Sewing Machine Repair

Fix Sticky Serger Stitches

2011-05-18T13:36:00.003-05:00

What Do You Do With Skipped And Sticky Serger Stitches?

When you push on the foot control, you expect your serger to zip along serging a perfect stitch in an endless seam. When the stitch fails to form or skips hear and there, it causes horrific frustration. The sheer number of threads make serging a challenge. It sews so fast, up to 1500 stitches per minute, that serging can be a bit unnerving.

Consistent stitching, proper thread placement, and fine balanced tensions form quality stitches. Puckers, irregularities, and loops are noticeably absent.

Failure to form a stitch and skipped stitches are two of the more frustrating challenges serger users experience. These problems require a concerted effort to identify the causes and find solutions.

The most common causes of skipped stitches and unformed stitches include needle problems, threading problems , thread issues, faulty tensions, fabric issues, snagging, and misalignment of either looper timing or needle bar height or both. Check each possible cause and eliminate one of the at a time.

Start by replacing the needle or needles involved. Needle burrs, flaws, and bends are common causes of skipped stitches. Make sure the needles are fully seated in their holders.

Serger needle positioning is critical. Some sergers use ordinary sewing needles that have flat back tops, but many use special needles with rounded tops. On the front of the needle is a groove for the thread to ride in while the needle goes down. On the back and just above the eye is a cut out space known as the scarf. The scarf must be at ninety degrees to the lower looper. Make sure the needle is straight forward and properly seated in its holder. Use the right needle for the application you are doing.

The needle bar height must be properly aligned in order for stitches to form. It can be dislodged by the needle striking hard surfaces, needle breakage, or by sewing through very heavy materials.

Threading is also a very common source of difficulties. To fix this problem, rethread properly. Be alert to anything that might snag the thread.

Not all threads are equal. Some thread work better, some worse. Rethread with separate color threads or easier tracking. Make sure tensions are right.

Generally, sergers work on all fabrics, however, certain challenges can emerge with super thin, slippery, or thicker fabrics require accommodations.

Failure to form stitches usually results from the same causes as skipped stitches, but the issues are more pronounced. It is a matter of degree. If a serger issue causes skipped stitches, it is only a matter of time before stitches fail to form at all.

Apply the same approaches to seek solutions. One additional tip, however, is to clear the stitch finger and draw the theads under and behind the presser foot prior to starting to serger.

Generally, when the stitch quality is less than acceptable there are some basic things to check every time. These include needles, thread and threading, tensions, loopers, snag causes, settings, and balance. Replacing needles properly, rethreading properly, and adjusting tension balance are the three basic approaches to solve stitch problems. Get help from our professional sewing machine technician if you continue seeing problems.

If you decide to consider buying a new serger, besure to check out the resources at www.SewingMachineMall.com. They offer great reviews and resources to help you find the best serger or sewing machine.

Learn information about how to repair a sewing machine from Dr. David Trumbles excellent courses and sewing machine repair book. Download a copy of his free beginner's course.

Centering The Needle To Repair Your Sewing Machine

2010-11-23T13:26:00.003-06:00

Does your needle penetrate the needleplate properly?

This is an often overlooked element that can create loads of problems.

If the needle is even slightly out of proper position in any direction, it will adversely affect the stitch formation and tension of the stitching.

More specifically, the needle must be positioned so that it centers in the needle plate front to back, side to side, default prositioning, and needle bar height. Setting these positions is a major part of any sewing machine repair.

Lets look at these in reverse order: The needle bar height is set by a set screw on the needle bar clamp. The point of the needle must move down through the needle plate hole, into the bobbin carrier area, and begin rising as the point of the hook passes behind the scarf of the needle. If the point of the needle passes too high or too low, poor stitches, irregular stitches, intermitten stitches, or no stitches may result.

To properly set the needle bar height, visually trace from the needle up the bar until the bar passes through the hole in the head and then up until you see a clamp with a set screw in the center. This is the adjusting screw.

Rotate the hand wheel toward you until the needle moves to its lowest position. It must not strike anything. Rotate just slightly until the point of the hook is ready to pass behind the needle. The point of the hook must pass behind the scarf or cut out in the back of the needle and above the eye. If this is not happening, loosen the set screw mentioned previously. Adjsut the bar up or down without turing it. Retighten the set screw.

Next set the machine to its default needle position. Some machines default to a center position, while others use a left needle position. In either case, make sure the needle is properly positioned. If center positioning is used, the needle must enter the needle plate in the exact center of the needle hole. If left position is used, the needle should clear the left side of the hole but match the left most position. In some machines multiple position is used. In these cases, make sure the center position matches properly.

To adjust this positioning, visually trace the needle bar up to the bracket you referenced to adjust height. Note an arm connects to the right of this bracket and goes to another connection. This connection has an eccentric screw to adjust the left to right positioning. A set screw may or may not hold this eccentric in position. Loosen the set screw and adjust the eccentric until the needle is properly positiioned. Test by rotating the hand wheel through one complete needle bar action up and down.

Next note that there is another arm running from this connection and reachinging back to the cam tracker. In the center of this arm is another set screw or eccentric to control how far left or right the needle moves. Adjust so that the needle penetrates the needle plate inside the edges of the hole on the right and left.

Finally, the needle must be positioned properly front to back. This is called the hook-needle clearance. The needle should penetrate the needle hole in the center front to back, but it must also cause the needle to be positioned as close to the point of the hook as possible without actually touching.

To adjust the hook needle clearance. trace the needle bar all the way to the top sleeve or connection with the sewing machine head. Note usually there is a set screw from the front and an eccentric or adjusting screw running through the needle bar assembly clamp. Loosen the set screw and position the needle bar assembly properly.

A major part of sewing machine repair consists of knowing what screws to turn and being able to identify these adjusting points from one model to the next. With training and experience you can be confident if properly setting the needle bar for optimum performance and repair sewing machines of any brand.

