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How to choose a sewing machine: we understand all the intricacies! How to learn to sew on a sewing machine Sewing machine for home how to choose

Preparations

Do you often have to go to the studio for small things or do you have a desire to work as a seamstress at home? It's time to choose a sewing machine that will meet all the requirements. The article will talk about the main types and parameters of household models.

An unmistakably selected machine will save strength and nerves for a novice craftswoman. First you need to decide for what purpose the device is bought. For small repairs and full-fledged sewing of clothes, you will need different types of sewing machines.

Despite its considerable age, this type is often used in home sewing. Mechanical machines are easy to operate, there is no need to delve into the instructions. Due to the simplicity of the device, they rarely need to be repaired. There are no problems with the setting. The manual drive is suitable for all kinds of fabrics, even jeans and leather.

It is easy to master the basic principles of sewing on Singer and Podolsk machines. They perform only a few operations, including decorative stitches. Stitch options are displayed on the panel. There is no difficulty in adjusting the thread tension, stitch length and width. The only drawback is the lack of parts in the workshops. Will have to advertise to buy a used spare part.


Modern modification with electric drive. The control in the device is carried out manually, using a switch. Unlike mechanical machines, they have a lightweight body. The kit includes additional accessories: presser feet, spare bobbins, spool pin and a set of needles.

There are two types of shuttles according to their purpose: vertical and horizontal. In not expensive models set to the first type. During operation, it vibrates, the stitch width is limited, and the needle moves slowly through the fabric. The horizontal shuttle does not tangle the threads, the machine itself does not resonate. In the model with horizontal shuttle Built-in wide window through which you can see how much thread is left on the bobbin.

Electric machines are affordable, but not designed for daily use. They are indispensable for small jobs and mending clothes.


This type is suitable for professional sewing. They have a computer with a microprocessor, all commands are displayed on the screen. The machine copes with all fabrics, including velveteen and guipure. The stitch width and length can be adjusted with the key. On average, such models perform up to 60 lines. The screen shows how the line will look on the canvas.

In terms of control, electronic models differ little from the rest. They have a pedal, a lift lever, a bobbin winder. The device independently controls all processes, so sewing on it is of high quality. Electronic models of sewing machines will save time and give impetus to creative ideas. They are indispensable if the hostess decided to sew to order all day long.


A machine that processes the edges of fabrics with a loose weave. The seam is neat and reliable. Most models are equipped with knives that remove excess stock. This feature saves the sewing time.

There is no shuttle in this design. Its work is performed by special loopers. Threading can be difficult at first. On the panel of the machine there are recommendations on how to properly install the threads.


The most complex technique for the home, which creates masterpieces. Using a computer program, you can decorate the fabric in various embroidery techniques. Files are loaded first, selected right size hoop. Thread the desired colors into the machine. The embroidery process does not require human control.

For beginners who want to decorate clothes original design, a small household machine is suitable. The diagonal of the monitor affects the price-quality ratio. In the simplest models, the monochrome display shows the numbers of the color being embroidered. Expensive devices are equipped with a high-resolution color monitor.


Industrial equipment has acquired household modifications. An indispensable tool in the processing of elastic fabrics. The stitch, made in a special way, prevents additional stretching of the material. Ideal for knitwear, stretch and polyester. The machine performs several options for stitches, but it does it with high quality.


What are the criteria for choosing a sewing machine for the home

Each device is good in its own way. There is no clear answer which equipment is better: both mechanical and modern sewing machines have proven themselves well. When buying, you need to rely on several factors.

Number of lines

It is difficult to imagine a model without basic set various lines. Beginners will need:

  • straight line;
  • zigzag;
  • line for an invisible hem;
  • edge line.

Computerized typewriters contain wide set operations. They are able to embroider festoons, ornaments and openwork patterns.

Fabric foot pressure regulator

The pressure on the thin canvas should be stronger. To work with thick material, you need a model with an adjustable foot to facilitate the passage of thickening. In inexpensive sewing machines, the pressure is adjusted using a regulator. Expensive models are equipped with a pressure gain control system.

Thread tension

The upper thread tension is controlled by a special regulator, which is located on the front panel of the machine. The bobbin thread is controlled by the trimmer screw on the hook. If both devices function correctly, then the threads will not intertwine either in the fabric or on its surface. Electronic machines are equipped with a device that adjusts the tension depending on the type of fabric.

loops

If you need a machine for sewing clothes, then you should not save. For the manufacture of loops, it is better to choose a model with automatic mode. It comes with a special foot. The machine will automatically make a loop and perform a bartack. Budget models carry out the task in manual or semi-automatic mode. This is not to say that such functions are inconvenient: at any time you can stop sewing and adjust the fabric manually.

