Your sewing machine needs proper maintenance and approach in order to keep it running properly and smoothly. One of the main maintenance tasks of a sewing machine is to oil it regularly. You must know the right place to put the oil, when to oil your machine, and how often to oil it. This article aims to provide useful advice on where to oil sewing machines, what type of oil is usually recommended for sewing machines and when to oil it.
When oiling your sewing machine, first identify the correct points in your machine where the oil should be applied. Usually there are two places that requires more attention during oiling – the bobbin area, which is often located near the feed dogs, and the lower parts of the machine where the shuttle moves.
On the other hand, avoid over-oiling your machine, for oil can drips onto the fabric you are working with and create a grease spot. If you see any oil dripping from your machine, stop using it and wipe it off. Some sources on the internet might tell you to apply oil to every part of the machine. It is not true – you can easily damage your machine if you over-oil it.
Now that we have established where the oil should be applied, let’s talk about the type of oil to use. Generally, sewing machine manufacturers recommend a special sewing machine oil since it’s designed to stay in place better than regular oils. If you use regular oil, it can collect dust and lint which can clog up your machine and impede its function.
When it comes to how often to oil your sewing machine, it depends on how often you use it.We recommend that you oil once a week when you regularly use your machine, and once a month for someone who only sews part-time. Also, it is wise to consult your machine instruction manual for further information when it comes to oiling your sewing machine.
When oiling your sewing machine, make sure to turn off your machine and unplug it from the power source. Apply the oil with a cotton swab or a small oiler and use only a few drops of oil to apply in each area on the machine. You may now plug your machine back in and switch it on. Finally, close the access panels, if any, and get ready to sew.
When it comes to testing your machine, you can perform a few stitches and evaluate the performance. If your machine runs a bit slowly, you may add a few drops of oil in the bobbin area. By regularly oiling your machine, you can be sure that it is in good condition and ready to provide many years of successful service.
Tools for Oiling
When it comes to oiling sewing machines, the use of the correct tools is as important as knowing where and how much to oil it. The most commonly used tool for oiling any machine is an oil can or bottle.These tools are designed to deliver oil in a controlled manner and reduce the risk of over-oiling.
Oil can be delivered in two ways: manually or through pumping. Manual oilers require you to squeeze the bottle to create a vacuum, while in pump oilers, oil can be delivered through a squeeze bulb.Manual oilers are more affordable and ideal for occasional oiling, while pump oilers are pricier but deliver a consistent oil flow and are suitable for frequent oiling.
Apart from being easy to use, oilers come with a fine point tip which can be used to inject lubricant through even the most inaccessible places. They also come in a wide range of sizes – from small bottles for short sewing projects, to large cans for extended use. For best results, invest in one that is designed for your type of machine to ensure accuracy.
Detergents for Cleaning
Not only oiling is important when it comes to sewing machine maintenance—periodic cleaning is also necessary. Before cleaning your machine, make sure to turn off and unplug the machine.It is also important to use specialized detergents that do not dissolve the lubricant in your machine.These detergents are designed to dissolve dirt and dust found inside the machine.
A good practice is to use a cloth dampened with these detergents to clean off any visible dirt. Take your time cleaning the surface of your machine and remove any threads and lint stuck in the machine. Be sure to check corners and narrow spaces that are often hidden from view. After wiping with the cloth, use a dry cloth to clean the remaining moisture.
Once the entire machine has been cleaned, reassemble the machine, plug it and turn it on to check its condition. Be sure to check for any strange noises or detect any suspicious vibrations in the machine. If everything looks and works well, you can now start sewing with your machine.
Qualified Service Technician
If you are a beginner in the world of sewing and are not sure how to service your machine, it is best to consult a qualified sewing machine technician. They have extensive knowledge of the inner workings of sewing machines and can diagnose and repair any issues your machine may have. They can also provide advice on how to properly maintain and store your machine.
Before taking your machine to a technician, be sure to have all the necessary information handy such as the model number and serial number of the machine, the type and number of stitches, the date of purchase, and the serial number of any attachments. This will help the technician to more efficiently diagnose and repair your machine.
Apart from checking for repair, a qualified technician can also check for oiling and lubricating points, clean the feed dogs, inspect the presser foot, and detect any loose screws or other parts.They also check for any signs of wear and tear, improper installation and/or use, or faulty design.
Conclusion
Proper oiling of sewing machines is essential for keeping them running efficiently and without any issues. Knowing where to oil and what type of oil to use is crucial if you want to keep your machine in a good working condition.
Furthermore, regular cleaning is also important for the maintenance of sewing machines. Using the right special detergents prevent the lubricant within the machine from being dissolved or damaged.Finally, if you are uncertain of what you are doing, it is always best to consult a qualified technician.
