Sewing Tips

Sewing tips that will make your sewing job easier before you start using your new machine. Here are a few simple things to do to help before you start sewing, mending, or working on new creations. Sewing is easy if you take the time to learn the basic fundamentals on how to use a sewing machine.

Straight lines are not always as straight as you may like, but with a little practice you will become like a professional.  Before starting to use your sewing machine you need to familiarize yourself with the little bits and pieces on the machine.

Things to do before you start sewing

• Read the manual before you start sewing to familiarize yourself with the machine
• Oil your machine to keep it running smoothly with correct machine oil
• Make sure to thread machine as directed.
• Use a full bobbin - do not overfill as this can cause problems
• Use scrap pieces of material to practice on
• Look at the stitching on your practice material make sure stitching is even on both sides

Use these sewing tips as an important part of learning to use your machine before you start. Good sewing will result if you make sure your machine is threaded right. If not it will cause breakages of the thread. Check with your manual on threading.

You need to check tension with both the needle and the bobbin.  If this is out you will find the stitching either gathers on one side or is too loose. Adjust the tension until it is same firm stitching on both sides.

Stitch length is important and will depend on what you sew. Never use tiny stitches as they will be too hard to pull out.  For curtains and drapes it is best to us a larger stitch.  

Use correct size needles for the type of fabric.  Fine needles for lightweight or delicate materials and medium for thicker material and heavy duty needles for the heavy drape type materials or denim.

Experiment with the pressure foot until it holds the material firm enough to make a smooth stitch without excessive drag. Guide the fabric as you sew by holding behind the pressure foot with one hand and use the other hand to guide the front straight. Do not pull it through, guide and keep it smooth and flat.

All machines have a variety of attachments. Learn to use the correct ones for that type of garment. If your machine does not have the attachment you need check with your local sewing shop and tell them what brand and model of sewing machine you have.  They may be able to order it for you.

Use tape – If you are new to sewing and have trouble keeping the fabric straight. Then this tip fees is for you.  Measure out how wide your seam needs to be and place some masking tape across the machine at that point so that your fabric sits exactly at the left hand edge of that tape.

This is great for using on hems of garments or any straight seams you intend to sew.  I know the machine has guides, although if you are like me those are hard to see, the tape is more visible.

Sew at a steady pace until you are comfortable with your machine.  Remember to keep your fingers away from the needle as we would not want you to stitch your finger to the fabric.  Yes, if you sew too fast this can be painful.

Selvages – Trim the selvages from your fabric before joining the seams. Otherwise the fabric can loosen on one side and not on the other side as the selvage will keep it firm.

Hopefully these sewing tips will help the beginner to use their machine with more confidence. Start with simple smaller articles and as you learn experiment with more complicated garments and sewing.