Additional Criteria

To select a sewing machine for home use secondary factors should be taken into account:

  1. Company manufacturer. Well-known brands should be preferred. In addition to high-quality goods, a person gets the opportunity to repair the machine in the event of a breakdown. Service centers of well-known companies are located in every city.
  2. Stitch length. Decorative stitches will be more expressive if the stitch length is 6 mm or more. The longer the stitch length, the denser the fabric can be machined.
  3. The weight. The electromechanical machine is most often made of durable plastic. Parts wear out quickly. The weight of a quality device is achieved due to metal parts.
  4. Appearance. Even in the budget segment, it is easy to find a model with an original pattern on the panel. But you can't get emotional. You can give preference to beauty after clarifying the technical parameters.

Rating of the best inexpensive sewing machines

European manufacturers are considered leaders in the production of machines. Firms from the Asian region do not lag behind them. New models enter the market with enviable regularity, there is always plenty to choose from. How much does such household appliances cost? Prices range from five to fifteen thousand.

The electromechanical machine of the Japanese company has won a lot positive feedback among newcomers. It is designed to work with fabrics of various densities. detailed instructions will tell you which needle and thread thickness is better to choose. The horizontal shuttle runs smoothly without causing any vibration during operation.

The stitch length is 4 mm. The number of operations is 14, this number is enough for repair and tailoring. The function of semi-automatic overcasting of loops is built in, there is lighting. The standard package includes three types of legs and bobbins, a set of needles, a pedal and a screwdriver.

An excellent choice for beginners mastering stitches, backtacks and zigzags. The case is made of white plastic, there is a blue insert. There is a compartment for accessories. The internal parts are made of plastic, which lightens the weight of the structure.

The machine is distinguished from others by a simple appearance. It is equipped with a minimum set of lines. Low speed - what you need for beginners. It is based on an electromechanical device. The internal parts are made of metal. The machine is equipped with a vertical shuttle.

The kit includes five types of paws, needles, bobbins and a knife for ripping seams. The right combination of needle and presser foot can sew through any fabric. You can sew hidden and elastic stitches. The loop is made automatically. The maximum stitch length is 4 mm. The zigzag finishes the edges exactly like an overlocker. In the basic configuration there is a hidden compartment for storing small sewing devices.

The Swedish-made electromechanical machine is easy to operate. It can perform 14 different operations. On the front panel there are knobs and wheels with which the thread tension and stitch length are adjusted. Strict design, reliability and a minimum of operations are perfect for household sewing.

For convenience, there is a marking of the working surface. The motor performs 860 stitches per minute. The machine sweeps loops in semi-automatic mode. The stitch width is 5 mm. Pressing a button is all it takes to change the presser foot. You can forget about scissors, because the thread cutter is built in. The kit includes a threader. The pedal controls the speed well. The engine runs almost silently.

The best sewing machine in the budget segment. The company has been famous for its products for several centuries. The body of the new model is made in gray color. Metal parts dampen vibration from operation. Electromechanical control is characterized by high power. For an economy-class device, the machine has many operations, there are 32 in total. The maximum stitch length is 4 mm.

The loop is sewn automatically. The design of the foot will not allow the fabric to shift. The needle threader will take care of the health of the eyes. The metal construction and durable needles will cope even with dense material. The horizontal shuttle ensures quiet operation. A transparent window allows you to control the amount of thread on the bobbin. The machine sews 1100 stitches per minute, which is much more than other models. A screwdriver for the foot is no longer needed: the replacement is done with the help of a button. Soft protective case included.

Inexpensive electromechanical machine with a vertical shuttle. Entirely made of metal parts. In addition to a large set of operations, there are a lot of useful devices: a thread tension regulator, zipper and button sewing feet and a threader. You can sew 23 different stitches, including overlock and blind stitches. There is a convenient reverse key.

Power allows you to stitch denim. With a maximum stitch length of 4 mm, the stitches are very neat. The machine sews loops in automatic mode. There is a convenient carrying handle. The kit includes a cover.

The case is made in bright color scheme. The machine performs 10 most necessary operations. Suitable for simple tasks. The electromechanical control makes almost no noise. The maximum stitch length is 4.5 mm. The motor provides good sewing speed. The shuttle is vertical. High presser foot lift for heavy fabrics. You can sew on zippers and buttons. The rubberized handle makes it easy to work. The machine is indispensable for repairing clothes and making buttonholes.

An electromechanical machine with a bright design will fit into any interior. An excellent choice for young craftswomen.14 sewing operations will cope with the processing of whimsical fabrics. It is based on a vertical shuttle. Elna performs overlock work, suitable for processing stretch fabrics. The machine has a built-in thread tension regulator. You can adjust the stitch length and width. The machine sews 600 stitches per minute. The loop is sewn in semi-automatic mode. The kit includes a foot for sewing in a zipper.

An electromechanical model with great potential. Its technical data is able to compete with industrial machines. TOYOTA carries out 34 types of lines, including decorative ones. Loops are made in semi-automatic mode. The presser foot pressure regulator allows you to work with rough fabrics. The machine does not heat up and does not make loud noises. The kit includes a threader.