The Upper Shaft And Sewing Machines Repair

2010-10-08T10:36:00.003-05:00

One might think that fixing sewing machines is all about turning the right screw, and they would be at least partly right.

When you remove the covers of your sewing machine, you might be amazed at all the little parts and all the different screws. It can look pretty complicated.

Yet, if you take a second look and begin to trace the shafts and levers with your eyes, it gradually starts to make sense. Start your gaze at the hand wheel and move across the top of the sewing machine from right to left. You will notice a turning shaft running the length of the machine with some pulleys, belts, gears, and levers connected here and there. You might notice buttons or levers from the front of the machine reaching back to adjust stitch length, stitch width, or even select different stitches.

Relax and allow yourself to process what you see. From the hand wheel, you can see where the belt from the motor drives the whole upper shaft. You will also see a shaft or belt directing the action of the upper shaft down into the bottom of the machine. As your eyes move to the left, you might see a round gismo with bumps or grooves all around it and little fingers that follow along against them. This is the cam or device that controls the movement of the zig zag arm. This enables the machine to make many different stitches just by altering which groove the finger follows.

To the far left you will see the needle bar and presser bar. Check out how they are connected. See how the movement of the upper shaft transfers movement to the needle bar making it move up and down as well as right and left.

All of these parts and those on the bottom must work in harmony and perfect time. Unfortunately, they sometimes get jolted out of position. Then the machine will not perform as expected. Adjustment or repair is needed.

For example, the needlebar must be adjusted properly for height, hook-needle clearance, centering front to back and left to right. Plus the swing of the needlebar known as parabola must be set.

These settings require expert knowledge of the sewing machine repair technician, who is trained to adjust the various settings.

Sewing Machine Answers To Ten Key Questions

2010-07-29T10:51:00.005-05:00

Frequently I get questions from customers and others about sewing machines. Here are some of the top questions and answers.

Question 1: How do you define a sewing machine?

Since the first sewing machine was patented in 1846, it has essentially been a mechanical appliance used to connect materials together using needle and thread. Today, we think of the sewing machine largely as an appliance to join fabrics.

Q2: What are the typical types of sewing machines today?

While many people think of sewing machines only in terms of their standard home sewing machine, there are hundreds of sewing machines intended for specific applications at home and in factories. Since sewing machine are either used in a home or factory setting we might say there are two broad kinds: Home and Commercial or Home and Industrial.

At home you will find the typical home sewing machine, a serger, an embroidery machine, an embellishing machine, quilting machines, a blind hemming machine, and sometimes a light industrial straight stitch or zig zag machine.

In industry, you will find much more rugged and faster sewing specialty machines often used for a single application. Here you can find walking foot machines, blind stitch machines, upholstery machines, leather machines, button machines, machines to make shoes, saddles, sails, and more.

Question Three: What different categories of home sewing machines are there?

When you think of the standard home sewing machines, you might think they are all pretty much alike. Wrong.

There are Mechanical sewing machines; Electronic sewing machines; And Computerized sewing machines.

Mechanicals use gears and levers driven by an AC motor.

Electronics use electronics to control the power and selection of stitches.

Computerized sewing machines use pulse motors, and advanced computer circuits to supply the user unrivaled control, convenience, and dependability.

A mechanical sewing machine is limited to a hand full of stitches and suffers from power issues including an annoying motor hum.

Computerized machines offer hundreds of stitches and loads of convenience features.

Question Four: Why do sewing machines span so much in price tag?

Prices vary greatly depending on the quality and features of the machines.

Under three hundred dollars, you usually have a rough operating, mechanical sewing machine, with very limited stitches and features.

At about $500, you can find a good solid machine with about 20 stitches.

Around a thousand, you get good quality, good features, good computer control, and dependability.

Over a thousand you find fully computerized sewing machine with hundreds of stitches, advanced convenience features, and built in embroidery.

Question 5: Why do you need a sewing machine?

The modern creativity machine is known as a sewing machine. This device opens up endless possibilities for turning inspiration into reality.

You can make your own fashions; embellish and embroider; decorate your home, make wall hangings and quilts; perform great crafts; literally transform your world. The sewing machine empowers you in ways no other device ever could.

Q6: How do you choose the best sewing machine for you?

When you think about getting a new home sewing machine, it is fundamental to explore your possibilities. What kind of projects would you like to do? What convenience features and machine capabilities do you want? How much can you afford?

Two things are important to keep in mind: One, go for quality and save yourself frustration. Two, make sure the machine will do what you want it to do.

Question Seven: What is the difference between a regular sewing machine, a serger, and an embroidery machine?

For general sewing you need your home sewing machine. For increased speed and improved quality, the home serger is a must. It overcasts the edge of the fabric, sews a seam, and trims the fabric all at one time at twice the speed of your home sewing machine. Beautiful pre-programmed designs can also be sewn if you have a home embroidery machine.

Question Eight: Where is the best place to get a sewing machine?

While you can buy sewing machines over the internet and in department stores, these merchants offer no support, instruction, or service. You may not need these with a simple microwave oven, but to get the most from your sewing machine, you need all three: support, instruction, and service.

Better quality sewing machines are only sold through authorized sewing machine dealers.

When you purchase a machine from one of these dealers, you receive much more than a machine in a box. You get expert advice and assistance. You get professional repair and maintenance service. And you get very helpful sewing machine instruction. To get the most from your sewing machine investment, find your trusted local sewing machine dealer.

Question 9: Where can I get my sewing machine fixed when needed.

With about ninety million sewing machines in America alone you can imaging how much demand there is for sewing machine repair. It is huge. Unfortunately, the average Joe is not a good bet to entrust your expensive sewing machine. You need a well trained sewing machine repair technician. You can find a capable technician through the yellow pages under sewing machine repair, through your local quilt guild, or by talking to other sewers.

Question 10: How can I learn to repair sewing machines myself?

