How to use a sewing machine: 6 important aspects

Sewing machines can seem dauntingly complicated to those who don't know how to use them. The sewing machine is an invention that completely turned the human world upside down. If many, many years ago, in order to cut curtains, sew a dress, or simply make a beautiful seam on a material, you had to look for an appropriate craftsman, then the scientific and technological revolution has simplified this process. This mechanism is now present in almost every home, and therefore they need to be able to use it. In general, there are quite a lot of sewing machines. There are manual, electric and mini sewing machines. In general, learning to use a sewing machine is much easier than learning to sew, but it's all a matter of practice. Well, before sewing, you need to master the operating principle of the machine.

Nuances: how to use a manual sewing machine

Manual sewing machines are still used quite often, despite the fact that they are already outdated

1. Under no circumstances should you sew on any hard or hard surfaces (for example, pins, buttons, etc.), as this mistake can lead to the needle breaking, and a splinter from it can bounce straight into your eyes, causing This leads to the second point.
2. Don't forget about safety precautions.
3. You should not work on a machine that does not have fabric tucked into it, as when working idle, the needle will become dull very quickly, and there is a high chance of the needle breaking.
4. Also, to avoid any malfunctions, all covers and levers must be closed or directed in the desired direction.
5. Do not put your fingers near the needle while sewing, as you can easily make the cut according to your own finger.
6. As for the operation of the flywheel, you only need to turn it in one direction; if you turn it in different directions, you cannot avoid the thread getting tangled.

All these points will be common to mini and electric and manual sewing machines. When working on a sewing machine, it is necessary to take into account all the above points, as this will help make the work better and safer.

Process: how to use a sewing machine

Modern technologies have made their own adjustments to the world of sewing machines. Nowadays, electric sewing machines have become widespread. They are much easier to use and require less effort than their old predecessors (more on them later).

Understanding how to use a sewing machine can take a lot of time and patience.

To learn how to use an electric sewing machine you will need:

• Sewing machine;
• Hands;
• Ability to thread a needle.

Ideally, before using a sewing machine, you should read the instructions for it, but since this item can get lost, the instructions are sometimes an unaffordable luxury for the owner sewing machine, but no problem. And so the very principle of operation of a sewing machine is quite simple.

The process in most cases is automated and the person using the machine can only thread the threads and monitor the cut, guiding the fabric.

This process is quite easy to master, the main thing is not to overdo it. As a result of the forward movement of the needle, nodules are formed on the fabric, which leads to a beautiful and even cut. But the quality of this cut depends on general condition cars. So, before working with a sewing machine, you need to check all its components for faults.

After checking, you need to thread the needle. By the way, depending on the material that will be sewn, different types of needles are installed on the sewing machine. This is due to the fact that various materials have different structural composition and density, as a result of which unsuitable needles can simply break on it. The differences between needles can mainly be seen in the needle tip itself and directly in the diameter.

There should also be no problems with threading, since almost all sewing machines are equipped with many indicators that are easy to navigate. It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that when sewing, two threads are used directly. Therefore, you need to make sure that both threads are the same, both in color and thickness. Ideally they should be from the same reel. In addition, it is possible to switch sewing machine modes. Different modes will be responsible for thread tension and types of stitches, of which there are quite a few. Considering all these properties, you can safely start working on a sewing machine.

Instructions: how to thread a manual sewing machine

An important factor that is worth paying attention to is threading the needle and the needle itself, respectively. You need to thread the needle thoughtfully and carefully so that it does not have to be changed later as a result of a breakdown.

Before you start sewing, the machine must be properly threaded.

So, to thread a needle, you need to install the needle, and for this you need:

• Move the needle holder as high as possible;
• Install the needle;
• Secure with screw.

After this, you can start threading. This process is quite simple and even a child can handle it. The main thing is to make sure that the threads do not get caught on anything or get tangled. Also remember that both threads must be the same. And then, with the needle properly secured and the thread threaded, we will get a beautiful and even seam.

