Tip of the Day: Get the most out of your sewing machine

In advance of our sewing machines product report in the March 2009 issue (on sale and online in February), our experts unravel some common misconceptions about sewing and sewing machines so your trusted machine works well and is always at the ready whenever you start a new project or need to make a quick repair.

Myth: The quality of the thread you use doesn't matter, so it's fine to use the cheapo stuff from Betty's Bargain Basement.

Reality: Cheap thread tends to be fuzzy and might fray, which can lead to thread breakage, lint in the bobbin case and messy seams with stitches that are too tight or too loose. In addition to frays, poor-quality thread could also have thin or weak spots that could break while you're sewing or worse when you wear or your handcrafted labor of love, a real hassle. So buy high-quality thread and store spools out of direct light, say in a dry, dark spot to keep the thread in tiptop shape.

Myth: It's okay to use needles until they bend or break.

Reality: Dull or bent needles can make tiny pulls in fabric and damage it. Needles are relatively inexpensive, so use a new one at the start of each project. Go easy when feeding fabric through the sewing machine, or you could bend the needle backward.

Myth: Sewing over pins that hold together fabric isn't a problem and won't damage the material or the machine.

Reality: When the machine's needle hits a pin, it could deform the needle tip enough to snag your material with every stitch. What's more, striking a pin while sewing at high speed can throw off the timing of or cause mechanical damage to the machine.

Myth: It's important to oil a sewing machine often.

Reality: Many of the latest sewing machines don't need to be oiled; in fact, manufacturers of many of these models advise against it. To determine whether you need to lubricate your mechanical or electronic machine (and how often), consult the owner's manual. If you use your sewing machine frequently, bring it to a reputable service center for the occasional tune-up.—Kimberly Janeway

Essential information: Read our most recent blog posts on sewing machines, including this inside look at our testing, tips on making costumes, and details on an organization that helps kids.

February 2009 update: Our report on sewing machines is now available online. Find the best sewing machines in this report.

Comments

[Bonnie]

I hope you will be reviewing thread when you list the sewing machines. I have purchased quality cotton thread from a quilt shop, and the shedding is awful. I really would like to know the best thread available!

[alex]

That`s true,many cotton threads breaks and skip stitches on free motion.
Try Signature thread, it the best for quilting.