Frequently Asked Questions

No matter whether your sewing machines costs $200 or $1,000, most of us have questions that require answering, therefore let’s look at a few commonly asked questions:


Q: Why does my machine grab my fabric from underneath, leaving trails of thread?

A: Unfortunately this is probably your fault. The fabric may have slipped out of the guide. If you thread your sewing machine with the foot down, this can easily happen. To correct this simply start from scratch and re-thread your sewing machine.


Q: Which pressure foot should I use?

A: Each sewing machine is different and the foot varieties are snap-on, screw-on, or clip-on. The zig-zag foot is generally the more common one to use. This foot is often labeled as “A” or “0.” The zig-zag Foot is the one that has a flat surface which keeps the fabric flat and straight after each stitch. A pressure foot helps to feed your fabric evenly. Other Foot pedals, include the following:

>> Zipper – lets you stitch close to the zipper coils.

>> Buttonhole – creates uniform buttonholes on your garments.

>> Blind Hem – provides a nearly invisible hem.

>> Overlock – results in a professionally looking seam edge.


Q: How long does a sewing machine needle last?

A: Another popular question is how long a needle lasts. This depends on how often you use it of course but most needles should be replaced every five hours.


Q: Can I use a generic bobbin?

A: No, no, no. Each sewing machine has specially designed parts and a bobbin is one of them. Only use bobbins that accompany your sewing machine.


Q: How do I clean and lubricate my sewing machine?

A: It’s best to have a look at your manual first and follow its directions. With any sewing machine, you will clean out tiny thread fibers and fabric dust. Your generic cleaning and oiling tools will include a stiff brush, machine oil, a soft lint-free cloth and perhaps a pair of tweezers. For generic sewing machines, meaning a machine without a lot of bells and whistles, you will likely clean and oil areas of the sewing machine that includes the plates, bobbin cases and the presser feet,.


Q: Can I use metallic thread?

A: Yes, you can use metallic thread in your sewing machine, but a few tips are required, such as using a thinner metallic thread spool, use a metallic thread needle, and lower the tension on your machine to give your metallic thread more leeway.


Q: Is my sewing machine a “Top Loading” or “Front Loading” model?

A: If the bobbin is inserted horizontally above, then you have a Top Loading sewing machine. If your bobbin is to be inserted vertically from the front, then your sewing machine is a Front Loading model.


Q: What can you tell me about the different types of sewing machine needles?

A: This completely depends on the type of fabric you are using.

>> Regular : best used for cotton, linen, synthetic suede, and other fine fabrics. Those needles are thin and available in varying sizes starting from size 9 for delicate fabrics to size 18 for heavier fabrics.

>> Universal : this type has a slightly rounded point and is more commonly used. This type of needle is generally the needle that comes with your sewing machine. It is available in many different sizes and the more common sizes are 14/90 and an 11/75.

>> Ball Point : the Ball Point is best used on interlocking, coarse and stretchy style fabrics. They have a rounded point. The needles are available in the sizes 9 to 16.

>> Embroidery : the sewing machine embroidery needles are easily recognizable with their large eyes which is an indication that they are used for thicker fabrics.

>> Quilting : quilting needles are also called “Betweens.” They have a defined tapered point which helps you stitch through layers of fabrics. The quilting needles are small in size and have a small eye, but they are very sturdy and are available in the sizes 9, 10, 11, and 12.

>> Topstitching : topstitching needles are used when your thread is thicker, thus it has a larger eye and deeper groove.

>> Wedge Point : wedge point needles are purposely used for leather and vinyl stitching. The needles have a wedge shape design. They are available in different sizes from 11 to 18, depending on the softness and pliability of your leather and vinyl fabrics.


Q: What do I do when the thread breaks?

A: If you can see the thread, just pull it out from the needle. However, if you can’t see the thread, you must remove the service cover and pull the remnant thread out carefully using tweezers. Remember to refer to your “troubleshooting” section of your user manual.


Q: How do I adjust the thread tension?

A. Whew! Adjusting your thread tension is going to be a challenge. Locate the tension gauge on your sewing machine. The gauge in your manual may be referred to as a knob or a button. Most generic sewing machines have a “lockstitch,” which means that you have an upper and a lower thread that fit together. If these thread joints don’t fit together correctly, the tension will be lessened. When these joints are not properly aligned on the bottom or the top of your sewing surface, then it is time to adjust your tension.

What is the best sewing machine to buy?

