Sewing machines are pretty basic, no matter what the brand. Even top of the line computerized models still share the basics of non-computerized models. Don't waste time and money for repairs until thoroughly checking everything possible. In the rare event the machine does need service, you'll at least know you didn't take it in for something as simple as the needle being put in the wrong way.
Sewing Machine Needles
Needles, which have one flat side, are often the cause of poor stitching, or no stitching. Check that the needle is in the proper position, the flat side will always be turned to the same position. On some machines, the flat side should be at the back or front, on other machines, the flat of the needle should be to the left or right. It's so easy to put the needle in the wrong position.
Make sure the needle in the machine is the proper type and size for the project. There are two types of needles, regular and ball point. Regular point needles will skip and sew poorly in knit fabric. The tops of the needles are usually color coded to identify the type of needle it is. Using needles too small for the project can result in the needle bending ever so slightly, causing poor stitching. Check and change needles frequently, especially if you sew a large variety of fabrics, or quilt with the machine. A dull needle, or one with a damaged point from hitting a pin can be the problem.
Thread a Sewing Machine
If the needle checks out, remove the bobbin and the top thread and start again. It's easy to miss a step when threading, and the best way to be sure it's right, is to do it again. If the top thread will not come out, it is probably tangled around the arm. This can happen when the thread breaks and jerks back. Many new sewing machines have covers over the arm. The cover can usually be removed, and the tangle cleared.
NOTE: it is not advisable to open any of the covers on a sewing machine still under warranty, doing so can void the warranty. If the warranty has expired, it's a very simple repair, and while the cover is off, it's also a good idea to gently remove any dust that's accumulated, being careful not to disturb any wires or the computer chip.
Check the thread weight. Hand quilting thread and upholstery weight threads are usually too heavy to work well in a home sewing machine. Sometimes it's easy to pick up the wrong weight when buying thread.
Thread Tension and Feed Dog Positions
If you sew a variety of types of projects, the upper thread tension may need to be readjusted from the previous project. Try different tension adjustments. Some machines also have adjustable feed dogs, or adjustable presser foot pressure. If the presser foot pressure has been reduced for quilting, or the feed dogs have been lowered, the machine will need to be reset for conventional sewing.
Sewing Machine Bobbins
This is where most of the lint from sewing accumulates. Reduce lint build up by using high quality thread. This is the most accessible area of the machine, so it can be thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis. A clean bobbin area is essential to keeping the machine running smoothly.
The bobbin sits in the bobbin case. The bobbin case can also be removed for cleaning. When replacing the bobbin case, make sure it is seated properly. This is sometimes trickier than it seems, it may look right, but still not be moving properly. If the top thread just turns into a big knot that jams into the bobbin area, and the fabric won't move, it's a good bet that the bobbin case needs to be taken out and put back in so that it moves correctly.
Know what to look for, and learn how to find it on your machine. Patience, care, and removing a screw or 2 to reach problem areas will keep your machine sewing along without costly repairs for minor mishaps.
Corinne Shibley - Corinne Shibley studied sculpture in art history and created her own sculpture on the way to a B.A. in Studio Art. "There's something ...
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