Well, for antique lovers there is a separate title. So old sewing machine is a masterpiece that can immerse a person in the era of the twentieth century. This device is much easier to use than its modern electrical counterpart. Older sewing machines have manual controls.

It doesn’t matter what kind of machine you are dealing with: manual, foot-operated or old - without a coil it is of no use

Working with a manual sewing machine is somewhat more difficult, mainly physically. The body of such machines is made of metal, so they have quite a large mass, but they are not whimsical. In terms of their performance, they can only be compared with a Kalashnikov assault rifle.

The general rules will be the same as for all sewing machines. The thread is threaded in the same way, only the control is manual. Of the old machines, perhaps only one company can be distinguished - Singer. This American company has made a splash in the clothing industry. Distinctive feature their products are quality! This company is highly respected. But unfortunately, all mechanisms have a tendency to destruction. So, parts for very old models are almost impossible to find anywhere, even on order. Their modern analogue is much more practical, lighter, easier to use and cheaper. Therefore, there is a tendency to use old sewing machines for other purposes. For example, the ideas of craftsmen have gone so far as to make boudoirs or flower stands out of parts of sewing machines.

How to use a manual sewing machine (video)

So, the sewing machine - necessary device in the life of every person. In addition to a useful skill - the ability to sew, a sewing machine can become the highlight of your interior. Thanks to this miracle of technology, you can start saving on various sewing studios and occupy your leisure time with useful activities.

Before you start working on the sewing machine, you need to carefully inspect and check the serviceability of its parts. In this case, special attention must be paid to
1) serviceability of the needle and coil;
2) the quality of the threads, the correctness of their threading and the uniformity of tension;
3) the condition of the bobbin and the winding of threads on it;
4) installation of the hook and bobbin case (check for excessive swing);
5) installation and fastening of the needle and foot;
6) installation of stitch regulator;
7) lubricating the machine.
When sewing on the machine, do not pull the fabric with your hands or push it under the presser foot.
Seams and thickened areas must be sewn carefully so as not to break the needles.
After finishing work, the machine must not be left with the presser foot raised. You need to place a piece of fabric under the foot and secure it with a lowered needle.
The machine should not be rotated with the presser foot down, when the threads are threaded and the fabric is not placed.
It is necessary to insert the bobbin case correctly and carefully check its installation. If the machine begins to knock, it must be thoroughly cleaned and lubricated.
At the end of work, the machine must be wiped with a rag and covered with a cover or cap.

Each sewing machine has its own instructions that are different from other brands of machines, but most economy class machines with a swinging shuttle (like the Chaika sewing machine): Brother, Jaguar, Singer, Veritas, Janome, Husqvarna and other brands have almost the same device.
Operating rules, threading, switching operations, installing the bobbin case, lubrication and care, etc. The instructions for such sewing machines are almost the same.

Main parts of a sewing machine:
1. Stitch type selection knob. With this pen you set required type stitches: straight, darning, zigzag or shifting the needle for sewing on a zipper, making a buttonhole, etc.
2. Buttonhole fine adjustment screw. Not every machine has such an adjustment. It is designed to equalize the frequency (density) of the zigzag stitch when making a loop. That is, in one direction the zigzag will be less frequent, so before making a loop, check it on a scrap of the same fabric. And if necessary, make adjustments.
3. Thread take-up lever.
4. Removable table with storage compartment for accessories.
5. Disc adjuster for upper thread tension.

6. Fabric movement key reverse direction.
7. Device for cutting thread. A very convenient device, but it requires some getting used to. Usually they rarely use it, they simply forget about it when cutting the thread with scissors.
8. Presser foot adapter assembly.
9. Screw for securing the presser foot adapter.
10. Presser foot.
11. Needle plate.
12. Shuttle knot.
13. Bobbin case.
14. Combs (rail) of the fabric conveyor.
15. Sewing needle.
16. Needle clamp screw.

