Troubleshooting and problem solving

30 Years of tips troubleshooting and sewing machine technical advice

Sewing Machine Problems

What are the most common sewing machine faults written by experienced mechanic

Use this section of Q & A's to find the cause of an error, then use the technical repairs section to help fix the problems.Most computerised or mechanical sewing machines have very similar components, and they all use thread to form a lock stitch...

Sew a test sample to diagnose the problem

To check the optimal stitch setting, sew a seam on regular cotton using the same type and colour of thread top and bottom. Don't forget, always use two layers! Often we have customers saying that the machine is stitching perfect on practice scraps of...

Any tips for a beginner just starting to sew

Beginner tips and sewing cheat sheet Bobbins Not all bobbins are the same, as there are many different sizes of bobbins. The current most common bobbin is the 15k bobbin, which can be metal or plastic. Always make sure you are using the right...

Looping under fabric and Irregular stitches?

Is the thread bunching and looping under the fabric while stitching a seam. How to fix these Irregular stitches under the fabric. These looping errors can be seen on the top, but mostly under the fabric being sewn. Stitches that have a small loop...

Needle breaks or gets bent while stitching

Needle breaks or gets bent while stitching. First check to see if the needle is fully inserted and that the needle clamp screw is tight. Is the needle the correct size and type for the material being sewn? Other causes are a bent needle. It is very difficult...

Accessories are missing from new machine

This can be quite a common issue which customers do contact us about all the time. If you can't find the accessories in the box when you recieve a new machine then chances are they are stored somewhere within the machine, the user manual will normally...

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Fix Steam Press Issues

The jaws of the press must be closed but for how long when pressing?

The jaws of the press must be closed but for how long when pressing? How long should you press the fabric when you close the pressing plates? Good question! Whilst using a steam press it is not required to keep the pressing plates closed for more than...

What temperature setting should you use for different fabrics?

What temperature setting should you use for different fabrics? The temperature control settings are a good starting point to use for ironing different types of fabric. For example; the cotton setting is a guide to iron cotton but there are other factors...

What are the pressing cushions for?

What is this tiny pillow, that was included with my new steam ironing press? What are the pressing cushions for? Most steam presses include a small cushion or two, that are far to small to use on your sofa! The longest pressing cushion is ideal for shirt...

Do I have to keep the press flat for storage?

Do I have to keep the press flat for storage? The answer to that question is, no the press is easily stored upright. It takes up much less space when positioned upright and can be simply placed a cupboard. Make sure the handle is down with the lock in...

Which press should I buy STEAM or DRY?

Which press should I buy STEAM or DRY? Which one should you buy, a dry iron press or a one that uses steam! Don't forget a press that has no water running through it will last longer, that's a fact! Dry presses come with a water spray bottle so its quick...

Do you have to use special water in a steam press?

Do you have to use special water in a steam press? If you live in a hard water area and don't have access to distilled water but your pile of ironing is growing, boil the water and allow to cool. Keep in a spare bottle for future use. It would be best...

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Updates & Software

Where to update my older Pfaff embroidery software?

Pfaff Software Help and Updates. If you have Internet access on the computer you will be able to update quickly and easily. The 3D, 4D, 5D, 6D or the PREMIER+ version software by Pfaff and Husqvarna can quickly be updated. We highly recommend using Smart...

Learn about Janome file formats and transfer designs to machine

Learn about Janome file formats and transfer designs to machineMachine embroidery design formats are very interesting! Janome machines can accept two file formats mostly JEF format is used of the modern machines like MC550e, Atelier 9, M17. Or even older...

What about special files used for Pfaff machine embroidery?

What about special files used for Pfaff machine embroidery?Pfaff's newest embroidery format is VP3 which holds lots of extra information compared to older formats! pcs vip and vp3 Pfaff embroidery formats have their own profile settings that determine...

How will I receive the designs I have ordered?

We have for sale four different types of machine embroidery designs. Sold on a CD. Sold on a USB memory stick. Sold on a memory card available for specific embroidery machines. Sold as an Instant download. Items 1, 2, and 3 - ...

How to update the internal software inside my sewing machine?

Do you own a Singer, Pfaff, or Husqvarna, Janome computerized embroidery model? If so it may need to be updated from time to time. It is always best practice to keep the internal software of your sewing machine up to date. Keeping it updated will remedy...