Good sewing machine for home. A simple electromechanical model with a minimum of sewing operations. Suitable for processing and repairing clothes. Takes up little space. The linen loop is typed in the semi-automatic mode. Rocking shuttle. The speed of the mode is controlled by the pedal. The quilting foot will help you create layered items. The built-in light bulb illuminates the entire sewing area. Convenient keys quickly adjust the lines.

The overlock function sweeps over the edges of loose fabrics. A special platform will help to sew cuffs, sleeves and legs. It is possible to sew with a double needle. The body and parts are made of metal. The machine is moved with a handle. The kit includes a cover.

Conclusion

Modern sewing machines are a tool for creativity. They allow you to sew and decorate clothes, decorate the house with paintings from fabric and ribbons. Even beginners will get even seams. The machine is indispensable for mothers: children quickly wear out things.

What should I pay attention to when buying a household sewing machine? The range of equipment is not small, you should decide for what needs it will be needed. At first, you should not buy an expensive model. This does not mean that you need to buy the cheapest machine. She is not able to perform some operations qualitatively. In the store, you need to look closely at the power of the motor, the minimum set of lines and the quality of the case.

Name
controlelectromechanicalelectromechanicalelectromechanicalelectromechanicalelectromechanicalelectromechanical
shuttlehorizontalswingingrotary horizontalswingingswingingswinging
number of operations17 8 32 23 10 10
Stitcheshidden, elasticovercasting,hidden, elastic, elastic hiddenhidden, elastic, elastic hiddenoverlock, blind, elastic, elastic blind
Pricefrom 4950 rub.from 7400 rub.from 10850 rub.from 5900 rub.from 5400 rub.from 6050 rub.
Where can I buy

When I was just starting to take my first steps in tailoring, my mother's Soviet "Seagull" became my first sewing machine. If anyone caught this time, probably remembers such models. Their main difference from today's household sewing machines is that they worked from a foot pedal. It was on the "Seagull" that I sewed my first dress, and from experience I can say that she sewed well, even now she is in working condition.

Later I had to sew not only on domestic, but also on industrial equipment. I also sat down for various models of sewing machines from different manufacturers. And I have developed my own opinion on working on different techniques.

Unlike those times, today for "dummies" in stores there is an abundance of choice of sewing equipment. How to choose a good sewing machine for beginners from everything will be my article today. In fact, this is the most popular question among my students, so get ready for a very detailed article)

Today's sewing assistants have long been electric. And they are divided into electromechanical and electronic (computer). What kind of sewing machine to buy, start from your financial capabilities. But both have similar signs that I first of all advise you to pay attention to:

The machine should not immediately tear from its place, but make the line smoothly. The pedal of the sewing machine should be sensitive, respond to a light touch. Or there must be a speed controller.

The sewing machine should not make a stitch that would tighten the fabric. This applies to delicate fabrics. When buying, be sure to make a few test stitches on pieces of fabric. Also see how the machine makes stitches on different fabrics:

  • on the lungs - chiffon, silk, organza
  • on medium and heavy - coat fabric, denim, linen, cotton, leather
  • on elastic - knitwear, stretch.

If you have the opportunity to test it in action before buying a sewing machine, I advise you to conduct a small experiment. Let the machine sew itself without your help and participation. Place a piece of fabric under the presser foot and watch it sew a straight stitch at a presser foot width from the edge of the fabric. To see it better, take the threads not to match the fabric, but in contrast.

On the example of such an experiment, you will immediately see what the line turned out to be. Namely, whether it goes to one of the sides, whether it goes at the same distance from the edge of the flap. If the line “leads” a little, then there is a defect in the assembly of the sewing machine and with its further use, you will have to contact the repairman to adjust the teeth on the needle plate. In some cases, this shortcoming cannot be corrected, and in the future with such a sewing machine you will have to make efforts to make the stitching even.

Look for a machine so that if it breaks down, you can repair it without problems. Spare parts and replacement parts must be sold in your city. Keep in mind that for expensive models, all components (paws, etc.) will also be expensive. Pay attention to the fastening of the foot. If it is unusual, check in advance where you can buy accessories for such a model.

If the model is unpopular or exclusive, then it may be a problem for you to replace the broken part. Or even it will be completely removed from production, and the issue of repair for you will never be resolved. Or the cost of repairs will be worth buying a new sewing machine.

Check with sewing machine repairmen in your city to find out which sewing machine is easiest for them to repair. For which models of sewing machines they have experience, for example, Janome, New Home - they take it for repairs much easier.

Stitch length settings are available on all machines. Choose a product with a stitch length regulator up to 5 mm. It would be best if the assistant is equipped with a zigzag stitch width adjustment function.

