How to put oil on a Sewing Machine?
Before you put oil on a sewing machine, it is important to keep in mind that oil should be used sparingly. When oiling the machine, use only sewing machine oil that is specifically made for the task. Using any other type of oil could be detrimental and could result in your machine not working properly.
Before you put oil on the sewing machine, make sure it is unplugged. You also want to make sure that the machine is completely cool as sewing machine parts should never be exposed to excessive heat. Once you have ensured the machine is unplugged and cool, you can start the process of oiling.
To begin, it is best to remove the covers over the machine head. This will give you access to the moving parts underneath the covers. You will want to check for any rough spots or grittiness on the moving parts. If there are any, take a cotton swab and dip it into the sewing machine oil. Lightly rub the parts with the swab to get rid of any rough spots.
The next step is to lightly apply the oil to the needle bar and thread take-up lever. These two parts of the machine should be lightly coated in oil. Take a q-tip and lightly dip it in the machine oil. Then, use the q-tip to lightly coat the needle bar and thread take-up lever. Make sure that you don’t use too much oil as this can cause the machine to run slower than normal.
The ultimate part of the process is lubricating the gears of the machine. Seldom must these be oiled, but when they do, use the same method used earlier. Put a few drops of oil on your finger, and rub it over the gear tooth where the oil cannot be seen. This will keep the gears lubricated while also avoiding a build up of excess oil on the machine.
Storing Sewing Machine Oil
Storing sewing machine oil is an important aspect of keeping your sewing machine running efficiently. If you are done using the oil immediately make sure to place the lid securely back on the oil container. Sewing machine oil containers usually have color indicators to warn about the remaining oil in your container. If necessary, you could even label the container to prevent confusion between oils.
When it comes to the actual storage of sewing machine oil, it is important to always store it away from the reach of children. Not only could they misuse it but ingesting the oil can be harmful to the body. Make sure to choose a dry place to store the oil. Leaving the oil in moisture or damp areas can cause the oil to spoil and you would end up having to buy a fresh container.
Important Tips For Using Sewing Machine Oil
Using the oil properly can make all the difference in your sewing machine. As mentioned before it is important to use only sewing machine oil for the process and not any other. When using the oil always try to use the least amount possible. This is to make sure the excess oil does not build up on the machine and clog the mechanisms.
If you are having trouble finding the right type of sewing machine oil, you could always consult a sewing machine expert. A sewing machine technician could guide you to the best type of oil for your machine and offer tips on how to apply it. Always remember to use only the amount required as over-oiling can lead to problems.
Also, it is important to keep the machine regularly oiled as this can improve not only the quality of the stitches but also the working life of the machine.
Maintaining Your Sewing Machine
Using and storing the oil correctly and regularly can vastly improve the life of a sewing machine. Like any machine, maintenance is essential for a sewing machine to retain its quality of work and last long. This consists of regular oiling, cleaning, and lubricating.
When cleaning the machine, make sure to use a soft cloth and avoid scrubbing the machine too hard. Also, make sure the machine is unplugged when cleaning it. Check the machine regularly for any signs of damage and make sure to oil the parts that need it. Additionally, lubricating the moving parts of the machine will ensure all of them move freely and your machine works efficiently.
What to Avoid
When putting oil on your sewing machine, there are certain things you should avoid. Firstly, never use any oil other than the one specifically made for this purpose. Other types of oil can clog the machine, and even cause damage.
Also, make sure you store the sewing machine oil in a proper location. Leaving the oil exposed to excess heat or moisture can cause it to spoil. Furthermore, you should always unplug the machine before oiling, as this prevents any unexpected mishaps.
Machine Specific Oiling
The type of oil you use on your sewing machine depends on the model of your machine. Each machine requires a specific type of oil for it to function as intended. For example, some older models will require regular oiling, whereas newer machines are designed to not need regular oiling.
Also, the type of material you use in your sewing machine will determine the oil needed. You may need to buy the correct oil for your machine or look for the recommended type in the manual. Consult with the store or a professional if you are unsure about the type of oil to use for your machine.
Best Alternatives
Electronic sewing machines often have an oil-free system so they can be used without any additional oil. Oiling these machines may be an unnecessary step and may interfere with their performance. Make sure to read the manual of your particular model to determine if it is required.
If you don’t feel up to the task of oiling the machine yourself, you can always have a professional oil it for you. This could be especially important if you are working with a very high-end machine. A professional can assess the machine and the type of oil required to keep it running smoothly.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
When it comes to oiling a sewing machine, remember to start with unplugging and cooling the machine. Then, determine the type of oil necessary depending on the machine model. Always use a small amount of oil as necessary and avoid using any other type of oil. Finally, store the oil in a proper place and make sure to regularly oil and clean your machine for it to function correctly.