The best sewing machine depends on a number of factors. Among those factors is your intended use, the type of fabric you are using, and the designs you intend to make. Generally, a good sewing machine should deliver power, user convenience and a large variety of stitches. These are the most fundamental aspects of an effective sewing machine.

What is the best quilting sewing machine under $400, $500 and $1000

A great quilting sewing machine should offer you a wide stitch variety and a good stitching speed. The Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 is a great quilting sewing machine under $400. The Brother HC1850 Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine is also an amazing machine under $500. The JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine is an incredible machine for under $1000.

What is the best heavy duty sewing machine under 200

Heavy-duty sewing machines are meant to handle huge workloads and high-intensity use. They are designed to be powerful and durable. The Singer 4452 Heavy Duty Sewing Machine is one such machine. It is a great heavy-duty sewing machine for under $200.

What is the best embroidery machine under $1000, $1500 and $2000

Embroidery sewing machines are used for decorative purposes. They are a very crucial part of any clothing design. The award-winning Brother SE400 is a very impressive embroidery machine under $1000. The Janome MC-6300P Professional is an incredible embroidery machine for under $1500. The Brother LB6800PRW Project Runway is the best embroidery machine under $2000.

What is the best beginner sewing machine under $100

Beginner sewing machines should be easy to operate. They should also have all the basic features of a sewing machine. The machines are designed to help the learner grasp all the aspects of sewing. Among some of the best beginner sewing machines, is the Singer | 7258. It is the best beginner sewing machine under $100.

What is the best Janome sewing machine under $300 and $500

Janome is one of the most popular brands of sewing machines. It is renowned for its strong and powerful sewing machines. The Janome Magnolia 7318 Sewing Machine is one of their masterpieces. It is the best Janome sewing machine for under $300. The Janome 8077 Computerized Sewing Machine is yet another incredible offering under $500 from Janome.

What is the best mechanical sewing machine under 200

Mechanical sewing machines are still widely used. They have simple settings protocols, and they allow you to set up the stitches the way you want them. Among the most impressive mechanical sewing machines is the Janome 2212 Sewing Machine. It is the best mechanical sewing machine under 200.

What is the best heavy duty sewing machine for home use?

The best heavy-duty sewing machine for home use should offer ample user convenience and have a wide variety of stitches. Home use mainly involves repairs. Repairs are likely to be on different cloth designs. You, therefore need the machine to be versatile. Among the best heavy duty sewing machine for home use is the Janome Computerized Sewing Machine DC2013.

What is the best sewing machine for a beginner?

The best sewing machine for a beginner should allow them to learn sewing at their own pace. The machine should come with all the basic features of a sewing machine. It should have easy to use controls too. The Brother XR9500PRW Project Runway is one of the best sewing machines for beginners.

What is the best sewing machine for making clothes?

Making clothes requires an all-round sewing machine. It requires a sewing machine that has a bit of everything. A complete clothing design will require quilting, embroidery and all the other aspects of sewing. One such machine is the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 sewing machine.

What is the best Janome Sewing Machine?

Janome produces one of the most impressive sewing machines in the market. Among their most impressive sewing machines is the Janome 8077 Computerized Sewing Machine. Janome sewing machines are recognized for their power, user convenience, and durability. Many of Janome’s sewing machines are great for industrial use.

What type of sewing machine to buy?

The type of sewing machine you buy depends on how you intend to use the machine. For instance, serger machines are used to work on seams and fabric edges. You consider the kind of clothing designs you want to make and the type of fabric you will be using, before settling on any type of sewing machine.

Which Usha sewing machine is best for home use?

Usha is yet another impressive brand of sewing machines. Usha produces some impressive sewing and embroidery machines. The Usha Dream Stitch Sewing Machine is one of the best Usha sewing machines for home use. It delivers ample user convenience and it powerful. It is one of the best sewing machines from Usha.

What is the best industrial sewing machine for home use?

Industrial sewing machines are always powerful and have high stitching speed. It does not hurt to have these kinds of sewing machines at home either. One of the best industrial sewing machines to have at home is the JUKI TL-2000Qi Sewing and Quilting Machine. It delivers one of the best performances you can ever get.

What is the best sewing machine for denim?

Denim is a tough material. It requires an equally tough sewing machine. Trying to sew denim using a less powerful machine will be a headache, and you could easily end up destring the material of the machine. One of the best sewing machines for denim is the SINGER 7469Q sewing machine.

What is the best sewing machine for leather?

