Many people find the prospect of learning how to put the needle in the sewing machine daunting. But with a few simple tips and tricks, this task can be easily accomplished.
Before attempting to change the needle in the sewing machine, it is important to know the type of needle needed for the fabric being sewn. Needles come in different sizes, materials, and shapes; selecting the wrong needle for the fabric can cause skipped stitches, uneven seams, pulled threads, and even breakage. Thus, it is important to use the correct type of needle for the fabric and chosen thread and to adjust the tension settings on the machine to create the best stitch possible.
Once the correct needle is chosen, it should be carefully inserted, point first, into the sewing machine. Begin by loosening the needle clamp screw and lifting the needle up to its highest position. Make sure that the flat side of the needle is facing the back of the machine and that the needle is pushed all the way up until it is secure.
The next step is to thread the needle with the matching thread according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which can be found in the user’s manual. After the thread is properly secured, the needle can be lowered back down to its original position by turning the hand wheel.
Finally, after the needle is lowered, the needle clamp screw should be tightened to secure the needle in its position. To double-check that the needle is secured, gently pull on the thread and ensure that the needle doesn’t move.
For those individuals who are new to sewing, mastering the skill of threading the needle and securing it in the machine can be a tricky task that requires patience and practice. As the technician’s knowledge of the machine increases, the process of changing the needle in the sewing machine should become a simple and straightforward task.
Advanced Needle Threading
Once the basics of threading the needle have been mastered, there are some advanced techniques that sewers can use. Some of these techniques involve threading the needle while it is still in the machine, enabling the user to avoid having to loosen the needle clamp screw at all. One of these techniques involves threading the needle from the front, while the other technique involves threading the needle from the back.
Front threading is usually the preferred method for sewing machines with a built-in thread tension release lever, as well as the newer types of machines. To thread the needle from the front, the spool pin is first wound with the thread and then the tail end of the thread is pushed up through the needle’s eye while the needle is in the lowered position. After the thread is through the eye, the thread tension release lever is then pulled up; this releases the thread tension and enables the user to more easily draw the thread through the needle.
Back threading is often the preferred method for older machines, as the thread tension release lever is not available. To thread the needle from the back, the thread should be passed over the thread guide and under the pressor foot before being pushed up through the needle’s eye.
Once the thread is put through the eye, the user should hold the thread steady with one hand or use a thread shuttle, then turn the hand wheel gently to lift the needle up. This will draw the thread through the needle and secure it in place. After the thread is secure, the user should double-check the tension settings and make sure that the machine is ready for sewing.
Gathering Supplies
Along with knowing how to put the needle in the sewing machine, it is important for users to have the necessary supplies on hand. It is important to keep extra needles, as well as extra threads, scissors, tweezers, and seam rippers. These supplies are necessary to quickly remedy any problems that may arise while sewing, such as broken threads, skipped stitches, or uneven seams.
It is also important to have a good quality seam ripper and tweezers. The seam ripper is necessary for undoing any mistakes that might be made while sewing. The tweezers can be used when dealing with difficult to thread needles, as they provide more control and accuracy when guiding the thread through the needle’s eye.
In addition to having the necessary sewing supplies, it is also important to have a good quality, well-fitted sewing machine. Many people choose to buy new machines, as they are usually made from high quality parts and materials which will last for many years. It is important to research the specific machine that is being used, as well as the thread and fabrics that will be used. Knowing the specific parameters of the project will help the user select the best machine and the best tools for the job.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
When properly maintained, a good quality sewing machine can last for years with minimal wear and tear. However, it is important to check and maintain the sewing machine regularly in order to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. This includes frequently checking and cleaning the bobbin case, as well as cleaning and oiling the machine regularly.
It is also important to know how to troubleshoot any problems that may arise while sewing. Knowing how to identify problems such as bobbin jams, thread breakage, and tension issues is essential in being able to quickly and efficiently remedy any issue that may arise.
When issues do arise, it is important to take the time to properly diagnose the problem before attempting to fix it. If the user is unable to diagnose or fix the problem, it is a good idea to take the machine to a professional for servicing and repairs.
Choosing the Right Materials
When beginning a sewing project, it is important for the user to select the proper materials for the job. This includes choosing the right kind of fabric and thread for the project, as well as selecting a needle that is suitable for the fabric and thread being used. It is important to research the specific fabric that is being sewn, as some fabrics require special needles and threads which may not be available at local craft stores.
Before beginning a project, it is also important to select the proper needle size. Generally speaking, a larger needle size is better suited for thicker fabrics, while a smaller needle size is better suited for finer fabrics and delicate threads. Selecting the wrong size needle can result in pulled threads, skipped stitches, and even needle breakage.
Finally, it is important to purchase good quality materials. Investing in high quality materials will ensure a better finished project and reduce any potential problems or issues that might arise.
Proper Sewing Techniques
In addition to knowing how to put in the needle, it is important to know how to properly sew with a sewing machine. This includes proper sewing posture, proper fabric and thread handling, and adjusting the stitching tension.
When sewing with a machine, it is important for the user to maintain the proper posture in order to keep the fabric and thread moving correctly. Improper posture or an awkward angle can lead to tension issues and uneven stitches.
It is also important to handle the fabric and thread in the correct manner. When handling the fabric or thread, the user should never pull either material too tightly or too loosely, as this could easily lead to snapped threads or uneven stitches. The user should also pay close attention to the machine’s tension settings, as incorrect tension settings can lead to loose or tight stitches that are difficult to undo.
Finally, it is important to familiarize oneself with the nuances of the specific sewing machine. As the user becomes more accustomed to the particular machine and its settings, they will be better equipped to quickly and efficiently remedy any issues that may arise while sewing.
