Sewing is an incredible hobby that many individuals spend countless hours doing for their own enjoyment, gifts, and practicality. Though learning the basics of using a sewing machine takes varying amounts of time, becoming a master at manipulating fabric and thread can be a lifetime endeavor. Many sewers prefer Singer brand machines for their durability, precision, and the overall craftsmanship that goes into the making of each machine. One key step to taking care of a Singer sewing machine is keeping it lubricated.
Singer Tradition machines require their owners to take extra steps to ensure that their unit is maintained properly. Lubrication is important to keep tension correct and to prevent unnecessary wear of parts and components. Too much lubrication—or not enough—can drastically affect the way in which the machine works.
Using the correct lubricant is important as well; Singer recommends to use only genuine Singer oil. This is a chemically engineered oil that will not adversely impact the intricate components of the machine. Singer oil is available from the Singer website and select retailers.
The oil should be applied about once every three months, or consecutive sewing days, to maintain proper tension and parts. To apply the oil, you must turn the machine off and unplug it. Singer Tradition machines have an access port underneath the machine. This should be opened and a few drops of oil applied to help keep the components in good condition.
Once the oiling port has been opened, the bobbin should also be removed and oil applied to the pinion gear. A small brush can be used on the pinion gear to spread the oil evenly. This will help ensure the parts do not wear down quickly, and the tension is always correct. After the bobbin is reinserted the machine should be tested to ensure that the tension adjustments have been made correctly and the machine is running smoothly.
Once lubrication has been completed users should be sure to clean up any spills that have occurred from the oiling process. Oil spills can damage the machine and its parts significantly if left unattended. This can result in costly repairs and a decrease in machine performance. Oil spills should be cleaned up with the recommended cleaning product, the Singer cleaning and lubricant cloth.
Lubricating a Singer Tradition sewing machine is essential to its longevity. Not lubricating your machine can hinder performance, leave you with tension problems and when worst comes to worst, you could damage your machine. But when you keep your machine in top condition, your Singer will provide you with years of excellent sewing performance.
Safety in Lubricating Your Machine
Using a lubricant of any kind comes with some very important safety concerns. If you are going to handle lubricants of any kind, you should take the appropriate measure to ensure your safety when working with the product. This includes wearing gloves, a face mask, and safety glasses. You may also want to work in a well-ventilated area, as different lubricants contain chemicals that can be hazardous when inhaled.
Lubricants also come in contact with several fabrics when working with a sewing machine, so it’s important to not allow the lubricant to come in contact with any fabric being used with the machine. Even Singer oil can adversely affect the integrity of certain materials.
When lubricating any machine, it’s important to be aware of the products being used. Be sure to read the safety instructions included with the product being used, as well as the safety warnings on any machine before attempting to lubricate it.
Regularly Scheduled Maintenance
To help ensure that your machine is in good working order, and with optimal performance, along with lubricating your machine, you should also be regularly checking it for any problems. One of the best indicators you can use to detect an issue your machine may be having is the sound of it. If it sounds different than usual, or if it starts making strange, unexpected noises, it’s time to do some checking.
It’s also important to keep up with the regular cleaning and maintenance of your machine. Be sure to clean out the bobbin case, hook and tension discs. Dust can often accumulate in these areas causing friction and wear. Furthermore, keep a regular cleaning routine and clean out your machine every couple months or so. This will help ensure your machine runs properly and continues to perform at its best.
Troubleshooting Problems
When problems come up with a machine it’s important to check the construction and parts before lubricating. Sometimes a loose screw can also lead to tension problems, or the looseness of a thread holder can cause the needle to start bouncing. If problems persist it’s best to consult with a qualified Singer professional.
Regardless of the type of machine you are using, it is essential to maintain it in order to keep it running in optimal order. The Singer Tradition machines are built to last, but proper maintenance and care will keep them running for years to come.
Taking Care for Your Machine
When handling your machine, it is important to take extreme care as to not damage or break any of the internal components. Singer machines are very delicate, so it is important to only use a soft brush or cloth to dust or clean any part of the machine. Do not use any kind of cleaning chemicals or liquids, as this could damage the wiring inside the machine or other components.
When storing your machine, it is important to not keep it in an environment with extreme temperatures or humidity. Ideal environments are usually temperature controlled and away from direct sunlight. This will help ensure that parts don’t corrode or become brittle.
Applying Oil Properly
Oil is an important part of keeping the machine running smoothly. Singer recommends its own oil for lubrication, as it is specifically engineered to not have any adverse effects on any of the parts that are involved. Oil can be applied by following the instruction booklet, or using Singer’s website for detailed guidance.
Oil should be applied to the parts of the machine that move and to the bobbin case. Oil should never be applied anywhere else, such as to the belt, wiring, or other external parts. This is because it can cause difficulty in electrical connection and additional wear to the belt.
