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Manual sewing machines are still used quite often, despite the fact that they are already outdated
- 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.
- Don't forget about safety precautions.
- 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.
- Also, to avoid any malfunctions, all covers and levers must be closed or directed in the desired direction.
- Do not put your fingers near the needle while sewing, as you can easily make the cut according to your own finger.
- 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 of a sewing machine, but it doesn’t matter. 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 the general condition of the machine. 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 different 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 to pay 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, in order 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, an 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. The distinctive feature of their products is 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 minds 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, a sewing machine is a 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.
Sewing machine PMZ class 1-A, manufactured in 1952. This instruction is suitable for all lockstitch machines PMZ plant named after. Kalinina with manual and foot drive, up to the latest models with electric drive. The text of the instructions was left almost unchanged, in the original edition of the PMZ plant.
Sewing machine PMZ:
1. Screw for adjusting presser foot pressure. 2. Thread take-up lever. 3. Bandage securing the front cover. 4. Front cover. 5. Nut for adjusting the tension of the upper thread. 6. Thread take-up spring regulator. 7. Thread attraction spring. 8. Tension washer. 9. Thread guide. 10. Thread cutter. 11. Presser foot rod. 12. Presser foot screw. 13. Sliding part of the needle plate. 14. Fabric engine (rack). 15. Needle plate. 16. Platform. 17. Reel core of the winder. 18. Winder tension regulator. 19. Needle bar rod. 20. Needle holder. 21. Needle holder fastening screw. 22. Needle bar thread guide. 23. Sewing machine foot. 24. Sewing machine sleeve. 25. Sleeve spool rod. 26. Winder latch. 27. Flywheel. 28. Winder pulley. 29. Winder spindle. 30. Friction screw. 31. Stitch regulator cover. 32. Forward and reverse stitch control lever. 33. Stitch adjuster screw.
Purpose of the PMZ sewing machine
1. The machine has a central bobbin shuttle device.
2. The highest number of revolutions per minute is 1200.
3. The largest stitch pitch is 4 mm.
4. Material feeding in forward and reverse direction.
5. Flat platform measuring 371 x 178 mm. 6. Weight of the machine head (without manual drive) - 11.5 kg.
2. Sewing machine PMZ. General operating rules
1. According to the instructions, the flywheel of the machine should rotate only in one direction - towards the working person. Do not rotate the machine in the opposite direction (away from you), as this may cause the threads to become tangled in the shuttle.
2. When the machine is not running, the presser foot should be raised.
3. Do not start the machine without putting fabric under the presser foot, so that the teeth of the fabric motor (rack) do not become dull and the lower surface of the presser foot does not deteriorate.
4. Do not pull or push the material with your hands while sewing. The needle may be bent or broken. The necessary advancement of the fabric is carried out by the machine itself.
5. When sewing, the front slide plate above the hook must be closed tightly.
3. Bobbin case and bobbin of the PMZ sewing machine
In order to replace the bobbin in the bobbin case, you must first move the front sliding plate covering the shuttle device, then grab the latch “A” with two fingers of your left hand and pull the bobbin case out. When the latch is open, the bobbin cannot fall out of the bobbin case, since it is held in place by the hook of the latch. To remove the bobbin, you need to release the latch into place, turn the bobbin case open side down, and the bobbin will fall out.
4. Bobbin winding
To wind the bobbin, use a special winder attached to the back of the machine arm near the flywheel. The winder works in conjunction with the lower thread tension device located on the right corner of the platform. When winding the bobbin, the machine mechanism should not operate. Therefore, before you start winding, you must first turn off the flywheel so that it rotates completely freely, without causing movement of the machine mechanism. To do this, you just need to turn the round knurled head of the large friction screw, located in the center of the flywheel, towards you. The bobbin is installed on the end of the winder spindle so that the spindle stop pin fits into the bobbin slot. Place the spool of thread on the spool pin. The thread from the spool is pulled down under the tensioner washer. Then up onto the bobbin through the hole on the left side.
