Hiya, playing with a cheap mini sewing machine I was gifted. I haven't used a sewing machine since Home Ec 20 years ago.
First question is so basic that it isn't covered by any of the instructions I've read or watched. When I finish sewing a section, there are two threads hanging out of each end of the stitches. One is from my thread spool, the other from the bottom bobbin (according to my machine's instructions). If I pull the bottom thread, it just comes straight out. The top thread is at least looped around the bottom thread. Am I supposed to tie these together at each end every time? Is there some trick I'm missing?
Second question is maybe about my specific machine. The loops of top thread that go around the bottom thread are really loose. Any guess what I've done wrong to cause that?
Thanks in advance.
I really appreciate the detailed reply!
Yes, the dark thread is the top and the bobbin is white.
I loosened the tension because the thread kept snapping, but there must be a middle ground. I'll fiddle with it.
There's no reverse or specific back stitch button, I attempted my own by stopping, lifting the foot, rotating the work piece, and putting a few stitches the other way.
Thank you very much!
Is your thread cotton? I personally always have trouble with cotton thread snapping, so I prefer poliester.
The thread snapping might also be fixed by rethreading the machine, so you can try that as well.
About the back stitch, it's a shame your machine does not have it. I consider it an essential feature, but I understand you're just dipping your toes. Most full size entry level machines should have it, and they can be pretty cheap second hand.
If you are turning your piece make sure you lower your needle into the fabric before lifting the presser foot.
I'm using the thread that came with the machine plus some rolls of unknown providence that I inherited with my grandmother's sewing tin. No idea what they're made of!
Adjusting the tension eventually either, but the knob just doesn't work well.
I'm having fun with this, but if I continue to use it long I will consider a real machine. Another option is to borrow one from the library.
Thanks for the tip on turning! I'm going over my kids' hand stitched scout patches, so they're all turn all the time.
If you have the option the borrow one form the library that's a great! In my knowledge those small sewing machines are really lacking in basic features, you'll probably save time and frustration borrowing the library one.
If you have more questions ask away :)
I appreciate it very much.
And yeah, my library has a maker space with some equipment one can borrow. It's great!
The backstitching is probably not by a button. On mine, and many like it, there's a bar used to change stitch length. If you go to the end that's as short as possible, it will run backwards.
My machine is so old and simple that's the only thing it can do other than a straight stitch, so yours should be able to somehow.
I have a button for a paltry light, an on/off button that just makes it run forever without the pedal, and a speed button that only has high or low. It's not a very capable machine, but it was free!
On the old vintage Singer shuttle machines (the 27s and 28s) there was no reverse mechanism. The instruction book specified to make sure the needle is out of the fabric, lift the presser foot, slide the fabric back a few stitches' worth, then lower the foot and stitch over the previous stitches. Do that a couple times and you've tied off the thread. That technique might help with yours.
I appreciate it, that might be easier than what I've been doing. I am starting the wrong direction, head an inch or so toward the end, then needle down, foot up, rotate the fabric and go the normal direction.