Learning to sew can be both fun and intimidating. Many beginning sewing enthusiasts have the desire to learn to sew, but the thought of actually sewing on a sewing machine may be a little intimidating at first. When I taught beginning sewing a few yars ago, my first piece of advice to my clients was to find a sewing machine that they really liked because they would be less likely to get frustrated with their first sewing experience.
Many beginning sewing enthusiasts also wonder which sewing machine is the right one for them. Choosing a sewing machine is a very personal choice and requires some research. Most reputable sewing machine dealers will allow you to "test drive" the sewing machines on display in the store. It is important to remember that you are purchasing the sewing machine dealer in the process of purchasing a good sewing machine. Some sewing machine dealers also provide free classes with the purchase of a sewing machine, but if they do not provide classes, there will be a manual provided with your sewing machine purchase. This manual tells you all about your particular sewing machine, and quite often, there is also a video or DVD provided as well. These are very helpful in learning how your particular sewing machine works.
There are lots of good sewing machine brands on the market today. Sewing machines also range from the no frills basic mechanical to the highest end computerized machines that have may have embroidery capabilities and other whistles and bells. If you are a beginning sewing enthusiast, you will need to decide what your particular sewing needs are before purchasing your first machine.
One of the first things that you need to know about a sewing machine is how to thread it. This information is found in your owner's manual, but threading the sewing machine itself may be fairly self explanatory. Most sewing machines have "how to thread" diagrams on the front of them. The very last thing to be threaded is the needle. Some sewing machines automatic needle threaders, which make it very easy. If your machine does not have an automatic needle threader, remember to thread the needle from front to back, and pull the thread to the back. Also, it is important to remember to thread the sewing machine with the presser foot up.
Learning to thread the bobbin is also very important. Consult your owner's manual to see if your particular sewing machine requires a certain type of bobbin. Some machines have a drop in bobbin, which is located on the throat plate of the sewing machine and usually has a clear cover. Personally, I prefer the drop in bobbin because in my opinion, it is easier to thread and also easier to see when the bobbin thread is running low.
Another type of bobbin is housed in a bobbin case, and this is usually located at the front of the sewing machine, out of sight. Many mechanical sewing machines have this type of bobbin.
After threading the sewing machine and the bobbin, it is very important to bring the bobbin thread to the top. This is easily accomplished by lowering the needle and then raising the needle again. This action brings the bobbin thread to the top and foms a loop with the top thread. Pull these threads to the back of the sewing machine.
Needle tension and bobbin tension are also important pieces of information to know about your particular sewing machine. Some high end sewing machines have automatic tension, while other sewing machines have manual tension. Consult your owner's manual for this information.
Most sewing machines today also come with a variety of presser feet, which are very helpful in allowing your sewing projects to look professional. The most basic presser foot is the regular presser foot, which may be used to sew both straight seams and zig zag stitches. Once again, this information can be found in your owner's manual.
Sewing machines all perform the same sewing functions, but there may be differences among the different brands and models of sewing machines. Finding the right sewing machine for your sewing needs and learning how to use it can make the sewing experience wonderful and fun.