Leather is yet another strong material. It is not very easy to pierce through leather. Leather requires a powerful sewing machine. Among the best sewing machines for leather is the Sailrite Heavy-Duty Ultrafeed LSZ-1 BASIC Walking Foot Sewing Machine. Leather sewing machines are made to be powerful and durable.

Which sewing machine is best for heavy fabrics?

Heavy Fabric requires a powerful sewing machine. It requires a machine that can pierce through it with ease. Power, speed, and build are some of the aspects you consider while choosing a sewing machine to use on heavy fabric. One of the best sewing machines for heavy fabric is the Singer Tradition 2259 Portable Sewing Machine.

Which is the best mini sewing machine?

Mini sewing machines are great for learners. They are great for light home use too. Mini sewing machines are also, most of the times portable, and hence very convenient. One of the best mini sewing machines is the Singer | 7258. Despite its miniature looks, it delivers a very impressive performance.

What is a serger sewing machine used for?

A serger sewing machine is used to work on fabric edges. It is used to create strong seams on the edge of the fabric. It rolls the fabric into a seam and encloses the seam in thread in one step. Seger machines create perfect and strong seams. Creating such seams with a conventional sewing machine would be a headache.

How is a serger different from a sewing machine?

A serger machine comes with a piping foot, a gathering foot, and a blind hem stitch foot. They are used to combine different stitch patterns at a go, in order to enclose the seams tightly. A sewing machine only comes with a guiding foot and does one stitch after the other.

What is a serger used for?

A serger machine is used to create strong seams on the edge of a piece of fabric. It rolls the fabric into a seam and tightly encloses the seam in thread. It combines several stitch patterns to create a strong enclosure. The edges of the fabric need to be in strong seams to ensure the joints created during quilting are strong too.

What is the free arm of a sewing machine?

Free arm stitching involves being able to access the area under the needle without obstruction. The part of the sewing machine above the needle plate may be a nuisance while stitching cuffs, thick seams, and collars. A free arm feature allows the needle plate and the needle to extend away from the other parts of the machine and allows you more room to maneuver.

Where is the Janome Sewing Machine made?

Janome sewing machines are made in Japan. Janome is a Japanese company that specializes in making sewing machine. Sewing has its roots in Japan. Japan is renowned for its superior sewing technology. They have been production sewing machines and sewing solutions for ages. Janome produces some of the best sewing machines in the market.

How can you keep the thread from pulling out or tangling in the bobbin on a sewing machine?

Thread tangling on the bobbin causes bobbin jamming most of the times. The best way to avoid tangling is to ensure the thread is evenly and smoothly wound on the bobbin. You can get a machine with an automatic bobbin winding system and avoid such problems. Tangling can lead to think you have a faulty sewing machine, though it can easily be avoided.

Where is the Juki sewing machine made?

Juki is yet another Japanese brand of sewing machine. It is one of the best sewing machine brands. Juki sewing machines are powerful and durable. The form part of the best sewing machines on the market. The machines come with the best of Japanese sewing technology. Japan is renowned across the world for its prowess in matters sewing and sewing machines.

What is a semi industrial sewing machine?

A semi-industrial sewing machine is a machine that can be used for commercial purposes, and still be used at home. Some sewing machines are too complex and can only be used on large scale industrial productions. A semi industrial sewing machine strikes a balance between the two. It is a high-performance machine that is not too complex.

What is a lock stitch sewing machine?

A lock stitch sewing machine delivers a stitch pattern that locks the cloth between two threads. The threads pass over each other and lock the cloth in the middle. Lock stitch sewing machines are the most common types of sewing machines. The Lock stitch is the most used stitch pattern in sewing.

What stitch length should I use?

The stitch length you should use depends on the design you are making. It depends on what you seek to achieve. Long stitches are weak while short stitches are strong but make it difficult to straighten the fabric. A medium length stitch is recommended 5-7mm is the commonly used range.

What is the blanket stitch?

A blanket stitch is a hand-made stitch that is used to complete the edges of a sewing project. It can be put as a decorative stitch or to firm up the edges. It involves a stitch pattern where there is a thread running across the edge and equally space round stitches over it all across the fabric edge.

What is the best serger sewing machine to buy?

A Serger machine is a necessity for any professional tailor. They help finish you clothing designs with a professional touch. Among the best serger machines is the Janome 8002D Serger. The machine has a great stitch capacity and an impressive stitching speed. It boasts of a strong and durable construction too. All these are hallmarks of a great serger machine.

How much is a serger sewing machine?

