How to turn an old sewing machine into an interior decoration. Fabric sewing machine

Sewing machines can seem intimidatingly complicated to those who don't know how to use them. Be that as it may, do not let fear of operations and skills required to use them unknown to you sewing machine, stop you from creating textile wonders! Use this step by step instructions, which describes how to set up and operate your sewing machine so you can start making things with your own hands.

Steps

Sewing machine parts

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

Find the reel seat. This small plastic or metal stick that sticks out from the 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 mounted on the top of the machine to the bobbin winder. This is a geometric piece of metal 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 there is a small horizontal wheel. This is a winder reel and its limiter. They work together (together with the bobbin with thread) and are designed to wind the thread onto the bobbin before sewing begins.

Look at the buttons that allow you to adjust the stitches. They can be in different places depending on the model of sewing machine you have, but they usually look like buttons with little pictures on them 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 what each button does.

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

Find the tension regulator. The tension dial is a small wheel with numbers located next to the thread take-up. It controls the thread tension while 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 the back of the fabric you are sewing.

Find the needle clamp screw. This is a metal tool that holds the needle while sewing. It is located under the sleeve of the sewing machine and is shaped very similar to a large fingernail. It attaches to the right side of the needle.

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

Find 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 try the lever, lower it down and lift it up.

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

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

Locate the coil limiter and releaser. The spool is a small bobbin of thread that is located at the bottom of the sewing machine and supplies the second thread to the needle, which is needed to create stitches on the inside. Under the metal plate is the spool stop, and there you will also find a button or lever that releases the spool. You will need it to secure the spool before you start sewing.

Setting up the sewing machine

1. Place the sewing machine on a stable table, work area, desk, or sewing machine stand in front of you. Sit on a chair that is at an appropriate height relative to the table you are using. The sewing machine should be positioned so that its needle is on the left and the rest on the right, relative to you. You'll have to check a few settings first and become a little familiar with the sewing machine, so don't plug it in at this point.

   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 the thread passes (the thread passes through this groove as the needle stitches up and down 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 lower one is on the reel. To wind the spool of thread, place the spool on the upper spool pin, which is where the thread is wound. Follow the directions and wind the thread from the thread spool, passing it through the thread take-up, onto the bobbin. Turn on the thread winder and wait until it stops when the bobbin is completely wound.

   • When the bobbin is ready, place it in the designated 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 located on the top of the sewing machine must be untwisted 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 lower the thread down to the presser foot. There should be little numbers and arrows on your sewing machine to show you the order of the thread.

   Take out both threads. Run the scissors under the foot to release the ends of both threads. You should have two ends - one from the thread passing through the needle, and the second from the thread coming from the bottom spool.

   Plug the sewing machine into the outlet and turn it on. Many sewing machines have a built-in light that will help you determine if the machine is running and has electricity. 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 plugged into a power outlet.

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

   EXPERT ADVICE

   

   Pattern designer

   Keep your sewing machine clean. Daniela Gutierrez-Diaz, a professional pattern maker and fashion designer, advises: “Take your sewing machine to a specialized sewing machine service center from time to time. so that it can be cleaned there. It is advisable to do this regularly, especially if you use your sewing machine all the time».

   Sewing with a sewing machine

   Select a straight stitch, medium size. Check your manual to see how to do this on your model of sewing machine. On this model, the stitches are set by turning the lower knob on the right side of the machine until it clicks into place. Always set or change the stitch pattern with the needle raised, removing the fabric as it may move the needle.

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

Practice on bad material. Select plain fabric, not knitwear, for my first sewing experience. Do not use fabric that is too thick for your first attempts at using a sewing machine. Denim or flannel fabric is very difficult to work with due to their density.

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

Lower your foot. Find the lever on the back or side of the needle that allows you to lower and raise the presser foot.

• If you lightly tug on the fabric that is pressed down with the presser foot, you will realize that it is being held quite firmly. When you stitch, 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 manually; in fact, if you pull the fabric, it can cause the needle to bend or ruin your project. You can adjust the speed and stitch size using the buttons on the machine.