The winder frame, in which the spindle with the bobbin is attached, rotates, is pressed down by hand so that the rubber rim of the pulley comes into contact with the surface of the flywheel. The free end of the thread on the bobbin must be held by hand for some time until a sufficient number of turns are wound onto the bobbin to secure the end of the thread, after which this end is cut off. Once the bobbin is completely wound, the winder frame turns off automatically, moving the bobbin away from the handwheel. If the rubber rim does not contact the handwheel when winding the bobbin, the bobbin winder frame needs to be adjusted. To do this, you need to unscrew the screw in the slot of the winder adjustment plate, press the winder frame down towards the flywheel and, holding it in this position, secure the screw with a screwdriver in a new position on the plate. When the thread is wound correctly onto the bobbin, the turns are laid evenly and tightly to each other. If the winding turns out to be uneven or irregular in shape, you need to adjust the position of the lower tension device on the platform, and slightly move the tensioner bracket along the platform slot in the desired direction. To do this, use a screwdriver to first release the screw securing it.
5. Threading the bobbin case of a PMZ sewing machine
You need to take the wound bobbin with two fingers of your right hand, making sure that the free end of the thread runs off the bobbin from right to left. The bobbin case is held with the left hand in such a position that the oblique thread slot on the edge of the cap is on top, and the bobbin is inserted into the cap.
Pull the thread with your right hand through the slot on the edge of the cap to the left under the tension spring, then into a small slot at the end of the spring. The free end of the thread should hang to the left of the cap mounting pin.
6. Inserting the bobbin case into the sewing machine
The threaded bobbin case must be placed in the machine. To do this, take the bobbin case by the latch with two fingers of the left hand, put it on the central rod “H” of the hook so that the finger “K” of the bobbin case fits into the slot of the overlay plate on the stroke body. Release the latch and press the bobbin case inward until it locks onto the central rod of the hook. Leave the free end of the thread hanging and close the shuttle device, pushing in the front plate.
7. Installing a needle on a PMZ sewing machine. Kalinina
The needle must be inserted at the highest position of the needle bar, which is achieved by turning the handwheel. The flat side of the bulb on the needle should be facing to the left, i.e. outward, and the long groove on the needle blade is to the right, i.e. inward to the base of the sleeve.
Pay special attention to the correct installation of the needle, since if the needle is installed incorrectly, the PMZ sewing machine will not create a loop and gaps will appear. In the indicated position, the needle is inserted into the needle holder “E” and moved up until it stops, and then firmly secured with screw “1”.
Before threading, turn the machine's flywheel toward you by hand so that the thread take-up lever with the thread eyelet comes to the top position. Place a spool of thread on the spool pin on top of the sleeve and pull the thread from the spool in the following sequence:
1.Forward left through the rear left thread cutout “1” on the front board and down to the tension regulator.
2. Between the washers “2” of the tension regulator and up behind the tongue “3”.
3.In the eye of the thread take-up spring "4".
4.Up through the eye of the thread take-up lever “5”.
5.Down into thread guide “6” on the front board.
6.Down into thread guide “7” on the needle bar.
7. From right to left through the eye of the needle “8”. Pay special attention to threading the needle. You only need to refuel from right to left, i.e. out.
9. Preparing the PMZ sewing machine for sewing products
Before you start sewing, you need to pull the bottom thread out. To do this, take the end of the needle thread with your left hand without pulling it. Then they turn the machine’s flywheel towards themselves so that the needle first lowers into the hole of the needle plate, grabs the lower shuttle thread and then rises again to its upper position. After this, you need to pull the end of the needle thread and pull the bottom thread up through the hole in the needle plate. Then the ends of both threads, upper and lower, are pulled back and placed under the foot. The presser foot lowers onto the underlying material, and the machine is ready to sew.
The manual drive is installed and secured on the rear protrusion of the sleeve, located under the flywheel of the machine. The manual drive consists of a housing “1” with two toothed gears (large and small), a drive lever with a leash “2” - for clutching the machine’s flywheel, and a folding handle “3” - for rotation by hand.
After removing the wooden body of the machine, the manual drive handle - "3" is usually folded down to the non-working position, and the leash - "2" is disengaged from the flywheel.
To bring the drive into the operating position, handle “3” must be turned and inserted into the lug socket “A” on the large gear, having first pulled out the round head of the latch, without which the handle cannot be brought to the proper position. Having installed the handle, release the latch, which locks. The leash “2” must be turned so that the leather spacer fits between the flywheel matches. A special latch holds the leash in working position.
