Preparation
Rethreading a sewing machine is a worthy task for a craftsman, a way to stay sharp and knowledgeable about the product. However, it can be a daunting process for someone unfamiliar with the task. Fortunately, it is not a difficult process and can be learned with a little time and practice. Before beginning, one should make sure to gather all necessary tools and materials to ensure a quick and successful job. To begin, one should have a screwdriver, several spare bobbins and threads, as well as good lighting and workspace.
A stable flat surface should be used to ensure the machine is not tipped over or shaken during the rethreading process. To prevent the machine from wobbling, use adhesive tape to secure it to the surface. One should have at least one spare bobbin to practice on if anything goes wrong during the actual process of rethreading. It’s also important to make sure to carefully clean the machine before beginning to ensure no dirt interferes with the process. Once all the necessary preparation is complete, one can begin the process of rethreading.
Rethreading the Bottom of the Machine
Before beginning to thread, one should make sure to reference the diagrams listed in the machines’ user manual. Most machines come with complete diagrams of the entire machine and different parts of it, making it easier to determine the thread path. After looking at the diagrams and familiarizing oneself with the route of the thread, one can begin.
The first step is releasing the bobbin from the bottom of the machine. To do this, one needs to know where the bobbin clamp is (it is typically located near the bobbin spool) and loosen the clamp to free the bobbin. It is important to remember the order in which the bobbin unthreads from the machine, as this will be the same order in which it needs to be rethreaded. Now that the bobbin has been removed, one can begin the rethreading process.
Re-threading a sewing machine requires patience and precision. Beginning at the top of the bobbin and leading to the bottom, one should gently and evenly thread the bobbin until the thread is taut all the way through. It is important not to skip or miss any small grooves and hooks along the way. To ensure the thread is correctly placed and all hooks have been used, it is best to back thread and double check before attempting to sew.
Once one is satisfied with the threading process, the bobbin can be re-clamped in place. Once this is complete, one can thread the needle and the machine is ready for use.
Advanced Techniques
Rethreading a sewing machine can be intimidating, especially for a newcomer. While the base technique of rethreading is relatively easy, there are various advanced techniques that can be used to optimize the process.
For example, after threading through the bobbin, one can use knotting and lacing techniques to tie small, tight knots in the thread for extra security. This way, if the bobbin case is ever opened, the thread will not come undone or unravel too quickly. One can also use bobbin weights to keep the thread taut and tight. This ensures the smoothness of the thread, and prevents it from bunching or snagging on the machine.
A skilled sewist can also use over-threading techniques to ensure the tightness of the thread. Over threading is done by threading the machine two or three times and having the thread exit through the same opening. This technique is best done with elastic thread, as it ensures the tightness of the finished product.
Lastly, one can use thread coils to help rethread the machine. Thread coils are the perfect size for the hole of the thread spool, and are shaped like a flat coil. Since thread coils are made from soft material, they firmly stay in their shape when threaded. This helps the thread become taut and tight, ensuring the best possible performance of the machine.
Working with Different Types of Thread
Working with different types of thread can be a difficult task for some sewists, as different types of thread require different rethreading techniques. For example, bobbin tension is important when rethreading a machine with polyester thread. Polyester thread should be hand tightened to ensure it is tight and secure. This allows the thread to be taut enough to prevent the polyester thread from slipping or bunching.
Cotton threads require a different rethreading technique than polyester threads. When using cotton threads, it is best to use a bobbin weight to help keep the thread taut. Cotton threads can be slippery, so it is important to make sure the thread is tight.
In addition, when using elastic threads, it is important to think ahead. Elastic threads can be tricky to work with, and stretching the thread too much can cause issues when sewing. To prevent this, one can over-thread the elastic thread to give the tension a cushion, allowing for better elasticity.
Conclusion
Rethreading a sewing machine is not a difficult process, but it requires patience and precision. With the right preparation, tools and techniques, one can ensure their machine is running optimally. Although rethreading may be a daunting task at first, with practice, anyone can become a master at rethreading a sewing machine. Once one has learned these techniques, they can begin to explore other more advanced threads and techniques to optimize their sewing machine’s performance.
