How To Use A Sewing Machine: Important Tips

Today, the sewing business is quite profitable and allows you to earn good money. However, the skills of working with a sewing machine are appropriate for those who want to sew beautiful things for themselves. Learn more about how to use a sewing machine in this article.

Can I learn how to use a sewing machine?

Many are interested in the question, can I teach myself to use a sewing machine? You can learn this and use a sewing machine at any time. You can find tutorials with instructions on how to use a sewing machine online, or read the manual that comes with the machine. It details how to change threads and how to test stitches in your first sewing machine.

How to use a sewing machine: exploring the details

Before you start using the device, it is important to learn its basic parts. This recommendation applies not only to beginners but also to experienced users who want to update their knowledge about how to use a sewing machine a bit. Compliance with the manual, which is discussed later, ensures that you quickly learn how to handle such a useful device.

There are a huge number of different models and types of sewing machines on the market, which differ from each other not only in appearance but also in functionality. The sewing machine parts are identical.

If you learn the features of the operation of one device, the operation of the others does not cause difficulties. After all, it remains only to find a place where important details are located. A detailed guide we describe next.

How to use a sewing machine: looking for a needle

The sewing machine needle provides entry and exit of the fabric. However, sewing machine needles do not completely pierce it, unlike sewing by hand. Usually, the device comes with a needle. However, if necessary, you can replace it with another one. The detailed process we describe later.

Size

The standard needle size for sewing is 75 or 80. The latter option is considered British. If you do not know how to use a sewing machine with complex fabrics, for example, jeans, it is better to work with needles 110 or 120. The same size is relevant for sewing heavy curtains.

If you plan to work with soft fabrics, including organza or transparent mesh, it is better to stop at size 60. When buying fabric, it is better to check with a specialist which needles are best used to work with it.

How to use a sewing machine: searching for a paw

A paw is a nozzle made of metal. It is located under the needle and fixes the fabric in one place for an even seam. There is a lever nearby that drags the foot to different positions. If the presser foot is slightly raised, the fabric can be shifted. After that, you need to lower it to continue working.

The classic and most common option is the presser foot. There is a squinting that is used for sewing on zipper fasteners. There are special paws that allow you to create loops.

How to use a sewing machine: searching for a bobbin

In some designs, the bobbin is hidden under the machine body, which is located on the outside. It is presented in the form of a coil, which can be made of plastic or metal. It is placed in a special case, which is provided under the foot and needle.

Some sewing devices may have a top-loading bobbin. However, there are options where it is located in front.

You can accurately determine the position of the bobbin using the instruction manual that comes with the device. Here you can also find information about the correct loading of the bobbin.

When the bobbin thread and upper thread meet, one straight stitch is formed. If necessary, it is not difficult to free the bobbin if you need to thread the thread. You can use the lever that is under the machine for this. This option is optimal for a front-loading bobbin.

You can open the top hatch. This method works if the bobbin is top loaded.

How to use a sewing machine: finding a thread guide

The main purpose of this component is to guide the thread from the spool pin to the bobbin winder or towards the lower needle. It all depends on what brand and model of device you are using.

The thread guide is located in different areas on different devices. That is why you need to read the manual first. This helps you thread the thread correctly.

How to use a sewing machine: finding the thread feed

The thread spool is often located at the top of the machine. It passes through several channels and loops, which are numbered, and only after that, it reaches the needle.

Due to this, the thread is stretched evenly and does not get tangled. The device should have a numbered disc that can be placed in different positions. This allows the tension to be adjusted according to the requirements of the fabric.

How to use a sewing machine: degree of tension

The hand-sewing machine has a handle or dial. These parts are designed to adjust the tension of the stitches. They may be tight or weak. The degree of thread tension must be varied depending on what kind of fabric you are using. Denim or upholstery requires more tension than cotton.