You can buy a $60,000 sewing machine dealership and get trained on that current line of sewing machines. Or you can check out all of great resources and ecourses available at www.FixSewingMachines.com. Yes, Dr. Trumble will teach you the secrets of sewing machine repair through his extensive sewing machine manuals and training videos.

Find out more about sewing machine repair with Dr. David Trumble's complete Sewing Machine Manuals. Check out his free beginner's course.

Sewing Machines Repair

2010-06-23T02:28:00.000-05:00

If you are reading this post, you are either interested in doing your own sewing machines repair or possibly in a hobby or business.

Sewing Machines Repair is a fun and satisfying hobby, and it can be a great part time or even full time business.

Sewing Machine Repair does require specialized knowledge. This knowledge is easy to learn, and there are loads of supports, resources, and help available. It is however not something you can master in half an hour.

You can get started faster than you may think. A solid week end of reading, studying, plus basic mechanical skills will get you going, but practice always makes perfect.

Some specialize in a single brand or even a limited series of sewing machines.

One fellow specialized in the Singer Featherweight series. He worked on dozens of these machines, but limited himself to this one line of machines. It was a great hobby for him. He had a great time at quilt guild and even enjoyed demonstrating what the machine could do.

Some enjoy doing antique sewing machine repair, and get all excited when they restore an old sewing machine.

Personally, I enjoy working on all types of sewing machines.

If you plan to become a master sewing machine technician, expect it to take at least three to five years of steady work on a variety of models.

Use of sewing machine manuals can make working on unfamiliar models much faster and easier. Some models have specific issues that may not occur on any other sewing machine. If you know which screw to turn, or the recommended procedure; the repair is easy. If you do not have access to reference materials, you may never find the answer.

You need to do three things to learn how to repair sewing machines.

First, get and study a good basic sewing machine repair course. The more comprehensive and the more resources you can get the better.

Second, practice on your own. Repair as many as you can get your hands on - just for fun. Learn by doing.

Third, get help. Find a mentor to help you when you get stuck.

Sewing machines repair is a fun and satisfying hobby, and it can be a great part time or even full time business. To learn more, check out http://www.fixsewingmachines.com/. There you will find hundreds of helpful articles, tips, tricks, and even a free users beginner course on Sewing Machine Repair.

Sewing Machine Motors

2010-05-07T12:51:00.003-05:00

You set up your sewing machine and are ready to sew, but when you press down on the foot pedal the machine barely moves at all. It is as though the machine is tired from a long hard summer. No matter how hard you press down on that foot control; no matter how much power you put in; the sewing machine just drags along.

There may be several different problems, but the most common are a motor issue or a binding issue. To repair sewing machines with this difficulty determine which is the major culpritt, turn the hand wheel toward you several times. Feel for any resistence, drag, or binding. Listen for any strange sounds. If the machine moves freely without significant drag or noise, the problem is most likely in the motor.

Sewing machines today have two kinds of motors. The traditional AC motor and the more modern DC Pulse motor operate differently, but can both be causes of difficulty. More commonly, however, we deal with problem AC motors.

Very simply, AC motors are composed of an armature, coil windings, and motor brushes.
While sewing at slower speeds, carbon deposits develop inside the motor. Wear can eventually ruin the motor brushes. As a result, the motors can gradually lose power and even stop working.

A quick and easy solution to this problem is what is known as a motor burn. Since the carbon has developed over a long time of slower sewing, it is sometimes possible to burn off the carbon by running the motor at top speed for several minutes. The carbon heats up and melts away.

Release the hand wheel break so that hand wheel will spin without turning the machine itself. The procedure is very easy, use a "c" clamp to press down on the foot control drive mechanism and hold it in place at its highest speed. Let the motor spin for about five minutes at full speed. Then test the motor operation at typical speeds. Test with the hand wheel break on to drive the machine and make sure the motor is working properly.

Caution: avoid excessive heat or potential sparking. Do not leave the motor unattended.

In some cases, the motor burn does not work. The damage is too extensive.

In these situations, you will need to remove the motor and service it.

For more details on servicing the AC motor look for my next article coming soon.

For the finest sewing machine manuals and sewing machine repair instruction check out Fix Sewing Machines .Com.

Stop Breaking Threads

2010-04-10T09:44:00.003-05:00

Sewing is fun. Sewing is creative. Sewing is actually pretty easy when all goes well, but when threads keep breaking; it can get frustrating.

As a technician, I understand the frustration. It even happens for me, when threads keep breaking. It is especially upsetting when I miss the cause and fail to find a solution. Usually sewing machine manuals fail even to mention the problem or steps to resolve the problem of breaking threads.

You can encounter thread breakage on cheap and on expensive machines. When the situation is right, threads break. The make, model, design, and purpose do not seem to matter. It seems that anyone who sews eventually faces thread that break.

The challenge is to figure out the causes and solutions to thread breakage so you can sew care free. Even a beginner sewing student can master their sewing machine. Now you can learn to sew without this frustration. By understanding how to sew and the causes of breaking threads, you will be able to prevent and sew like a pro.

There are two basic situations where threads will keep breaking: excessive stretch and pinching.

When you sew along and the threads snag on something or get caught, the threads pull apart. Tension issues, burrs, and other snags cause threads to break.

Sharp edges, tight spots, burrs, and other mechanical irregularities can pinch or cut threads.

Solutions come quickly when the causes are understood and identified. Whether the thread breakage comes from pinching or pressure, it is important to find out.

You can take action step by step to fix the problem of breaking threads. Here are ten steps you can take.

To begin with, take out the old needle and put a new one in its place. Be sure to match the needle to the fabric for best performance.

Second, thoroughly inspect the upper thread line. Look for rough spots, rust spots, or any surface that might snag the thread. Better quality threads tend to perform better than poorer quality, older, or linty threads. Long fiber threads do better than spun fiber threads. Polyester does better than natural fibers.

Next, check the needle plate for abrasions, sharp edges, and needle pricks. Smooth or fix the needle plate or replace it.