17. Shuttle cover.
18. Rod for installing the coil.
19. Bobbin winding device.
20. Flywheel.
21. Pedal connection socket.
22. Presser foot lever.
23. Power switch and backlight bulbs.
24. Built-in carrying handle.
25. Thread guide, thread tension regulator when winding on a bobbin.

Sewing machine accessories

1. Buttonhole foot. A special foot that is convenient for making buttonholes. The size of the loop depends on the size of the button inserted into it. In inexpensive models of sewing machines, buttonhole sewing is done in 4 steps.
2. Foot for sewing in a zipper.
3. Foot for sewing on buttons.
4. Set of needles.
5. Double needle.
6. Bobbins.
7. Darning plate. This plate replaces the lever lowering the toast. The plate is simply placed over the rack, hiding the teeth so that the fabric does not move forward when the machine is running.
8. Screwdriver
9. Additional spool pin. This rod is required when used double needle, its purpose is to install a second spool of thread.
The accessories listed above are stored in a specially designed case inside the extension table. These accessories are designed to make most sewing tasks easier.

Needle installation instructions

Before installing the needle, be sure to turn off the sewing machine from the mains. This must be done especially for inexperienced, just beginning seamstresses.
1. Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.
2. Raise the needle bar to its highest position.
3. Lower the presser foot.
4. If the needle is already installed, remove it by loosening the needle clamp screw with your hand or a screwdriver and pulling the needle down.
5. Insert a new needle, with the flat side facing the back of the machine, pushing it as high as possible until it stops.
6. Tighten the needle clamp screw.

1. For quality sewing sewing needle must be straight and sharp.
2. To check the straightness of the needle, place it flat side down on a flat surface as shown in the figure.
3. If the needle is bent or dull, replace it. Never try to straighten or sharpen it. The metal from which the needle is made is not intended for this.
See DIY Sewing Machine Repair.

Depending on the type of work you do, you may need to replace the presser foot. Turn the power switch to the "O" position.

2. Release the presser foot by lifting the lever on the back of the presser foot adapter assembly.
3. Place the presser foot on the needle plate so that the cross bar of the presser foot is under the groove at the bottom of the presser foot adapter.
4. Lower the presser foot lever and lock the presser foot into the adapter. If the presser foot is in correct position, its rod will snap into the adapter.

Reverse motion of the sewing machine. Setting

To sew in the reverse direction, press the reverse sewing key all the way and hold it in this position while lightly pressing the pedal. To sew in the forward direction, release the key. Reverse stitching is used to secure and reinforce seams. It is possible to use reverse feed to make decorative stitches, as well as to darn clothes.

1. Place the spool of thread on the spool pin and guide the thread around the thread tension dial while winding the bobbin.
2. Pass the end of the thread through the hole in the bobbin from the inside.
3. Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder shaft and slide the shaft to the right. Rotate the bobbin clockwise by hand until the spring on the shaft fits into the slot on the bobbin.
4. While holding the end of the thread, gently press the pedal until a few turns of thread are wound around the bobbin. Then stop the car.
5. Trim the excess thread above the bobbin and, while pressing the pedal, continue winding the thread onto the bobbin. Note: When the bobbin is full of thread, the machine stops automatically.
6. After stopping the machine, cut the thread between the bobbin and bobbin, slide the shaft to the left and remove the wound bobbin from the shaft. Note: When the bobbin winder shaft is pushed toward the pinch roller, the needle bar does not move, but the handwheel continues to rotate. Therefore, do not touch the handwheel while winding the bobbin.

In this video you will see how to wind thread onto a bobbin using a bobbin winder.