In order to easily get to the most difficult places in clothes on a sewing machine, it must have a sleeve platform. How can I find out if it has such a device? To do this, remove the compartment from the sewing machine, which is usually located under the needle plate. Now you can easily do the processing of the bottom of the sleeves, trousers, as well as armholes, necklines.

When buying, pay attention that there is a ruler on the needle plate of the sewing machine, which will allow you to make a line exactly for the amount of allowance that you laid down when cutting. An example in the photo - I sew a line retreating from the edge by 1 cm. The edge of the fabric on the right is located at division 1.0. This device greatly facilitates the sewing process and speeds it up at times!

Tip 8. What sewing operations are really needed for work

For yourself, you must decide which sewing features your machine should have - which you cannot do without. If you plan to sew simple things at home and do minor repairs to clothes, then a machine is quite suitable for you. with core functionality:

  • Straight line. You need to choose a sewing machine that makes a perfectly straight line.
  • Zigzag stitch. It is needed to process open sections of tissue in order to prevent it from shedding. Please note that the machine has the ability to adjust the width of the zigzag.

In addition to these two basic stitches, you may also find useful sewing stitches such as:

Elastic zigzag for sewing on elastic

Stretch stitching for knitwear

Reinforced straight stitch

Reinforced zigzag

Overlock line, if you do not plan to pay for the machine - overlock

Blind hem stitch

Elastic stitching for an invisible hem

  • Buttonhole processing function. With automatic mode, or semi-automatic - depends on your financial capabilities. You can perform a loop qualitatively in both modes.
  • Reverse function (reverse). It is necessary to make bartacks at the end of the line.

If you are on a tight budget, buy a sewing machine. That can be considered additional functions in the machine, which will also make your work easier:

  • Presser foot pressure regulator. It will come in handy when you will sew fabrics of different thickness: chiffon or drape. There is a manual regulator - this is a disk or screw and electronic on computer machines.
  • Dot fastening. Useful for not tying a knot every time you finish a stitch.
  • Decorative stitches. Needed when laying various types of finishing lines on clothes.

When buying, please note that the following items are included in the package of the sewing machine:

  • foot for sewing on a regular zipper (single-legged)
  • hidden zipper foot
  • teflon foot for working with leather
  • roller hemming foot
  • paws for assembly
  • Bias binding foot
  • Oil for lubrication

Don't be discouraged if some parts are missing. You can always buy the missing paws and needles. In addition, you may not need some additional details in your work.

Advice 9. Which machine is better to choose a computer or electromechanical

If there is a computer unit on the sewing machine, but at the same time it makes ugly straight lines, then of course this is a reason to think. In favor of electromechanical, but at the same time better in work. Therefore, before buying, be sure to check the product in operation: the line should not be wagging, all stitches should be the same length and not tighten the fabric when sewing.

If you still choose a computer sewing machine, then you will need to handle it very carefully. Do not use it continuously for a long time. For example, for industrial purposes, for the studio. The computer unit has an unpleasant property to overheat and subsequently fail.

Tip 10. How to choose a sewing machine with an overlock function

The overlock function in sewing machines has recently appeared. This is a two-in-one model: a classic sewing machine and an overcasting machine (overlock). But do not rush to rejoice if you decide to save money on buying an overlocker for your home. Because the two-in-one model only makes an imitation of an overlock stitch.

Outwardly, the stitch will look like an overlock stitch, but in terms of quality it clearly does not pull on the original. The strength is not the same. In fact, an overlock sewing machine is just a type of zigzag stitch.

Of course, two-in-one models will cost double the price. Is it worth it to pay extra for a separate stitch? If you sew for yourself and do not work for clients who care about the inside of clothes, then a classic machine with a zigzag function will be enough for you.

Well, if you are a perfectionist and love a beautiful inside out, it’s better to save up for a separate overlock and don’t spend money on a sewing machine with an overlock function.

Tip>>> How to save money on buying an overlocker? Buy overcasting foot for a sewing machine. Or look at the tool compartment from the sewing machine, maybe you already have it in your kit. It will make the zigzag seam more neat than with a regular foot, especially when sewing delicate fabrics and knitwear. The edge will not twist and pull together, as is usually the case with overcasting. It also helps to produce high quality finishing stitches, such as double parallel stitches on jeans. It is especially useful for beginners in sewing, when you are just learning how to make even stitches on fabric. Where to buy such a paw? I saw her in the open spaces of Aliexpress, she is also in sewing equipment stores.

Tip 11. What type of bottom threading machine to choose

Which shuttle is better to choose, with horizontal filling or vertical? By making it possible to choose, sewing machine manufacturers have made it difficult for a beginner to buy. The seller can tell you that you can take any, yet there is a difference, and now I will share with you exactly what. Machines with a horizontal shuttle are more functional, they have more lines used in work. And the vertical shuttle is more reliable, it breaks and fails less often. In addition, you should proceed from your needs, if you plan to sew thick heavy coat fabrics, then a vertical hook is best suited for these purposes.