1. Keep the ends of both threads loose. For the first few stitches, you will need to hold the ends of both threads to prevent them from getting tangled in the fabric. Once you have stitched a bit, you can release the ends of the threads and use both hands to control the fabric and the sewing machine.

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

   • Your sewing machine may have a button that you press with your knee 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 stitch, or you can move the needle by hand.
   • 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 stitching straight and wavy. The only difference is how you bring the fabric to the needle.
   • Do not push or pull on the fabric that is under the needle. This may cause the fabric to stretch or the needle to break, or the seam may become caught in the bobbin. If you feel like your sewing machine is not working fast enough, press the pedal harder, adjust the stitch length, or (if necessary) buy a faster sewing machine.

2. Find the reverse button or lever and try it out. It allows you to change the direction in which you sew, so the fabric flows towards you instead of away from you. Typically this button or lever is held on by a spring, so you will have to hold it to continue stitching in the reverse direction.

   Use the hand wheel to raise the needle to its extreme point. Then raise your paw. 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. On many sewing machines There is a notch located on the pin that holds the foot. You can cut the threads by holding them with both hands and running them along the notch. If there is no notch or you want to cut the threads more accurately, then use scissors. Leave the ends of the threads in order to continue sewing the next seam.

3. Practice sewing seams. Pin two pieces of fabric, right sides together, right at the edge. The seam will be 1.3 cm to 1.5 cm from the edge. You can stitch the fabric in one layer (and may want to do this to reinforce the edge), but since the purpose of most sewing machine work is to join two pieces of fabric together, you will need to get used to sewing multiple layers of material and using pins .

   • The fabric is pinned right sides together so that the seam remains on the wrong side. The front side is the side that will be outer after sewing is finished. On dyed fabric, the brighter side is usually the right side. Some fabrics may not have a facing.
   • Attach pins perpendicular to the line along which the seam will run. You can sew directly over the pins and later easily remove them from the fabric, but doing so may damage the sewing machine, the fabric, or the pins. It is safest to remove the pins as soon as the needle reaches them, since if the needle accidentally hits a pin, it will break and the needle will bend. However, prevent the needle from hitting the heads of the pins.
   • As you follow the fabric, pay attention to where the material moves. The seams can go 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.

When I was just starting to take my first steps in tailoring, my first sewing machine was my mother’s Soviet “Chaika”. If anyone was around this time, they probably remember these models. Their main difference from today's household sewing machines is that they operated using a foot pedal. It was at “Chaika” that I sewed my first dress, and from experience I can say that she sewed well, even now she is in working order.

Later I had to sew not only on household, but also on industrial equipment. I also sat down at various models sewing machines from different manufacturers. And I have formed my own opinion on working with different equipment.

Unlike those times, today there is an abundance of choice of sewing equipment in stores for “dummies”. Today’s article will tell you how to choose a good sewing machine for beginners. In fact, this is the most popular question among my students, so get ready for the article to be very detailed)

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

The machine should not immediately jump out of place, but should do the stitching smoothly. The sewing machine pedal should be sensitive and respond to a light touch. Or there should be a speed controller.

Sewing machine should not make a stitch that would tighten the fabric. This applies to delicate fabrics. When purchasing, 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
• for medium and heavy - coat fabric, denim, linen, cotton, leather
• on elastic ones - knitwear, stretch.

If you have the opportunity to test it in action before purchasing a sewing machine, I advise you to conduct a small experiment. Give the machine the opportunity to sew on its own without your help or participation. Place a piece of fabric under the foot and watch it make a straight stitch at a distance of the width of the foot from the edge of the fabric. To see better, take threads that contrast rather than match the fabric.

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

Look for a machine so that if it breaks down, you can repair it without problems. Spare parts and replacement parts should be sold in your city. Keep in mind that for expensive models all the components (foots, 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. Otherwise, it will be taken out of production altogether, and the issue of repairs will never be resolved for you. Or the cost of repairs will cost the purchase of a new sewing machine.

