How to Learn Sewing Machine Basics
- 1). Read the instruction manual from the sewing machine manufacturer. The manual is a great resource and a guide for the sewing machine owner. You will learn to identify the different parts of the machine and perform basic troubleshooting. The manual will also have a detailed guide for threading both the upper thread and bobbin thread, and how to change the pressor feet. You will find information on how to adjust the tension, do specialty stitches, and most models will have a guide or a table for working with different fabrics.
- 2). Check out a sewing basics book from the library or bookstore. These books are not brand-specific and will have general information on sewing machines, such as maintenance, troubleshooting and general operation. Most basic sewing books will show you how to work with different pressor feet and help you identify the principal parts of sewing machines. Special features and accessories may also be highlighted or discussed in more detail than the manufacturer's manual, such as explaining what a stitch plate is used for and showing close-up photos of different sewing methods.
- 3). Find the sewing machine manufacturer's website. Here you can find the customer service contact number, and where to take the machine for service repairs. If the sewing machine is a used one and doesn't come with a manual, the website will also be a resource for finding the manual specific to the machine you have. Machine parts for repair will generally be found either through the company's website or through customer service. Also, most sewing machine manufacturer's websites will have sewing machine basics, such as threading, sewing techniques and examples of what the sewing machine can do.
- 4). Contact a local sewing club or university extension service. The clubs will have classes, and members are glad to share their knowledge to someone new to the hobby. University extension services have free information for area residents on a wide range of topics, including home basics such as sewing. The websites for both sewing clubs and university extensions will have free guides for machine sewing basics, and where to get help if a problem comes up. Classes may or may not be free, but the hands-on learning, especially for beginners, is invaluable.
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