How to Thread a Zig Zag Sewing Machine
Zig zag stitches are a popular option with tailors and seamstresses for hemming, seaming and seam finishing because they provide a flexible but strong stitch that can stretch without breaking. A zig zag stitch is shaped like a lightning bolt or a sawtooth wave: one stitch to the left and one stitch to the right. Modern sewing machines allow you to use a variety of stitch options, zig zag being one of them. Older machines were built for a single stitch type and zig zag sewing machines required a specific threading technique.
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Instructions
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Older Sewing Machine Models
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1
Fix a zigzag presser foot to the sewing machine. You need a presser foot with a wide slot that allows the needle to move from one side to another. Older models may only come with a zig zag stitch option and will have a zig zag presser foot permanently installed.
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2
Turn the hand wheel toward you to raise the take-up lever. Turn the wheel until the lever is at its highest point.
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3
Fix a spool of thread on the upper spool pin and set the thread through the main thread guide. Spin the thread around the tension discs from right to left and introduce into the check spring over the discs.
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4
Insert the thread under the bar and up into the take-up lever from right to left and into the second thread guide on the face plate. Slip the thread through the needle bar thread guide and into the needle allowing for three or four inches of thread to go through.
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5
Hold the end of the thread and turn the hand wheel until the needle drops to the face plate and returns. Place both thread ends under the presser foot and pull toward the back of the sewing machine.
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Tips & Warnings
You can adjust the length and width of the zig zag stitch to modify the look of the stitch.
You may need to use a stabilizer or backing underneath lightweight fabrics to stop it from tunneling.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit red zigzag image by Adrian Hillman from Fotolia.com