Consult with sewing machine repair specialists in your city which machine will be easiest for them to repair. What models of sewing machines do they have experience with? For example, Janome, New Home - it’s much easier to hire them for repairs.

All machines have stitch length settings. Choose a product with a stitch length adjuster up to 5 mm. It would be best if the assistant is equipped with a function for adjusting the width of the zigzag stitch.

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

When purchasing, make sure that there is a ruler on the needle plate of the sewing machine, which will allow you to sew exactly the amount of allowance that you set when cutting. Example in the photo - I sew a stitch 1 cm away from the edge. The edge of the fabric on the right is located at the 1.0 mark. This device greatly simplifies the sewing process and speeds it up significantly!

Tip 8. Which sewing operations are really needed for work?

You must decide for yourself what sewing functions your machine should have - which you cannot do without. If you plan to sew simple things at home and do minor clothing repairs, then a machine is quite suitable for you. with a basic set of functions:

• Straight stitch. You need to choose a sewing machine that makes a perfectly straight stitch.
• Zigzag stitch. It is needed for processing open sections of fabric to prevent it from fraying. Please note that the machine has the ability to adjust the width of the zigzag.

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

Elastic zigzag for sewing elastic

Stretch stitch for knitwear

Reinforced straight stitch

Reinforced zigzag

Edge stitching, if you do not plan to pay for the machine - overlock

Invisible hem stitch

Stretch stitch for invisible hem

• Buttonhole processing function. With automatic mode, or semi-automatic - depends on your financial capabilities. You can make a quality loop in both modes.
• Reverse function (reverse). Necessary for making backtacks at the end of a stitch.

If you are not short of money, buy a sewing machine. This can be considered additional features in the machine, which will also make your work easier:

• Regulator of presser foot pressure on fabric. It will come in handy when you sew fabrics of different thicknesses: chiffon or drape. There is a manual regulator - this is a disk or a screw, and an electronic one on computer machines.
• Spot tack. This will come in handy so you don't have to tie a knot every time you finish a stitch.
• Decorative stitches. Needed when placing various types of finishing stitches on clothes.

When purchasing, please note that the sewing machine includes the following parts:

• foot for sewing a regular zipper (single-arm)
• concealed zipper foot
• Teflon foot for working with leather
• roller hem foot
• assembly feet
• foot for sewing bias tape
• Lubricating oil

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

Tip 9. Which machine is better to choose: computer or electromechanical

If your sewing machine has a computer unit, but it makes ugly straight stitches, then of course this is a reason to think about it. In favor of electromechanical, but at the same time better quality in work. Therefore, before purchasing, be sure to check the product in operation: the stitching should not wobble, all stitches should be the same length and not pull the fabric when sewing.

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

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

The overlock function in sewing machines has appeared recently. This is a two-in-one model: a classic sewing machine and an overcasting machine. But don’t rush to rejoice if you decide to save money on buying an overlocker for your home. Because the “two-in-one” model only imitates an overlock stitch.

Externally, the stitch will look like an overlock stitch, but in terms of quality it clearly does not match the original. The strength is not the same. Essentially, a sewing machine with an overlock function is just a type of zigzag stitch.

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

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

Advice>>> How to save money on buying an overlocker? Buy an overcasting foot for a sewing machine. Or look at the tool compartment from your sewing machine; perhaps you already have one in your kit. It will create a zigzag seam more neatly than with a regular foot, especially when sewing delicate fabrics and knitwear. The edge will not curl or pinch as it usually does when 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 can I buy a foot like this? I saw it on Aliexpress, and it is also available in sewing equipment stores.

Tip 11. What type of bobbin thread should you choose?

Which shuttle is preferable to choose, with horizontal or vertical filling? By making it possible to choose, sewing machine manufacturers have made the purchasing task more difficult for a beginner. The seller can tell you that you can take any, but there is still a difference, and now I will share with you exactly what it is. Machines with a horizontal shuttle are more functional, they have more lines used in work. And the vertical shuttle is more reliable, it breaks down and fails less often. In addition, you should proceed from your needs; if you plan to sew thick, heavy coat fabrics, then a vertical shuttle 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 to the main difference between a household machine and an industrial one lies in the name itself. A household machine will not handle the amount of work and complexity that an industrial model can handle.

