Finishing a stitch with a sewing machine is an essential part of many sewing projects. Knowing how to do it properly will help ensure that the stitch is secure and looks neat. This article will provide a step-by-step guide to finishing a stitch on a sewing machine and offer some tips on how to achieve the best results.
Before beginning any stitching project, it’s important to make sure your sewing machine is correctly threaded and set up. Check that the bobbin is installed, tensions are correct and changing stitch length and width are working. It’s also useful to check your presser foot is properly lubricated and to test a pattern on a scrap piece of fabric before starting a project.
Next, select the appropriate stitch for the project. Different types of stitches are used for different purposes, so it’s important to choose the right one. If in doubt, consult your sewing machine’s manual. Once the stitch has been chosen and tested on a scrap fabric, it’s time to begin stitching.
Begin stitching by holding the fabric with both hands as you press lightly on the foot pedal, guiding the fabric steadily through the machine. As the material enters and exits the needle, apply pressure with your left hand to keep the fabric taut. Speed up or slow down the pedal to maintain an even stitch size, keeping an eye on the fabric.
When you reach the end of the line, slightly slow down the presser foot and pause for a moment.
Now it’s time to finish off the stitch. To do this, raise the needle and presser foot using the corresponding lever or switch. Cut the thread, leaving a tail of around 5 inches, and pull the tail to the back of the fabric. If you’re using a knotting stitch, tie the two thread tails together and clip off the excess fabric as necessary. For bigger projects, you may also need to secure the threads with a back stitch.
Lower the needle and presser foot, and then raise them again. Cut off the excess thread with scissors, and voilà – your stitch is finished!
Safety Tips
Although sewing machines can make stitching easier, they can also pose a safety risk if not handled properly. To ensure a safe working environment, make sure all electrical cables are away from the needle area and be sure to unplug the power cord before making any adjustments. Be sure to read and follow the safety instructions provided in the sewing machine’s manual.
Always be aware of the needle when it’s in operation, as it can injure the hands or eyes. Don’t rely on the foot pedal to stop the needle in an emergency, as this could result in the needle snapping. If a thread gets caught, switch off the machine immediately and untangle the thread carefully with your fingers. Never try to do this with scissors or other sharp objects.
Maintenance
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and keep the sewing machine clean and well serviced at all times. To keep your machine running smoothly, be sure to oil it regularly and clean lint from the bobbin area when necessary. If you’re using a lot of different thread types and fabrics, replace the needle often as it can become worn and may cause your thread to break.
Also, be careful not to overload the sewing machine. For more delicate fabrics, use a smaller stitch size and lighter thread. If the machine starts to make any unusual noises or vibrations, switch it off immediately and get it serviced.
Troubleshooting
No matter how experienced you are, problems can still occur while you’re stitching. If the stitching is coming out too tight or too loose, adjust the tension accordingly. If the thread is looping or bunching on the underside, try increasing the foot pressure or changing the presser foot type. If the fabric is being pulled, check the needle size and make sure it’s suitable for the fabric type.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the fabric – if it’s being pulled or pushed in the wrong direction, stop stitching, readjust it and start again. If the stitching is leaving unsightly holes in the fabric, increase the stitch length.
The Best Threads for Sewing Machines
The type of thread you use will depend on the project being undertaken. Washable polyester thread is ideal for general stitching, as it’s durable, strong and doesn’t fray easily. Cotton thread is suited to lighter fabrics, and is the best option for buttonholes, embellishments and hemming. Silk thread is usually recommended for embroidery and decorative stitching, as it’s elastic and finer than polyester. Using the correct thread for your project is essential for a neat, professional-looking finish.
Choosing the Right Needles
Using the right needles for the job is important, too. Universal needles are suitable for most fabrics, while ballpoint needles are ideal for knitwear. Sharps are best suited to fine fabrics, while denim and leather needles are designed specifically for thicker materials. Always make sure the needle is sharp, as a blunt needle won’t cut through fabric properly and can cause tension problems.
Accessories
There is a wide range of accessories available to make sewing easier, such as magnetic pins and holders, measuring tapes, tailor’s chalk, seam rippers and magnifying glasses. Using these accessories will make sewing projects much easier and help achieve accurate and professional results.
Additional Fabric Care Tips
Finally, it’s important to take good care of your fabrics. Whenworking on delicate fabrics, check the needle size and tension setting and use a steaming iron to press the fabric rather than a hot iron. When using stitch patterns, keep the stitch length and tension consistent along the entire seam. This will stop the fabric from puckering along the stitching line.