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Overlock Problems

Tensions are out on my overlocker.

Quite often tension issues on overlockers especially new machines are simply down to the machine having been miss-threaded. For a newer overlocker, or where the user is classed as a learner! When threading an overlocker always make sure that the threads...

Overlocker troubleshooting, what if it sews like this?

Overlockers are usually extremely reliable and will go on to stitch for many years. However, when it goes wrong, it is easy to fall out of love with your overlocker. If your four-thread overedge stitches end up looking like any of the images below...

What are the stitches a cover stitch machine can sew?

A sewing machine that can sew a cover hem is also known as a cover stitch machine. It is a specialised type of sewing machine, designed specifically for creating strong professional-looking hems, top-stitching and decorative stitching on garments, particularly...

How to thread an overlocker

Tips For Threading An Overlocker! Where would you start? There is a huge range of different overlockers available. There are many similarities between overlockers however each one is different to thread, particularly when it comes to threading the loopers...

My overlocker was working well, but suddenly it now has loose stitches?

We are often asked...why is my overlocker tensions loose and very uneven? Last time it was stitching well, now the stitches are awful...it must be broken!? It keeps missing stitches, why will it not overlock? Its not my fault, the overlocker sews irregular...

How does an overlocker form a stitch, while using different threads?

One of the most clever and simple stitches an overlocker can sew, must be the chain stitch. Its clever because it only uses one thread to form a stitch, that can attach two pieces of material together. One thread interlinks with itself in the ...

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Knitting Machine Troubleshooting

Explain the anatomy of a knitting machine needle?

Knitting Machine Needle Types: Knitting machine needles are made from stainless steel, they are very hard wearing and can last for many years if looked after. The various parts of a knitting machine needle can be seen in the image below. The stem is...

Explain the difference between knitting machines?

Over the years hundreds of thousands of knitting machine had been produced and there are still a good number of used models for sale, but how to they compare. How do modern knitting machines compare with the older models? Which ones takes fine wool? ...

My knitting machine is dropping stitches?

Dropping or missed stitches whilst using a knitting machine is quite common and can be solved by simple fault finding. There are three main actions that can cause dropped stitches; Is it missing on the same needle every row? or is it dropping random...

Which knitting machine to choose Brother or Silver Reed?

Knitting machine shootout Silver Reed vs Brother. We will take two of the most common knitting machines... the Brother KH836 and the Silver Reed SK280. Both are standard 4.5 mm gauge and what’s more important, both are exceptionally good at knitting...

Which knitting machine is the best

Knitting machines come in various types, each designed for specific kinds of knitting projects and yarn weights. The main types include plastic bed, metal bed, fine gauge, 4-ply and chunky gauge models. Yes, we have our favourites, but the best one is...

I have several old knitting machines which need servicing and may perhaps need parts. Do you offer this service?

We have been repairing sewing machines for many years (50+ years) and yes, we also service knitting machines. Our workshop is based in the north east of england, in fact, Whitley Bay in Tyne & Wear. We offer full support of all the Silver Reed models...

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Buying Guide Overlockers

What is the difference between an overlocker and a regular sewing machine?

Unfortunately, it is not possible to purchase a combined overlocker and sewing machine, like there was many years ago when the New Home Combi DX was around. Yes, there is a huge difference between an overlock and a sewing machine! Overlockers have...

Do I need an overlocker if I already have a sewing machine?

Do I need an overlocker if I already have a sewing machine? You don't need an overlocker to complete most sewing projects, but it's a valuable tool if you want professionally finished edges, especially for garments, knits, or stretch fabrics. It ensures...

Can an overlocker sew all types of fabric?

Can an overlocker sew all types of fabrics? Yes, overlockers can sew a wide range of fabrics, from lightweight materials like chiffon and silk to heavyweight fabrics like denim and wool. The key is adjusting the differential feed and stitch width/length...

What is differential feed, and why do I need it?

What is differential feed, and why do I need it? Differential feed controls the rate at which the fabric is fed through the machine. Usually the adjustment is via a simple dial or lever with a short range of movement. There is two feed dogs that...

How often should I change the needle on my overlocker?

How often should I change the needle on my overlocker? Overlocker needles need to be sharp, must not have any burrs or be bent, this could cause thread breakage or tangling, skipping stitches and thread balance problems. You should change the needle...