But an industrial machine performs only one operation. While the household one combines many functions: straight stitch, zigzag, loop processing mode. But at the same time, an industrial one will make hundreds of thousands of stitches per day and will not overheat. The durability and reliability of industrial machine parts is designed for decades of use.

A sewing machine for beginners should be chosen from the group of household machines. The reason for this is the high speed of industrial equipment. If you are just learning to sew, you may not be able to cope with a sewing machine that makes 5 thousand stitches per minute. The main danger for beginners when working with an industrial machine is injury. You can easily stitch your fingers.

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

Tip 13. Which brand of sewing machines to choose for beginners

Sometimes it happens that different manufacturers produce machines that are identical in quality and feature set. But these products can vary greatly in price. Therefore, in order not to overpay for the brand, choose sewing machines based on the price-quality ratio.

Pfaff,Husqvarna- quite expensive models. If the car is exclusive, repairs will cost you a pretty penny.

Brother— according to reviews, it has an uncontrollable pedal, makes poor-quality stitches

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

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

Nowadays it is not a problem to buy a sewing machine. Now it is possible to 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. Don't worry that you won't be able to test the machine in action. Such stores have a warranty period during which you can return the sewing machine.

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

Such stores employ specialists and craftsmen who help make right choice according to your experience. They also give advice on working and caring for the machine.

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

A very common question among those who choose sewing machines is: Why are some models expensive, although machines from another brand with the same characteristics are half the price? Would it be better to make stitches with a machine that is more expensive? Here, first of all, you need to pay attention to the following points:

• Internal contents. 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 in front of you that have the same functions, they can do it in completely different ways. One manufacturer can seriously invest in developing models, speeding up the process, and 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 their advertising and product packaging costs into the price of sewing machines. After all, in order for people to talk about her, you need to talk about her, right)

And finally, I can say with the famous proverb that a stingy person pays twice. This also applies to sewing equipment. If you plan to use your assistant every day for a long time, then it is better to take a high-quality one with 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 in the event of a breakdown 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 minimal set of functions. From experience, I can say that I use only two lines on it - straight and buttonhole mode. No need for work anymore. Of course, if you don't embroider patchwork quilts or doing patchwork. I've been sewing on it for ten years now 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.

Hello everyone from sunny Tashkent! I'll start with a little background. Crafts I started working with leather relatively recently and immediately fell in love with this new look hobby. During the work I encountered some difficulties due to the lack of tools. For some reason we have a catastrophic shortage of it. In this regard, I had to order something from Russia, something from local turners, and make something myself. Anyone who has ever sewed leather or repaired a leather product, be it a bag or a wallet, has encountered the problem of sewing with a simple needle. Making a hole in high-quality leather is quite problematic even with an awl, not to mention a simple tailor’s needle. I tried to clamp a regular needle into the collet clamp with the eye forward and stitch it in this way, having first pierced the holes with an awl, but at the same time the thread very quickly “fried”, twisted and got tangled, which was simply infuriating. So I thought about how to adapt a needle from a regular sewing machine to this task. The threads remained intact, but the needle turned out to be very fragile and any incorrect hand movement led to it breaking. So I returned to the principle “an awl is a gypsy needle.” But one night, while surfing the vast Internet, I came across a very interesting specimen. But the price and waiting time for the order killed me. And then it hit me like an electric shock... My hands, as they say, are growing from the most necessary place, and I decided to depict “this miracle” while sitting at home, whiling away the long winter evenings.

Well... Let's get to the point!!!

Having rummaged through the bins of the closet with junk, I collected all sorts of little things that had been lying around for years and were waiting in the wings. I used my own awl with a collet clamp, which has served for many years, as a basis.

Grieving in his heart, he picked the collet out of the handle. The handle burst... ;-(

I installed a #250 needle from an industrial leather sewing machine and passed the thread through the collet to make sure that it moved freely and that the collet did not need modification.

