Mini sewing machines are nothing less than a gift for sewing lovers. Although they are small in size, these machines pack a powerful punch and can handle all sorts of fabrics and projects.
As the demand for such machines is growing, we thought of writing this article to guide you on how to use a mini sewing machine.
At first, it might seem quite complicated to use a mini sewing machine, but once you learn the technique; it will be really interesting for you to use these for as many projects as possible.
However, before we go ahead with the step-wise guide, it is extremely important to talk about these machines. If you are totally new to the stitching world, let us first discuss the basics of a mini sewing machine for you before moving on to how it’s working.
So, let’s dive in, shall we?
What Is A Mini Sewing Machine?
A mini sewing machine is a small handheld device, which acts as a substitute for conventional sewing machines. They are capable of carrying out basic operations like stitching and embroidery.
These machines are mainly used to handle smaller projects at home or in the office. Although they are not suitable for big projects, you can still use them to carry out smaller portions of intricate stitching projects too.
Using A Mini Sewing Machine – Step Wise Guide
As a beginner, you will be able to use a mini sewing machine without much effort and save yourself from spending too much time learning the basics. All you need is a bit of information on how to use a mini sewing machine step by step and we are here to tell you that. So, read on.
Step 1. Get To Know Your Mini Sewing Machine
Before you start using your mini sewing machine, it is important that you acquaint yourself with all the features and functions of the device. Familiarize yourself with the different types of stitches that are available on your machine and also learn how to thread the needle.
Some machines come with a built-in light, which will help you see the fabric properly while working on it. So, if your machine has this feature, make sure to use it while stitching in low-light conditions.
Step 2. Select The Right Type Of Fabric
Not all fabrics are suitable for stitching with a mini sewing machine. So, before you start working on any project, make sure to select the right type of fabric that is compatible with your machine.
The fabrics that are generally used with mini sewing machines are cotton, linen, satin, and silk. You can also use synthetic fabrics like polyester, but make sure to test the stitch quality on a small portion of the fabric before you start working on the entire project.
Step 3. Pre-Wash Your Fabric
It is always advisable to pre-wash the fabric before you start stitching on it. This will help remove any unwanted starch or sizing from the fabric and also prevent it from shrinking after washing.
Step 4. Pin The Fabric
Once you have selected the right type of fabric and pre-washed it, the next step is to pin it securely to the work surface before starting to stitch. This will ensure that the fabric doesn’t move around while you are working on it and also results in a neater finished project.
Step 5. Thread The Needle
Properly threading in a new needle in your mini sewing machine is really important in order to get proper stitches. Before you start threading the needle, make sure that it is sharp enough so that it can pierce effortlessly through the fabric layers. To check this, try pressing the tip of the needle against your thumbnail- if it creates an indentation with minimum pressure then you are good to go.
Now hold the eye of the needle facing upwards and take a few strands of thread from the spool towards the needle. Pass the thread through the eye of the needle and pull it up until the thread is taut. Now tie a knot at the end of the thread to secure it.
Step 6. Thread The Bobbin
The bobbin is the small spool that sits in the bobbin case and helps to wind the thread for stitching. To thread the bobbin, hold it so that the hole at the top is facing you, and take a few strands of thread from the spool.
Pass the thread through the hole and wind it around the bobbin in a clockwise direction. Make sure that the thread is tightly wound around the bobbin and that there are no loose threads hanging from it.
Now place the bobbin in the bobbin case and close the lid. Pull out the slackened thread from the needle and tie a knot at its end.
Step 7. Plugged
Before you start working on your project, make sure that the machine is properly plugged into a power source and switched on. This will help avoid any interruptions during your work.
Step 8. Plug In The Foot Pedal
If your mini sewing machine has a foot pedal, make sure to plug it in before you start stitching. Once done, depress the edge of the pedal so that the bobbin hook starts rotating and winds the thread onto it.
Step 9. Select A Stitch Pattern
Now select your desired stitch pattern on your machine according to the type of fabric you are using. Different machines come with different stitches that can be used for various purposes like hemming or embroidering. Most modern models also offer utility stitches that can help complete quick tasks like reinforcing buttonholes without having to switch between different stitch patterns.
Step 10. Set The Stitch Length
The stitch length is the distance between two consecutive stitches and it can be adjusted according to the type of fabric you are using and the desired effect you want to achieve. For basic stitching, a stitch length of 2-3mm should be fine. But if you are working on a delicate fabric, then reduce the stitch length to 1mm or less.
Step 11. Start Stitching
Once you have followed all the above steps, it’s time to start stitching! Hold the fabric against the feed dogs (the little teeth-like projections at the bottom of the machine) and gently guide it forward while depressing the pedal with your foot. Keep the fabric taut against the feed dogs to ensure even stitching.
Step 12. Stop Stitching
To stop stitching, release the foot pedal and allow the needle to complete its downstroke before pulling the fabric out from underneath. Do not try to pull it out quickly as this might cause the stitches to unravel. Also, never try to forcibly remove a jammed needle as this might damage both the machine and the needle.
Step 13. Tie Off The Thread Ends
Once you have finished stitching, tie off the thread ends by making a knot close to the fabric surface. This will prevent them from unraveling and will also help you to hide them while stitching.
Step 14. Unplug The Machine
Once your work is finished, unplug the machine from its power source and then release the foot pedal. Now raise the needle to its highest position and remove the fabric from underneath it.
Step 15. Store The Machine
Once you are done, store the machine safely by switching it off and unplugging it from the power source. You can either keep it in its original packaging or wrap it in a soft cloth to protect it from dust and dirt.
Tips For Using A Mini Sewing Machine Perfectly
Below, we have listed a few tips that will help you use your mini-sewing machine perfectly and achieve the desired results:
- Make sure to read the instructions manual thoroughly.
Most machines come with instruction manuals that provide detailed instructions on how to set up the machine, thread it and use its different stitch patterns. Make sure to read them carefully before you start working on your project.
- Use the correct thread for your fabric type.
If you are planning to stitch a delicate fabric like silk, then use a thinner thread such as embroidery floss or cotton thread instead of the usual polyester/cotton blend that is commonly used for heavy and medium fabrics.
- When it comes to choosing stitch length, always opt for shorter lengths
Go for short stitches when stitching lightweight fabrics in order to avoid excessive piling on the underside of the finished product. Also remember that if you are using very fine fabrics, shorter stitches may even cause problems during sewing due to the lack of fabric bulk. In such cases, it is best to use a lengthened stitch length or even a zigzag stitch.
- Always keep the fabric taut against the feed dogs while stitching to ensure even stitching
If you allow the fabric to sag, it will cause puckering and uneven stitches. When starting to stitch, hold the fabric against the feed dogs and guide it forward using gentle pressure. Do not try to pull it out quickly as this might cause the stitches to unravel.
Now that you know the basics of using a mini sewing machine, you can go ahead and start working on your next project!
Happy stitching!