Know the basics of reversing
Reversing is a crucial step in many sewing techniques. This simple procedure can save hours of unpicking, if it is done correctly. Understanding what reversing is, how it works and how to use it on a sewing machine will help you make perfect stitches.
Reversing on a sewing machine involves utilizing the ‘Reverse-Stitch Lever’. This lever is usually located on the side or front of a sewing machine and allows the user to quickly move the needle backwards a few stitches at a time. This reverses the stitching direction and lets you tie off the end of your work. While there are other methods for tying off the threads such as back-stitching, reversing is more expeditious.
Follow the instructions
Firstly, before you begin to reverse, ensure that your sewing machine is in the ‘craft’ mode. This is defined as hand-held needle control, which gives better control and accuracy as you are able to stop and start the needle manually. In this mode, the needle should be set to move at a slow or ‘idle’ speed.
When you are ready, put your foot on the foot pedal and the needle should start to move. At this point, you should use the reverse-stitch lever while the needle is still in the fabric. Move it backwards a few stitches until it reaches the beginning of the last sew line. You should always reverse stitch in one continuous line and avoid taking multiple backstitches. This will help prevent the fabric from being distorted. Once the needle has reached the end of the line, the reverse stitch can be completed.
Notch Out
The next step is to ‘notch out’ which is when the needle is raised and lowered to the same spot. Doing this will help secure the stitch and minimize the possibility of unraveling. After notching out, the fabric should be moved forward until it reaches the point where the stitch should end. To complete the reverse, press the foot pedal down again and the needle should continue in the normal stitch direction.
It is important to proceed slowly and make sure the tension is balanced for the reverse stitch. The correct tension should produce firm and even stitches on both sides of the seam. If the tension is too loose, the stitches will be loopy and prone to unravelling while if tension is too tight, the stitches might appear too tight or even broken.
Complete the last step
The last step in this process is to knot off the end of the stitch line. This is done by pressing the foot pedal again and continuing to reverse stitch for a few more stitches. Then, lift the foot pedal and turn the fabric a quarter turn clockwise. This should cause the top thread to slide off the stitching line, creating a loop that must be pulled up to tie off the end of the stitch.
This is an effective way of completing the reverse procedure on a sewing machine. It is important to remember that the fabric must be handled gently and the stitches should be done slowly and accurately. With the right amount of practice, anyone can master the art of reversing.
Changing the direction
Reversing is a useful skill to have as it allows you to quickly change the direction of your sewing. This is especially useful when sewing long pieces of fabric or when you need to sew curved seam lines. It also helps you to neatly finish off a line of stitching.
Often times, reversing can cause the fabric to stretch or become distorted. To avoid this, use a stabilizer underneath the fabric and use the same tension setting for both straight and reverse stitching. The stabilizer will help support the fabric as it is moved backwards and forwards, whilst the tension will keep the stitches even throughout.
Different stitches
The reversing technique can be used with a variety of different stitches, from straight stitches and zigzag stitches to buttonhole stitches and decorative stitches. The reverse lever works with all types of stitches, and most new machines come with the capability of automatically reversing.
However, it is important to remember that every machine is different and it may require different foot controls and lever movements specific to that model. If you are unsure of how to use the reverse-stitch lever, you can always refer to the manufacturer’s manual or watch informative tutorials online.
Useful tips
When using the reverse-stitch lever, always make sure that your fabric is securely held in place. You should also backstitch at the start and end of each reverse stitch. This helps ensure that the stitches will be secure and will not unravel. It is also important to remember that the reverse lever should never be used on very thin or delicate fabrics.
In addition, never pull the fabric when you are reversing as this can cause the fabric to stretch and deform, ruining the entire piece. Instead, use the lever and foot pedal to slowly and gently guide the fabric. It is also a good idea to practice on scraps of fabric first before tackling your project.
Protect the needle
It is important to protect the needle from being damaged by the reverse-stitch lever. Over time, the lever can cause the needle to become brittle and weak, leading to poor stitch quality. To avoid this, always make sure that the lever is completely disengaged before you begin reversing.
Furthermore, when you are reversing, make sure that the needle is not in contact with the fabric. This is especially important when the stitch line is curved as the lever may cause the needle to break if it is pressed against a hard surface.
Preserve thread
Finally, preserving the thread is important when reversing. Always use quality thread as this will help ensure that the stitches remain strong and secure. It is also a good idea to use a thread conditioner as this will help keep the thread from fraying or breaking. This is especially important when using metallic or synthetic fibers.
It is vital to always maintain good hygiene when sewing. Make sure that your hands, workspace and fabric are clean and free from dust and particles. This will help keep the stitches neat and help prevent the thread from getting snagged or tangled.
Learn the techniques
Getting the right techniques when reversing is essential for completing a project with perfect stitches. Learning the basics of reversing, such as utilizing the reverse stitch lever and making sure the tension is balanced will help you complete the job with ease. Furthermore, taking extra steps such as notching out and knotting off at the end of the stitch line will ensure your stitches don’t unravel and are secure.
With practice, reversing on a sewing machine gets easier and soon you’ll be able to do it quickly and accurately. Knowing how to reverse is essential for any sewist and can save time and materials by eliminating the need for unpicking.