Fourth, inspect the bobbin for sharp edges, improper thread wrappings, and proper selection. Never wind more than one thread on a bobbin. Loose ends can interfere and cause thread breakage. Often we find that the user is trying to use the wrong bobbin for the machine. It is essential that the bobbin match the make and model of the machine.

A damaged bobbin carrier can cause all manner of problems. Look for breaks, cracks, thread scores, sharp edges, and any other potential problem.

Unlike needles which are easy to replace frequently, the hook is seldom replaced. However, it often develops burrs, scars, or other damage. Make sure the hook does not catch or pinch the thread.

Seventh, inspect the race for potential snags and lubricant. Occasionally, the race becomes overly dry and requires a drop of pure clean sewing machine oil. Sometimes, neglect leads to stickiness that must be cleaned away and relubricated.

When tensions are too tight, threads can snap. When the tensions are too loose, the thread can get caught on other parts and end up breaking as well. Therefore it is vital that the bobbin tension and upper tension both be checked and adjusted.

Ninth, check the hook needle timing and clearance. When the timing is inappropriate, it puts stress on the thread or the thread breaks altogether. If the timing out, you will find skipped stitches or none at all. The distance between the needle and the hook needs to be very small without actually touching. If they touch you will hear a ping and it may pinch or cut the thread. If the distance is too great, the hook will fail to pick up the threads and stitches may not form.

Feed dogs may pull the fabric and thread in problematic ways unless properly set for timing, movement, and feed dog height.

Test and retest until the thread movement is smooth and without thread breakage.

Do it yourself sewing machine repair from the great ecourses available through www.FixSewingachines.com. Download your free Seven Steps To Peak Performance and learn to repair sewing machines with expert sewing machine manuals and resources.

Ways To Improve Stitch Quality

2010-03-27T11:03:00.004-05:00

The closet door opens. Your sewing machine is there neatly tucked away in its case. You pick it up and carry it to the kitchen table. You remove the case cover and take out your sewing machine. You are ready to sew. Unfortunately, it does not work. Suddenly, the creative excitement and anticipation turn to outrageous frustration.

This is the single most common cause of discouragement for sewers. Sewing machines that are not working properly; are like a car that will not run. Why not just quit and forget it?

Sewing consistency includes regular sewing machine maintenance and care. Infrequent sewing, tends to increase basic sewing machine problems due in part to neglect. For both the occasional sewer and the more active sewers, it is important to identify sewing machine problems and resolve them. Your sewing machine manuals will offer many tips and helps, but here is a simple sewing test that can make a big difference.

Problems have causes, and the mission of the sewing machine user is to figure out those causes and find answers to those difficulties.

When you sew, you come to expect certain things. Most of all you expect a properly formed stitch. When a good quality stitch fails to appear, it is a sewing crisis requiring immediate remedy.

Here is a simple but effective test every sewer needs to know in order to keep your machine operating properly. To perform this simple sewing test, set up a medium straight stitch and sew a seam four to five inches long. Using a zig zag stitch, repeat the test. Then examine the quality of stitches you just sewed.

Inspect your test seams. How do the stitches look? Ideally, the threads along the top of fabric snugly lay on top of the fabric separated by small puncture points. It should look the same when you inspect the bottom of the fabric.

Unfortunately, your test sew may expose some flaws. You may see skipped stitches, loose threads, balls or bunches of thread on top or beneath the fabric. You may even find that your sewing machine is not sewing.

When you see messed up stitches, begin your search for causes. Check three things: threading issues, needle, and hook-needle settings.

When you see problem stitches, the first step is to replace your needle. It is the most important and least expensive part on your sewing machine. It can get dull, develop burrs, or even be the wrong needle for your application.

Needles have different sizes and types of points. If the needle is too large or small for your fabric and/or thread; you will see distortions in your stitch quality. Sharp and universal points work well with woven fabrics, but will skip on knit or stretch fabrics. Ball point needles work well on stretchy fabrics, but will skip on woven fabrics. Bottom line: install a new needle that is right for the job, fabric, and thread.

Rethread using good quality thread. Avoid cotton covered polyester threads. Avoid snags and smooth rough spots. Follow the thread guides. Seat the tension discs. Make sure to connect with the take up lever and tension spring.

When the tensions are unbalanced; excess threads will collect under the fabric or on top of the fabric. While feed timing may, distort tensions causing threads to collect under the fabric due to faulty feeding. This, however, is much less common than the more frequent offset by either the upper or lower tension assemblies. The solution is to adjust the upper tension. If excess appears under the fabric, increase the tension. If excess threads appear on top of the fabric, decrease the upper tension.

If changing the needle and adjusting the tensions just does not work, you may have a problem with hook-needle settings. Most sewing machine users will need to take their machine to the shop for professional assistance to repair sewing machines.

From the sewing test, the user can identify and resolve most stitch quality problems. It is important not to become frustrated or upset. Instead, relax and process this simple test and double check the three major causes of faulty stitch quality.

Enjoy care free sewing and learn to sew like the experts with the tips, tricks, projects, and more available at Sewing Answers. com. Pick up a copy of our free Top Ten Sewing Answers ecourse and check out of all of our products on how to sew.

Understanding The Sewing Machine User

2010-01-28T16:41:00.003-06:00

So, you consider yourself a sewing machine technician.

What exactly does that mean?

Does that mean you are a mechanic who gets his hands all greasy when you fix sewing machines? Maybe.

Does that mean you are a detective pursuing each clue until you diagnose the causes of sewing machine problems and then fix them? Maybe so.

Does that mean you are a specialist who helps sewing machine users by repairing their sewing machine, guiding the user to avoid future problems, and being ready to demonstrate how to get the most out of a given sewing machine? Ideally, yes.

To me the real difference here is one of understanding the sewing machine from the perspective of the sewing machine user. I believe a sewing machine technician needs to learn how to sew too. Many sewing machine technicians have never learned to sew anything. If you asked them to sew a basting stitch and then top stitch a seam; they might look at you and say, "I just fix 'em."