Threading the bobbin thread into the bobbin case

Turn the power switch to the "O" position.
1. Raise the needle to its highest position by turning the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise), then raise the presser foot lever.
2. Open the bobbin cover behind the attachment table at the front of the machine, remove the bobbin case by pulling its latch towards you and removing it from the hook.
3. Unwind approximately 10 cm of thread from the fully wound bobbin and insert the bobbin into the bobbin case. Pass the unwound end of the thread through the slot, then down and to the left until the thread fits into the hole under the tension adjustment spring.
4. Hold the bobbin case by the latch, insert it all the way into the hook, and then release the latch. Make sure that the pin of the bobbin case fits into the groove provided for it in the upper part of the hook. Note: If you insert the bobbin case into the machine incorrectly, it will fall out of the hook immediately after you start sewing.

1. Raise the presser foot lever using the appropriate lever, and turn the handwheel toward you (counterclockwise) to raise the thread take-up lever to its highest position.
2. Pull up the spool pin and place the spool of thread on it.
3. Pass the thread through both thread guides: first through the rear and then through the front.
4. Pull the thread down and around the upper thread tension dial from right to left until the thread catches the limit spring. Hold the thread and pull it between the tension discs.
5. Guide the thread to the back of the thread take-up lever and then around it from right to left. Pass the thread through the slit, pulling it towards you until it hits the eye of the thread take-up.
6. Lower the thread down and pass it behind the thread guide.
7. Thread the thread into the eye of the needle from front to back and pull out about 5 cm of thread. Note: If the thread is not threaded correctly, it may break, skip stitches, or wrinkle the fabric.

If your sewing machine does not have instructions and you do not know how to use it, you can use this simplified and universal guide. This instruction suitable for any economy class sewing machine with an oscillating hook that performs minimum set operations.

The user must study the basic principles of operation of a sewing machine before mastering the basics of tailoring. Depending on the type and features of the device, some details of use may differ. A manual sewing machine is a machine that has been around for many years, but not everyone knows how to use it correctly.

Preparing a sewing machine for work consists of several stages:

• study the instructions for the device;
• needle installation;
• threading;
• selecting the desired sewing mode.

Even in the process of choosing a suitable device, it is worth asking whether there are instructions for the sewing machine model you like in Russian. The presence of such a document in the kit is especially important for those who have never dealt with such devices. This also applies to purchasing a used car through message boards. As a last resort, before purchasing, you should take care to search for instructions on the Internet.

Of course, if you purchase a model of an old-style manual sewing machine, for example, “ Podolsk" or "Singer"", it is unlikely that you will be able to get original rules of use for it. Sometimes this is not required, since such devices are easy to set up and operate. It is easy to refill and maintain. Such devices are reliable, which is why they are still valued. Another advantage of old hand sewing machines is Possibility of sewing thick fabrics- this is beyond the capabilities of most modern household models.

Needle installation

Only after studying the safety rules when working with a sewing machine can you begin to use it directly. The first thing to do is to install the needle correctly. This applies to all models, be it manual or foot operated.

The thickness of the needle is selected depending on the material that will be used for sewing. It is best to purchase a set of needles along with your sewing machine - this will allow you to work with fabrics of different types and thicknesses.

Sometimes such sets provide comments on needle numbers and what fabrics they are suitable for.

To install the needle, you must perform the following steps.

1. Put needle holder to the highest position by turning the flywheel.
2. The sewing machine needle has a special structure, after studying which you can easily install it correctly. The flat side of the flask is inserted outward, and the long groove is inserted inward (to the base of the sleeve).
3. The needle is inserted all the way into the holder provided for it and secured with a screw.

Correct needle placement is very important. Otherwise, loops will not be created during operation, which will lead to omissions.

How to thread a sewing machine

Refilling modern devices is easy: as a rule, all steps are shown in the instructions. schematic drawings. The body of modern devices has digital markings or arrows to help with threading. But if the document and drawings are missing, then you will have to cope on your own.