Tip 12. What is the difference between a household sewing machine and an industrial one

These are two large groups into which all sewing equipment can be divided. The answer in the main difference between a household machine and an industrial one lies in the name itself. A household machine will not pull the amount of work and complexity that an industrial model can handle.

But the industrial machine does only one operation. While household combines many functions: straight line, zigzag, loop processing mode. But at the same time, the industrial one will make hundreds of thousands of stitches in a day and will not overheat. Durability and reliability of industrial machine parts is designed for decades of use.

A sewing machine for beginners must be selected from the group of household machines. The reason for this is the high speed of industrial equipment. If you're just learning to sew, you might not be able to handle a sewing machine that does 5,000 stitches per minute. The main danger in working with an industrial machine for beginners is injury. You can easily flash your fingers.

In addition, an industrial machine will be too noisy for a home. Based on prices, household sewing machines are more budgetary and it is better for beginners to start learning to sew from them.

Tip 13. Which sewing machine company to choose for beginners

Sometimes it happens that different manufacturers produce machines of the same quality and set of functions. But these items can vary greatly in price. Therefore, in order not to overpay for a brand, choose sewing machines according to the “price-quality” ratio.

pfaff,Husqvarna- rather expensive models. If the machine is exclusive, repairs will cost you a pretty penny

Brother- according to reviews, it has an uncontrolled pedal, makes poor-quality lines

Janome- the most optimal balance "price - quality". According to reviews from customers and my students, it has the highest ratings.

Astralux- according to reviews on this machine, it is impossible to achieve high-quality stitching on thin fabrics. It also does not have a very high speed in operation.

Nowadays, it is not a problem to buy a sewing machine. Now you can compare products at prices in different stores. There are several ways to get yourself a home assistant.

Method 1. Internet. Many large hardware stores have websites, you can go to the website of such a company and view the offers of online stores. Do not worry that you will not be able to test the machine in action. These stores have guarantee period during which you can return the sewing machine.

Method 2. through specialized shops. In any major city there are shops selling sewing equipment. You can find them through the application Double GIS. In the column field of activity, type “sewing equipment” and organizations involved in the sale of household (industrial) sewing machines will come out.

In such stores, specialists and craftsmen work to help make right choice according to your experience. They also give advice on the operation and maintenance of the machine.

Method 3. If you have a limited budget, then you can buy an inexpensive sewing machine on Avito. There, a used sewing machine can be bought for half the price than in stores. To reduce the risk of buying a pig in a poke, bring someone with you to the deal who has experience with sewing equipment.

Highly frequently asked question for those who choose sewing machines - And why are some models expensive, although with the same characteristics, machines from another brand are half the price? Will it be better to make stitches with a machine, the one that is more expensive? Here, first of all, you need to pay attention to the following points:

  • Internal content. Different manufacturers have different requirements regarding the quality of parts. Cheap appliances may be equipped with plastic parts, while a more expensive brand may have special quality control at the factory.
  • Even if at first glance you have machines that are identical in terms of their functions, they can do this in completely different ways. One manufacturer can seriously invest in the development of models, speeding up the process, using the latest developments in technology. And the other is to do everything the old fashioned way, which of course will affect the low cost.
  • Advertising. It is no secret that some manufacturers invest in the price of sewing machines their advertising and product packaging costs. After all, in order to talk about it, you need to talk about it, right)

And finally, I can say with a well-known proverb that a miser pays twice. This also applies to sewing equipment. If you plan to use your assistant daily for a long time, then it is better to take a quality one with a good filling. Otherwise, you risk spending twice as much on repairs and components. Also plan to purchase from an authorized dealer with support, this means that you will not be abandoned when it breaks down or with spare parts.

What sewing machine do I use now?

I have a typewriter on my desktop. family. This is the most common inexpensive sewing machine with a minimum set of functions. From experience I can say that I use only two lines on it - a straight line and a buttonhole mode. For work - no more. Of course, if you do not embroider patchwork quilts or do patchwork. I have been sewing on it for ten years and proper care such an assistant will serve you just as long.

I also have another sewing machine -. I use it for overcasting the edges of clothes and when sewing knitwear.

Many women of different age categories strive to learn how to sew. And there are several reasons for this. Some cannot choose a model of clothing to their liking, someone wants an exclusive thing, and still others have a desire to make home interior items with their own hands. But whatever the goals, it is necessary to study sewing lessons for beginners on a sewing machine.

Sewing is a fascinating, but at the same time, painstaking type of needlework. To do it, you need perseverance, patience, attention and a desire to learn. You also need to determine the goal: to sew things for yourself or to practice at a professional level. In any case, beginners will need a sewing tutorial on a sewing machine.

Every girl will be able to work with a sewing machine, the main thing is to master the initial technique, and only then proceed to a more complex one. It is very important to consolidate the result through repeated repetitions in order to fill your hand.

