The sewing machine is an integral part of domestic life. It has been helping you fix ripped pants, blouses, uniforms and even wedding dresses for years. Learning the different parts of the sewing machine should help you use it better and know what needs to be done to fix it when something goes wrong.
One part of the sewing machine that doesn't make this list is the sewing cabinet. This cabinet or table gives you a great place to sew while protecting your machine from damage. Out of all the features, this is possibly the best.
In addition, to get to know all the parts of a sewing machine, just continue reading our article. We tell you the name and function so that you know your sewing machine like the back of your hand.
Sewing machine parts 101
List of names of sewing machine parts
Parts of hand sewing machines
Overlock sewing machine parts and functions
A little history of the sewing machine
some final words
List of names of sewing machine parts
The list is quite long, so sit down, have a cup of coffee and take the time to read. There is no need to go through this list. Just enjoy and spend a few moments learning more about your sewing machine.
We have to say that not all sewing machines come with all the parts listed here. Some can be simple machines that have fewer parts and cost a lot less.
1. Spool pin
- The thread usually comes on a spool. That's the wooden tailpiece you buy at the store. The spool pin holds the spool of thread for you, making it easy to thread your machine and hold the thread the way you want it. read about himFelt spool holder.
2. Coil binder spindle
- A spool is a small cylinder that can be supplied with or without flanges. It holds the thread wrapped around it. The spindle is where the coil is placed during winding.
3. Spool stopper
- The coil is so big. It can't always hold the amount of thread you want to put in it. This part prevents the bobbin from taking up line when it has reached its maximum capacity.
4. Stitch Width Selector
- Many newer sewing machines give you different stitch options. The purpose of this part is to control the zigzag stitch option while concentrating on your sewing.
5. Pattern selection
- This small dial allows you to select one of the many stitch patterns that come built into your sewing machine. Just turn the dial to get the pattern you want on your clothes and other fabrics you want to repair or create.
6. hand wheel
- This is the manual needle control that raises or lowers the needle. It is usually located on the right side of the machine. Turning shouldn't be that hard.
7. Stitch length selector
- Newer sewing machines may have this part attached. Its purpose is to control the length of the selected stitch. This will help you stay in control of your sewing tasks and ensure you get what you want and need.
8. Reverse Stitch Lever
- Once you depress this lever, you can sew in the opposite direction. This feature makes sewing a little easier and faster because you can go forward or backward as needed.
9. Power switch
- You know what this switch does. The key to using it is to make sure you turn off the sewing machine before you leave. Also, it should be on the right side of your machine.
10. Bobbin thread guide
- When you turn this part on your sewing machine, you guide the thread to the bobbin. This makes winding the line a little easier and should prevent the line from twisting, tangling, or snagging.
11. Thread tension controller
- Tension is important when sewing. Too loose thread can cause problems and too much tension can break the thread and make sewing more time consuming as you have to rethread the machine. This little piece simply controls the tension of the thread, so be careful when using it.
12. Palanca Tirahilos
- Your needle thread will pass through this part as you sew. The lever moves up and down with the needle, so don't be alarmed that it will move constantly.
13. Needle clamp screw
- The needles do not stay in place by themselves. It would be nice if they did. You will need this part to hold the needle where it is supposed to be. It also ensures your needle is secure while moving.
14. Presser foot
- This is the part that holds the fabric so it doesn't slide around all over the place as you work. When sewing, it is important to control the fabric.
15. Spool cover
- Your sewing machine parts need some protection to keep them in perfect condition and to give you years of pleasure. This is the job of the spool cap. It protects the coil as it covers it.
16. Bobbin cover release button
- Also, you need to access your bobbin when it's full of thread or when there's a problem. This release button will help you remove the spool cover to give you full access to your spool.
17. Feed the dog
- It's an interesting name, but it has a very simple function. This part guides the fabric through the sewing machine as you sew. This helps you focus on other sewing tasks while you work.
18. Nadel
- Another self-explanatory label that tells you everything you need to know. The needle is an integral part of the sewing machine and without it the other parts cannot do their job.
