Safety First
When removing a broken needle from a sewing machine, safety must be prioritized. It is essential to unplug the machine before attempting to remove a broken needle. After unplugging the machine, remove the bobbin holder as well as the needle plate. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to turn the handwheel until the needle is in the highest position. As you turn the handwheel, make sure the needle is not moving up and down, which could cause it to become further lodged. When the needle is visible, use your fingers or a pair of tweezers to gently pull it out.
Assessing the Damage
After the needle has been successfully removed, inspect it closely to check its integrity. A broken needle can cause interior damage when it is stuck in the machine, so it is important to evaluate the health of the machine. Look for signs of loose wiring, scorching, and any other damage that may have been caused. It may also be beneficial to take a picture of the machine before and after removal, to document any potential changes.
Preventative Measures
To avoid broken needle incidents in the future, it is important to be conscious of the needle’s condition before each use. A needle should be cleaned and inspected for damage before each use. If the needle has any signs of deterioration such as burrs, bends, or chips, it should be replaced immediately. Sewing machines should also be serviced on a regular basis to prevent broken needles, as well as any other problems that may arise.
Taking it to a Professional
If you are still having issues with a broken needle, it is advised to take your machine to a professional. There are many experienced sewers and technicians who specialize in the repair and maintenance of sewing machines. Taking your machine to an experienced professional may help you not only remove the broken needle, but also help you identify any other issues that may have contributed to the problem.
Resuming Sewing
Once the needle has been successfully removed, it is important to resume sewing cautiously. Always start with a small and simple project, such as a muslin or a test patch, to assess the health of the machine. If you are still having any issues, take your machine to a professional for a full diagnosis.
Keeping Your Space Clean and Organized
Preventing broken needles starts with keeping a clean and organized sewing space. Make sure to regularly clean and dust the area where your machine is located. Janome sewing machines recommend cleaning the upper thread path and the free arm area every three months. In addition to cleaning the machine, organizing your workspace will also keep your machine running smoothly and decrease any risks of breaking your needles.
Using the Right Needles
Using the proper needle is essential for a successful sewing experience. Most sewing machines come with a basic needle set, but if you are engaged in more advanced sewing you should invest in needles that are specifically designed for the fabric you are working with. The wrong size needle may cause damage to the fabric or the machine and can also lead to broken needles.
Keeping Needles Sharp
Keeping your needles sharp is essential for safely completing a project. Needles can become dull over time, so it is important to replace a needle after several hours of use. Another way to keep your needles sharp is to use a needle threader. The threader helps the needle pass through the fabric more easily and prevents it from becoming chipped or bent, which can lead to broken needles.
Maintaining Proper Tension
Maintaining proper tension on your machine is also important for preventing broken needles. If the tension on the machine is too high, the needles may become more prone to braking due to the extra stress placed on them. The tension setting should be adjusted based upon the fabric you are using and the type of stitch you are creating.
Troubleshooting
Even if all of the above precautions are taken, you may still encounter a broken needle. If this happens, the broken pieces should be carefully removed. Depending on the severity of the breakage, it may be possible to reinsert the broken piece and continue to sew. However, if the needle is too damaged, it should be replaced to ensure the safety of the machine and the project being sewn.
