How to Replace a Needle in a Sewing Machine

It always happens. You're on a roll. You're pushing that fabric through, pushing that pedal to the grindstone, and it happens. You hear the loud pop and feel a tiny prick against your face or arm. You've broken a needle. But there's no use crying over a broken needle They're fast and easy to replace, as long as you have some back up needles around. Nowadays, sewing machines use universal needles, which will fit just about every machine. Just consider it a hiccup on your path to a beautiful finished garment. And next time, slow down.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• New sewing machine needles
• Tiny screwdriver (optional)

1. Look for a screw or knob in the area above your sewing machine's foot, near the top of the needle. This holds the needle in place.

2. Turn the screw or knob, depending on your sewing machine. Use your hand or, if necessary, a small screwdriver.

3. Once this knob is loosened, the broken needle should fall out. Take it out, and throw it away.

4. The top of your new sewing machine needle will have a rounded side and a flat side. With the flat side pointed toward the back of the machine, insert it in the hole that held your old needle.

5. Make sure your needle is pushed up as high as it will go, and turn the knob that will hold it in place.

6. Make sure your needle is secure by giving it a little tug at the base.

7. Rethread your machine, and get back to sewing!

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid breaking needles by buying the right sewing machine needles for the fabric you're using. If using a thick fabric, find needles specifically for thick fabrics.
• Always keep a pair of spare sewing machine needles around. Even with the most care, needles will break.

Resources

• Sewing machine needles guide
• Preventative sewing machine maintenance