How to Analyze a Sewing Machine Problem

You can analyze a sewing machine problem or malfunction, even if you have little knowledge about mechanics or the actual operation of the sewing machine.

The sewing machine is sturdy and has very few things that go wrong that the average seamstress cannot fix. Half the job is in the analysis or diagnosis of the problem, and learning to analyze and adjust a sewing machine may save you lots of money for "repairs".

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• a sewing machine
• a tiny screw driver
• a light
• an emery board
• a new needle
• directions for threading
• thread

1. Determine where the sewing machine problem seems to be by trying to sew a seam. If it is on the underside of the fabric, it may be the tension of the thread at the top. If it is on the topside of the fabric, it might be the bobbin or the mechanism on the underside. If it sounds like it is grinding, this is probably a need for sewing machine oil.

2. Locate the instruction book for the sewing machine, and put a spool of thread in place and thread the machine correctly.

3. Unplug the sewing machine and replace the needle. Oil with sewing machine oil according to instructions.

4. Gain access to the underside of the sewing machine and remove the bobbin and bobbin case. Remove other moving parts under the needle area and clean around this area to remove all lint. Sometimes an emery board is good to catch lint. Lint often causes the stitching to bunch up. Here's where you begin to analyze the sewing machine problem.

5. Put everything back and plug the sewing machine back in. Sew a seam and see how it looks. If it is too tight on the bottom, adjust the top tension according to the instruction book. If it is too tight at the top, unplug the sewing machine again. Remove the bobbin case and bobbin. Using a small screw driver, adjust the bobbin tension that is the tiny screw on the bobbin case. You are still trying to analyze a sewing machine problem and are ready for another test.

6. 
    

   Plug the sewing machine back in and try again. Once the tension is correct, the machine is oiled, the feed dogs are clean, and the needle is new there are very few things that are usually a problem.
   
   If the bobbin thread and the spool thread do not match (are not the same weight), this can create a tension problem, too, so if you still do not have it running great, wind a new bobbin and use the same spool of thread for the top.
   
   There should be little need to take a sewing machine to a shop for repairs unless the motor goes out or a cord is worn, especially if you analyze a sewing machine problem yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• We often write about consumer issues and frugal living by saving money by doing it yourself. There are more articles like this one in Resources below.
• copyright 2009 Linda Richard
• Feel free to link to this article or send it to a friend.

Resources

• Sew Washcloths from Towels
• Make a Pillow from a Man's Shirt
• Make a Pattern for a Flower Garden Quilt
• Sew Crafts from Vintage Pillowcases
• Sew a Purchased Blouse Facing for Less Ironing
• Make a Fan Quilt Pattern
• Save Money on Utility Bills in the Summer
• Save Money on Utility Bills in the Winter

[godfather25]

on 9/4/2009 Very good article on analyzing a sewing machine problem.

[sonni57]

on 9/4/2009 Thanks for the helpful advice for sewing machines.

[kristara]

on 9/4/2009 Great sewing machine info 5*