Threading the Needle
Sewing machines are an essential tool for any fashion-forward individual, enabling them to transform their ideas into a tangible reality. With a sewing machine you can easily sew yards of fabric together or make subtle decorations or refashion your clothes to create one-of-a-kind garments. But the quality of your work depends on the proper functioning of the machine. To make sure your projects turn out the way you envisioned, it’s important to ensure that your machine is correctly threaded.
Overlooking to thread the machine correctly can cause the fabric to get tangled and knotted, or leave parts of a garment un-sewn. So, take the time to learn how to go about this essential task, as it can save you a lot of hassle down the line. Thankfully, it doesn’t take long to master once you understand the basics.
Step 1: Lower the Needle
The first step is to lower the needle in the left position so that it is fully lowered. This will help you to thread the sewing machine. You can do this by pushing the lever that is located on the top of the needle.
Step 2: Insert the Thread Spool
Once the needle is in place, you can insert the thread spool. First, locate the metal rod at the top of the sewing machine. Then, insert the thread spool so that it is securely seated on the rod. Make sure that the hole at the top of the spool is facing upwards.
Step 3: Guide the Thread
Now you are ready to guide the thread. Guide the thread over the the metal tension discs that can be found behind the spool. Then, feed the thread between the tension discs and the wheel located at the front of the machine. This step may vary slightly, depending on the model of sewing machine that you’re using. So, consult your machine’s manual to be sure.
Step 4: Thread the Needle
Once you have done the previous three steps correctly, you can then proceed to thread the needle. Do this by pulling a small section of the thread from the spool . Then, pass it through the needle from front to back until the end of the thread is going through the eye of the needle. Make sure the end of the thread is going through the front of the needle — the eye of the needle should not be blocked by the thread.
Step 5: Pass the Thread into the Looper
Some beginner machines do not have loopers, but if your machine does you need to pass the thread into the looper. To do this, you can follow the thread path from the spool to the looper located at the back of the machine. Once you have found it, insert the thread into the looper and pull it through.
Step 6: Pull the Thread Trough the Take-up Lever
The next step is to pull the thread through the take-up lever. This lever is located on the right side of the machine. Take hold of the lever with your right hand and slowly pull it up. This will bring the thread up to the needle and secure it in place.
Step 7: Adjust the Tension
The last step is to adjust the tension of the thread. This helps to make sure that the stitches that you sew will be even and consistent. To set the tension, you will need to turn the tension dial which is located on the face of the machine. Start at the middle and then adjust it as necessary to suit the material you are using.
Step 8: Secure the Thread
Once you have set the tension, it is also important to secure the thread so that it does not become loose when sewing. To do this, you can wrap the thread around the tension discs several times and then cut the excess off. This will help the thread to stay in place and the fabric that you are sewing won’t get snagged or tangled.
The Bottom Line
Threading a sewing machine correctly is a vital step to ensure that your sewing projects turn out correctly. To achieve the best possible results, it is important to master the techniques of threading the machine and how to adjust the tension. By taking the time to ensure that your machine is correctly threaded, you can ensure that your fabric will be properly sewn and the end product will look perfect.
Thread Selection Tips
When selecting the thread for your project, be sure to match the type and weight of the thread to the type of fabric. For example, using a lightweight thread on a heavy fabric won’t give the required strength, but using heavy-duty thread on an ultra-fine silk might be too much and damage the fabric. You should also consider the color, since this will ultimately affect the overall look of your project.
Using Different Needles
Depending on the fabric, you may also need to use a different needle. Even if you select the correct type and weight of thread, the wrong needle may cause the stitches to come undone or pucker the fabric. In general, thinner fabrics require finer needles and thicker fabrics require heavier needles. Again, refer to the sewing machine manual to determine the correct needle for your project.
Stitch Length Adjustment
The stitch length adjustment mechanism helps to ensure that the stitches are consistent and even. Generally, the default length of your stitch is based on the machine and the model you are using. This can be adjusted by using the knob or button located on the machine. It is important to adjust the stitch length according to the fabric that you are using — shorter stitches are best for light fabrics, while longer stitches are more suited for heavier fabrics.
Maintenance of the Sewing Machine
Regularly maintaining your machine can extend its life span and help to make sure that your projects turn out correctly. This includes changing the needle regularly, oiling the machine, and cleaning the bobbin area. You should also be sure to cover your machine when it is not in use in order to protect it from dust and dirt. Additionally, many machines provide a variety of special features or attachments, be sure to read the manual to learn how to make the best use of them.