At a flea market I accidentally found a bobbin from a sewing machine of unknown origin and some absolutely incredible dimensions - almost 4 cm(what size the shuttle should be for it and the overall size of the sewing machine is generally difficult to imagine). There I also bought a file handle made of wood of an unknown species, the wood is very hard and unusually smelly... But the main thing is that it is hard. Let's move on...

I cut off the excess from the handle and base of the collet. On staples from copper wire don’t pay attention, I wanted to make a mounting base out of them, but later abandoned this idea.

I decided to take as a basis 2 metal plates.

Soldered them in the shape of a letter P, made cuts in the handle, inserted them there and, for reliability, secured everything with screws on the sides for greater strength. All that remains is to drill a hole on top for the base of the collet. But... It was not there... The metal is soft, the metal strips are narrow, the diameter of the drill is large... As they say: “cause and effect”... The drill bit and twisted one fastener with guts, and also cut his hand...

Well... The first damn thing is lumpy. But the Russians don't give up!!! Let's lick our wounds and move on. I found another piece of iron. I soldered everything together, it seemed to work out well.

To make it easier to remove the spool, I decided to make a thicker screw so that I could unscrew it by hand, and not with a screwdriver, as in the original.

All that remains is to process everything with needle files and attach it to the handle. But the provocateur whispered in the subcortex that it was some kind of pornography... He went to look for another piece of hardware. As they say: “he who seeks will always find” and FOUND!!! I won’t describe the whole process again, because it’s long and not at all censored... I’ll just add that during assembly I filled all the fasteners with epoxy, treated the handle with fine sandpaper, was once again shocked by the smell of the wood, covered it with stain and sprayed it with car varnish from a spray can.

AND HERE SHE IS IN ALL ITS BEAUTY!!!

You probably noticed that it is a little crooked relative to the central axis, but this was done on purpose for convenience during sewing. In addition, a ring is soldered under the index finger.

It fits in your hand like a glove.

And finally, tests!!!

Simply Great!!! Cow leather thick 4 mm in two layers it is stitched with a bang, without preliminary piercing with an awl!!! The needle goes in like it goes into butter.

Having unraveled the seam, I checked the thread. It is absolutely intact, does not “frost”, does not get tangled or twisted, as when sewing with a needle. Goal achieved!!!

Now the prices, what they cost:

1. Handle with collet clamp. About $3. You can find it cheaper, mine had an ebonite handle.

2. Spool. About $1.5.

3. File handle. Approximately $0.5.

4. Sewing needle No. 250. About $2 for 12 pieces.

5. Fantasy, a little skill, free time, patience, just in case, have some magic words for the neighbor who comes to complain about the knocking and sounds of the drill.

Total... About $7. Why do the bourgeoisie want $35... For an idea???

Thank you all for your attention and for taking the time to read my article. And I’ll also add: don’t be afraid to experiment!!! Only those who do nothing make no mistakes. Don't forget about safety precautions, take care of yourself and everything will be smart and noble for you!!! Good luck!

Today, sewing machine manufacturing companies most often specialize in producing foot-operated models powered by electrical energy. Such devices are very ergonomic, both hands remain free, and the time required to perform individual operations is significantly reduced. Unfortunately, the manual mechanical machines that our grandmothers used often gather dust without use. Completely in vain! Let's look at the question of how to set up a manual sewing machine, and over time you will be able to avoid the services of a sewing workshop, creating real sewing masterpieces.

A little history

Until 1829, all attempts to practically create a sewing machine can be considered unsuccessful, although the great Leonardo created drawings that could be used as a basis.

The first sewing device made of wood was created by the French tailor Thimonnier. Despite all its primitiveness, the productivity of this mechanism was several times higher than that of a person sewing by hand. The first sewing machine was greeted quite aggressively by workers, since mass production of such mechanisms threatened mass layoffs.

Subsequently, Thimonnier improved his invention. Some of his ideas are still used in today's models. Its peculiarity is that it can work even with the thinnest and most delicate fabrics, for example, silk.