Upper threading instructions

You should always start from the top. Having grabbed the end of the thread, it is threaded through a small window on the back panel of the device, taken to the tension regulator, threaded through the corresponding loops and brought out onto the needle.

If threading is incorrect, there is a risk of thread chafing during sewing or malfunction of the unit.

Also carried out in accordance with certain rules. Regardless of the type and model, threading the hook (installing the bobbin) is done in such a way that the thread comes out clockwise. When threading, you should pay special attention to the thickness of the thread (its number) - it should be the same. The rules for operating a sewing machine require that you wind the thread onto the bobbin from the same spool that will be installed for the upper thread.

Instructions for threading the bobbin thread

How to thread a sewing machine

To pull out the bobbin thread:

• take the end of the upper thread (without pulling it), which is already inserted into the needle;
• lower the needle into the needle plate using the handwheel;
• the needle will grab the shuttle thread, all that remains is to pull it out.

Mode selection

Before work, you should study the location of the mode switches, thread tension, and reverse. Modern models provide a graphic representation of the types of stitches on the device body (straight stitch, zigzag, overcasting, etc.); on older machines, the choice of stitches is not so large. For reverse(to secure the thread at the end of work) all models provide a small lever.

After all the preparatory measures, the material is placed under the foot, which is then lowered onto it, and you can start sewing directly.

Mini sewing machines

The modern market for sewing equipment is quite diverse. Today, manufacturers produce miniature manual sewing machines that fit in the hand. Their main advantages:

• compact dimensions;
• absence of complex threading mechanisms;
• ease of operation;
• stitch length can be adjusted.

Features and rules on how to use a compact sewing machine manual sample, are very simple. Simply insert one thread, select the stitch length, and you can start sewing right away. They can be easily take with you on the road. They are suitable for making urgent clothing repairs or adjusting the length of curtains without removing them from the curtain.

General rules for operating hand sewing machines

Operating a manual sewing machine must be carried out in strict compliance with safety regulations.

1. It is permissible to rotate the flywheel in only one direction - on yourself. Rotating in the opposite direction will cause the bobbin thread to become tangled.
2. When the machine is not being used, the clamping foot must be in the raised position.
3. You cannot work on a machine without fabric. This will cause the lower teeth of the foot to become dull.
4. During operation, tensioning of the material is not allowed; you only need to adjust its direction. The machine does all the movement itself.
5. During work shuttle cover on the body must be closed.
6. While working, do not bring your fingers close to the needle or try to adjust the thread of a working device.
7. Do not sew on pins holding the thread together - this will cause the needle to break.

Learning how to operate a sewing machine is not difficult. The main thing is to act according to the instructions and strictly follow safety precautions.

This article provides only a description of the device and the main characteristics of the Merrylock cover maker, model 009.

Brief sewing machine instructions type Chaika, Podolsk 142, performing a zigzag stitch. An abbreviated manual for the design of the Chaika sewing machine and basic recommendations for its operation are presented in a simplified form that is understandable to everyone. A diagram of the machine's structure and a description of the main components, parts and controls are clearly given. Recommendations are given on the purpose and use of various paws. The operation of the machines requires periodic lubrication of the components and mechanisms of the sewing machine. Our instructions provide recommendations on how often you need to lubricate and clean the machine, what kind of oil you need to use, etc.

Detailed instructions for the Podolsk sewing machine. This machine operating manual is suitable for any machine of this class. Hand sewing machines Singer, Tikka, almost all older models of PMZ, including those with a foot drive, have the same device. The instructions are set out almost in full on the basis of the manufacturer's manual as amended in 1952. There are many visual drawings and detailed description devices and recommendations for the operation and care of the sewing machine, as well as a section on the design of the foot drive.

It is almost impossible to find an instruction manual for used Japanese-made sewing machines. At one time they were brought to our country from Japan, and if there are instructions for such a sewing machine, then it is on Japanese, less often in English. To make it easier for you to understand the main characteristics of such sewing machines, we give brief description one of the Brother sewing machine models. It details the capabilities of such machines and their use. The main feature of the operation of Japanese-made sewing machines brought to our country from Japan is that they are designed for a network voltage of 100 volts. Therefore, it is imperative to have a step-down transformer.