But before sewing on a typewriter, you need to learn how to cut parts and sew by hand. Without this, you can't make a single thing. There are several directions in needlework:

  • sewing clothes (dresses, skirts, trousers) for yourself and family members;
  • creation of soft toys;
  • sewing bags;
  • home textiles (bed linen, bedspreads, towels, aprons, potholders).

Depending on each direction, a certain sewing technique and a set of devices necessary to create a product are selected. The equipment of the sewing machine also depends on this.

Required Tools

To master any sewing technique, you will need a minimum set of tools, which you cannot do without as a beginner, and professionals in their field:

Selection of needles and threads

Before starting to sew on a typewriter, a beginner needs to learn how to properly select threads and needles for a particular fabric. For sewing products from light fabrics, thin needles are needed, but if you sew coats, you will need special needles for such materials. Due to incorrectly selected threads, the seams can be uneven and sloppy, and will also often tear and may even contribute to the breakdown of the machine.

Proper adjustment of the device is also important. The upper and lower threads should be pulled evenly and tightly, they should not be different. To check the tension, you need to take an unnecessary piece of fabric and make one stitch. Then try to break the seam. Which thread breaks, that one should be relaxed. Do this until the impulses stop.

Mastering the technique of sewing

Learning to work with a sewing machine is not difficult. But when sitting down to sew for the first time, it is recommended to learn how to sew evenly. For this, an unnecessary flap of fabric is suitable. No need to press hard on the pedal, so it will be easier to control the sewing process and the quality of the seam.

Some professionals suggest taking not fabric for this, but plain paper in a cell. Threads are not required for this. You just need to put paper under the foot, lower it and start scribbling. Pay special attention to turns. So you can quickly learn to sew evenly, but needles after training will no longer be suitable for work. It is not necessary to throw them away, they are useful for fastening parts when sweeping.

So that the seams do not diverge, you need to learn how to make bartacks. After the basic lessons have been worked out, you can proceed to more complex finishing seams and even machine embroidery. Before using the device, read the instruction manual and make the appropriate settings.

First lessons

After the basic lessons are mastered, I want to make any thing. Experienced craftsmen advise a novice seamstress to sew something from home textiles:

  • pillowcase;
  • linens;
  • cover;
  • tack.

An apron will be a useful thing for the kitchen. You can draw his pattern yourself, and the work is so simple that it will be easy even for a child to complete it. But if this item is not needed, you can try to sew a straight skirt.

You can make a pattern of such a skirt yourself. You just need to take measurements and decide on the length. It will take several hours to sew this model. The details are connected to each other with needles and a basting is made. If everything suits you after trying on, you can start machine sewing.

For the first work, the fabric must be taken natural, for example, cotton. It will be easier to cut, the fabric will not crumble at the edges. In addition, it is inexpensive, and if you spoil a thing, it will not be a pity.

If the first attempt was successful, you can proceed to the next, more complex, skirt patterns or sew another thing. We must not forget that skill comes with experience and soon it will be possible to sew Evening Dress or a suit.

A few tips for newbies

Although knowledge comes with time, experienced seamstresses provide some simple tips for beginners. Everyone knows that in any business you should not rush. The same applies to sewing. The main thing is that haste does not become a habit.

having seen enough fashion magazines and sites on the Internet, very often there is a desire to sew fashion item. But it is important to take into account the fact that individual parameters do not always correspond to magazine patterns. Therefore, you need to make your own measurements. It is even possible that the clothes will look different.

To achieve a certain result, you need a desire to learn. A very common mistake for beginners is choosing a complex model of clothing, while everyone study guides It is recommended to start with the simplest. First you need to master the basics of sewing techniques, and only then start sewing complex fabrics.

The fabric for the future model can not be taken back to back. If something is corrupted, it will be difficult to fix it. Before making patterns, you need to iron the fabric. This will give her a little shrinkage.

Beginners very often give up sewing, especially if something does not work out. But you should not stop, you need to persevere and continue, otherwise it will be difficult to return to the started model later.

Some housewives are sure that a high-quality and well-functioning sewing machine is a good helper in sewing clothes and interior items. But don't forget to keep an eye on her. It is necessary to treat the device with care, as well as to repair malfunctions in time. In this case, it will last a long time.

Sewing things on your own on a sewing machine is very interesting activity. To master its basics, you need to choose the right threads and needles for each material, as well as learn various sewing techniques. You should start with simple items - an apron, a straight skirt, potholders. If everything works out well, you can move on to clothes of a more complex cut.

Sewing machines can seem intimidating to those who don't know how to use them. Whatever the case, don't let fear of the unknown operations and skills required to use a sewing machine stop you from creating textile wonders! Use this step by step instructions describing the installation mechanism and operation of the sewing machine so that you can start creating things with your own hands.