Do overlockers need special threads?

Do overlockers need special threads? No special threads are needed, usually we recommend using a polyester based thread, for less snapping and a longer life after many machine washes. Overlockers use standard thread designed for serging, which is...

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Buyers Guide Embroidery

What are the predominate features a embroidery machine should include?

When learning about embroidery sewing machines for home use, several key functions and features should be considered. These machines, most lightly advanced computerised, combine the functionality of regular sewing machines with specialised embroidery...

How do Pfaff embroidery models compare with each other?

We compare the Pfaff embroidery models against each other. The latest range of Pfaff sewing machine that sew embroidery in a hoop, will have the CREATIVE name. Creative models have been around for many moons, and has always been associated with Pfaff...

Which embroidery thread is best for my embroidery machine?

Machine embroidery threads FAQ. What is the difference between Rayon vs Polyester for embroidery designs? Polyester: Polyester is stronger and is less prone to snapping, It is used for most high-speed multi-needles commercial machines. Polyester...

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Video Selection

Video - Example on how to use the Pfaff Free-Motion Open Toe Quilting Foot

The video shows the regular free-motion embroidery foot, and how wonderful it is for free-motion sewing and quilting. This closed toe-foot has been replaced with an open-toe type, which has an extra-large opening cut out in the front to give you an optimal...

Video - Demonstration of the Silver Viscount CH01 Embroidery Machine

View the latest embroidery machine from Silver Viscount. Its a combined sewing and embroidery machine in one. It can sew embroidery designs up to 18 cm. Even in sewing mode there is so many computerised function to use while dressmaking, or quilting...

Video - How to use the Braiding foot

The video shows an example on how to use the 7/9 hole braiding foot on a dual feed Pfaff sewing machine. Be creative and experiment while using this foot, you can really find some wonderful effects can be achieved. Fitting and using the braiding...

Video - Using the Memory Function on Janome Atelier 5

This video shows how to use the memory settings on the latest Janome computerised sewing machine. The Janome Atelier 5 sewing machine has many features, including a memory to store lettering and stitch patterns. The video also shows you how to program...

Video - How to use the Blind hemming foot

The video shows the popular blind hemming foot, use it in unison with the blind stitch built in to your sewing machine. Using a blind hem foot on a domestic sewing machine is perfect for creating near invisible hems often seen on dress pants, skirts, ...

Video- The darning embroidery foot for free-motion work

It is great fun to do free-hand embroidery with a sewing machine. The stitching is controlled by the movement of your hands while manually guiding the fabric to follow your inspirations for unique designs.The darning and embroidery foot belongs to the...

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Sewing Machine Buyers Guide

How much do I need to spend to get a decent sewing machine?

Sewing machine budget and price variations: As well as the different brands, and specification, one also has to consider the price! And whether you're looking for a mechanical or computerised model. Your budget will reflect how much you want to enjoy...

What are the top questions people ask about BERNINA sewing machines?

This page gives you an overview of the present Bernina sewing machines, covering 3, 4, 5 and 7 series, where you can read and examine them carefully and in detail. Which Bernina is best suited for quilting? Which one uses the jumbo bobbin? Which suits...

Do you have a comparison chart to explain about the different Bernina 7-Series models?

The following is a summary of the differences between the 7-series Bernina models, the range covers all everything from embroidery, quilting as well as combination sewing/embroidery models. Each is a high-spec and packed full of most wanted and dreamed...

Do you have a comparison chart to show the differences between Bernina 4-series models?

The 4-series Bernina sewing machines are popular and the (QE) Quilters Edition creates lots of interest with both quilt makers and dressmakers, it is bang in the middle of the 4-series. Review this list and compare the options of the available models...

Where can I find a Bernina 5-series comparison chart?

Offering a longer chassis than the 4-series, the 5-series Bernina's are embroidery enabled (except the 5 series model numbers ending is 5, EG B535) so, they do have a lot of scope to enhance your skills as your experience or lust for embroidery increases...

What is the difference between a normal and heavy-duty sewing machine?

Do I need a heavy-duty model? If we take a sewing machine engineer's point of view, or look at the question from an expert stitchers eyes. There are three selections to what can be classed as a heavy-duty model! First is an industrial model...

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