What you’ll do
Thread the top path, seat the bobbin, test tension, and sew straight lines and a seam sample at ⅝″ (1.6 cm).
Setup & threading
- Raise needle & presser foot; follow numbered guides.
- Wind bobbin evenly; insert per machine diagram.
- Hold both threads for first stitches to avoid tangles.
Controls
- Stitch length: 2.5–3.0 for seams; longer for basting.
- Tension: start at default; adjust only if loops show.
- Backstitch at start/end to lock.
Step-by-step
1
Wind & insert bobbin
Wind evenly; install with thread direction per your machine.
2
Thread top path
Spool → guides → tension → take-up lever → needle. Raise presser foot first.
3
Bring up bobbin thread
Turn handwheel to catch; pull both tails under foot.
4
Test stitches
Scrap fabric: straight line at 2.5–3.0 length; adjust tension if loops appear.
5
Seam sample
Guide along a ⅝″ guide; backstitch 3 stitches at start/end.
Tips
- New needle = fewer problems. Change after 8–10 hours of sewing.
- Let the feed dogs move the fabric—don’t push or pull.
- Keep a small brush to clean lint under the plate.
Troubleshooting
- Bird’s nest: Presser foot up while threading or tails not held—rethread, hold tails.
- Skipped stitches: Wrong needle size/type—swap needle.
- Loose loops: Adjust upper tension one click at a time.