Steps

Sewing machine parts

    Find the power button. It may sound silly, but locating the power button is the most important step! It can be found in different places depending on the model of your sewing machine, but it is most often found on the right side of the sewing machine.

    Find a reel seat. This small plastic or metal stick that sticks out on top of the sewing machine is designed to hold the spool of thread.

    Find the thread guide. The thread guide guides the thread from the spool attached to the top of the machine to the bobbin winder. This is the geometric metal section that sticks out on the top left side of the sewing machine.

    Find a bobbin winder. To the right of the reel seat is another, even smaller, metal or plastic pin, next to which is a small horizontal wheel. This is a reel-winder and its limiter. They work together (together with the bobbin thread) and are designed to wind the thread onto the bobbin before sewing.

    Look for buttons that allow you to adjust the stitches. They may be in different places depending on the model of your sewing machine, but they usually look like small picture buttons and are located on the front of the sewing machine. These buttons allow you to change the type of stitches you can use, the length of the stitches, as well as their direction (forward and backward). Check the instructions for your sewing machine model to find out the purpose of each button.

    Determine the location of the thread take-up. When you are ready to thread the sewing machine, begin to draw the thread from the spool from above, through the thread guide, and then into the thread take-up. This is the lever (with two cut grooves) located on the front left side of the sewing machine. Usually next to it you can see printed numbers and arrows explaining how and in what order to thread the sewing machine.

    Find the tensioner. The tension dial is a small dial with numbers next to the thread take-up. It controls the thread tension during sewing; if the tension is too high, the needle will bend to the right. If the tension is not sufficient, the thread will tangle on reverse side the fabric you are sewing.

    Locate the needle holder screw. This is a metal tool that holds the needle while sewing. It is located under the sleeve of the sewing machine and is very similar in shape to a large fingernail. It is attached to the right side of the needle.

    Find a paw. This is the metal part under the needle holder that looks like tiny skis. When you lower the foot, it holds the fabric in place and guides it as you sew.

    Locate the presser foot lever and practice lowering and raising the presser foot. It should be behind or to the right of the needle holder and needle. To test the lever, push it down and lift it up.

    Find the needle plate. The needle plate is the silver plate directly below the needle. Very simple, right?

    Find a transporter. The feed dog is a small metal guide that sits on the needle plate, under the presser foot, and guides the fabric as you sew. Pay attention to the two metal rows under the foot - this is the conveyor.

    Locate the spool stop and spool release. The spool is the small spool of thread that sits at the bottom of the sewing machine and feeds the second thread to the needle, which is needed to create stitches from the inside. Under the metal plate is the coil stopper, and there you will also find the button or lever that releases it. You will need it to secure the spool before sewing.

    Setting up the sewing machine

    1. Place the sewing machine on a stable table, workbench, desk, or dedicated sewing machine stand in front of you. Sit in a chair that is the correct height for the table you are using. The sewing machine should stand in such a way that its needle is on the left, and the rest on the right, relative to you. You will have to check a few settings first and get to know the sewing machine a bit, so don't plug it in at this stage.

      Insert the needle securely. The needle has a flat side, so it can only be inserted one way: the flat side must be facing backwards. On the other side, there is a groove at the bottom of the needle, usually located opposite the flat side of the needle. This groove always faces the direction of the thread (the thread passes through this groove as the needle is sewn up and down through the fabric). Insert the needle as described and tighten the screw holding it securely.

      Install the coil. Sewing machines use two sources of thread - upper and lower threads. The bottom one is on the reel. To wind the thread on the spool, place the spool on the upper spool holder, which is for winding the thread. Follow the instructions and wind the thread from the thread spool through the thread take-up to the bobbin. Turn on the thread winder and wait until it stops by itself when the bobbin is fully wound.

      • When the bobbin is ready, place it in its intended place, under the needle, at the bottom of the sewing machine. Leave the end of the thread outside to insert it into the needle.
    2. Thread the sewing machine. The spool of thread on top of the sewing machine must be spun and attached to the needle. To achieve this, take the end of the thread and pull it through the thread take-up on top of the sewing machine, and then bring the thread down to the presser foot. The sewing machine should have small numbers and arrows to show you the order of the thread.

      Take out both threads. Pass the scissors under the foot to release the ends of both threads. You should have two ends - one from the thread going through the needle and the other from the thread coming from the bottom spool.

      Plug the sewing machine into an outlet and turn it on. Many sewing machines have built-in lighting, which will help you determine if it is working and if electricity is being supplied to it. The power button is often located on the right or back of the sewing machine, if there is one at all. Some models of sewing machines do not have such a button and turn on as soon as they are connected to the outlet.

      • Also connect the foot control to the sewing machine. Place the pedal in a comfortable position under your foot.