How to use a sewing machine: finding a stitch selector

To change the types of stitches, you must use special knobs, dials, and switches. They may vary, depending on the machine used. However, they have the same principle. Most projects are done with a straight stitch or zigzag stitch.

Experienced seamstresses use decorative stitch options. Some models have a side disk. It toggles the front stitch modes.

How to use a sewing machine: finding the stitch length scale

You can change the stitch length using the dial or knob. It can be a classic straight stitch, zigzag, or another unusual sewing pattern. Long stitches are appropriate if you need to create lines for a high-speed backpack.

If a simple sewing process is planned, it is recommended to set the stitch length to 2 or 2.5. This is enough to make most of the classic seams.

Stitch width

There are machines in which this function is built-in. Some models are distinguished by automatic adjustment when the stitch type changes.

If the machine has a disc, it is recommended to leave the width at zero if straight stitches are planned. This prevents the needle from moving in different directions.

How to use a sewing machine: flywheel search

The main purpose of the flywheel is to move the sewing machine needle vertically by hand. This allows you to control the stitching as soon as it reaches a narrow spot or corner. To avoid tangling the threads, you constantly need to turn the wheel towards you.

Some machines require the needle to be turned off and the flywheel pulled out. This is required when the bobbin is being wound. You can find all the necessary information in the user manual that comes with the device.

How to use a sewing machine: search for a switch

Many are interested in the question, how do you start a sewing machine? There is a switch for this. Only after pressing it, the sewing machine starts. Most sewing machines have a compact indicator that lights up as soon as you turn on the machine. It also allows you to consider the line.

As soon as the device is started, the use of a pedal is required. You need to work on foot.

How to use a sewing machine: finding and connecting a pedal

Each device is equipped with a foot pedal. The foot pedal is connected to the main device and is located on the floor. The pedal is sensitive to pressure. It can be used to regulate the operation of the needle. Some models of machines have separate speed control, so it is much easier to control the pace of work.

Degree of pressing

As soon as you press the foot pedal, the needle goes up and down. From the degree of pressing the pedal, the sewing speed is regulated. Often, careful work is required. In such cases, smooth and rare pressing is appropriate. If high speed is required, then you have to press it often and hard.

Slow operation is appropriate in several cases. However, most often, seamstresses prefer it if it is necessary to process the area in which the volumetric seams converge.

How to use a sewing machine step by step

A fairly common question is, how do you use a sewing machine step by step? It is important to understand that you need to properly thread the needle, as well as work with the bobbin.

Required Tools

To start sewing, it is important to prepare all the necessary tools and materials. You should prepare:

• the device;
• threads;
• basic sewing kit.

The principle of setting up a sewing machine

First, you need to connect the device to the electrical network and start it. Most models have an indicator light that glows as soon as the power starts.

For best results, you need to find a solid surface in the room. Even a little space is enough to install a sewing machine. As soon as you turn on the high speed of the device, it may vibrate a little. Therefore, it is much more convenient to work on durable and heavy tables.

Setting the needle

Usually, the device comes with a needle that is already installed. If it breaks, it needs to be replaced. Therefore, it is advisable to read the instruction manual.

You can also turn the hand dial slightly. This raises the needle lever to its maximum. There is a hole in the machine in which the needle is located. It is under the main arm of the machine. It is here that the introduction of a needle is required.

Thread attachment

Almost all needles that are suitable for a device have a flat core. You need to fix it facing the front of the device. If there is even a slight doubt, it is better to study the sewing machine guide.

It is necessary to insert the needle with the flat side in the desired direction, after which you have to rotate the spool pin. This allows it to be better fixed. As soon as you move the dial towards you, the needle goes up and down. If the process occurs in such a way that the needle does not fall out, then the work was done correctly.

How to use a sewing machine: winding and installing the bobbin

The next step is to load the bobbin. It is necessary to remove the previous version that was installed in the cap. It can be under the machine, or above its paw. The bobbin should be ready for the thread to be wound on it.

