How To Thread A Brother Sewing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
Threading a Brother sewing machine correctly is key in ensuring the smooth running of a project. With the right knowledge, it’s a relatively simple process taking just a few minutes. In this guide, you will learn how to prepare a Brother sewing machine for use and thread the machine with ease.
Getting Started
Before getting started on a new project, preparation is key. Begin by assembling all necessary supplies and familiarizing yourself with the machine and its parts. This will help ensure a smoother sewing experience. Most Brother sewing machines come with a comprehensive user instruction manual. Take some time to go through the manual and understand the functions of the machine.
Threading the Upper Thread
Once your machine is set up and ready to go, begin by threading the upper thread. To start, raise the needle to its highest point and, if applicable, flip up the presser foot lifter. Place your spool of thread on the spool pin at the right side of the machine. To ensure a smooth thread guide, tie a small knot on the end of the thread. Pull the thread forward and behind the tension discs, taking care to ensure it passes through each thread guide.
Now thread the upper thread from left to right. Start by inserting the end of the thread through the slotted arm, then thread through the take-up lever and pull out to the side. Run the thread through the guides and through the tension, then thread the needle from left to right. To secure, give the thread a gentle pull.
Threading the Lower Thread
Threading the lower thread is much easier than the upper thread. Begin by opening the bobbin case door on the left side of the machine. Position the bobbin on the bobbin holder, then pull the thread off the bobbin. Make sure the thread is running in the correct direction, clockwise. Pull the thread a few inches and insert it into the small slit below the case. Slide the bobbin case back into place.
To secure the bobbin thread onto the needle plate, pull the upper thread underneath the foot and turn the hand wheel one turn. This will catch the bobbin thread. To release the thread, lift the presser foot and pull the two threads up and to the back of the machine. Release the foot lever and you’re ready to start sewing.
Keeping Your Sewing Machine Threaded
Once you know how to thread your Brother sewing machine correctly, you can keep your machine threaded. When you replace the bobbin, always keep extra bobbins and spools of thread nearby to ensure a smooth continuity in your project. To reduce the stress of threading, pre-thread several bobbins before beginning your project.
Many Brother machines have the useful addition of a built-in needle threader. This allows the user to skip the tedious steps of manual threading and get straight to the business of sewing. It’s a great time saver and results in a professional finish.
Maintaining Your Brother Sewing Machine
Neglecting regular maintenance is a sure way to damage your Brother sewing machine. To get the most out of your machine and guarantee its longevity, regular cleaning is essential. Clean around the bobbin case, feed dogs, needle plate and the area around the presser feet. Before beginning this task, always switch off the power and unplug the machine to avoid any shocks or other hazards.
When cleaning, use a soft paintbrush or cotton swab to remove lint from the hard to reach places. Follow up with a dry cloth or compressed air to remove any remnants of lint. If necessary, apply a few drops of oil using a lubricating oiler. Apply the oil to the points marked with a red dot. Doing this regularly will guarantee smoother running of the machine.
Machine Accessories
Sewing with the right accessories is an essential part of making the most of a Brother sewing machine. There are a huge range of items available to suit a range of needs. Standard accessories include fabrics, needles and foots pressers. But some machines come stocked with features such as twin needles, needle plate marking, twin needles and much more.
Experience sewers can also benefit from additional accessories such as a blind hem stitch foot, zip foot, cording foot and quilting foot. These are all great additions to any sewing box and greatly increase the types of projects a user can undertake.
Fabrics To Use With A Brother Sewing Machine
When using a Brother sewing machine, it’s important to use the right type of fabric. Generally, thick heavy fabrics are best suited for machines with larger needles, for example 13/90 or 14/90. Lighter fabrics on the other hand will suit smaller needles such as 11/75 or 12/80. Always take time to test a wide variety of fabrics before beginning a project with the machine.
For best results, check that the fabric is suitable for the machine. For example, heavy fabrics like denim will do better on a strong, robust machine. But lightweight fabrics like chiffon and silk are more suited to a more delicate machine. Knowing what type of fabric to use is key in ensuring a successful sewing experience.
Conclusion
Threading a Brother sewing machine correctly is the first step in a successful sewing experience. Once you know how to thread the machine, you can easily keep your machine ready for use. For best results, choose the right accessories and fabrics for your machine, and maintain it regularly.