      ADVICE OF THE SPECIALIST

      Pattern constructor

      Daniela Gutiérrez-Díaz is a professional pattern maker and fashion designer at DGpatterns. Creates modern and unique silhouettes suitable for Everyday life. Her successful blog, On the Cutting Floor, contains sewing tips and a variety of patterns in PDF format.

      Pattern constructor

      Keep your sewing machine clean. Daniela Gutiérrez-Díaz, a professional pattern maker and fashion designer, advises: “From time to time, take your sewing machine to a specialized service center for such equipment, for it to be cleaned. It is advisable to do this regularly, especially if you use the sewing machine all the time».

      Sewing with a sewing machine

      Choose a straight stitch, medium size. Check the instructions for how to do this on your sewing machine model. On this model, stitches are set by turning the lower knob on the right side of the machine until it clicks. Always set or change the stitch pattern with the needle up by removing the fabric as it can move the needle.

    • The straight stitch is the most popular stitch in sewing. The next most popular is the zigzag stitch, which is used to finish the edges of the fabric and counteract the fraying and fraying.

    Practice on bad material. Choose a plain fabric, not knitwear, for your first sewing experience. Do not use too thick fabric for the first attempts at sewing machine. Denim or flannel is very hard to work with because of their density.

    Place the fabric under the needle. Sew, placing the sewn material to the left of the machine. If you lay the fabric on the right side, it may cause uneven stitches.

    Lower your paw. Locate the lever, behind or to the side of the needle, that allows you to lower and raise the presser foot.

    • If you lightly pull on the fabric that is pressed down with the presser foot, you will find that it is being held quite tightly. When you sew, the sewing machine uses a protractor to move the fabric at the correct speed. Therefore, there is no need to pull the fabric through the sewing machine device manually; in fact, pulling on the fabric can cause the needle to bend or ruin your project. You can adjust the stitch speed and size using the buttons on the machine.
  1. Hold the free ends of both threads. For the first few stitches, you will need to hold the ends of both threads so that they do not get tangled in the fabric. After you have sewn a little, you can let go of the ends of the threads and use both hands to control the fabric and the sewing machine.

    Press your foot on the pedal. The pedal is responsible for controlling the sewing speed. It's like the gas pedal in a car - the harder you push, the faster the sewing machine will go. At first, depress the pedal very slowly and just enough to start the sewing machine.

    • Your sewing machine may have a knee button instead of a pedal. In this case, use your knee to press it.
    • You can use the top wheel on the right side of the sewing machine to make it sew or move the needle manually.
    • The sewing machine will automatically guide the fabric away from you. You can guide the fabric under the needle in a straight line or at different angles. Practice writing straight and wavy. The only difference is how you bring the fabric to the needle.
    • Do not poke or pull on fabric that is under the needle. Doing so may cause the fabric to stretch or break the needle, or the seam may become tangled in the bobbin. If you feel that the sewing machine is not running fast enough, then press the pedal harder, adjust the length of the stitches, or (if necessary) buy a faster sewing machine.
  2. Find a reverse button or lever and try it out. It allows you to change the direction in which the sewing is going, so the fabric will go towards you, not away from you. Usually this button or lever is held on by a spring, so you will have to hold it down to keep sewing in reverse.

    Use the hand wheel to raise the needle to its extreme point. Then raise your foot. The fabric should now be easy to remove. If the thread pulls back when you try to remove the fabric, check the needle position.

    Cut the thread. Many sewing machines have a notch located on the pin that holds the presser foot. You can cut the threads by holding them with both hands and running them over the notch. If there is no notch or you want to cut the threads more carefully, then use scissors. Leave the ends of the threads in order to continue sewing the next seam.

  3. Practice stitching the seams. Pinch off two pieces of fabric with pins, right side together, right at the edge. The seam will be at a distance of 1.3 cm to 1.5 cm from the edge. You can sew the fabric in one layer (and you might want to do this to reinforce the edge), but since the purpose of most work on the sewing machine is to join two pieces of fabric, you need to get used to sewing multiple layers of fabric and using pins .

    • The fabric is fastened with the right side to each other so that the seam remains on the wrong side. The front side is the side that will be the outside after sewing is completed. On dyed fabric, the front side is usually the brighter side. Some fabrics may not have a right side.
    • Attach pins perpendicular to the line where the seam will run. You can sew directly onto the pins and then easily remove them from the fabric, but doing so can damage the sewing machine, fabric, or pins. It is safest to pull out the pins as soon as the needle approaches them, because if the needle accidentally hits the pin, it will break and the needle will bend. Be that as it may, prevent the needle from getting into the heads of the pins.
    • As you follow the fabric, pay attention to where the material is moving. The seams can run in different directions, but most sewing projects are trimmed afterwards so that the seams run parallel to the edge. Also, pay attention to the direction of the pattern, if your fabric has one, and lay the fabric so that the pattern runs from top to bottom on the right side. For example, floral or animal prints, or stripes or other designs should go in the right direction.