To fill the bobbin with thread, you need to put it on the spool. Do this at the top of the device. You can do it after reading the instruction manual, which accurately describes the process of threading the bobbin.

Thread stuffing

As soon as the thread is wound on the spool, it is recommended to install it in the cap. After you need to pull the thread up and insert it into the metal slot, which is located at the top of the bobbin case. You need to move the bobbin clockwise if the thread is pulled out.

Insert the bobbin case into the machine. Next, you need to insert its lever into the groove, which is located under the machine.

Sewing machine threading process

Next, proceed to add the top thread. It is necessary to put a spool of thread on top of the rod. After, you need to stretch the thread through the guide and wrap it around. Next, you should draw the thread over the lever to attract the threads. It is characterized by the hook format in the design.

Needle adjustment

Lock the thread around, and return to the original channel. Bring the thread to the needle, and fix it near the needle. Before threading, the needle must be in the correct position. The best option is to raise it as high as possible.

If necessary, you can slightly direct the flywheel towards you. This allows you to manually raise the needle. It remains to install the thread in the needle from front to back.

When the work is done, the thread should be passed between the two forks present in the presser foot. Then pass under the foot, then return to the back of the device.

How to use a sewing machine: lifting the bobbin thread

When the upper thread is in place, and the bobbin is placed under the machine, both threads need to be connected. After they are ready for use. Turn the handwheel slightly to lower the needle. After it needs to be lifted, and make one full turn.

When the needle is inserted into the machine, the bobbin thread catches. This raises the loop that is on top of the device plate a little. As soon as the loop opens, you need to pull it a little. This releases the loose end of the thread from the bobbin.

Pull out the tip, then turn to the back of the device. This releases the entire thread. Two threads are formed, which are located in different places.

Do I need to keep the threads?

In the process of sewing, you should hold them a little with one hand. Otherwise, they are drawn into the machine as soon as the needle starts to move.

How to sew on the sewing machines

Many are interested in how do I learn how do you sew for beginners?

First stage

Using the handwheel, raise the needle slightly. After you need to raise the foot, using its lever. Under the lever, you have to put the fabric that is used in the sewing process. If the device has an indicator guide on the plate, the work is easier.

It gives measured directions for seam allowances. Align the guide with the edges of the material. Move along the indicated marker as you sew. Thanks to this, the seams are even, at the correct distance.

Then you need to lower the presser foot so that the fabric is fixed in one place. Next, the flywheel moves towards you. This allows the needle to pass through the fabric.

Second stage

To get started, as already mentioned, you need to press the pedal. With it, you can control the sewing speed. Remember to feed the fabric under the presser foot at all times.

If you have to stretch the fabric a little, you have to hold it on both sides. Namely, in front and behind the paws. Then loosen it.

Third stage

After, you have to turn a little towards the corner, without finishing the entire thread. Make sure that the needle is fixed in the fabric in the right place, to which you plan to return.

Next, you need to slightly raise the foot, and then move the fabric in the direction you need. Lower the presser foot to continue sewing.

Fourth stage

At the end of the work with the stitching line, it is necessary to complete all work reliably. This requires several front and back stitches along the entire line. To do this, the reverse stitch lever is clamped. This makes the back stitch.

Fifth stage

Lower the lever to move forward. Once the needle is in the up position, raise the pressure foot. Take out the material. Given that the threads are attached to it, they must be cut off. So you can do any sewing projects if you know the secrets of the sewing machine’s work.

Conclusion

As you can see, learning how to work with a sewing machine is quite easy. If you first study the instruction manual for the device, there are no problems in operation. The main thing is not to rush at the beginning until you learn.

If you want to sew clothes and want to know how to read a sewing pattern, read the following article: How To Read A Sewing Pattern Step-By-Step

If you want to know which different types of sewing machines there are, read this article: 17 Different Types of Sewing Machines and Their Uses