For decades sewing machines have been an integral part of the fashion industry. The handwheel is an integral part of the sewing machine for providing its motor with the necessary power to run. But what does it actually do?
Modern sewing machines incorporate a handwheel to control thread tension, both in the upper and lower thread. The tension of the thread running along the top part of the machine is located in the wound area, while the lower thread tension is in the needle area. Adjustments to the handwheel tension help to ensure the stitch pattern is correctly sewn.
To adjust the tension, the user has to make small adjustments to the handwheel tension. This is done by applying pressure to the wheel and to the threads, moving them in the opposite direction, and then making further adjustments until the threads are wound neatly, but not too tight.
When sewing with a sewing machine, the stitches have to be evenly spaced and have a precise, uniform look. This can be achieved by adjusting the tension of the threads. If the tension is too loose, the stitches will be too wide, creating a sloppy looking stitch. If the tension is too tight, the stitches will be too narrow, making the fabric unstitched.
Apart from the tensioning, the handwheel can be used for other functions as well, such as controlling the speed of the handwheel. This can be useful for tasks like creating a straight stitch for patchwork or for stitching buttonholes. The handwheel also controls the stitch length, which can be adjusted by rotating the wheel. In addition, the handwheel can be used to release the bobbin thread when it gets tangled or jammed.
Using a handwheel can be quite difficult because of its small size and the difficulty of adjusting the tension. It is best to practice using the handwheel in order to become familiar with it, and the best way to do this is to adjust the tension of a piece of fabric. This will help the user develop their hand and eye coordination, as well as their understanding of the handwheel and sewing machine.
Although the handwheel is an essential part of the sewing machine, there are other parts that help with the overall function and performance of the machine, such as the needle, the bobbin, the presser foot and the feed dogs. All these parts need to be adjusted and monitored in order to get the best results from the sewing machine.
Different Types of Handwheel
The handwheel is available in various shapes and styles. It can be round, oval or even square. Some handwheels have a lever that can be loosened or tightened, while others are more complicated and have a variety of adjustment knobs.
Handwheels are made from a variety of materials, including metal, plastic and wood. The most commonly used material for handwheels is metal, as it is more durable, but plastic handwheels can also be used for lighter stitching or repair purposes. The material of the wheel also affects its weight and cost.
Each handwheel has its own design, making it suitable for certain tasks. A metal handwheel is suitable for sewing heavy materials, while a plastic wheel is best for light stitching or mending.
The size of the handwheel also varies, as it is determined by the machine model. It is important to choose the right handwheel size as too small a wheel can be too difficult to use and too big a wheel can interfere with the junction of the needle and the fabric.
Different Uses of Handwheel
The handwheel is an essential component of the sewing machine and can be used for a variety of purposes, beyond simply controlling the tension of the threads. It can be used to set the stitch length and the speed of the handwheel, as well as to release the bobbin thread when it is tangled or jammed.
The handwheel can also be used to adjust the tension of the machine. This can be done by applying pressure to the wheel and to the threads, moving them in the opposite direction, and then making further adjustments until the threads are wound neatly, but not too tight. This ensures that the stitch pattern is correctly sewn.
The handwheel can be used for tasks such as creating a straight stitch for patchwork or for stitching buttonholes. The handwheel can be adjusted to create a different stitch pattern, such as a zigzag stitch, as well as different lengths of stitches.
In addition to the handwheel, there are other components of the machine that must be adjusted in order to get the most out of the machine. These include the needle, the bobbin, the presser foot and the feed dogs, which have to be regularly monitored and adjusted in order to get reliable performance.
Maintaining the Handwheel
For optimal performance, the handwheel should be maintained regularly. This includes checking the tension of the handwheel and the thread, cleaning the machine and lubricating the parts that move. Regular maintenance also ensures that the handwheel is working properly and can avoid costly repairs or replacements.
In addition, it is important to read the instructions manual for the sewing machine in order to familiarize oneself with the machine and its components. This will help the user understand how to use the handwheel and make sure it is functioning properly.
Advantages of Using a Handwheel
Using a handwheel will help the user create a professional-looking and even stitch pattern. The handwheel allows the user to determine the speed of the machine, adjust the length of the stitch, and adjust the tension of the thread. This is essential for creating accurate and professional-looking stitches.
Having a handwheel is also beneficial for making quick adjustments, as it is more convenient than adjusting the settings on the machine directly. It allows the user to easily adjust the tension while working on their project and can help to ensure precision and a professional-looking stitch pattern.
Conclusion
The handwheel is an integral part of the sewing machine for providing its motor with the necessary power to run and for controlling the tension of the threads, the speed, and the stitch length. The handwheel allows the user to make quick and accurate adjustments, as well as providing them with greater control of their sewing projects. With regular maintenance and proper usage, the handwheel can help ensure a professional-looking stitch pattern and reliable performance.