Having secured the flywheel of the machine to the working stroke, using a friction screw and lowering the foot onto the placed fabric, begin with your right hand to evenly rotate the manual drive handle, always in only one direction - away from you. The flywheel of the machine will rotate towards the working person.
11. Working on a PMZ foot sewing machine
The foot machine is set in motion by alternately pressing either the toes or the heels on the foot of the machine. When working correctly, both legs should rest with their entire feet on the footrest, and the left leg should be located slightly behind the right. The machine foot should be rocked as evenly as possible.
The drive wheel should only rotate in one direction - towards the seamstress. Beware of turning in the wrong direction as this may cause the threads to become tangled in the bobbin hook. The machine is put into operation using a friction screw in the same way as for a manual machine.
12. PMZ instructions. Finishing sewing
Stop the machine in a position where the thread take-up lever is at the top and the needle comes out of the material. Then, raising the lever “P”, raise the foot, move the fabric away from you with your left hand and cut the threads at the end of the stitch on the edge of the thread cutter located above the presser foot. For further sewing, leave the ends of the threads 8-10 cm long. The thread tension in the PMZ sewing machine is of great importance for the quality of sewing. The interlacing of the top and bottom threads should occur in the middle of the material being sewn. The stitching on the front and bottom sides should have the same appearance. If the tension of the upper thread is too strong or, conversely, the thread tension is too weak, then the interlacing of the threads occurs on the upper side of the material. The car winds its way from above. The result is a weak and unsightly seam. To eliminate this phenomenon, you need to loosen the tension of the upper thread or increase the tension of the lower thread.
If the tension of the upper thread is too weak or, conversely, the tension of the lower thread is too high, then the interlacing of threads will occur on the underside of the material - the machine loops from below. The seam turns out to be fragile. In this case, you need to increase the tension of the upper thread or loosen the tension of the lower thread.
Adjusting the tension of the upper thread must be done with the presser foot lowered. The amount of tension increases when turning nut “K” to the right and, on the contrary, weakens when turning counterclockwise. By noting the appropriate position of the pointer, you can quickly navigate to the correct tension setting. The tension of the bobbin thread is adjusted by screw “A” on the bobbin case tension spring (see picture above). When turning the screw (with a small screwdriver) to the right, i.e. clockwise, the bobbin thread tension increases. When turning the screw to the left, i.e. counterclockwise, the tension decreases. If the bobbin thread tension has been set correctly, it rarely needs to be changed; In most cases, a good stitch can be achieved by simply adjusting the top thread. Too much tension may cause thread breakage.
In addition to the correctly selected tension, the quality of the stitch also depends on the correspondence of the needle number to the thickness of the material being sewn. For the sewing machine, needles No. 70, 80, 90, 100 and 110 are used.
The thicker and coarser the material, the higher the needle number should be and the lower the number of threads used, i.e. the needle and threads should be thicker. On the contrary, the thinner the material, the lower the needle number and the higher the thread number, i.e. the needle and threads should be thinner.
The stitch length, i.e. the distance between needle pricks, for ordinary materials is provided within the range of 1.5 - 2 mm. For thin materials, the stitching should be more frequent, for thick materials - less often. The longest stitch length that can be achieved on the machine is 4mm. The required stitch length is set by the “B” regulator according to the scale numbers, which are printed on the regulator cover and show the approximate stitch length in millimeters. When the regulator lever is set to the highest division of the scale, which runs in the middle of the lid and does not have numbers, then there will be no fabric feed at all.
When operating the machine, lever "B" must be lowered down. The lower the regulator lever is lowered, the thinner the stitching will be, i.e. the longer the stitch length. On the contrary, the higher the regulator lever is set, i.e., the closer to the upper division of the scale, the more frequent the stitching or the shorter the stitch length.
When the regulator lever is lifted up from the middle line, the machine will change the direction of material supply to the opposite, i.e., when the machine is operating, the material will move towards the worker.
In order to change the stitch length, you need to move the regulator lever to a new scale division corresponding to the desired stitch length.
The regulator lever is moved to a new division as follows.
Let the lever of the regulator “B” stand on some division of the scale and it needs to be moved down to a larger stitch pitch. An internal limit plate located under the regulator cover and clamped by the left head screw prevents the regulator lever from moving down. "A" in the left arc slot of the cover. In order to be able to lower the lever lower, you must first release the indicated screw “A” and move it along the slot to the lowest position. After this, set the regulator lever to the required scale division, move the left screw “D” up along the arc slot until it stops and secure screw “A”. To obtain a more frequent stitch, the lever of the regulator “B” is moved up to the corresponding division of the scale, after which the screw “A” is released, moved up until it stops, and then secured again.
