If you’re a beginner sewer who has just gotten their first sewing machine, you’re in for a treat. This tool opens the door to thousands of projects that are just too time-consuming or difficult to attempt by hand. That said, sewing machines have learning curves, which we’re here to help you master. Read on to learn about six mistakes beginners make with their sewing machines and how you can avoid them.
1. Setting the Wrong Thread Tension
Thread tension controls how taut the pull is between the upper thread and bobbin thread. When it’s off, you’ll see loops on the top or bottom of your fabric. Most machines have a tension dial numbered 1 through 9. For standard fabric, a setting between 4 and 5 is your starting point. Adjust from there based on your material.
2. Skipping the Machine Threading Steps
Threading a sewing machine has a specific order. Your thread has to pass through each hook, slot, and guide in sequence before it reaches the needle. If you miss a step, the tension’s off and the thread snaps constantly. So follow the numbered diagram on your machine every single time until it’s muscle memory.
3. Using the Wrong Needle for the Fabric
Needles aren’t universal. A needle made for denim will chew through lightweight cotton, and a needle meant for delicate fabric will deflect off denim. You can avoid issues by matching the needle to your project every single time.
4. Not Replacing Dull Needles
Needles dull, and a dull needle skips stitches, snags fabric, and creates uneven seams. You must change your needle every 8 to 10 hours of sewing time, or any time you notice the machine pulling rather than gliding through fabric.
5. Forgetting to Backstitch at the Start and End of Seams
Without backstitching, the thread at the beginning and end of a seam unravels the moment you put any stress on it. What you have to do is backstitch two to three stitches at the start, sew your seam, then backstitch again at the end.
6. Skipping Regular Machine Maintenance
You’ve got to stay on top of the necessary servicing frequency for your sewing machine to keep it running the way it should. Even if you’re super gentle with your machine, lint will build up in every tiny crevice, and the moving parts will eventually need tuning.
You’ve Got This
Once you know what to watch for, you can avoid these beginner sewing machine mistakes. Sewing has a learning curve, but it’s a short one when you’re working with the right information.
Check out: 5 Easy Projects You Can Sew With No Experience
