How to Fix Spool Pin on Sewing Machine
Sewing is a popular pastime for many with numerous benefits to enjoying the craft. While sewing machines provide the necessary tools and ability to create beautiful clothing and home decor items, the complexity of many machines can be overwhelming for beginners.
For instance, a loose, bent or broken spool pin is a common problem with some machines. The spool pin is the piece of metal that holds the thread spool in place on the machine as you sew. It also guides the thread to the needle.
Fixing this problem is fortunately quite simple and ensures you can maintain optimum control over the tension while you sew. The following simple guide, straight from sewing experts, guarantees a successful repair.
Check Machine Tension
Before attempting to address issues with the spool pin, make sure the machine tension is set correctly. Sewing with incorrect tension can be one of the most common causes of a broken or bent spool pin.
For example, if the tension is too tight, the spool pin will be pulled down and can lead to breakage. If the tension is too loose, the pin’s guide thread can slip off, leading to a bent pin. So check the tension first, adjust as needed and make sure it is consistent for all various stitch patterns.
Cleaning The Thread Path
Once the tension is at a safe level, it’s time to clean the thread’s path. This can often be done by gently pulling the thread out of the machine, and then cleaning the parts of the machine that guide the thread, such as the upper tension disc and thread guides. This helps to clear out any particles that may be interfering with the thread, and also opens the path for easy guidance through the machine.
Be sure to check for any obstructions that may have become lodged in the needle hook, bobbin hook, and bobbin case. All of these can cause the spool pin to break or bend.
If there are any imperfections in the spool pin or any other parts of the machine, you may need to replace them. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions and replace the parts with the correct components.
Using The Right Thread Spool
It is important to use the right thread spool for your machine and project. Make sure the size of the spool fits into the spool hole, as a mis-match between the two can cause thread wrapping and tension problems.
Look for the manufacturer’s specs for thread size and spool size, and make sure it follows the guidelines in order to protect the spool pin from damage.
Trim The Thread Properly
To reduce the odds of the spool pin breaking, trim the thread before rethreading the machine. This will help ensure the thread slides over the parts of the machine where it should, preventing differences in tension. It also reduces the chances of the thread wrapping around the spool pin, which can cause it to break.
A common problem is when the needle thread is too short. Keep in mind that the needle thread should reach at least 7 inches (17cm). This will help the thread to properly enter the needle and reduce the potential for issues with the spool pin.
Use The Thread Net or Thread Spooler
Another factor that can help reduce the chances of the spool pin breaking is to use the correct thread net or thread spooler. This is needed to keep the thread in place and centered over the machine. It can also help limit the number of times the spool pin is hit by the wheel, which can cause it to break.
Thread nets and spoolers are often machine-specific, so make sure to check with the manufacturer to ensure you get the right one for your machine.
Manual Threading
Manual threading is another technique to reduce the chance of your spool pin breaking. This involves manually guiding the thread through the machine instead of using an automatic threader. This relieves some of the tension and pressure on the spool pin and helps prevent any damage.
Manually guiding the thread also makes it easier to recognize any knots or debris that can interfere with the stitching, and therefore the spool pin. Paying extra attention during the threading process allows you to catch any problems early, which can reduce the time needed to repair the pin.
Secure The Thread Spool
After threading the needle, make sure to secure the thread spool correctly. Thread spools can become unsecure and slip, leading to friction that can damage the spool pin. To secure the spool, use the machine’s spool pin and presser foot tension to hold the spool tightly.
An alternate solution is to use a spool holder or pin-type winding device. These accessories provide a holder for the spool so it can be placed properly on the machine, taking tension off of the spool pin. They are also helpful for preventing thread tangling, which can also be damaging to the pin.
Stern Inspection of the Machine
Before putting the machine to use, it is important to make sure all of the parts are in working order. Make sure to check the needle, bobbin and presser feet, as these are all linked to tension and the operation of the spool pin. These areas should be inspected closely and any repairs or replacements should be done as soon as possible.
In addition, be sure to check the working condition of all the moving parts, such as the spool shaft, the needle threader, and the bobbin winder. If any of these areas have visible signs of wear and tear, such as rusting, it is best to replace them with new parts, as these can lead to the spool pin breaking.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to maintaining the machine’s good condition. Ensure it is kept clean at all times, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any supplies or parts that may need to be replaced.
Additionally, regularly check the working condition of the spool pin and any other pieces that may interfere with its working condition. This will help to ensure it is in top condition and functioning properly.
Avoid Overloading
Finally, avoid overloading the machine with too much thread. This can cause tension to increase, leading to increased pressure on the spool pin and causing it to break or bend.
Using too much thread can often happen when using heavier weight thread such as denim or upholstery thread, as these are much heavier than other standard threads. The heavier weight can cause the thread to pull too tight and exert more pressure on the pin. Try decreasing the amount of thread used and experimenting with smaller amounts until you find the right balance.
Check Sewing Machine Settings
Lastly, determine the correct sewing machine settings for the stitch pattern being used. Match the stitch size and length, as well as the thread type and spool size, to get the best results. Revise the settings if necessary and if adjusting the tension fails to solve the problem.
The proper settings will help you achieve the correct tension and result in less damage to the spool pin, while still allowing you to create beautiful results.
Replace Benefits and Repair Services
It is also important to note that many manufacturers offer replacement benefits and repair services for sewing machines and their components. These services typically provide easy access to any needed replacement parts, as well as a variety of repair options for when the spool pin breaks or gets bent.
In addition, these services often offer preventive maintenance and general repair advice in order to keep the sewing machine in good working condition. Taking advantage of these services can be especially convenient for those more experienced sewers who prefer to buy components on their own.
Conclusion
Having a broken or bent spool pin can cause difficulties while sewing, but there are a few easy tips and tricks to keep in mind when tackling the problem. Make sure the tension is at a safe level, check for obstructions, use the right thread spool, trim the thread properly, use the thread net or thread spooler, manually thread the machine, secure the thread spool, inspect the machine, and avoid overloading.
These steps will help keep your spool pin working properly, while also making sure the sewing machine performs optimally.
