Step-by-Step Instructions to Replace a Sewing Machine Needle
Replacing a sewing machine needle is a skill every seamstress should learn. While it is not always as simple as it sounds, it is a worthwhile effort to ensure your sewing projects will not only look great but also last longer. Here we provide step-by-step instructions for replacing a needle for a typical Brother sewing machine. Read on to learn the steps required to keep your sewing machine working at its best.
Stabilize Your Machine
The first step to replacing a needle is to make sure the machine is stable and won’t move during the process. Begin by unplugging the machine from the electrical outlet and lifting the arm cover up and off. Unlock the handwheel, which is generally located on the right side of the machine, and make sure it can be rotated freely.
Remove the Old Needle
Now that your Brother sewing machine is ready to receive its new needle, it is time to remove the old one. To do this, press the needle bar down until the needle clamp screw, located behind the needle bar, can be seen. Insert the needle-screwdriver and loosen the needle clamp screw until the needle is released. Take care not to lose the screw and washer that you find when you remove it.
Select and Insert the New Needle
When selecting a new needle for your Brother machine, it is important to keep the needle size and type in mind. You can find the needle size and type printed on the right side of the shank. Once you have the right kind of needle, carefully insert it into the machine by first aligning the two slots on the needle with two pins on the needle bar. Push the needle firmly up until it is snugly against the needle bar.
Tightening the Needle Clamp
Once the needle is in the correct position, you can now use the needle-screwdriver to tighten the needle clamp. Make sure the needle stays in a vertical position as you do this. When the clamp is tight, test the needle’s movement by rotating the handwheel. If it moves freely, it is time to proceed.
Checking and Installing
Before putting the arm cover back on, you will need to check that the needle is correctly threaded and seated. To do this, turn the handwheel carefully until the needle is in its highest position. Confirm that the needle threader is correctly inserted and the presser foot is in the up position. When both of these conditions have been met, put the arm cover back and plug in the foot controller cord.
Completing the Process
Once everything is connected, plug in the machine to an electrical outlet and turn it on. Use the foot controller to raise the needle to its highest point. If the needle is correctly threaded, the machine will make a few stitches. If all the tests have been passed, you can now resume sewing.
Additional Tips
It is important to note that you should always ensure you have the correct needle for the fabric or project you are working on. If you are using a very lightweight material, for example, you might need a lighter needle. Make sure to read the manual that came with your machine or have a qualified technician help you with stitch type selections if necessary.
What to Look for in a Quality Needle
When replacing a needle in your Brother sewing machine, you want to make sure that the quality of the needle is top-notch. There are a few features to look out for when buying a needle, including a large eye, sharp tip, and well-formed scarf (the groove at the back of the needle). A quality needle should also be reasonably priced, easy to thread, and smooth to the touch.
Knowing When to Replace a Needle
On average, you may need to replace a needle in your Brother sewing machine after three to five projects in order to produce the best quality stitching. Keep an eye out for signs that your needle needs to be changed, such as skipped stitches, thread pile, or fabric puckering. It is always better to err on the side of caution and replace it often to avoid any damage to the material.
Cleaning Your Machine After Replacing the Needle
Once you have replaced the needle in your Brother sewing machine, it pays to do a thorough cleaning. Start by inspecting the machine for any lint or dust build-up. If needed, use compressed air or a vacuum to help remove any debris. If the portable arm and shuttle are dirty, you can use a damp cloth or a mild detergent solution to clean them. Once the cleaning is done, you are ready to sew.
Conclusion
Knowing how to replace a sewing machine needle correctly is an important part of making sure all your projects come out looking their best. With our step-by-step instructions, you now know the process for replacing a needle for a Brother sewing machine. Make sure to insert the correct needle type and size for each project and give your machine a regular cleaning to keep it running at its best.
