17 Common Sewing Mistakes & Problems – How to Avoid Them?

Last Updated on June 28, 2022

Common Sewing Mistakes & Problems: Modern sewing machines are capable of performing a large number of operations. It is essential not to make beginner sewing mistakes to cope with high-tech equipment, enjoy work, and sew simple and complex products. Learn more from the following.

What Is the Modern Sewing Machine?

The stitching process in modern sewing machines is automated, allowing cloth to enter and exit the device without the hassle of using needles, thimbles, or other hand sewing tools.

17 Common Sewing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Modern sewing machines are pretty functional but can confuse even an experienced sewist. The advice of experienced professionals will help you work without common sewing machine mistakes.

1. Check the needle position: Make sure the needle is in its highest position (not in the fabric) when switching operations and adjusting the stitch width. Otherwise, you risk bending the needle and damaging the “copier,” which will result in sewing not the line you have chosen but the adjacent one. Raising the needle before changing the mode of operation will protect the machine from damage.
2. Prepare the machine before sewing: To sew elements, especially from dense fabric, you must first lower the needle, which you can do with a flywheel. Preliminary preparation will protect the engine from overheating and breakdowns.
3. Use Reset mode: If the machine performs loops in automatic mode, and the user needs to move on to the next one, you must use the Reset function (a special switch or button).
4. The technique of free-motion stitching: After working in the free-motion stitch technique, it is necessary to return the teeth of the conveyor to their original position. Turning the flywheel counterclockwise (towards you) is enough if they remain lowered. It will correct the situation.
5. Upper threading: You can only thread the upper thread when the presser foot is in the raised position. It will allow you to pull the thread between the thread tension discs. Only then can the foot be lowered.
6. Use the needle in highest position: You can use this element only if the needle is in its highest position.
7. Use the needle threader: The device can only be used if a needle of at least size 80 is used. Otherwise, you may break the hook.
8. Use the machine that goes with the fabric: Do not sew on the machine if the fabric is not tucked into it. Otherwise, you may scratch the presser foot and dull the machine’s feed dog.
9. Lubricate the horizontal hook: Some manufacturers in the instructions indicate that it is unnecessary to lubricate the horizontal shuttle. It is a mistake! Under any shuttle bushing, there is a bearing, which you must lubricate!
10. Usage of the reverse: Do not use reverse stitch when sewing decorative stitches.
11. Backtack correctly: Remember to switch to zigzag or straight stitch when back-tacking!
12. Use special oil for lubrication: Only sewing oil can be used to lubricate machine parts. Anything else is not suitable for this.
13. Do not turn the flywheel clockwise: Do not rotate the wheel clockwise. Otherwise, you can tangle the threads.
14. Lower the foot after sewing: Leaving the presser foot raised can cause the spring to weaken over time.
15. Don’t pull the fabric: No need to help the sewing machine pull the fabric. Excessive tension bends the needle, causing it to hit the needle plate or hook nose.
16. Switching sewing operations: Before switching sewing operations, it is recommended to set the zigzag width to zero. It will allow you to easily rotate the mode switch knob and increase the life of the sewing machine copier.
17. Lower the needle after you finish sewing: After finishing work, lower the needle. It is crucial, as the feed teeth will lower with the needle, and the lowered foot will not pressure them.