Sewing Tips

• Go slow.
• Start every project with a new needle.
• Buy low, sell high.

• Be sure your needle is not bent and does not have a burr. (Or just switch to a new needle if in doubt).
• Hold the loose threads when starting to sew the first few stitches, and ensure there is no slack in these threads.
• 10-12 stitches per inch is the usual thing.
• Be sure your thread spool is feeding cleanly (I use a "tree").
• Be sure the machine is threaded properly. Rethread the machine with the PRESSER FOOT UP. (does the thread tension feel different with the foot up versus down?)
• Reduce top tension and check for fuzz and lint in the tension mechanism.
• Use the handwheel to make the first 2-3 stitches, while holding the threads.
• Wind the bobbins evenly.
• Use good thread, and the smallest needle that will produce good stitches.
• Thicker thread requires a needle with a larger eye.

Some other tips:

• Thread tension must be tighter when sewing thin fabric and looser when sewing thick fabric!
• If the machine goes "clunk, clunk, clunk" as you sew, there is a good chance you have a bent needle.