The 4 Rules...

So before we go too crazy and get all caught up in these rules and looking for issues within these rules, I will post this disclaimer: The rules I am posting here are "guidelines" to help operators to use their machines without having to worry about issues that are often over looked. They are not always appropriate to the machine you are using as some machines are unique, but in general sewing machines, these rules apply.

 

#2) Never sew off material. This is a big one.

 Lock-stitch machines are meant to sew on material. Unlike overlock or interlock machine where the machine can "chain off " the material, lock-stitch machines are not meant to do this. It can cause jamming, breaking of thread, breaking of needles and sometime even worse.

#3) Hold your thread tails.

When you first start sewing, you should always hold your thread tails. This can cause bird-nesting, jamming and even lock your machine with thread in the shuttle. Always hold your thread tails when you first begin for the first couple of stitches at least and this will help.

#4)Thread take up lever to the highest

When you want to remove your sewing from the machine, always stop with the thread take up lever at the highest position. This is the beginning and end of every stitch. This practice will ensure your thread does not jam or pull out of your needle when you start sewing again.

These are the 4 basic rules of sewing and yes not always all machines but if you follow these rules, I'm positive you will save a lot of headaches and allow you to have many more hours of trouble free sewing!