As a beginner sewist, you will often need to change your sewing needle. This is one of the skills you need to master when learning how to use a sewing machine. Whether the needle got blunt or broke while sewing, it’s important that you learn how to replace sewing machine needle. This article gives you a guideline on how to get the needle out and place it back correctly.
But first, some tips you need to know about sewing machine needles.
When replacing sewing machine needle, note that all sewing machine needles are standardized in that, they can be used in any modern sewing machine. However, they are of different types and sizes. You thus need to know what size and type of needle to use for a specific project.
Using the wrong needle for a project can cause havoc like needle and thread breaking, skipped stitches, or even destroying your fabric.
The type of needle you choose depends on the fabric type. It’s thus important to keep replacing sewing needles often.
Reasons For Changing Sewing Machine Needles
Some of the reasons for changing sewing machine needles include
- When the needle gets dull or bent
- To replace an old sewing needle
- When you change fabric type
- Replacing a broken needle.
When learning how to replace sewing machine needle, you will need to know which type and size of the needle will suit your next project. This will be determined by the type of fabric and the weight of fabric you are going to use. The type of fabric will determine which type of needle to use while the weight of the fabric will determine which size of needle you’ll need.
Always remember that the higher the number of the needle, the thicker the needle will be.
Common Needle Types You Must Have As A Beginner
Some common needle types you must have as a beginner include….
Universal needles. They are perfect for projects with woven fabrics. You can also use jeans needles,
Sharp needles. Very delicate fabrics such as nylon, polyester, silk. They easily go through the fabric without perforating the fabric.
Jersey. It’s also called a ballpoint needle. It’s ideal for knit fabric the rounded part prevents the sharp edge from damaging the fabric.
So, if you need to change or replace a sewing machine needle, don’t dread it because it’s an easy task.
How Often To Change Sewing Machine Needle?
You can change a sewing needle for different reasons such as;
- Changing after using 3-4 bobbin threads on a project.
- Replace it after continuously using the machine for 8 hours.
- Replace it each time you feel the needle has a burr or gets blunt.
How To Replace Sewing Machine Needle In Easy Steps
- For safety purposes, turn off the sewing machine.
- Raise the needle in the highest position by moving the handwheel.
- You can also remove the presser foot to create space when removing the needle.
To remove the needle in the sewing machine, turn the needle-screw counter-clockwise. Make sure you are holding the needle when untightening to prevent it from falling into the machine mechanism. Then, pull the needle downwards to remove it.
How To Put Needle In Sewing Machine
To insert a sewing machine needle, you can use a needle inserter tool or use your fingers.
Use a needle inserter
Some machines come with a needle insertion tool that helps you change sewing needles with ease. This tool has a hole on one side. Insert the needle on that hole, then push the needle up in the needle space of the machine. Make sure the needle goes as high as possible. Use your hand or a flat screwdriver to tighten the knob. Remove the needle inserter.
Use your fingers
If you don’t have the needle inserting tool, you can insert a needle using your fingers. Hold the needle with your thumb and pointer finger. The flat side should be facing back, away from you. Then push the needle up until it can’t get any farther. Use your other hand to tighten the screw.
Conclusion
Learning how to replace sewing machine needle is easy. It’s also important to do it often to prevent frustration. Practice a few times how to change the sewing machine needle and replace them like a pro.
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