14. Reverse direction of material supply
The PMZ sewing machine can sew in both forward and reverse directions. When the feeding direction is reversed, the material will move towards the worker during sewing. In order to switch the machine to reverse, you only need to move the regulator lever “B”, which is in the lower position at a certain scale division, up to a stop. The stitch length remains unchanged. The machine can be switched to reverse feed without even stopping sewing or removing fabric.
15. Adjusting the presser foot pressure of the material
The amount of pressure the foot presses on the material rarely needs to be changed. But when sewing silk or light fabrics, it may be necessary to slightly reduce the pressure force, for which the screw is turned two to three turns to the left, i.e. counterclockwise. When sewing thicker materials that require stronger pressure, screw “K” is turned two to three turns to the right, i.e. clockwise. The pressure of the foot on the material should be sufficient to ensure uniform feeding of the material and to prevent the material from lifting along with the needle. Too much pressure only makes it difficult for the machine to move and spoils the material.
To ensure easy running of the machine and prevent wear of rubbing parts, all places of the machine indicated by arrows should be lubricated daily with a few drops of oil in each place if the machine operates continuously. To lubricate hard-to-reach parts, the machine has lubrication holes. In order to lubricate the needle bar hinge, you must first remove the front cover, loosening the screw securing it. The direction for the shuttle in the stroke body is lubricated with one drop of oil. The area indicated by the letter "A" must be lubricated when the needle is in the lowest position.
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.
The PMZ sewing machine is a fairly reliable and “hardy” machine, but over the years it has developed “plays” in many components that need to be eliminated. It is necessary to adjust the needle bar, check the gap at the nose of the hook when meeting the needle, etc. On our website you will find many materials on how to perform repairs yourself, including for PMZ sewing machines.
The most used machine. Probably everyone at home or in the country has such a sewing machine. The Podolsk machine got its name from the city in which the PMZ plant is located. The first letter in this abbreviation means Podolsk. Read about how to repair PMZ sewing machines yourself in this article.
PMZ lockstitch sewing machines have one unique property. They practically do not skip stitches. Even with a gap between the nose of the shuttle and the needle blade of almost 1 mm. they stitch reliably. But, nevertheless, it is with this kind of “breakdown” that people most often turn to a specialist. It takes exactly a minute to eliminate it, since you just need to place the needle correctly.
Does your machine break needles? You may simply be using a needle that is too fine when sewing thick fabrics. But there are a number of other reasons.
The first PMZ models have foot and manual drives. To learn how to repair a foot drive used for any brand of machine, read this article.
Sewing machines PMZ equipped with a manual drive, which very often requires repair. The handle wobbles, the drive rattles and rotates slowly. This article provides recommendations on how to independently repair the manual drive for a PMZ sewing machine.
The bobbin plays an important role for any machine, especially for old PMZs. The fact is that over years of use, notches appear on metal bobbins due to needle impacts, and the lower thread, clinging to them, often breaks and loops.
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.
- Put needle holder to the highest position by turning the flywheel.
- 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).
- 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 the unit malfunctioning.
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.
The features and rules for using a compact manual sewing machine 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.
- It is permissible to rotate the flywheel in only one direction - to myself. Rotating in the opposite direction will cause the bobbin thread to become tangled.
- When the machine is not being used, the clamping foot must be in the raised position.
- You cannot work on a machine without fabric. This will cause the lower teeth of the foot to become dull.
- During operation, tensioning of the material is not allowed; you only need to adjust its direction. The machine does all the movement itself.
- During work shuttle cover on the body must be closed.
- While working, do not bring your fingers close to the needle or try to adjust the thread of a working device.
- 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.
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 maintenance, etc. The instructions for such sewing machines are almost the same.
Main parts of a sewing machine:
1. Stitch type selection knob. Using this handle, you set the required type of stitch: 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. Key for moving fabric in the opposite 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 necessary when using a 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 by 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 high-quality sewing, the 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 position "O".
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 the correct position, the presser foot 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 position "O".
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 thread take-up eyelet.
