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.

Forum Friday: Top forums in recent weeks

Washing machines: This has been the most popular appliances forum recently, with the least-repair-prone front-loading washer and LG washer smell among the hottest discussions. These topics have emerged as our other top forums.

Vacuums: Vacuum aficionados have been posting in our best vacuums topic, while picks and pans of deep and steam cleaners have drawn numerous reviews.

Refrigerators: A newer French-door refrigerator discussion has sprung up to replace the old discussion on the same topic, along with a call for the quietest refrigerator.

Mattresses: The hottest non-appliance forum has many folks chatting about latex mattresses. And thanks to the member who posted the last word on how to buy a mattress.

Dishwashers: The I love my dishwasher discussion continues with passionate posts. Can top one member’s tale of her 24-year-old dishwasher?

Central heat/air conditioning: Cold weather and energy prices probably stoked discussions, like Which gas furnace should I buy?, which ranks as our most viewed discussion. We're looking forward to responses to a member's call for opinions on integrated heating and hot-water systems.

Ranges: These kitchen appliances have seen more activity as the holiday-cooking season kicked off and Consumer Reports published new ratings. The pros and cons of induction cooking is especially useful.

Small appliances: Coffeemakers dominate here. As detailed in a recent Forum Friday, numerous threads are percolating away in the wake of our latest review of coffeemakers.

Dryers: You’ll find numerous discussions of particular brands and some interesting exchanges on ventless condensation dryers and ways to prevent clothes and sheets from “balling.”

While it didn't crack the Top 10 in traffic, the energy saving in your home forum has had some wonderful insights to put more green in your holidays.