This model of sewing machine belongs to machines whose operation is designed only for sewing light fabrics. The compact and small machine has a number of restrictions on use. One of them is that you cannot sew too thick fabrics on it. This is one of the reasons leading to its breakdown. If you do not have the operating instructions for this machine, you can use summary device and a description of the purpose of the sewing machine controls. Numerous illustrations clearly show how to use this sewing machine.

The household 4-thread overlocker VOMZ 151-4D (Vologda) can have several modifications. One of them is presented in this brief instruction. This overlocker model performs a four-thread overlock stitch. The last number and letter in the name of the overlocker in the instructions are deciphered as an overlocker that performs a four-thread stitch (number 4), and the letter (D) means that the overlocker has a differential slatting device. In other words, this particular overlocker model can be used for processing knitted fabrics. The instructions provide a diagram and parameters for adjusting the overlock loopers. You may need them if gaps appear in the stitch.

Textima 8032 is an industrial machine produced back in Soviet era in the GDR. A good, silent and fast machine that has the ability to perform a non-seating seam, or vice versa, to perform a landing (when sewing in a sleeve), thanks to the presence of a moving foot. Instructions to such industrial sewing machines have not survived, but the machines are still used in many ateliers and small sewing shops. We offer you a very brief instruction manual for this sewing machine, containing basic recommendations on the design and purpose of the mechanisms, as well as recommendations for the operation and care of the Textima sewing machine.

Detailed instructions for the Chaika sewing machine. In an accessible and understandable form for a beginning seamstress, basic ideas about the controls of the Chaika sewing machine and how to perform some operations are given. This instruction can be used for all Chaika, Malva, Podolsk models that perform zigzag stitching and other operations based on it. Brief recommendations are given on how to lubricate and care for the sewing machine, how to use the main feet and accessories.

This model of industrial iron is used in many studios, despite its age and the availability of good industrial irons on sale. This is explained simply. The iron is very heavy and this feature makes it indispensable when ironing heavy, drapey fabrics. In addition, these irons can withstand many years of use without requiring repairs. But, if you still need to repair the iron, we offer a brief description of its structure and operational characteristics, some technical parameters and an electrical diagram.

The master's opinion about which sewing machine is the best. Learn more about the used Rubin sewing machine and other old Veritas models.

If you are going to buy an Astralux sewing machine, then this article will help you learn more about Astralux machines.

This article describes one of the most inexpensive models of Brother sewing machines, the Brother LS-2125 sewing machine, produced in China.

What is different about a computerized sewing machine? The structure and basic operations and types of stitches.

How does an inexpensive sewing machine work? Janome machine and how to repair Janome yourself.

If you are going to buy a sewing machine, then read this article about the features of an electronic sewing machine.

In this article, the master will share his opinion about the models of Singer sewing machines produced in the early 90s.

The household overlocker Prima, depending on the model, performs a three- or four-thread seam. Device, instructions for the Prima overlocker, care and repair.

How to thread a Chinese or any other model of three-thread overlock. Threading a modern knitted four-thread overlocker.

This article provides a description of the Chinese sewing machine Dragonfly 218. These instructions are suitable for other models of Chinese machines of this class.

Installation and repair of a manual sewing machine Podolsk. Each photo of the components and mechanisms of the sewing machine is commented by the master.

You will need a step-down transformer from 220 to 110 volts when purchasing a Japanese-made sewing machine.

We offer a detailed overview of the capabilities of the Juki 510 sewing machine. This machine model was produced in the 90s in Japan.

How to disassemble a sewing machine. What mechanisms in it can be regulated independently. Installation and repair of the Juki 510 sewing machine.