Threading the Machine
Singer sewing machines are excellent for sewing a variety of projects. When first setting up your machine, it’s important to understand how to thread the machine properly. Start by detaching the power cord and unplugging the machine. To begin, you’ll need to unthread the machine. To do so, remove the spool of thread, thread guard, and lower thread from the machine. Make sure to detach the throat plate from the needle plate as well.
Once you’ve unthreaded the machine, insert the spool of thread onto the spool pin which is above the needle plate. Then, take the lower thread and thread it through the slot in the throat plate and through the tension disks. Next, thread the lower thread through the take up lever, presser foot lever, and finally the lower thread guide just above the needle plate. You’ll then need to reattach the throat plate and thread guard.
Now that the machine is unthreaded, it’s time to thread it. To do so, insert the upper thread into the thread guide, situated to the right of the spool pin, then thread through the tension disks which were threaded earlier. Then, loop the upper thread around the top of the stitch finger and finally, thread the upper thread into the needle eye.
Before you can begin sewing a project, you’ll need to make sure the bobbin is properly threaded. Place the bobbin into the bobbin case and make sure the thread is running in a clockwise direction. Secure the thread by pulling it towards the side of the bobbin and make sure it isn’t wrapped around the bobbin case. To thread the bobbin, give a couple of turns to the hand wheel, until the needle penetrates through the throat plate, then thread the upper thread into the bobbin hand wheel and give it a few more turns.
Once this is done, pull both the upper and lower threads towards the back so that the thread is behind the presser foot at the same time. You’ll then need to adjust the thread tension settings of your machine. To do this, turn the tension knob which is situated at the top right-hand side of the front face until the line marked on the disk is in the red-dotted center.
Setting Up The Sewing Project
Now that the machine is fully threaded and ready to go, it’s time to begin setting up your project. Select the fabric that you want to use and lay it out onto the table. Make sure the fabric is smoothed and folded properly. After, thread the machine needle with the matching thread. To do this, select the needle size which corresponds to the type of fabric you are using.
Next, place the fabric underneath the presser foot, ensuring that all the edges of the fabric are aligned. Set the sewing machine to the preferred stitch width and length based on the type of fabric you are using. Once adjusted, select the specific stitch from the machine’s settings. Make sure the presser foot is in the down position and begin sewing the fabric together.
Holding the edges firmly, guide the fabric through the machine at a steady pace, allowing the needle and thread to do the rest of the work. Depending on the project, you’ll need to select different stitches, such as the straight and zigzag stitch. To change stitches, turn the dial which is located above the needle to the desired stitch and begin sewing.
If you need to adjust the stitch size or length, turn the dial at the side of the machine either clockwise or counterclockwise. For the width of the stitches, adjust the adjustable dial which is situated above the needle. Make sure to check the stitch tension as well to ensure that the results are consistent.
Safety & Maintenance
When using a Singer sewing machine, it’s important to follow specific safety guidelines. Make sure to follow the instructions in the user’s manual that comes with the machine and keep the machine away from children. Before beginning a project, disassemble the machine including the needle, presser foot, bobbin, and other moving parts.
Singer machines generally require very little maintenance and should last for years. To ensure that your machine is running properly and efficiently, clean the inside of the machine using a damp cloth or compressed air occasionally. Remember to also oil the machine based on the owner’s manual instructions, twist open the top of the machine and lubricate the inner workings.
Additionally, Singer sewing machines generally require very little upkeep. To keep your machine in good condition and running efficiently, pay attention to signs of wear and tear, such as fraying or tangling. Replace any parts worn out and clean the machine thoroughly. If you notice any hum or other sound when the machine is running, stop the machine immediately and replace any damaged or loose parts.
Finishing
To finish a sewing project, the last step is to ensure the edges are properly sealed. To do so, use a seam ripper or a pair of scissors to clip the threads. Hand sew the edges to finish off the project, or use a binding tool if the project entails making a quilt. To avoid fabric creases, press the edges of the fabric with an iron. Lastly, inspect the finished project closely to make sure no threads are stuck in the seams.
