Parts of a sewing machine
What are the parts of a sewing machine?
Understanding the different parts of a sewing machine is essential for operating the machine effectively and achieving excellent sewing results. Below is a list of commonly used sewing machine parts:
- Bed: The flat surface of the sewing machine where the fabric rests while being sewn.
- Bobbin: A small spool that holds the bottom thread and works in conjunction with the upper thread to form stitches.
- Bobbin Case: A compartment or holder that securely houses the bobbin, ensuring smooth thread feeding during sewing.
- Bobbin Cover/Slide Plate: A removable cover or plate that protects the bobbin case and keeps it securely in place.
- Bobbin Winder Spindle: A mechanism that moves the bobbin winder to the right to wind thread from the spool onto the bobbin.
- Bobbin Winder Thread Guide: A guide used to evenly distribute the thread while winding it onto the bobbin.
- Feed Dogs: Two to three metal bars located on the sewing machine bed that move the fabric through the machine during stitching.
- Foot Pedal: A foot-operated control that regulates the start, stop, and speed of the sewing machine.
- Free Arm: A detachable part of the sewing machine bed that provides easy access for sewing small or circular areas, such as cuffs or sleeves.
- Guidelines: Measurements located on the throat plate that help guide the fabric and ensure even seam widths.
- Hand Wheel: A large wheel on the right side of the machine that manually raises and lowers the needle and controls the machine's movement.
- Needle Clamp: A small, flat screw that holds the needle securely in place.
- Power & Light Switch: A switch that turns the sewing machine and its built-in light on or off.
- Power Socket: The socket where the power cord is connected to the sewing machine for power supply.
- Presser Foot: A foot-shaped attachment that applies pressure to hold the fabric in place as it is fed through the machine by the feed dogs.
- Presser Foot Lever: A lever used to raise and lower the presser foot, allowing for easy fabric placement and removal.
- Reverse Stitch Button or Lever: A button or lever that enables the machine to sew stitches in reverse to secure the seam.
- Sewing Needle: A specialized needle designed for use in a sewing machine, which differs from hand-sewing needles.
- Spool Pin: A small extendable rod located on the top of the machine that holds the thread spool securely in place.
- Stitch-Length Control: A dial or button that adjusts the distance between stitches, controlling the stitch length.
- Stitch Pattern Selector: A dial or screen that allows the user to choose from various stitch types available on the sewing machine.
- Stitch-Width Control: A dial that adjusts the width between stitches or controls the needle position for decorative or zigzag stitches.
- Tension Control: A dial or knob that adjusts the amount of pressure applied to the upper thread, ensuring balanced and even stitches.
- Thread Cutter: A small knife located to the left and behind the needle that is used to cut threads after completing a seam.
- Thread Guides: Guides that direct the thread from the spool to the needle, ensuring proper thread tension and smooth thread flow.
- Thread Take-Up Lever: A metal hook that pulls the thread back after each stitch, preventing thread tangles and maintaining proper thread tension.
- Throat Plate: The metal plate located under the presser foot, providing a smooth surface for fabric feeding and protecting the bobbin and bobbin case.
By familiarizing yourself with these sewing machine parts, you will gain confidence in operating your machine and have a better understanding of its functionality. Remember to consult