Here is my personal encouragement. Before you begin attempting to repair sewing machines, learn at least the basics of how to use them. Learn to sew. Sew out a few projects of your own. Understand how to sew. Master the basics of sewing, quilting, and the more common applications. Then you will be in a position to understand what is happening in a sewing machine from the perspective of the sewing machine user.

Why do sewers get so frustrated when the thread bunches up? If you sew even a little, you will understand.

Why do seweres get so upset when their seams wabble or they look at their finished project only to see a dozen skipped stitches? The better you understand the use of the sewing machine, the more effective you will be in empathizing, advising, and helping your customers.

Now that does not mean you have to make pretty frilly dresses, or feel weird because you are sewing. One of the projects I did was a wall hanging. It was simple, easy, and it look good when it was done. I admit, I got help from my wife. But when it comes to sewing she is definitely the main user.

Yet,when you have experienced the challenges and thrills of sewing as a user; you can better understand what is happening for the user. This can be a big help in diagnosing problems and providing solutions.

As you set out to learn sewing machine repair; besure to include learning how to sew as well.

Understanding the sewing machine user and appreciating their perspective with regard to their sewing machine will go a long way toward making your sewing machine repair more customer friendly.

The Professional Sewing Machine Technician

2009-11-23T17:03:00.002-06:00

The professional sewing machine repair technician is a rare and vital key to the world of sewing and quilting.

Today there are millions and millions of sewing machines in use here in the United States and across the world. These tools of creative expression may be used occasionally for emergency clothing repair or they may be used as vital tools of industry.

It is estimated that a new sewing machine is sold at the rate of 3 per 100 people. Another way to describe this is to say that 3% of the population buys a new sewing machine each year. That is a bunch of new sewing machines.

Notice, however, the sewing machine was introduced in 1846 a little over 150 years ago. Now, just try to imagine how many sewing machines have been made, sold, and are still in use today. Of course, not every machine is still in use, but I dare say there are millions upon millions.

Now what about those sewing machines? Each and everyone of those great tools of creative expression requires periodic maintenance and repair.

That is where the professional sewing machine technician comes in. Without him the only option is to buy another new one.

Now consider this, here in Central Texas, there are millions of people, but only a handful of capable, well trained, and skilled sewing machine repair technicians. They are few and far between. Why? If there is such a high demand, why are there so few?

One of the reasons why there are so few well trained, skilled, and experienced sewing machine repair technicians is because there is so little training available. If you invest thousands of dollars, you might purchase a sewing machine dealership. The manufacturer then might provide you will a few days of training on their current or most recent machines. There are a few technicians who will allow you to work along side them until you master the skills.

Your other option is to consider training through ecourses, books, and trial and error.

At www.FixSewingMachines.com we provide in depth sewing machine repair training to help you learn sewing machine repair for personal use, a hobby, a service activity, or even to open your own business. Check out the ecourses and begin with the free beginner's or user's course.

Generic Sewing Machine Repair

2009-11-10T13:42:00.003-06:00

Generic sewing machine repair is simply the repair and maintenance of generic sewing machines. By generic we refer to sewing machine brands that are not actually backed by a brand specific manufacturer.

Major brands are those sewing lines that have enjoyed popularity and distinction, but also have a network of authorized dealers and a manufacturing company that stands behind that brand.

For example, the Singer Company owns and produces Singer Sewing Machines. Bernina is made and sold by Bernina. Brother machines are made and sold by Brother International. Janome is made and sold by Janome. These are major brand lines.

Generic brands include White, Necchi, Dressmaker, Simplicity, and Kenmore. While these may enjoy a degree of popularity as in the case of Kenmore. Sears sells Kenmore, but pays someone else to manufacture the machines. Sears does not manufacture its own sewing machines. White sewing machines have been bought and sold as a brand name repeatedly over the years as have the brand names of Dressmaker and Simplicity. Necchi was originally an Italian brand designed and manufactured in Italy, however, for many many years Allyn International based in Denver has owned the distribution rights to the Necchi line and they have been manufactured wherever.

In the case of the major brands, parts, manuals, and support are usually quite readily available. However, in the case of generic brands this may not be true. The challenge is not so much that parts are not available, it is a matter of figuring out where a particular machine originated to find the original manufacturer. Some models are easier than others. Sears has provided its own service department to keep track of these needs, but many generic machines end up being trashed because no one can find parts.

Generic machines also tend to be low end models rather than high end. They tend to be more limited and less complicated that comparable major brands. One of the hallmarks upon which generics have often been sold is their rugged durability. Necchi, for example, use to claim all metal parts to insure their dependability.

Generic sewing machine repair may cause a technician to rely of after market sources and their network of fellow technicians to provide service for these machines.

What Does It Take To Learn Sewing Machine Repair?

2009-10-26T15:01:00.003-05:00

On my website http://www.fixsewingmachines.com/, I offer a free beginner's course in sewing machine repair. It is entitled 7 Steps to Peak Performance For Your Sewing Machine.

The ecourse explains seven vital things every sewing machine user needs to know and understand in order to keep their sewing machine operating properly. I write about needles, threads, fabric, general maintenance, and care of the machine. It is designed for sewing machine users, not as a complete guide on repairing sewing machines. By following these basic lessons, a user can stretch the time between professional services, but more importantly they can keep their machine working hour after hour without problems. The ecourse actually comes from my nine hour beginning sewing machine course that has been taught in sewing machines stores for years at $150.

I have been amazed by the response to this free ecourse.

On one hand, I have received loads of emails from grateful readers.

One wrote, "We finished your 7 Steps about a week ago, and have followed your instructions. Now all four of our sewing machines are working great. You saved us big."

Another wrote, "My wife belongs to a church group where seventeen ladies sew quilts for the local hospital and nursing home. The ladies love to quilt, but their machines break down all the time. I subscribed to your ecourse to get just a little idea of how to take care of these machines. I am amazed at how much free information you gave me. I am no expert yet, but I will tell you every one of the machines is working much better now. Thanks."

