Broken Needle Removal
Sewing machines are an important and often-used tool in everyday life. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for a sewing machine needle to become broken. A broken needle can leave sewing projects unfinished or irreparably damaged. Thankfully, there is a straightforward procedure for getting a broken needle out of a sewing machine. Here are the steps to follow.
The first step is to turn off the sewing machine and unplug it, allowing the needle to cool. Next, the pedal needs to be gently raised and lowered while all screws are loosened on the lower housing of the machine. This will allow the housing to be gently removed. Once the housing has been removed, the needle can be seen. If it has moved, push it gently back into the centre.
The next step is to turn the upper tension screw counterclockwise to release any tension on the needle. It is important to ensure that no other screws get loosened during this process. Once the needle is loose, a pair of needle nose pliers can be used to grip the broken needle and remove it from the machine. It is important to be careful during this step to ensure that no other components of the machine get damaged.
Once the needle is out of the machine, the housing can be put back on and the screws can be put back in place. It is also important to check and test the machine once the needle is replaced to make sure that it is working correctly. If the needle is still stuck, it is usually necessary to use a cotton swab to try to unstick it.
A broken needle can be a frustrating and time-consuming problem. However, the steps above should help to make the process of getting a broken needle out of a sewing machine much easier. With the right tools and a bit of patience, getting broken needles out of a sewing machine can be done quickly and safely.
Needle Care
Once a needle is safely removed from the sewing machine, it is important to take measures to avoid breakages in the future. Sewing machine needles need to be selected correctly as using the wrong needle can cause needle breakage. Needles also need to be routinely changed as older needles can bend and break more easily. It is also helpful to lubricate the machine frequently and use stainless steel needles instead of alloy needles.
In addition, it is important to be conscious of fabric thickness when sewing and reduce the sewing speed if the fabric is difficult to sew. It is a good idea to make sure that the needle is properly inserted into the machine and adjust the presser foot pressure if necessary. Finally, it is also helpful to stop the machine and double check the stitch quality every few inches or so to ensure that the needle is not getting stuck.
Common Causes of Needle Breakage
Besides using the wrong needle, there are several other common causes of needle breakage. One of the main causes is threading the needle incorrectly – for example, threading the needle backwards or not threading it through the needle eye. Another cause is incorrect tension, which can be caused by loose presser foot pressure or incorrect bobbin tension.
In addition, repeatedly stitching through the same area or having the machine set to too high a speed can also cause needle breakage. Incorrect needle size or type is also a common cause. Lastly, incorrect machine or accessory accessories can also put stress on the needle and cause it to break.
What to Do if a Needle Breaks During Sewing
It is not always possible to avoid needle breakage, even when all of the above-mentioned steps are taken. If a needle does break during sewing, the first step is to stop the machine and power it off. Next, the machine needs to be unplugged from the power source and allowed to cool. Then, follow the steps outlined above for removing the needle and replacing it with a new one.
It is also helpful to inspect the piece of fabric for any needle shards that may have been left behind. If any shards are found, they need to be removed using tweezers and the broken needle must be disposed of safely and properly.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Sewing Machine
Cleaning and servicing a sewing machine regularly is also essential in order to keep it in good condition and reduce the risk of damaging a needle. Firstly, all dirt, lint, and fluff build-up needs to be removed regularly. It is important to also lubricate moving parts and clean and polish any metal ones to keep the machine running smoothly.
The hook and needle bar needs to be checked regularly and replaced if necessary. The tension disc should also be checked for any damage or excessive wear and tear. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when cleaning and maintaining the sewing machine. Finally, it is always helpful to check for broken needles before starting a project to ensure that no needle breakages occur during the sewing process.
Troubleshooting a Sewing Machine Needle
In addition to the above steps, troubleshooting a sewing machine needle is also important. Firstly, it is helpful to check that the needle is the correct size, type and material for the fabric being sewn. If the needle rides too high or too low in the fabric, it is usually a sign that the needle is the wrong size or type. It is also important to make sure that the needle is properly inserted and is of the correct length.
In addition, it is important to check that the thread or bobbin is correctly wound and positioned correctly. If the machine is making an odd skipping sound, it is usually a sign that the needle needs to be cleaned or replaced. If the machine is producing excessive lint or thread, it is usually a sign that the machine needs to be oiled or the tension needs to be adjusted.
Safety Tips for Sewing Machine Needles
Finally, it is important to take safety precautions when using a sewing machine needle. Firstly, always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying fragments. In addition, wear gloves and a dust mask to protect your hands and lungs from dust particles. It is also important to make sure that the power is switched off and the needle is cool before attempting to remove it from the machine.
It is also helpful to use a needle guard to protect the needles from being bent or damaged. Lastly, remember to store needles away from children and pets to avoid any accidental injuries. Following the safety tips mentioned above should help to keep needles in good condition and reduce the risk of any needle-related accidents.
