Sewing can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby, and your machine will help you create beautiful projects. To keep your machine running smoothly for years to come, it’s important to follow some basic maintenance tips.
Use high-quality thread and needles
Opting for top-tier thread & needles is a crucial factor in maintaining optimal performance for your sewing machine. Substandard thread and needles are prone to breakage, potentially leading to stitching issues.
When selecting your thread, ensure it matches the fabric’s weight and texture. Likewise, coordinate the thread’s color with that of the fabric for a seamless look, or opt for a contrasting hue to achieve a decorative, eye-catching effect.
Regularly oil your machine
Sewing machines have many moving parts that need to be lubricated regularly. This helps to reduce friction and wear and tear. Most sewing machine manufacturers recommend oiling your machine every 40 hours of use, or more often if you sew in dusty or humid conditions.
To oil your machine, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. Most machines have a few oiling points, such as the needle bar, the hook, & the bobbin case. Apply a small drop of sewing machine oil to each oiling point. Be careful not to over-oil the machine, as this can attract dust and lint.
Change your needle more than you do
Sewing machine needles come at a reasonable cost, yet their sharpness tends to diminish swiftly, especially when working with dense or multi-layered fabrics. It’s advisable to replace your needle after approximately 8 hours of use, or even sooner if you observe instances of skipped stitches or thread breakage.
To switch out your needle, refer to your owner’s manual for precise guidance. Typically, sewing machines feature a lever or screw that, when loosened, allows for the removal of the old needle. Once the old needle is taken out, insert the new one and securely fasten the lever or screw.
When choosing needles, ensure they match both the size and type required for the specific fabric you’re working with. For instance, sewing denim demands a different needle than sewing cotton.
Store your machine away correctly
When you are not using your sewing machine, be sure to store it properly. This will help to protect it from dust, moisture & other damage.
If possible, store your sewing machine in a cool, dry place. If you live in a humid climate, you may want to consider using a dehumidifier in the room where you store your machine.
You should also cover your sewing machine when it is not in use. This will help to protect it from dust and dirt.
Clean it!
Dust and lint can build up on your sewing machine over time, which can cause problems with the stitching and feeding mechanism. It’s a good idea to clean your machine after every use, or at least once a week if you sew frequently.
To clean your machine, start by turning it off & unplugging it. Remove the needle and presser foot. Then, use a soft brush to dust all of the surfaces of the machine, paying special attention to the bobbin area and the feed dogs. You can also use a can of compressed air to blow out any dust and lint that has accumulated in hard-to-reach places.
Once you have removed all of the dust and lint, use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior of the machine. Be careful not to get any water inside the machine. After you have wiped down the machine, dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth.
BONUS ROUND!
Here are a few additional tips for keeping your sewing machine in good condition:
- If you are not going to be using your sewing machine for an extended period of time, be sure to clean and oil it before storing it away. This will help to prevent the moving parts from rusting or corroding.
- Avoid sewing over pins or needles. This can damage the needle plate and other internal components of your machine.
- If you are sewing with multiple layers of fabric, use a sharp needle and a heavy-duty thread. This will help to prevent the needle from breaking and the thread from snapping.
- If you are sewing with a heavy fabric, use a walking foot to help feed the fabric through the machine. This will help to prevent the fabric from bunching up & causing problems with the stitching.
By following these simple maintenance tips and booking a professional service for your machine at least once or twice a year, you can help to ensure that your sewing machine runs smoothly and produces beautiful results for years to come.
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