Even the best sewing machines can sometimes mess up and leave you with a situation like a broken needle. Not only can it be frustrating at times, but you can also be left with stranded fabric or don’t know what is the most effective way to fix it. In this article, we discuss the steps you should take to ensure that your sewing machine needle is fixed quickly and efficiently.
For starters, you’ll need to determine the cause of the broken needle. In most cases, the needle is damaged due to incorrect needle size or type being used. Make sure to check these aspects before attempting to fix the needle to ensure that it does not occur again. Moreover, the needle could be stuck inside the machine due to a lack of oil or wear and tear.
If you are certain that the needle is the right size and type, then the next step should be to examine the machine’s parts. The needle may be stuck inside and require deft maneuvering to take it out. One way to do this is to use a pair of tweezers or a specialized tools to carefully unscrew and extract the needle without damaging the machine.
In some cases, you may need to replace the needle. Take extra care as there are certain types of needles that can be used depending on the type of fabric you are working with. Furthermore, consider any other factors like thickness and type of thread.
If, however, the needle snaps when you are sewing, the most likely explanation is improper tension. This means the needle and thread are not properly aligned and tensioned. Adjusting the tension on your machine may help in this situation. If not, try a higher or lower needle size and see if that helps.
Another factor to consider is the type of thread you’re using. Cheaper thread can be notorious for breaking needles, so opt for a quality thread that is specifically made for machine sewing. Be sure to replace your needle if it’s visibly damaged or worn.
Finally, remember that there are certain types of fabrics that require special needle sizes. Don’t be afraid to invest in the right needle type for the type of fabric you are working with. This may save you the hassle of having to replace the needle if it breaks or gets jammed in the future.
Recognize Thread Quality And Thickness
Threads come in a wide variety of weights, materials, and sizes. Choosing the right one can make all the difference. Ideally, you should look for quality thread that is designed specifically for sewing machines. If you’re working with thicker fabric, opt for a stronger or larger thread. Keep in mind that thicker thread can require a larger needle size.
Moreover, use a thread size that is suitable for your fabric. For example, a thread weight between 32 and 40 is generally suitable for lightweight fabric. Lastly, make sure to use a thread that is specifically designed for machine sewing rather than hand-stitching.
Understand The Needle Shaft
Every sewing machine needle has a shaft. This is the part of the needle that holds the hook and eyelet. It’s important to understand this component as it determines how easily the needle will be inserted into the fabric. Thicker fabrics require a thicker shaft while lighter fabrics need a thinner shaft.
Moreover, you should pay attention to the eye of the needle. This is the hole at the end of the shaft where the thread is passed through. The size of the eye can vary depending on the fabric and thread. If the eye is too large, the thread may slip out while sewing. Conversely, if it is too small, the thread may break.
In order to avoid any mishaps, it’s important to purchase needles of the right size and type for the fabric you are using. This will ensure that the needle passes smoothly through the fabric and that the eye is the right size for the thread.
Stabilising The Fabric
Small and lightweight fabrics can be difficult to sew as they tend to shift around while the needle is stitching. This can cause the needle to become damaged or the thread to break. To prevent this from happening, use stabilisers that can be bought from fabric stores.
These stabilisers attach to the back of the fabric and provide some extra support. This will help to keep the fabric in place, making it much easier to sew. You can also use pins or tape to keep the fabric securely in place.
Maintenance Of Machine
Sewing machines require maintenance to ensure that needles do not become stuck or damaged. You should oil the machine regularly to ensure all parts are working properly. Moreover, make sure to replace old or damaged needles with ones of the right size and type.
If you notice that the needle is not in the right position, take a few moments to adjust it. This will ensure that the needle will pass through the fabric without any difficulty. Additionally, it’s important to inspect the machine to make sure all parts are working correctly.
Troubleshooting
Even with the right needle and proper maintenance, it can still be difficult to get the needle to move correctly. If the needle is jammed in the machine, try to carefully pull it out or use a tool to unscrew it. You can also use a sewing machine needle threader for better precision.
Another approach is to adjust the tension. If the tension is too high, it will put a lot of pressure on the needle and cause it to break or get stuck. Conversely, if the tension is too low, the thread will slip out. Adjusting the tension is a delicate process and requires some practice.
Additionally, it’s important to inspect the machine for any broken parts or damaged components. If you notice any issues, make sure to take the machine to a qualified technician for repairs.
Planning Ahead
It’s always important to plan ahead when working with a sewing machine. Ensure that the thread and needle type is appropriate for the fabric you are using. Moreover, inspect the needle for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
Lastly, make sure to have a set of tools handy in case something goes wrong. This can include tweezers, needle threaders, and a specialized tool for extracting broken needles.
Using A Special Tool
If the needle is stuck inside the machine, use a special tool to carefully unscrew it. This can be bought from a fabric store or online. These tools are specially designed for extracting needles with minimal effort. They are especially useful if the needle is too deep inside the machine.
However, take extra care while using these tools as they can be sharp. Inquire at the store before purchasing if you’re unsure of which type to get. Additionally, these tools are not suitable for all kinds of fabrics. Some materials may be too thick for the tool to work on.
Consult An Expert
If you’re having difficulty fixing your machine, it’s always a good idea to consult an expert. Make sure to hire somebody who is qualified and experienced in dealing with sewing machines. This will ensure that the problem is fixed quickly and effectively. Furthermore, a professional will be able to advise you on how to prevent the same problem from occurring again.
Additionally, if any parts of the machine need to be replaced, an expert can recommend the right ones. This will save you the hassle of having to purchase the wrong ones and potentially make the problem worse. It’s also important to ask questions and get advice from the expert before you attempt to repair the machine yourself.
