If you love crafting, then your sewing machine is definitely one of your most prized possessions. It turns your ideas to reality while helping you fix a bunch of other cloth related problems as well. We totally get you!
That is why we have compiled this short list of To-Dos to make sure that your trusted sewing machine never leaves your side.
Ways to Keep Sewing Machines Working Better Longer
- Keep it Away From Dust – Like most machines, sewing machines are damaged once dust, lint, fur gets caught in the machines interior. You must always keep your machine protected using a dust cover; most sewing machines come with one but if yours does not have one, you can always improvise using strong material. Once it is well covered, you should store the machine in a dry area at room temperature.
- Regularly Change The Needle – You should replace your old needles with new ones after every project because when used over a long period, needles lose their sharpness. This is often the reason why sewing machines skip stitches or pull on the fabric. Always use a needle that matches your fabric’s weight this will increase the machine’s accuracy.
- Always Use New Thread – This is to reduce lint build up inside your machine. Older threads tend to have a lot of lint on their surface as opposed to fresh thread that has a smooth surface. Avoid cheap thread as they often have a lot of lint on them as well. Invest in high quality thread if you plan on having your sewing machine around for a long time.
- Clean Your Sewing Machine Properly – The interior is the issue here and it is best to clean your sewing machine after every project. First of all, you should check your machine’s manual for cleaning instructions and if you find it, be sure to follow it. For lint removal, you should unplug your machine and clean the bobbin case using a soft bristled brush; another technique is to use compressed air. When doing this, you should keep the nozzle about four inches from the case so that you don’t introduce moisture to the machine.
- Keep Your Sewing Machine Well Lubricated – All sewing machines experience friction within their moving parts which causes them to slow down and even wear out faster. Oiling is the solution to this problem and you should oil your machine only after you have cleaned it thoroughly especially the bobbin case. If you fail to clean the machine first you will simply be creating grime on your machine. Another important tip is to only use good quality sewing oil to lubricate your machine.
- Regular Checks and Servicing – You should have your sewing machine serviced at least once a year. Make sure that it is serviced by a qualified professional. Servicing gives you the opportunity to identify and fix small issues before they become big problems.
If you follow these simple rules, your sewing machine will turn from a work tool to a family heirloom for you to pass on to your granddaughter one day. All the best in your sewing endeavors!