Seger machines differ in prices. The prices depend on the features of the machine, the brand and where you purchase it. It is always advisable not to compromise on the quality of the machine for the price. You do not want a machine that breaks down after using it for a short while. Exploring various reviews and reading customer reviews will guide you to where you can get the best serger machine for the money you are willing to spend

Which brand of sewing machine is best?

There are many brands of sewing machines. They come with different features and performances. Comparing the sewing machines based on brand is not the best approach while choosing a sewing machine. That being said, the best brands include Brother, Janome, Singer, and Juki sewing machines. These machines are renowned worldwide for their superior performance and durability.

What is a Juki sewing machine?

Juki sewing machines are made by the Juki company from Japan. It is one of the biggest producers of sewing machines in the world. Juki sewing machines are powerful and durable. They come with some of the best features you will ever find on a sewing machine. These sewing machines deliver very robust performances. They are recognized worldwide.

Can you use a serger for regular sewing?

A serger machine cannot be used as a regular machine. A serger machine is essential and will be the most used machine if you are sewing with woven fabric. However, you will still require a regular sewing machine to sew, the seams first. It is impossible to finish a full clothing design using a serger machine only.

Can a serger replace a sewing machine?

A serger machine cannot replace s sewing machine. You can handle a better part of some project with a serger machine only, but you cannot 100% complete any project with a serger machine only. You will need a sewing machine for facings, buttonholes, and zippers. Serger machines are still very essential for many projects. They ensure your project is completed with a professional touch.

What is a serger cover stitch?

A cover stitch machine is more like a serger machine but without the blade. Cover stitch machines are essential for sewing knit hems and chain stitching. Cover stitch can use a couple of threads at a go, to sew the hems. Cover stitch machines deliver professional looking hems and are a necessity in any professional sewing endeavor.

What is a singer serger used for?

A singer serger is a brand of a serger machine. It delivers the normal functions of a serger machine. The singer is a brand of sewing machines. It produces serger machines too. The singer serger machines are some of the most effective. Serger machines are used to roll hems and enclose them in stitch. They make the process, which would otherwise be tedious, very easy.

What is an embroidery sewing machine?

An embroidery sewing machine is used to create patterns on a piece of cloth. The patterns could be images or letters. An embroidery machine is normally used when branding clothes. They are commonly used for decorative purposes too. Most of the clothing designs will almost be identical upon completion. Embroidery ensures that the final designs stand out by including various decorative patterns.

How much would a singer sewing machine be worth?

There are many types of singer sewing machines. Their prices differ widely. The prices of the machines depend on the features of the machine. The prices of singer sewing machines range from $100 to $2000. The exact price depends on the quality and deliverables of the machine. Singer sewing machines are generally of top quality. Singer is one of the most renowned brands of sewing machines.

How much would it cost to ship a sewing machine?

The cost of shipping a sewing machine depends on where it is being shipped from and to.  The shipping also depends on the value of the sewing machine. Normally, the shipping cost will not go above $200 regardless of where you are. If you are close to where the sewing machine is to be shipped from, it might be a lot cheaper.

What are the top 5 sewing machine brands?

There are very many brands of sewing machines. The top 5 brands are Juki, Brother, Janome, Bernina, and Singer in no particular order. These machines have been in production for a long time. The manufacturing companies have invested a lot of resource and time in constant improvements of their products. They are the industry leaders as far as sewing machines are concerned.

What are the types of sewing machine?

There are different types of sewing machines. Sewing is a general term. Normally the term sewing machine is used to refer to a quilting machine. A sewing machine can also be a serger machine, an embroidery machine or a cover stitch machine. All these machines are designed for different purposes. You choose the type depending on your intended use.

What is an industrial sewing machine?

An industrial sewing machine is a sewing machine used for large scale clothing production. It is used in industries. Industrial sewing machines are normally complex and very powerful. They are used to handle huge workloads and intense applications. Many industrial sewing machines are computerized to enhance productivity.

Where to buy a sewing machine?

Sewing machines are up for sale in many places. You can find them in general purpose stores or hypermarkets. They are also readily available on various online platforms. Amazon is one of the best places to buy from. On Amazon, you get to read the reviews of other people who have used the product before and get a better understanding of the product.

Why is my sewing machine skipping stitches?

Most of the times, a sewing machine skipping stitches is an indication of a bent needle. You may not be able to tell a needle is bent through your bare eyes. Changing the needle will in most cases solve the problem. The needle could be short too. It could not be reaching deep enough into the fabric to tie the knot. If changing the needle does not solve the issue, it could be deep rooted, and you may need a technician to look into it. It is common for people to confuse a long stitch with a skipped stitch too.

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