After you finish a project, it’s important to clean the machine. For example, use a lint brush to remove fabric pieces from the machine. Additionally, replace the bobbin with a new one, or pull off any leftover threads from the bobbin case. Make sure the needle is properly secured into the machine before you begin a new project. Also, clean the needle plate, throat plate, bobbin case and needle eye regularly to keep the machine running smoothly.
Lastly, store the machine in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. This will help to prevent any damages or rusting. Regular maintenance for any sewing machine is always important to keep it running properly and efficiently.
Using a Different Bobbin
When switching between different fabrics, you’ll need tochange the bobbin accordingly. Singer sewing machines accept three different types of bobbins – the standard bobbin, the drop-in bobbin and the rotary bobbin. Ensure the bobbin you are using matches the type of fabric and project you are working on. And of course, make sure to adjust thread tension, stitch size, and other settings accordingly as well.
Drop-in bobbins are easy to use and can be changed quickly. To use, place the bobbin into the bobbin case, release the auto thread take up lever and insert the thread into the slot. Rotary bobbins are also easy to change and provide tension control. To use, simply place the thread into the hole on the side of the bobbin and press the button to release the thread.
Standard bobbins are more challenging to use as they require manual threading. To use, insert the thread into the side of the bobbin, tie a knot and make sure it is secure. Then, place the bobbin into the bobbin case and adjust the knob to secure it into place. Make sure to check the tension setting as well.
Testing the Machine
Before you begin a project, it’s important to test the machine to make sure everything is in working order. To do this, create a sample swatch on a scrap piece of fabric and inspect the finished result. The stitches should be even, straight, and look aesthetically pleasing.
If the stitches are not even, start by adjusting the thread tension. Turn the knob found on the left side of the machine to the correct setting which corresponds to the type of fabric being used. Additionally, check if the threads are properly set and ensure that the needle is properly threaded as well.
If the fabric is puckering or gathering, adjust the stitch length by turning the knob located above the needle to the correct setting. To make longer stitches, turn the knob either clockwise or counterclockwise. If the fabric is pulling to the right when sewing, reduce the stitch width. To reduce the stitch width, adjust the adjustable dial which is located above the needle.
If the stitches are still not even, it’s possible the machine’s timing is off. Only professionals should do repairs as it’s a delicate process. Contact a licensed service technician if the machine is not working properly.
Replacing The Needle
Replace the needle on the Singer machine when it starts becoming dull or the thread starts breaking or becoming loopy. To replace the needle, detach the presser foot from the sewing machine and raise the needle to its highest position. Then, press the pin on the side of the needle and remove the old needle.
When inserting the new needle, make sure the flat side is towards the back and the grooved side faces upwards. Pull the thread to the back of the needle and ensure that it is secure. Re-attach the presser foot and adjust the needle based on the type of fabric being used. To tighten the needle, turn the tension knob clockwise and secure it.
It’s important to use the correct type of needle for each sewing project. There are many types of needles, such as the universal needle which is used for almost any type of fabric, or the ballpoint needle which is specially designed to sew knit fabrics. Selecting the right needle can make a huge difference in the quality of stitches.
Adding Accessories
Many Singer sewing machines come with additional accessories and attachments such as quilting feet, rolled hemming feet and cording feet. To use these accessories, simply attach the attachment to the presser foot of the machine. Then, select the stitch category and press the button to select the desired stitch.
Quilting feet are used to attach binding to the edging of your quilts. The rolled hemming feet is used for thin or delicate fabrics and the cording foot is used for decorative stitching. Make sure to familiarize yourself with the different types of feet and select the one to suit the project you are working on.
Singer sewing machines also have a wide range of features including multiple spool pins for twin needle stitching, automatic needle threaders, and top loading bobbins which are easy to change. Some of the more advanced machines come with an LED light to make sure the fabric is as visible as possible.
Overall, Singer sewing machines are efficient and easy to use. Setting up the machine correctly is key to creating beautiful, quality stitches and garments. With the right set-up, Singer sewing machines are the perfect machine for creating any type of project.
