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Keep the small post it note papers beside your machine. Use them for writing down the needle and the size you are currently using and stick the note to the machine. Record any special machine settings and adjustments for your current project, that way if you have other sewing to do you will know where to reset your machine at to continue your project at a later date |
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When winding a Bobbin do it slowly. It feeds more evenly and with less stretch to the thread. Wind several at once that way if you run out in the middle of your project you won't have to stop sewing and fill the bobbin. |
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A good Sewing Machine Dealer will be able to supply classes on how to maximaze the use of your machine. There also may be monthly clubs available to provide further inspiration. Your dealer will become a valuable information source on the lastest embroidery cards, software updates and specialty supplies available for use with your machine. Your dealer may be able to provide factory-authorized service. Look in your local yellow pages for dealers near you. |
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Two threads can be threaded on your machine and the threads put through the same needle eye. This creates a unique twist of colour for decorative detail. Make sure the needle eye is large enough to accommodate the two threads |
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Use ziplock bags to keep water soluble thread and stabilizer fresh and prevent moisture and drying out. Keep water dabbers near the iron to get rid of water soluble marks before pressing. |
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Sales support can vary greatly, depending on whether or not the machine sales area is independently owned and operated when it comes to Fabric Stores with machine departments.
Mass merchandisers such as Sears may offer machines, but generally the extra hoops, software etc will be special order items. And ever so often no classes are available to train you. Service may require you to ship the machine to the manufacturer.
Mail order pricing can be attractive, but be aware that classes and support won't be available and the machine will have to be shipped to the manufacturer for any necessary service work.
Classified ads can provide leads to used machines. Many of these owners have chosen to upgrade to machines with more features and again there will be no training available and of course no service or warranty. |
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Decorative stitches can be hidden for a subtle immpression. Put them on the inside or outside of a collar band, the inside of a cuff (roll up the cuffs once in a while to show them off), around the buttons when there is a band covering the buttons, and around the edges of linings. Use thread very close in colour to the material for a tone on tone affect or a contrasting thread for splash of colour. |
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Try varying the length and width of the utility stitches, as well as decorative stitches to create new personalized stitches |
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Decorative stitches can create a whole new fabric. Use strips of tearaway or water soluble stabilizer under your fabric to prevent puckering. |
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After completing a quilt top iron and hang from pant hangers to prevent creasing. |
 | Tips and Tricks from Brother Home Sewing |
 | 1. Fleece fabric is strong and hard to puncture or tear. It doesn't ravel, so there is no need to finish the raw edges of seam or hem allowances.
2. Short pins get lost in the fleece, so use long pins, the type with bead heads are the easiest to see.
3. Use a narrow zigzag stitch,adjusting the stitch width and length until you like the way the seam looks. Stitch slowly and carefully because the stitches are hard to remove, this will actually save you time.
4. When sewing around curved areas (such as necklines or armholes,) stitch slowly and be careful not to stretch the fleece.
5. Avoid pressing Fleece with an iron, if pressing is necessary, use a press cloth between the fabric and iron.
6. For hemming topstitch 1/4" from the cut edge through all of the layers. |
Click for larger picture | Beginning quilters are often more than eager to make a quilt, but a full sized bed quilt can be overwhelming very quickly. Start off with a small project, such as place mats, coasters, pot holders or a wall hanging. You should enjoy your projects, so don't frsutrate yourself any more then you have to.
A quick quilting tip for you, before a quilting session, thread half a dozen needles at one time, this saves time and doesn't break up your rhythm. |
 | 1. Always use a good quality thread. Those 5 for a dollar spools are no bargain. For best results use cotton covered polyester thread on regular sewing machines. These combine strength and a nice appearance for top stitching.
2. For serging or overlocking use a 100 polyester thread , it is strong and works well for this type of work.
3. Avoid old thread. Yes thread gets weak with age. If thread is on wooden spools, the thread is old, (very old)
4. Whenever you experience thread breakage try a couple of spools of thread and see if the problem goes away. Many times it will. Even the best threads have bad runs so always suspect the thread first. |
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Dull, bent, wrong size or old needles can create all kinds of problems. If your machine suddenly starts skipping, or breaking thread or you are experiencing any kind of stitching problem, change the needle. Make sure you use the right needle and the correct size for the thread and material being sewn. A needle too large or too small can cause skipped stitches and or broken thread.
Make sure the new needle is inserted all the way and is facing the correct way. In most cases, the flat side of the needle faces away from where you insert your bobbin. If the b obbin goes in from the front, then flat side of needle goes to the rear (away from the operator). If you are in doublt, of how to set up your needle consult the users manual. |
