i found a nice old singer sewing machine some threw out,but i don't know how to begin to use it.I have a lot of clothes that needs to be sewed.I bougth the sewing machine home for my ex-girlfriend and she only used it once,so i didn't have time to learn from her.
2006-07-02 00:06:47 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Do It Yourself (DIY)
sew by hand first...it's low cost and gives you hand eye co-ordination before attempting machines.You can patch articles like jeans or older clothes you wouldn't mind the seams on. Take a day out and read a book about sewing machines/parts and use.
2006-07-02 06:00:31 · answer #1 · answered by Jedi 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
well, this divides into a few big categories.
How does THIS machine work?
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You can check the web or write/email the company to see if an instruction book for this machine is available. Or someone might be selling the instruction book or the instruction book to a vary similar machine on eBay, etc. EBay has a place that lets you list what YOU are looking for - that might be a good way to find it.
the BIG deal things having to do with using a sewing machine tend to vary a little, but basically, we are talking about:
what the path of the thread is through those holes and coils,
how to put thread on the bobbin,
how the bobbin works,
how to link the upper thread and the bobbin thread,
and how to set the tension of the thread ( correct tension varies by fabric and by thickness,)
how does this machine do buttonholes,
and is it operated by foot pedal, knee peddle, or treadle?
You really can find out those things by experimenting on useless, ugly fabrics, or rags.
How, when, where to oil it - i don't have any suggestions.
but i imagine that someone who understands how general machines work could figure out when and where to oil it. there is special sewing machine oil, you can get it at sewing /fabric places. usually, one only uses a drop or 2, and then you sew some on rags to make sure the oil doesn't get to the fabric.
How does one do sewing on a (any) machine?
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you can learn this from pretty well any "first sewing" book. You can probably get one at the library.
but the ones i found easiest, fastest, and most useful were labeled either "Ann Person" or "Stretch and Sew" - though it might be
"Stretch n Sew" or "Stretch & Sew." these are old - like from the 70s and 80s. Check the library or ebay, other places on the web.
How do i make this garment? Now you are at patterns.
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Most "first sewing books" teach you how to follow patterns.
They differ slightly in notation and symbolism, based on the company. Start with Simplicity type patterns, not Vogue type patterns. One company makes (or made) patters with a name like "Make it in Minutes." they tend to be simple, fast, and well help you learn how to do things, will build your confidence, and give you new clothes!
How to make repairs to this fabric, this garment ?
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I haven't seen any books about this. i think it may be a matter of seeing how other people do it, trial and error, and your own creativity.
Sometimes you can do a repair, sometimes, all you can do is sew something over the problem area.
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there are sewing machines that do many more complex things, like serging, or monomgraming, or fancy stiches. Or even have computer chips and programming.
I don't have any experience with those.
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sewing can be lots of fun after you get through the somewhat boring basics. Especially the designing and creative parts.
2006-07-02 07:36:15 · answer #2 · answered by nickipettis 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Using a sewing machine is like learning to drive a car. The first thing you need to do is have the machine cleaned and serviced; then, find out how to work and thread the machine, or you'll never learn to sew. You need to know the difference between types of threads and needles for specific fabrics. Find someone who can tell you how to do that. There are a multitude of how-to books and videos on sewing. Look on ebay. But a sewer will usually be willing to help you out. I taught my boys to sew at young ages; started them on sewing potholders to learn to control the machine and make a straight seam. When they were grown, they were the only guys in the Navy who could sew on a button or patch on their uniforms! Good luck to you.
2006-07-02 10:58:17 · answer #3 · answered by Sassy OLD Broad 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The local library will have books on learning to sew. Check one out, then go to your local thrift store and buy some fabric - nothing fancy, but something that catches your eye. You will also need to go to Wal-mart (least expensive) or a fabric store, to buy sewing machine needles, thread, and a bobbin (if your machine didn't come with one).
The gals at Wal-mart or the fabric store can help you choose the right needles and bobbins, if you let them know what type of material you have and what kind of sewing machine.
I have listed the Singer Co. website, so you may be able to find directions for threading your machine. Hope you have fun!
2006-07-02 07:16:20 · answer #4 · answered by Inquisitive Girl 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Go to the pattern section - they have easy patterns for beginners that have very explicit directions. In home ec, one hundred years ago, we started off with a gym bag, and worked our way up. Try the easier stuff to get the basics down and the work your way up. It's fun! and frustrating! You can do it!!
2006-07-02 10:41:20 · answer #5 · answered by horsinround2do 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
go to your local yarn store most have cheap classes to lean things like that
2006-07-02 07:11:20 · answer #6 · answered by loveableladee1 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