Finally, another wrote, "Ok, I'm sold. I got your 7 Steps about three months ago and started following your instructions on my wife's sewing machines. Now I have a dozen of her friends who want me to fix their machines for them. I just ordered you Pro package so I could actually catch up with the details. Thanks."

On the other hand, I have had some really strange responses.

One lady wrote, "This has got to be a scam. Your ecourse does not teach me anything about repairing sewing machines just how to use it."

Anothe wrote, "I am really disappointed. I thought I was getting a book on how to fix my machine that is messing up right now. I still have to take it to a mechanic."

Over the past few years, I have had to thicken my skin because some people just seem to want everything for nothing. The ecourse is free. I don't charge the $150 charged in our stores, and I don't demand anything from the reader. Still, some people cannot be satisfied.

Enough of my whining. If you really want to learn sewing machine repair, I will gladly teach you. I offer a free beginner's course, a basic repair course (Secrets of Sewing Machine Repair), ecourses on Antique Sewing Machines; Sergers, Embroidery Machines, and a Pro package with over 25 ebooks. If you want to learn, check out my website at http://www.fixsewingmachines.com/.

Learn Sewing Machine Repair By Practicing

2009-09-22T16:01:00.003-05:00

Recently, a customer asked me if they could learn how to repair sewing machines by reading a book.

My answers is yes and no.

From ecourses, ebooks, books, manuals, and other resources the reader can greatly short cut the learning curve. Following the step by step instruction provided in courses like My Magnificent Sewing Machine, Secrets of Sewing Machine Repair makes it quick and easy to learn proper procedures for servicing and repairing.

Books, manuals, and other resources are vital for efficiency. Trial and error always takes loads of time. You might eventually get it right, but it is so much faster when you have detailed instructions, drawings, and photos.

On the other hand, reading a book or manual alone will not make your an expert sewing machine repair technician.

Practice is essential. I encourage my students to collect sewing machines from wherever they can. Broken machines, working machines, machines from neighbors and friends to practice on is vital.

When I first started, I bought a bunch of junk sewing machines from an estate sale. I did not care whether they worked or not. I wanted to take them apart and learn how the machines worked.

The more machines you service, the more effective a sewing machine repair technician you will become.

The fastest way to learn sewing machine repair and become an expert is to combine the study of manuals and ecourses with the actual practice disassembling, cleaning, adjusting, repairing as many sewing machines as possible.

Check out the vital resources available at www.FixSewingMachines.com.

Metric Standards For Sewing Machine Repair

2009-08-21T17:07:00.005-05:00

Do you remember about twenty years ago, when we were told that everyone was going to be required to use the metric system instead of the American SAE system of measurement?

I do. I did not like it then. I do not like it now. Maybe it is because I just can not get it straight. Instead of inches, feet, and yards, the metric system uses centipedes, milipedes or something like it. Anyway it always seemed to me like the whole system was some kind of worm that creeped along. Yet, the metric system is here to stay because everybody else in the world uses it.

It really is not that complicated. A meter is divided up into hundredths or centi. Or it is divided up into thousandths or mili. So just how is a milimeter? Or what about a centimeter? Or for that matter how long is a meter anyway?

I know how long an inch is. I know how long a foot is. I even know how long a yard is. I understand that a meter is a little longer than a yard and measures about 39 inches. It is still really hard to get my mind around these measurements.

So how does all of this relate to sewing machine repair? When we read the instruction in sewing machine repair guides or sewing machine repair books; we see things like the setting for the oscillating hook to needle clearance is suppose to be XX millimeters. Somehow we have to figure out what it all means.

When it comes right down to it, I guess I don't really have to be able to measure metrics with my eyes alone do I? I can use feeler gauges that are already marked for certain sizes.

For example, I can use a feeler gauge to slide in between the parts to measure the distance. The feeler gauge helps me make sure the settings are right.

So, instead of worrying too much about metric measurements; get a good set of feeler gauges and use them. I can save loads of frustration and guess work.

Embroidery Machine Care

2009-07-30T15:05:00.003-05:00

Is embroidery your passion?

Do you treasure your embroidery machine and thrill to the creative wonders you can perform with your embroidery machine?

Do you get goose bumps when you see those beautiful threads all embroidered from your embroidery sewing machine?

There are many brands of embroidery machines. There are machines designed for commercial use like those made by Tashima and Happy. There are smaller units made for home use by well knows sewing machine companies like Janome and Babylock.

In the arena of home embroidery machines, there are stand alone embroidery machines and there are combination or combo embroidery machines. These combo machines are world class sewing machines with exotic embroidery features added.

Commercial units are embroidery only devices controlled by computers. These units may be operated alone or networked together with the computer. While stand alone home machines may have one, four, or six needles; commercial units may have 12, 14, 16, or more needles.
Computer generated designs are used by the computer to control the embroidery head. The signals control the movement of the needle and hoop to produce the design one stitch at a time. Groups of stitches sew through one needle. This constitutes one threaded color. Then the next needle threaded with the next color sews its portion of the design.

At first glance, the embroidery machine can look really complicated. It is wondrous what they can do. Machines with multiple needles can be a bit foreboding for the user and the novice technician.

Another look at the embroidery machine, reveals that it is essentially a single stitch sewing machine with a moving hoop assembly. Each time another needle assembly engages, it forms another single stitch sewing machine.

Treat your embroidery machine as if it were a single stitch sewing machine at least as far as caring and servicing it goes. Your professional sewing machine repair technician is also the right person to manage more complicated embroidery machine repairs.

Neglect is the number one cause of embroidery machine failure. The user must take responsibility for the care and maintenance of their machine. It must be kept clean and well lubricated. Dirt, lint, and gunk must be removed. Old dried out crystallized lubricants must be removed. Otherwise neglect will eventually lead to machine failure.

