Sewing machine techniques are a great way to add a little finishing touch to your clothes. These include topstitching and overlock stitching.

Topstitching

Topstitching is a very practical finishing method. It can be used to keep seams in place, fill gaps, and create a sense of space. It can also be used for decorative purposes. Look out for the best embroidery machine for beginners.

Topstitching can be done on either side of seams. The thread used for topstitching is thicker than usual and is typically 1/8 to 1/4 inches from the seam edge. You need the right equipment to make the most out of your topstitching.

The most important thing to remember about topstitching is consistency. It is important to plan ahead. You should be able to determine how many items you need to sew and what you will need to do. A removable stabilizer can be used to help you see the stitches better if there are curves or other areas that may be difficult to sew.

Start by choosing the right thread. You can use all-purpose thread, but you’ll likely get better results if you use a thread that is matched to the fabric.

Overlock stitch

Overlock stitch is a type of sewing technique that finishes the edges of a fabric by stitching them together. It is often used for finishing raw edges, but it can also be used for a variety of other purposes.

There are two types of overlock stitches. The first is a 2-thread overlock, which is not very strong. This type of overlock is great for finishing the edges of lightweight fabrics.

A 3-thread overlock, on the other hand, is a little stronger. Both are great for finishing the raw edges.

You can make an overlock stitch with either a sewing machine, or by hand. When using a sewing machine, the best way to make an overlock stitch is to use an overcast foot.

An overlock stitch is a great place to start if you are just starting to sew. You might want to use a different color thread if you are looking for a more decorative look.

Gathering with a zig-zag stitch

Gathering fabric is a simple and easy technique to add a bit of puff to your project. To create an even distribution, you will need to fold one piece of fabric over another.

Gathering can be done by hand or on a sewing machine. You can use a straight stitch, a zig-zag stitch or a cord to create a gathered look. If you are using a sewing machine, you can take advantage of the Cording Foot, which has a groove to guide the cord.

To gather, you need to determine the amount of fabric you will need to gather. A general rule of thumb is to gather three times as much fabric as the edge you want to gather.

When gathering a long piece of fabric, it helps to work from the center out. This will allow you to match the points in your pattern more easily and ensure that you get a uniform distribution of fullness.

The zig-zag stitch is the best way to achieve this. For a smooth, even zig-zag stitch, you’ll need a wide width setting.

Turning the handwheel the wrong way can mess up the timing

Proper setup and maintenance can prevent many common problems with sewing machines. One of these is when the handwheel is turned the wrong way. This can affect the timing of your sewing machine operations. If you are unsure how to repair your sewing machine, you may want to consult a technician.

First, clean the bobbin case of any debris. The case can become clogged with dust and lint, making it difficult to move the handwheel. To clean the bobbin race, it’s a good idea use a brush.

You should also check the tension settings. Sometimes, the tension settings are too light. Adjust them to ensure that the needle is properly seated in the eye of your bobbin. A cloth soaked in solvent can be used to help clear the tension.

Third, oiling a serger is a must. Oiling will keep the parts lubricated and can also prevent a gummy mess from forming inside the serger.