To start using a sewing machine, you need to put the needle in place. Place it in the post. Push it in and fasten tight. When it’s in place, you can start sewing.
Inserting the Bobbin and Threading
Each machine will have different procedures for putting in the threads. Follow the instructions in the manual for installing them. Threading will also vary per machine. Most will start from left, go down, up and down. Next it goes into the hook and into the needle.
In some cases the needle threads from left to right and others from front to the back. Now you can move the hand wheel. The turn should be in your direction. The spin should be one revolution.
Grasp the upper thread and move the wheel. The wheel will be on the right side. When using a sewing machine, pass the scissors in between the plate and the presser. You’ll end up with two thread ends.
Using the Machine
Turn on the sewing machine. The pedal should be plugged in. Get a piece of cloth. For beginners, start with a woven cloth. Get a couple of fabric pieces. Put their right sides together. The seam will be ½ inch at the edge. Set the pins parallel to where the seam will be.
You’ll need to use the wheel to move the needle. Put the needle at the top prior to beginning a seam. When using a sewing machine, you’ll need to position the needle up when at the seam’s end.
Choosing a Stitch and Lining the Needle
Refer to the user manual on how to choose a straight stitch. In some machines you can set them by moving the lower knob. For new seams, a straight stitch is the best option. Put the fabric below the needle. The material needs to be on the left side. The space between the fabric and stitching line is ½”.
Sewing a Fabric
Put the presser on the fabric. Grab the loose ends. When using a sewing machine, you need to grip these ends so they don’t fall back. You can let go after a few stitches. Press the pedal. The basic rule: the harder the push, the faster it will be. Use the hand wheel to spin the apparatus.
To make a curve, move the fabric with your hands. Don’t pull the materials when you’re sewing; it might break apart. To change the direction, use the reverse button. Make a few stitches in the seam’s end. Put the needle up and move the presser up. Trim the thread with a pair of scissors or click the button on the presser.
Tips
Practice using the foot pedal by using scrap clothing. Always use quality needles. Poor needles will result in poorly sewn clothes. Some machines have various forms of stitches. Try them out and see which ones best suits your needs.
This guide to using a sewing machine is applicable for most units. While products have different features, the basic procedures are the same. This makes learning much easier than you may think.
