Are you new to operating a sewing machine and are still confused about the different parts and functions of each? If so, this article will help you in your need. Keep scrolling and expand your knowledge.
Sewing Machine Parts and Functions
Power Switch Button
Turns the machine on and off.
Hand Wheel
Allows the user turning the wheel to move the needle up and down by hand (moves when it turns).
Bobbin Winder
Built-in bobbin winders may be found on the top, front, or side of a sewing machine. Most winders consist of a bobbin pin to hold the bobbin while the thread is being wound, thread guides for maintaining tension, and a start/stop lever. Some bobbin winders have built-in thread cutters.
Spool Pin
Holds the upper thread spool.
Stitch Length Adjustment Knob
This control adjusts the length of each stitch by changing the amount of fabric the feed dog pulls through the machine.
Thread Guide
Guides the upper thread from the spool pin to the needle.
Tension Control
Controls the tightness or looseness of the upper thread
Presser Foot
The presser foot works with the feed dog to move the fabric evenly through the machine. When the presser foot is lowered, it engages the tension discs and presses the fabric beneath the foot against the feed dog. The upper part of the foot, called the ankle, is usually screwed onto the machine securely; the lower part may include a quick-release mechanism for changing presser feet.
Stitch Selector Knob
Use the stitch selector to choose which stitch you’d like to use. Many machines feature a number of built-in stitches: straight stitch, zigzag, buttonhole, blind hem, etc.
Reverse Stitch Button
Causes the machine to stitch in reverse
Take Up Lever
The take-up lever is a metal finger with a thread guide that moves up and down, pulling the thread from the spool and feeding it through the machine.
Presser Foot Lifter
This lever, located above the presser foot at the back or side of the machine, raises and lowers the presser foot. When the presser foot is lifted, the tension discs are disengaged, and the fabric will not feed through the machine.
Needle Plate
A semi-circular disc with a hole to allow the needle to pass through it.
Needle Bar
This is a steel rod to hold the needle at one end with the help of a clamp. Its main function is to give motion to the needle.
Watch this video of needle bar adjustment:
Sewing Needle
A needle used in sewing to pull thread through the cloth.