There are three crucial areas of the concern to the user. The bobbin area, the needle bar area (for each needle), and the hoop assembly are those three key areas.

User service consists of cleaning these three areas every three to four hours of sewing. To loosen dirt and crusty deposits, you can use a probe or small brush. To remove loosened gunk, you can use an air compressor, canned air, or a specially equipped vacuum. When you have cleaned an area, lubricate the area with high quality sewing machine oil.

Replace needles frequently. Regular embroidery needles are good for about four hours of use, but titanium embroidery needles usually last three to five times as long. Dull, bent, and worn needles do not perform as they should.

If you diligently do your own embroidery machine maintenance, your machine will last for years and work well stitch after stitch, month after month. About every 10,000,000 stitches you should have a professional technician perform a complete service on your embroidery machine.

If you are having difficulty with your machine, always depend on your professional embroidery machine technician.

Find out more on sewing machine repair and download David Trumble's free beginner's course 7 Steps To Peak Performance For Your Sewing Machine. He offers a complete curriculum of sewing machine repair manuals, tips, tricks, and supports.

Three Sewing Machine Repair Enthusiasts

2009-07-18T11:11:00.005-05:00

There are essentially three groups of people interested in sewing machine repair: the user, the hobbiest, and the pro.

The user is interested in sewing machine repair because they want to keep their sewing machine operating at peak performance.

Most users will take their machine to a regional or local sewing machine repair service center and trust the technician to fix and maintain their machine. Typically this will cost between $99 and $150 regardless of the age or value of the sewing machine.

Many sewing machine users want diy sewing machine repair. They are the self sufficient, mechanically inclined, do it yourselfers who want to know how to fix and maintain their own sewing machines. For about $40 the do it yourself sewing machine repair enthusiast can purchase sewing machine repair manuals to help them work on their sewing machine.

The sewing machine repair hobbiest is the second group of sewing machine repair enthusiasts. These are tinkerers who pick up old sewing machines at garage sales, auctions, even out of the dumpster just for fun. They take them home, clean them up, and try to get them working again. These hobbiests need much broader resources in terms of manuals and courses to learn the ins and outs of sewing machine repair. They will want a solid general repair course that teaches the secrets of sewing machine repair. Then they will want a course that zeroes in on antique sewing machine repair. They might even want resources for sergers and embroidery machine repair. All of these are available and very helpful for the hobbiest at http://www.fixsewingmachines.com.

Then we have the Pro. These are a special bread of pioneers who boldly master sewing machine repair so they can help others and get paid for doing it. These are the technicians and the small business owners to tackle the thousands of sewing machine makes and models. The resources needed by the Pro are much broader. They include all the sewing machine repair manuals, trainings, and supports; but they also include a broad range of professional and business resources. The independent sewing machine repair technician may even want to pursue certifications. Now these resources are also available.

There are three sewing machine repair enthusiast groups, but they all share a passion for quality sewing machine repair.

Sewing Machine Repair Certification

2009-06-30T10:30:00.003-05:00

What if you wanted to open a business doing sewing machine repair?

Would customers automatically trust you?

Would you already have dozens of customers ready for your to fix their sewing machines?

There is a big difference between thinking, "I could do that." Or, "I could make a living doing that." And actually doing it.

When I first started, I did not know anything. My wife was operating a new sewing business from the house doing custom sewing, but all I knew was how to brush out the bobbin area. Then we started getting people calling and asking for sewing machine repair. I thought to my self, maybe I could do that.

So, I searched and searched for someway to learn. I flew to Denver and spent a week learning Necchi machines. I applied to Brother and got some training and certified as a warranty service center. Over the years, I have attended trainings for Singer, Janome, Brother, BabyLock, Bernina, Elna, Viking, and Pfaff. As an independent technician, I completed the course and exam from VDTA and received their certification.

Through the years our company has trained numerous technicians for other dealerships as well as our own. So, about three years ago, I decided to provide a training program for independent sewing machine technicians. It has evolved into a comprehensive training program including serger, embroidery machines, and the business of sewing machine repair.

Now Fix Sewing Machines. Com offers not only comprehensive resources and training, but it also offers sewing machine repair certification. The Fix Sewing Machines Institute provides one on one coaching, email and phone support, as well as workbooks, exams, and practical service work to insure the technician is highly skilled in their trade. Upon graduation, the new technicians receive a beautifully framed certificatication as Sewing Machine Repair Technicians.

If you are interested in pursuing a career or business in sewing machine repair, check out the details at http://www.FixSewingMachines.Com.

Dr. David Trumble, has also authored four valuable books on Wedding Vows Involving Children, Blended Family Wedding Vows, Wedding Ideas That Include Children. If you or someone you know is planning a wedding, check out http://www.WeddingHow.Com.

Maintaining Your Embroidery Machine

2009-06-05T17:34:00.003-05:00

Keep Your Embroidery Machine operating At Peak Performance.

Are you one of the elite, one of the special few, who enjoy doing embroidery?

Today there are many brands of both commercial and home embroidery sewing machines. On the commercial side names like Melco and SWF are well known. On the home front, Janome, Baby Lock, and Brother dominate the market.

Many home embroidery machines combine computerized sewing machines with advanced embroidery features. Others are stand alone models that use one, two, or six needles. This poses some new challenges for sewing machine repair and embroidery machine repair.

Commercial embroidery equipment may have twelve to sixteen needles and thread assemblies. Janome and Brother offer smaller multi-needle and single needle stand alone embroidery machines or cottage industry and home use. Combo embroidery machines are single needle machines.

Computer generated designs are used by the computer to control the embroidery head. The signals control the movement of the needle and hoop to produce the design one stitch at a time. Groups of stitches sew through one needle. This constitutes one threaded color. Then the next needle threaded with the next color sews its portion of the design.

At first glance, the embroidery machine can look really complicated. It is wondrous what they can do. Machines with multiple needles can be a bit foreboding for the user and the novice technician.