19. Throat Plate
- This part is just under the needle and under the presser foot. Your job is to move the fabric forward as you sew. It can be helpful to push the fabric back when using your sewing machine's reverse mode.
Parts of hand sewing machines
The hand sewing machine model is operated with a hand wheel or a foot pedal. Often referred to as a pedal, the foot controller powers your sewing machine when you move your feet.
There are a variety of versions of handheld sewing machine units, so they may or may not include all of the parts listed here. There may also be some duplicates of the above list. That's because there are basic parts that fit into any sewing machine model, no matter how old or new.
1. hand wheel
- This is operated by hand and pulled or pushed to move the needle up or down.
2. Foot pedal or pedal
- Instead of using your right hand, use your feet. All you have to do is step on the foot pedal to make your sewing machine work as it should. You can get a good practice with this option.
3. Belt
- These belts are like any other belt that powers machinery. Without them, the hand wheel or foot pedal would not be able to move the needle or other active parts of your machine.
4. Coil
- Same function as above and collects your thread as you work.
5. Bobbin case
- This supports the spool and protects it from damage as it moves to wind line.
6. Wickler
- It ensures that the spool does not take up too much when winding the line.
7. Throat plate
- It performs the same task on manual models as it does on modern sewing machines. Helps move fabric forward as you sew.
8. Shuttle
- This small part works with the spool to ensure the line doesn't get tangled and moves properly.
9. Needles
- Again the most important part of the sewing machine. You may or may not be able to sharpen them. It all depends on whether they bend or not.
Overlock sewing machine parts and functions
This machine has similar parts to the two listed above. We will try to highlight only those that are unique to this machine or are not mentioned in the lists above.
1. Lubrication mechanisms
- This will transport the oil and other lubricants to the moving parts of your sewing machine.
2. Needle guard
- It does exactly what it says. It protects the needle in case there is a problem and too much fabric or some other object gets near the needle.
3. Looper
- This can help trim the thread so it doesn't get tangled or get in your way.
4. Guide and pick up the thread
- This part guides your thread and keeps it on track as you move. Then it helps to pick up the thread if necessary.
5. Knife or thread cutter
- This part cuts the thread where you want to cut it when you are finished sewing that stitch or pattern. It's usually the last piece you wear when you've completed your sewing task.
6. Together
- These hold the metal parts together and prevent them from generating too much heat or friction.
7. Bushings and bearings
- These small parts ensure that all moving parts work as they should. You should keep an eye on them in case there is a problem. They tend to wear out after a while.
8. Feathers
- Another necessary part to keep your overlock machine running at peak performance at all times. They're also a vulnerable part that can bend or break if you're not careful.
9. Bolts, washers and nuts
- Essential hardware that holds your serger together. You may need to loosen or tighten them from time to time as they can become loose, or you may need to remove them to repair other parts.
10. Needle clamps
- This part is the same as mentioned above. It keeps your needle where it belongs and ensures you can sew without needle problems.
A little history of the sewing machine
The device was first invented in 1790 by an Englishman named Thomas Saint. The original patented sewing machine may have been a collaborative effort, building on the previous inventor's work, ideas, and innovations.
But he is credited with making the sewing machine. His machine was only capable of producing one chain stitch.
In 1832, in New York, Walter Hunt added his own ideas to the sewing machine. He placed the locking point and eyelet pin on his version. This is how the sewing machine has evolved over time. People kept adding their own innovations to improve the machine and make sewing life better and easier.
Another example of this was made by Elias Howe in 1845, who placed the bent-eye needle and a shuttle under the thread in his model. He was also able to increase the sewing machine speed to 250 stitches per minute.
In 1846, Isaac Singer developed the straight needle and made the machine sew continuously. After that, and you must know the Singer brand, the rest is history as growing technology has helped create better sewing machines until we have the latest modern versions that can do almost anything.
some final words
- Understanding your sewing machine and its various parts will help you make much better use of your version. Knowing how it works speeds up threading and other things you need to do before you begin.
- There will always be the same basic parts no matter which version you own and use. It's the innovations that you should pay the most attention to as they help you create some very exotic and great looking stitches and patterns.
- Get to know your machine so your sewing talent can grow and become even better than before.