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. These instructions are suitable for any economy-class sewing machine with an oscillating hook that performs a minimum set of operations.
She stepped on the hem of a skirt with her heel, her husband tore his trousers at a friend’s wedding, and a child’s dress tore at the seams before a performance. What to do? A mini manual sewing machine is your irreplaceable savior in such a situation.
Content
Mini sewing machine: how to use it correctly? Are there any differences from the usual
The mini sewing machine is designed for minor repairs of clothes, curtains, tablecloths, bed linen, etc. It can be used effectively in road as well as domestic conditions in the absence of a stationary sewing machine. But what about a house without a machine for repairing and sewing things up? If you don’t know how to sew at all, or you don’t have enough money or space for a stationary model, then a small sewing machine will be a worthy substitute for a needle and thread and a good helper in everyday life.Advantages of mini sewing machines:
- mobility - such models weigh from 100 to 300 grams, are small in size and will definitely fit in an ordinary women's handbag. You can take them with you on a visit, trip or business trip
- ease of use – the design of the machines is very simple. Just insert the thread into the needle and you can start sewing. Simple even for a child
- versatility - can sew fabrics of different thicknesses (from chintz or cotton, to denim or leather in several layers)
- variety of stitches - such devices perform up to 70% of the types of seams of conventional models of stitching machines. They can sew with a straight stitch, slip stitch, buttonhole stitch, simple decorative patterns and chain stitch finishing.
How to thread a mini sewing machine
Unlike conventional machines, the stitcher only works with one thread. You won’t have to worry about threading the upper and then the lower thread, using bobbins, checking the thickness of the thread, etc.
Any sewing thread is suitable for the stitcher. To fill them correctly, you need to strictly follow the instructions.
Advice! If the instructions upon purchase were in a foreign language or were written in a complex manner, remember and make a note of the location of the already threaded thread in your new model. You can easily repeat it.An example of the threading sequence for the Handy Stitch machine can be seen in the figure.
Depending on the thickness of the fabric, you should select a needle of the right size and not insert it deeply into the needle groove.
A special screw or switch can be used to adjust the length of the stitches or their shape. For example, stitching, zigzag, buttonhole stitch, etc.
This is, perhaps, all the difficulties of refueling. Next, by pressing the handle (like a stapler), you can sew together the parts of your product.
Rating of the best and inexpensive mini sewing machines
Nowadays you can find a huge number of mini sewing machines from various manufacturers in online stores. Which one to choose? Let's look further...
Zimber mini cars
Characteristics:- weight does not exceed 305g.
- maximum stitch length is 4 mm
- the model is capable of performing 8 different operations
- body made of plastic
- equipped with an electric motor that runs on AA batteries (four pieces) or a battery (500mAh). The battery is charged from the mains via an adapter. It is possible to operate the device directly from the network
- The delivery set includes 3 spools of thread, a thread threader and instructions in Russian
Handy Stitch mini machine
Characteristics:- weight - 305g.
- works with AA batteries. You need 4 of them
- complete with 3 bobbins with thread, two needles, thread puller
- body made of plastic
Mini Jaguar cars
Jaguar has long been known among customers for its lightweight, but practical and functional models of stationary sewing machines. The smallest model is the Jaguar 281.Features of the Jaguar 281 car model
- The body is made of plastic, the functional parts are metal
- Lightweight, compact model. Doesn't take up much space in the house
- Powered by an electric motor
- Adjustable stitch length from 0 to 4 mm
- Performs a simple line stitch and various types of zigzag
- The kit includes additional needles, hooks, bobbins, needles
If you do not need to take the device with you on vacation, and you plan to use it at home, then this model is “on top.”
At the moment, the Jaguar 281 mini-car is not produced, but it can be successfully bought on the used equipment market for about 4 thousand rubles.
Mini cars from aliexpress
The cheapest way to purchase a small modern sewing machine is on the Aliexpress site. The minimum price for such products starts from $2:- DIY brand cars from $2
- 2017 mini models - about 7 - 9 $
- stationary mini sewing machines Dual from $18
- embroidery machines – from $21, equipped with overlocker
Advice! Mini hand sewing machines will not replace your stationary sewing machines. They can only help you quickly repair parts, perform minor clothing repairs and bring undoubted convenience on the road. It is impossible to compare their work with the work of stationary machines; these are completely different devices.
