Basic Knowledge of Sewing Stitches
Seamstresses have been mending and creating fashionable garments for centuries. Their craft requires stitching, and it is important to understand the basics of what constitutes a sewing stitch. In sewing machine parlance, a “stitch” is one lengthwise pass of the needle and thread in either direction. It can be sewn in a straight line, or it can be looped, shaped or otherwise manipulated. Looking closely at a stitch reveals three components: the upper thread (the needle and thread), the lower thread (the bobbin thread) and the material.
The two most common stitches are the locking and the backstitch. The locking stitch is achieved when the needle pulls the upper thread through the fabric and the bobbin thread then wraps around the upper thread, locking it in place. The backstitch is stitched backwards, looping around the thread below, locking it in place. Both are strong and durable, but the backstitch is more secure.
There are a few basic steps to help you fix loose stitches on a sewing machine. The first step is to secure the bobbin thread and lower the thread tension to a lower setting. This will secure the threads and allow the machine to begin stitching. The next step is to double-check the stitch settings, to make sure the right length, width, and type of stitch is selected for your project.
Lastly, check the thread for any knots, snags or loose ends and cut them off. Once the threads are cut, re-tension the thread as normal and check the fabric for any slack in the stitch. If all of these steps have been followed and the stitch is still loose, the thread may be too weak or the needle may be too small, too dull, or the wrong type.
Check Effective Alternatives
If the needle needs to be replaced, it is important to ensure that it is an appropriate size for the fabric. The needle must also be sharp enough, as a dull or worn needle can result in loose stitches. For instance, if using a thick or heavy fabric, a larger and sharper needle should be used. If the thread is the issue, use a stronger thread. Determine the best thread to use by consulting your sewing manual and selecting the threads that are appropriate for the material.
If a straight stitch is not working, then consider using a zigzag stitch instead. This is known as a “tricot stitch”, as it is often used for garments made from knit fabrics. A zigzag stitch will provide additional tensile strength to the seam and prevent it from coming undone. It is also easier to stitch and is much less likely to have any loose stitches.
Finally, check the tension of the machine. Most machines have an adjustable tension dial and it should be checked to ensure that it is set at the right level. Too much tension can result in stitches not holding as securely, and too little tension can result in loose stitches. Finding the right tension setting is a delicate balance and will require some testing and adjustment.
Watching Out for the Necessities
When sewing any garment, it is important to be aware of the particular requirements for the material you are using. If a pattern states that the material should be pre-treated, before or after the stitching process, it is important to do so in order to ensure that the garments will fit as intended. Additionally, it is always important to use the correct needle for the fabric and to check the thread for any knots before beginning the stitching process.
Though the process of fixing a loose stitch on a sewing machine may seem daunting, it is often not as complicated as it seems. Generally, a few minor adjustments to the machine and thread will result in the desired outcome. With minimal time and effort, a perfect seam can be achieved.
Tips to Fix Uneven Stitches
Another common issue associated with loose stitches on a machine is when the stitches appear uneven or irregular. This too can often be quickly fixed. Firstly, check the bobbin thread is winding properly. If the thread is too tight or too loose on the bobbin, the tension can result in uneven stitches. Secondly, ensure that the needle is fixed securely, and if not, then replace or reposition it.
It is important to check the presser foot and the feed dogs of the machine, as these two components are responsible for the flow of material whilst sewing. The other key element, especially when sewing thick material, is to adjust the pressure foot according to the material being sewn. If the pressure foot is too low then it can result in the needle and thread forming stitches of different depths. Generally, a higher pressure foot setting is appropriate for thicker material.
The Benefits of Professional Assistance
Finally, when it comes to properly addressing issues associated with loose stitches on a sewing machine, professional advice can sometimes be highly beneficial. The best people to consult with are certified sewing machine technicians who have the necessary knowledge and experience to deliver the best advice. They can quickly diagnose the problem, identify root causes and make appropriate recommendations.
In short, fixing loose-stitches on a sewing machine is a relatively straightforward process. With some simple maintenance and attention to detail, our precious fabrics and garments can easily be restored to their former beauty.
Tools to Help with Fixing Stitches
A range of specialized tools exist to help with fixing loose stitches on a sewing machine. A seam ripper is a critical device for fixing stitches and removing entire seams or portions of them, particularly when repositioning elements for a garment.
Scissors and tweezers are also essential as these can help with trimming stray threads and can also be used to clamp down difficult fabrics. Sewing clamps are useful for holding fabrics together and are extremely useful when working with thick materials or when requiring precision alignment.
Thread nippers are another great tool. Used to cut the thread, they’re more precise than scissors and help to avoid snagging or pulling on the fabric. Lastly, when fixing fabric in place, pin basting is a practical and effective method of holding the fabrics securely in place to prevent shifting before sewing.
Organizations Offering Assistance
If you are looking for help with mending or making garments, there are a growing number of organizations that offer their services. For example, Threads of Love is a charity that provides mending and alteration services such as patching, hemming, and stitching repairs. Their services are provided either free of charge or at affordable rates.
Volunteer seamstresses are available in many cities who offer free mending services, often on a mobile basis. As well, there are many volunteer sewing clubs that offer free classes and workshops. They are available to teach basic and advanced principles of garment construction and can also provide assistance with proper threading of machines, selecting the right fabrics, and mastering complex stitches.
Modern Technology in The Mending of Clothes
Modern technology has revolutionized the mending and making of garments. For example, a computerized sewing machine can eliminate the need for manual threading of the machine and will also provide accuracy in terms of stitch length, width, and tightness. This makes sewing faster, easier, and far more precise.
There are also a number of online platforms available where users can upload images of their garments, and then receive a quote from a technician for the repair or alterations of the garment. These platforms also offer tutorials and videos that can be viewed at any time to learn about mending techniques.
Overall, the advances in technology have made the process of mending and making garments much easier and far more accessible. All that’s needed is a willingness to learn some basic principles and the passion to create something beautiful.