A machine with a shuttle, vaguely reminiscent of the modern one, was invented by W. Hunt in 1834. This device was also equipped with a fabric advancement mechanism. The machine was equipped with a horizontal needle. For the first time, vertical movement of the needle was introduced into practice in the famous Singer machines.

How does a manual machine work?

Almost all old-style manual sewing units have the same operating principle:

• On the right side there is a wheel called a winder. It is driven by hand.
• Next to the wheel there is a lever through which the stitch length is adjusted.
• On the left side of the machine there is a shuttle device and a needle with presser foot. There is also a regulator for tensioning the upper thread and a lever for lifting the presser foot.
• The working surface of the device is equipped with slats that advance the fabric during the sewing process.

How to set up an old sewing machine: general principles

The essence of the setting is to select the correct thread number and needle to work with a particular fabric. The quality of the stitch largely depends on how well the thread tension is adjusted. If the tension is incorrect, the seam “loops” from the bottom or top.

How to set up a manual sewing machine:

1. You can adjust the bobbin thread tension using the screw located on the bobbin case. The more the screw is tightened, the stronger the thread tension.
2. The tension of the upper thread is adjusted using a special regulator, which is located near the lever that raises the presser foot.

Rules for using the “Chaika” machine

Here are a few the most important rules using a sewing unit of this brand:

• You cannot start stitching without first lowering the needle and presser foot.
• The handle should only be turned towards you.
• To lubricate the machine, you must use only special oil.

Important! The machine should only be used on fabrics that are suitable for all types of stitches. Otherwise, the machine may become unusable.

How to set up a manual sewing machine “Chaika”? Most important point when setting the “Seagull” - this is the correct installation of the thread and needle:

1. By turning the handle, set the mechanism for pulling the thread to its highest position.
2. Insert the needle into the holder as far as it will go, with the flat side facing the rod on which the foot is located.
3. Secure the needle with a screw.
4. Place the spool of thread on the special rod.
5. Pass the thread through the thread guide and friction washers.
6. Insert the thread into the thread tensioner, and then fix it into the thread guide and needle holder.
7. Finally, the thread must be threaded through the eye of the needle.

All this concerns the top thread.

Let's figure out how to set up the lower thread:

1. Wind the thread onto the bobbin.
2. Insert the bobbin into the cap and bring the thread out.
3. Insert the cap back until it clicks.
4. Turn the handle of the machine to tension the threads.
5. Thread both threads under the foot.

How to set up an old Podolsk sewing machine?

The peculiarity of this sewing machine is that it can be used to sew dense and thick fabrics, such as denim. The machine is quite easy to operate, but you must follow simple rules, which will extend the working life of the structure:

• According to the instructions, the machine’s flywheel should rotate only in the “toward” direction (the direction of movement of the handle is away from the person working). Rotation of the flywheel “from itself” is unacceptable, since the thread in the shuttle may become tangled.
• If the machine is not working, the presser foot must be raised.
• Do not start the device without placing fabric under the presser foot, since the teeth of the device that advances the fabric may become dull.
• Do not pull or push the fabric while working. The needle may break or bend. The machine itself carries out the advancement of the fabric.
• When working, be sure to close the front plate tightly over the hook.

How to wind thread on a bobbin?

The Podolsk machine is equipped with a special winding device located at the back of the machine, near the flywheel.

Important! The winder operates together with the lower thread tension device, which is located in the right corner of the platform. The sewing device mechanism should not operate while winding the thread.

How to set up an old manual sewing machine of this model:

1. The first thing to do is to disable the flywheel so that it cannot start the machine moving. To do this, turn the friction screw located in the central part of the flywheel toward you.
2. Place the bobbin on the winder.
3. Place the spool of thread onto the spool pin.
4. Pass the thread from the spool under the tension washer and then up to the bobbin.
5. Push the winder frame down until the pulley rim contacts the flywheel.
6. Hold the loose end of the thread until you have wound enough threads to secure the thread. Then tear off the protruding end of the thread.

