Inspecting Sewing Machine Threading And Stitching Failure
Modern sewing machines are high capacity, intricate systems that may do a lot of damage to a sewing project if not working properly. Alignment issues, poor needle management and threading failure can be repaired by keeping a close eye on your sewing machine with regular, familiar inspections and troubleshooting based on how the failure occurred. Consider a few inspection and maintenance tips to keep your sewing machine up to par while repairing the most troublesome failures as necessary.
Thread Path Inspection And Troubleshooting
The thread path is fairly simple to follow, but can fail in a few hard to reach places. From the spool pin to the thread take-up, your first danger area comes in the form of tangles and binding.
Inside and around the thread take-up is a guide system that keeps your thread in place. It keeps tension based on your sewing machine's tension regulator (which may be automatic in some machines for specific stitches) and should be able to keep multiple threads from tangling with each other.
Unfortunately, even a single thread can tangle. Damaged thread or poor quality, multi-fiber thread can begin to break apart just enough to create knots and bulges in and around the thread take-up. If you're running into this problem, there may be other issues for better quality thread.
Breaking or unraveling thread may leave behind residue that sticks inside the thread take-up, and may attach itself to other threads. This may slow down later threads and lead to snaps or snags.
Consult your sewing machine's owner's manual for the proper way to open the thread take-up. There is usually a lid or cover that can be opened, but some machines may have a more difficult, specific path of opening.
Clean Thread Fibers From The Failure Area
Clean the inside of the sewing machine with electronics-safe cleaners or window cleaner. Avoid cleaner that may leave behind a residue, such as scented floor cleaners or wax-based cleaners, as the inside may allow more thread fibers and dust to collect and clog the system.
You'll need to check the needle area as well. After a break, the needle, presser foot and feed dogs may become dirty and may cause threads to snag during future sewing. A dirty needle system can ruin intricate stitch patterns, lengths and widths, even if your sewing machine is computerized.
If the needle and presser parts are especially dirty, rusty or coming apart, it's best to replace them. Look for a more durable, rust-resistant material such as stainless steel or brass. For assistance with finding the right sewing machine parts or maintenance, professionals with experience in repairing sewing machines are ready to help.
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