Reverse Engineering
Fixing a broken needle on a sewing machine is a frustrating but repairable task. As the process is often tedious and time-consuming, having the right materials and understanding the mechanics of the sewing machine is essential in order to fix a broken needle.
Inspect the needle and evaluate the damage. Check to see if the needle is bent or cracked. If the needle is bent or cracked, it needs to be replaced. Replacing the needle is the safest option and will prevent any further damage to the machine and fabric.
If the needle is merely loose, then it can be tightened. To start the process, take off the needle plate and remove the screw, which is located at the base of the arm. Depending on the model of the sewing machine, the screw may be located in the back or front of the machine. Once the screw is removed, the needle should easily slide out.
Get the proper-size hex wrench, usually sold with the sewing machine. Fit it over the round head of the machine and twist to the left, as this will loosen the needle. If the needle is loose, locate the flat portion of the needle and this is where the adjusting screw will fit. Take a small needle-nose plier and turn the adjusting screw into the flat portion of the needle. Turn the screw until the needle is snug. Replace the needle plate and adjust the threads correctly.
It is extremely important to check the needle size to make sure it fits the material that you’re using and that the tension setting is correct. Too much tension or too little tension can cause the needle to break, creating problems for the machine and fabric.
After the basic repair is done, it’s important to undo the tension so the needle is free to move on the foot plate. Remove the spool of thread off the sewing machine. Slowly turn the wheel by hand in the forward and backward direction and watch the needle carefully. The needle should move freely and not hit the spool pins that hold the bobbin thread.
If the needle is still not working properly, it is essential to have it serviced and cleaned by an authorized technician.
Preventive Measures
To prevent the appearance of a broken or loose needle, do a thorough inspection of the needle before you begin sewing. Make sure that the needle is flat with no bends or breaks. The needle should be sharp, with a small groove at its point so that the thread can slip in. Install the needle with the flat side towards the back of the machine.
Check the thread for any knots or tangles. If there are any imperfections, it could cause the needle to break. Make sure to set the correct tension on the machine to avoid a broken or damaged needle. Also, once the fabric is properly in place make small back stitches to secure the material.
Replace the needle after every 10-20 hours of sewing. This will ensure that the needle remains of a high quality, and that it is sharp enough to move through the fabric correctly. If the machine is used for making frequent and thick fabrics, it is best to replace the needle after every six hours of continuous use.
Make sure to use the right needle and thread that is compatible with that fabric. The higher the thread and needle number, the thinner the needle and thread will be. Test the fabric before beginning the project to make sure that the needle and thread are not too thin.The heavier the fabric, the bigger the needle.
Troubleshooting
If the needle is bent or strips, check the threading of the machine. Re-thread the needle and bobbin to make sure that the thread is in the right place. Also, make sure to check the position of the presser foot is lined up correctly. This will ensure that the needle is lowered properly.
If the needle is not down, it can cause the needle to bend or break. Make sure to clean the bobbin case, if it is dirty or full of lint, the needle cannot move correctly. If the bobbin casing is correctly cleaned, check to make sure the bobbin itself is correctly and securely inserted.
If the thread continues to break or knot, it is possible that the thread is too thick or too thin for the needle. Check the needle size, and make sure it corresponds to the thread being sewn. Make sure to clean the needle, if cleaning does not help, it might be too dull and needs to be sharpened or replaced.
Replacement Parts
If the needle is broken or cannot be fixed, it is essential to have the right needle to complete the project. Look for needles that are the right size and are compatible with the sewing machine. Always use the right needle, not just any universal needle as this can cause damage to the machine and fabric.
To find the right needle size, check the documentation that came with the machine or online in the search engine. It is essential to always use the same brand of needle for the machine, as recommended by the manufacturer.
If there is still a problem with the machine or needle, it is best to look for a tutorial video or manual to fix the problem. Professional advice from an experienced user may help to eliminate any chances of further damage to the sewing machine and fabric.
Maintenance
The most important step to fixing a broken needle on a sewing machine is proper maintenance. It is essential to keep the machine clean and oiled to make sure that it runs efficiently and does not cause the needle to break or become damaged. Make sure to place a cloth in the bobbin case to absorb the lint and dust. This will keep the machine running smoothly and will help keep the needle properly.
Check the tension regularly while sewing, as it is easy to tighten it too much, which can cause the needle to break. Make sure to label the tension dial with the correct fabric, so it is easier to readjust the tension accordingly. Double-check the pressure foot for getting stuck, as it can cause the needle to break.
Check the needle size at least once every month, as a needle that is too small or too big can cause issues with both the fabric and the machine.If any of the above tips don’t help, it is important to contact a technician to take a look at the machine. An experienced technician will be able to provide the right advice and guidance in locating a new needle.Conclusion
In conclusion, taking the time to understand the mechanics of the sewing machine and what might be causing the needle to break is essential in maintaining it and successfully fixing a broken needle. Using the right needle, thread, and proper tension for the fabrics are critical to making sure needles do not break. With the right materials and understanding of the process, fixing a broken needle on a sewing machine is not a difficult process.