Important! When wound correctly, the turns lie tightly and evenly.

Threading the bobbin into the cap:

1. Hold the bobbin with your right hand and insert it into the cap. In this case, the oblique slot of the cap should be on top.
2. Then pull the thread through the slot to the tension spring, and then into the slot at the very end of the spring.
3. Place the cap in the machine, remove the free end of the thread and close the shuttle.

How to install the needle correctly?

The needle is installed when the needle bar is in its highest position.

Important! The needle must be installed correctly. Otherwise, the line will end up with gaps. The flat part of the needle flask is directed to the left, and the long groove on the blade is directed to the right.

Upper threading:

1. Turning the handwheel towards you, set the thread take-up lever with the hole to its highest position.
2. Place the spool on the pin and draw the thread to the eye of the needle.

Important! Thread the thread into the eye of the needle outwards - from right to left.

Preparing the machine for sewing

We figured out how to set up a manual sewing machine. Now let's get ready for sewing:

1. First of all, pull the bobbin thread out. To do this, turn the machine's flywheel so that the needle first drops, catching the bobbin thread, and then rises again to the top position.
2. After this, pull both threads back and place them under the foot.
3. Place the presser foot on the fabric underneath.
4. The machine is ready for use.

Features of setting up mini-cars

This is the best option for occasional use. Externally, this machine is similar to a stapler for fastening papers.

Important! The device can be placed freely in handbag. The machine takes up very little space and can be held with one hand.

The resemblance to a stapler is not accidental. The principle of use is approximately the same, only instead of staples, a spool of thread is inserted on the side. Before threading, you need to wind the thread on a regular standard spool, which is supplied with the device.

Important! You can purchase several of these spools at the store and wind threads of different colors on them.

The compact, self-contained machine sews both thin and heavy dense fabrics well. You can use it both at home and while traveling. The design is extremely simple: press a button and sew the fabric.

Service Issues

It is best to entrust repairs to a sewing machine to a professional technician. However, there are settings that a seamstress can easily handle on her own. Moreover, in the process of work you have to deal with various types fabrics. Knowing how to set up an old sewing machine when minor problems occur is essential.

Presser foot pressure

It can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the bolt that presses the foot spring. It is located directly above the foot and is made so that it is convenient to tighten it by hand.

Important! If you are going to work with thin fabric, you need to loosen the presser foot.

Height of teeth for tissue advancement

In the “Chaika” machine, regulation is carried out using a disk in 4 positions. The thicker the fabric, the more the teeth should protrude. When embroidering, the teeth are completely hidden.

Important! “Podolsk” has 3 positions for adjusting the teeth.

Adjusting the bobbin thread tension

This is done using a special adjusting nut. Adjustment is made, for example, if loops form at the bottom.

Adjusting the upper thread tension

To do this, there is a small screw located on the bobbin case spring. The adjustment is made if loops appear on top during the sewing process.

Important! Sometimes, when the bobbin rotates too freely inside the cap, the thread often breaks.

New models of sewing machines are equipped with special spring devices that press the bobbin. Old cars don't have this. You can simply solve the problem of how to set up an old sewing machine:

• cut a circle from fabric or thin paper with a diameter slightly smaller than a hairpin;
• cut a hole in the center for the axle.

All that remains is to put a homemade washer in the bobbin cap, drop special oil for sewing machines on it, and then insert the bobbin.

Care issues

1. If you work on a sewing machine without lubricating it for years, it will, of course, work, but over time various problems will arise and the quality of sewing will deteriorate. But if you lubricate it regularly, it will last much longer. Lubricate the car once every six months to a year.

Important! When lubricating, you must use special sewing machine oil. Otherwise, a “drying oil effect” may appear, and the running of the car becomes more difficult.

1. Equipment is cleaned of dust much more often. It all depends on what fabrics you use when sewing. There is especially a lot of dust from fur, wool and knitwear. After work, it is necessary to sweep away the dust under the covers, from the surface of the machine, under the shuttle and the needle plate. You can use a regular cosmetic brush for this.
2. At the end of the work, you need to place a small piece under the presser foot. thick fabric(for example, denim).
3. The machine must be kept in a non-working state under a cover.

