Does anyone know sewing machines?

[Deleted]

My machine is dropping stitches on the zig zag setting. I hope I explained that properly. Anyway, someone said it is probably the tension. What setting affects the tension?

[rumples]

It might also be a dull needle. Try switching to a new one first.

It shouldn't be the tension if it's been working correctly up until now. Try re-threading both the top and the bobbin, making sure that the presser foot is up when you do so.

[Deleted]

Ok, thanks. Karma for you ;D

[Malarky]

Later,
If that doesn't work, try pm'ing patstab. She does a lot of clothing construction and owns several machines.

[Elderkind]

Latebloomer: What kind of sewing machine do you have? I have an old Singer that I use and when the stitches start dropping it is usually the tension or the pressure knobs that need adjusting. My pressure knobs are on the back left top of the machine. You turn it and then test the pressure until you have the desired stitch. Rumples is right about the tension if it was working up to now then it shouldn't be that. The only other thing I can think of is to check and make sure you have the right throat plate, presser foot and stitch length regulator set up correctly. Good luck with it and let me know how it turns out!

[Deleted]

I have 2 Bernina machines that I take into the dealer yearly for it's check-up and I believe that really helps keep them running as they should.

But, since you're trying to troubleshoot, these are the items I check when something doesn't seem right: Take bobbin out and clean out lint, rewind a new bobbin with thread and insert. Rethread the machine, change the needle and depending on what fabric you're sewing onem, use a smaller or larger needle. Make sure your thread is correctly threaded thru the tension.

If all else fails, take it to a dealer for a good cleaning.

[Gardening Grandma]

I also sew a lot. Before anything else, I change the needle. Dull needles (in my exp) are the main cause of dropped stitches. Then I do the things Blonde Granny listed.

As far as tension, you have upper and lower tension. You can adjust the upper tension (your manual will show you how), but you rarely need to adjust the lower tension. That's usually something for a repair person to do. If you are sewing on knits, a ball point needle can help too.

[marjar]

Do you have the manual for your machine? The advice you've gotten is good, but if you're still having problems, check the manual. I've sewn for over 30 years and have 3 machines. When one goes on the fritz, I pull out the manual and check the trouble shooting guide. More often than not, I find the solution. I also make notes in the manual, so if the problem reoccurs, I know what to try first.


Good luck!

[Deleted]

Another issue I've had with my Bernina 640....it only likes certain quality of threads. The favorite is Gutterman and for general sewing & quilting I use it exclusively. Other brands tend to fuzz while going thru the needle which in turn causes too much lint in the bobbin case, then that sets off the sensor...the thread may not be the problem however if you have a mechanical machine and not a computerized one.

[marjar]

Make sure you are using the right needle for the fabric and stitch. Ball point vs. sharp. When I got my serger, I didn't pay attention to this and wondered why I was having problems. Needles can may a big difference.

[Deleted]

Jan 12, 2011 11:31:55 GMT -5 @marjar said:

Make sure you are using the right needle for the fabric and stitch. Ball point vs. sharp. When I got my serger, I didn't pay attention to this and wondered why I was having problems. Needles can may a big difference.

I think that is how I screwed it up. I was taking in some jeans and it seemed the material was too thick somehow. What type of needle am I supposed to have for jeans?

[Gardening Grandma]

For jeans, I use a 90 or 100 (I prefer Schmetz) - not a ballpoint, but a sharp. And I would not use an old needle.

[Deleted]

When I first got my Bernina 640, in the first class the instructor told us to change the needle every 8 hours, or sometimes after each project. I simply asked "even if it's not broken"....needless to say, she was not impressed with my level of sewing knowledge.

[merryheart]

There are some brands of sewing machine needles that are specifically made for sewing jeans. I don't know if you have to take up jeans often but I have used them and they definitely work better than a standard needle. I think they are a bit sturdier and sharper. I just know my Bernina (an old 930) is finicky about needles.

[jsjjkelly]

On an off topic, I've always wanted to learn how to sew. My mom is the sewer in the family, so I always gave my things to her. Now we're far away.... anyways, I just wanted to say I hemmed my first pair of pants yesterday. Took me almost 45 minutes, but I did it!!! I'm so proud....

Shawn in FL

[merryheart]

Yay Shawn! I'm very proud of you! (where is the smilie with the trophy when you need it?)

I had a mom that insisted she could teach all of her kids far better than any home ec class (and she did) and I have taught both of my girls to sew (and cook). Even taught a couple of sessions of sewing classes for 4H. It really can save you money if all you do is put in a hem or mend a small tear or sew on a button.

Good job Shawn!