a little practice and understanding, even a novice can be stitching like a pro in no time.
“One of the keys to a good seam is the right threading of the machine,” says sewing expert Karen Tull of Sewing-World.com. “Making sure that the thread is wound onto the bobbin properly is the foundation for a successful project. Without that, the seams won’t stay together, and the fabric won’t be secure.”
Threading a sewing machine may seem daunting at first, but the process is actually fairly simple. Following these steps will ensure that the machine is threaded correctly and securely:
- First, locate the tension assembly on the sewing machine. This is indicated by a knob or clamp that controls the tension of the thread.
- Make sure the tension setting on the machine is set to the proper tension for the type of material being sewn. The higher the tension, the more secure the seam.
- Feed the thread through the tension assembly, looping it around the bobbin holder. Make sure the threads are pulled taught.
- Place the bobbin holder into the bobbin casing, and twist clockwise to lock it in place.
- Place the bobbin onto the holder, winding the thread in a clockwise direction.
- Turn the handwheel on the side of the machine to raise the needle. This will allow access to the threading guide.
- Feed the thread from the spool around the threading guide, and towards the take-up lever.
- Pull the thread around the take-up lever and then down to the thread guide.
- Gently pull the thread around the thread guide and then back up to the take-up lever.
- Feed the thread through the eye of the needle, taking care not to pull it too tightly.
Tull states that once all of the steps are completed, it’s important to first check the tension setting to make sure that the thread is pulled taught. If it’s not, the tension should be adjusted accordingly before stitching. Once all of the steps are complete, the sewing machine is now ready to begin stitching!
Tips for Sewing Success
In order to make sure that a seam is secure and stays together, it is important to learn the art of proper seam construction. Whether it is through zig zag stitching, French seams, or even topstitching, there is an art to proper seam construction that should not be overlooked.
“Seam construction is the foundation of a great project,” says Tull. “Different edges require different types of seam construction to ensure that the seams remain secure.”
From choosing the correct type of seam for a project, to selecting the correct thread and needle size, each and every factor of a seam needs to be taken into consideration for a well-constructed, professional-looking seam that stands the test of time.
In addition, taking the time to press the fabric before and after stitching can also make the difference between a sloppy, unprofessional seam and a professional, polished result. It is important to think of pressing as an important part of the entire seam construction process.
Ending the Seam
Once the stitching is complete, it is important to know how to properly end the seam. This step is often overlooked, but it is actually one of the most important steps of seam construction.
The first step of ending a seam is to determine the best way to secure the end of the stitching line. This will depend on the type of item being sewn, as well as the type of stitching being done. For example, some items and fabric types may require a special finish to the seam, such as a French seam or an interior binding. Once the end of the seam is secured, cut off any excess threads.
The second step is to backstitch. This is done by taking a few stitches backwards at the end of the seam, in order to secure the end. This step is extremely important, as it prevents the stitching from unraveling or coming undone.
Finally, press the seam flat. This will help to ensure that the seam is secure and will give the finished item a polished, professional-looking finish.
Repairing a Seam
Even the best seamstresses make mistakes, and sometimes a seam will need to be repaired. This can be done easily by hand, or by re-stitching the seam with a sewing machine.
“It is much easier to repair a seam if it is done as soon as possible,” says Tull. “If you wait too long, the fabric can get stretched and distorted, which can make it difficult to repair.”
When repairing a seam, it is important to take out the stitching without damaging the fabric. A seam ripper can be used to quickly and easily remove stitches without damaging the fabric. Once the stitching is removed, the seam can be pressed flat.
The next step is to re-stitch the seam. For best results, the tension setting should be adjusted so that the thread is pulled taught. This will ensure that the stitches are secure and the seam is strong and durable.
Finally, press the seam flat one last time to ensure that the stitches hold. This will give the seam a smooth, professional-looking finish and will also help to ensure that the seam is secure and won’t come undone.
Finishing Touches
The last step in the seam construction process is to give the item a professional-looking finish. This can be done by topstitching, or by adding a special finish, such as a French seam or bias binding.
Topstitching is a great way to add strength and durability to a seam and also to give it a professional-looking finish. To topstitch, either stitch along the original seam line or add a decorative stitch to the finished seam.
Special finishing techniques, such as a French seam or bias binding, are also a great way to add a professional-looking finish to a seam. These techniques are slightly more advanced, but they can make a huge difference in the overall finished item.
With a little practice and understanding, these finishing techniques can be mastered quickly and easily, allowing even a beginner to create professional-looking seams.
Seam Maintance and Care
Once the seam is complete, it is important to take care of it properly. To ensure that a seam looks its best and lasts for years, it is important to follow a few basic care and maintenance guidelines.
When laundering an item, it is important to use the correct settings on the washing machine. For example, for fabrics such as cotton and linen, it is usually best to wash the item on the delicate cycle and to avoid harsh detergents and fabric softeners. Doing so will help protect the seams and fabrics from becoming distorted or frayed.
It is also important to not leave items sitting in the washing machine for extended periods of time. Doing so can cause the fabric and seams to become distorted, resulting in a poor looking seam.
Finally, it is important to press the item properly after washing. This is the best way to ensure that the seams retain their shape and stay in place. Pouring a little bit of steam over the item can help to reshape any distorted seams, making the item look as good as new.
Conclusion
From threading the sewing machine, to constructing a properly secure seam, to protecting and maintaining the seam, there are many steps to creating a successful, professional-looking seam. It is important to understand the basics of seam construction in order to create a well-constructed, long-lasting seam.
With a bit of knowledge and practice, even a novice can produce professional-looking seams that stand the test of time. Taking the time to carefully and correctly construct a seam will make all the difference in the finished product.