Video material

With proper care, the device will work flawlessly, and you will rarely have questions about how to set up or repair a manual sewing machine. This means you can easily create for yourself original clothes and look irresistible in it.

SEWING MACHINE FROM FABRIC. Master classes.

Application:

2. Pincushion:

So, 2 master classes, 3 patterns and several examples from the internet.

1 MK.Coffee-cinnamon pincushion.

So, we will need:
Calico,
Sintepon,
Cigarette packs - 2 pcs. (can be replaced with a board or other),
Groats,
Self-adhesive paper or tape,
Pattern,
Scissors,
Pencil,
Acrylic paints,
Braid,
Button,
Threads,
A solution of coffee, PVA glue, water and vanilla with cinnamon.
Hands and a little desire))).

First, let’s print or transfer the pattern from the computer to a sheet of paper.

Let's transfer it to calico, I stitch it on a sewing machine, and then cut it out, you can do it as you like

Leave a hole for turning. Before turning, we make notches on the seam allowances so that creases do not form on the finished product.

We fill the blanks with padding polyester, holofiber, whatever you have at hand. Let's leave our preparations and proceed to the base, on which all this beauty will be attached.

To do this, if there is no suitable box or board, take two cigarette packs, take out the insides and remove the lids, fill them halfway with cereal (I took millet), you can take anything as a weighting agent. We lay padding polyester on top so that the cereal does not fall out. It should look something like this

Only both packs should be filled evenly, that is, have a weighting material at the bottom and padding polyester on top of it. Next, we insert one pack into another and strengthen them with tape or self-adhesive paper to create a solid platform.

We wrap the box first with padding polyester, then with calico. It can be hemmed by hand or glued onto the web using an iron.

We sew the finished platform with our blank according to the principle of sewing a tilde snail.

That's all, all that's left is to paint it with a solution of coffee, cinnamon, vanillin and PVA.

Dry, decorate with braid, paint or decoupage fabric (Eden Kogan has a master class). I made two pincushions so that I would always have them at hand when I sew. I hung the heart on a sewing machine.

In general, use your imagination and you will succeed))) Good luck!

2 MK. Sewing machine for Tilda

To sew such a sewing machine you will need:

• scraps of fabric (small),
• filler,
• cardboard,
• 2 wooden toothpicks,
• threads,
• glue,
• flat button.

Pattern I drew it while looking at photos of old Singer machines. The pattern shows the dimensions of my machine.

We cut out the parts of the machine - the machine itself and the stand, 2 parts each with seam allowances of 3-5 mm. We sew, the width of the seam should not be made too small. Don't forget about the holes for turning out:

Turn it inside out and straighten it out. We stuff the machine part, and insert padding polyester into the stand and maybe cardboard for the mold. Take a toothpick. We break off part of the toothpick and stick the non-sharp end into the machine, directly into the seam where the needle was. This will be our needle. Its length can be adjusted later:

We also make a coil for the machine using a toothpick, putting 2 small cardboard circles on it and securing them with a drop of glue.

We wind the thread between the circles. The size of the coils, of course, should be small:

Now we insert this coil into the machine (into the seam), having first dropped glue onto the tip of the toothpick. We place the machine on the stand and sew it with a hidden seam. We adjust the length of the “needle” and also secure it with a drop of glue.

We will make the flywheel from an ordinary flat button suitable size. Let's cut out 2 cardboard circles to the size of the button (one is the same size, the second is slightly smaller), and cover them with fabric (according to the yo-yoshka principle):

Glue the smaller circle to the button on one side (concave side):

Glue a larger circle on the back side of the button (more convex, curved):

After the glue has completely dried, we sew the resulting “flywheel” to the machine:

The car is ready. You can place a piece of fabric under the needle. A little trick: to prevent the needle from moving around the stand, you can sew a small button and fix the tip of the toothpick-needle into the hole of the button.