Another look at the embroidery machine, reveals that it is essentially a single stitch sewing machine with a moving hoop assembly. Each time another needle assembly engages, it forms another single stitch sewing machine.

To properly care for your embroidery machine, treat it like a series of single stitch sewing machines.

The number one cause of malfunction and problems in your embroidery machine is dirt. More precisely, the problem is neglect. When dirt, gunk, and lint are permitted to collect, they cause problems. When you fail to remove dried out and crystallized lubricants, they cause problems. When you fail to keep your machine clean and properly lubricated, it will eventually fail.
There are three crucial areas of the concern to the user. The bobbin area, the needle bar area (for each needle), and the hoop assembly are those three key areas.

Use a small brush and probe as needed to loosen debris. Use an air compressor, canned air, or a vacuum with special attachments to properly remove loose debris. Every three to four hours of sewing, clean these areas of your machine. Once clean place one drop of pure clean sewing machine oil wherever metal parts touch metal.

It is important to replace your embroidery needles frequently. Special titanium needles may last up to ten or twelve hours of use, but ordinary embroidery needles should be replaced every three to four hours. Avoid dull, bent, or needles with burrs.

When push comes to shove, rely on the experts. It is vital that you maintain your equipment in peak condition at all times, but at least once a year or ever 10,000,000 stitches have the experts provide thorough service. If the machine just wont work, rely on the pros.

What if I want to do sewing machine repair myself?

Why not start out with the free beginner's course: 7 Steps To Peak Performance For Your Sewing Machine. Then if you want to know more grab hold of the great sewing machine repair manuals too.

Sewing Machine Repair And Power Systems

2009-05-16T12:41:00.003-05:00

One of the most amazing inventions is the modern sewing machine.

In 1846, Elias Howe filed the first patent for a practical sewing machine. The operator ran the machine with their on energy. Various versions emerged utilizing hand cranks and foot treadle mechanisms. By todays standards, the original sewing machine was quite primitive, but it worked.

The power system of the sewing machine in those days involved the use of levers, gear, belts, and wheels. The user would start the process either by hand or foot power, and the sewing machine would transfer that movement across the sewing machine to its various parts. This enabled the machine to move the needle, hook, and feed systems to generate sewing. In a sense it kept sewing machine repair simple too because it only involved mechanical operations.

A major advancement occurred when the human power was replaced by electrical power. Electric motors were mounted behind the sewing machine with a small pulley connected by a belt drove a larger wheel on the upper shaft. The electric power was essentially changed into mechanical power.

The electric motor made sewing faster, easier, and more reliable. It never got tired pumping or cranking. In the early years of this change over, existing sewing machine were often converted by replacing the hand cranks or treadles with motors mounted, aligned, and connected by belt to the machine. While the treadle and hand crank machines are now nostalgic treasures, they do not compare to the productive ability of the motorized sewing machine.

AC motors use Alternating Current or standard household electricity from the electric outlet on your wall. This electricity cycles electric flow in one direction and then in the other all at 120 volts. Inside the motor, this alternating current is processed through a coil winding around a core with a motor shaft in the center. The coil produces a magnetic field pulling one way, and then cycles the opposite direction. The result is that shaft starts to revolve or turn. The electrical energy from the wall is converted into mechanical energy in the motor. A belt or gear is then used to turn the sewing machine. This usually poses very little problem for those who think of doing sewing machine repair myself.

Electric motors come in two types AC and DC. In both cases the electricity used to run the motor must operate in a continuous unbroken circuit or loop. If the flow of electricity in the circuit flows in one direction and then in the opposite direction, it is called alternating current. If the flow is in only one direction within the loop, it is DC or direct current. Use of a transformer can convert AC to DC or the reverse.

Early electric sewing machine motors were based on AC or Alternating Current electricity. These machines were essentially mechanical sewing machines using the levers and gears to move and form the stitches. Today many commercial sewing machines and low end sewing machines are still mechanical machines driven by electric AC motors. One of the hallmark features of a mechanical sewing machine is the buzz or whine the motor makes before it builds up sufficient force to move the sewing machine parts.

Again the sewing machine has changed. Electronic controls, DC pulse motors, and computer chips have again transformed the sewing machine. In many ways the modern sewing machine is very different from its antique cousins. It sews smoother, faster, hundreds more stitches, loads of convenience features, and much more.

The power system of your sewing machine really does matter. It matters if you are looking to buy a new machine. It matters when you understand what you are using. It matters if you are repairing sewing machines.

Download your free beginner's course: 7 Steps To Peak Performance For Your Sewing Machine. Now explore the Secrets Of Sewing Machine Repair and how you can do your own sewing machine repair.

Fixing A Dead Head Stuck Sewing Machine

2009-04-21T17:25:00.003-05:00

Suitably maintained sewing machines give sewers astonishingly creative performance for decades.

Regular user maintenance and annual sewing machine service are essential. They prevent the undue collection of debris and gunk. They keep the old lubricants from gumming up the machine or crystallizing into an encrusted material that locks up the sewing machine entirely.

Here is a slight distinction: sewing machine repair includes standard servicing, cleaning, and lubricating; but it also involves fixing problems that result from abuse and mechanical failure.

When you find a frozen sewing machine, it is no easy fix. It requires highly a skilled sewing machine technician to fix a locked up stuck sewing machine. You can easily tell when a sewing machine is dead head by attempting to turn the hand wheel. If it binds, resists turning, or freezes solid; it is locked up stuck.

Working on bound up sewing machines can be very frustrating. I suppose that no one wants to hear tips when struggling with insurmountable problems. That is what it feels like when you are working on a locked up sewing machine. It feels like the whole sewing machine has fused into one lump.

After you become explosively frustrated working on a bound up machine for several hours, stop. Take a break. Follow some simple steps described below to unfreeze the machine.
First, ask yourself, why do sewing machines get bound up stuck?

There are three reasons why sewing machines lock up. Sewing machines lock up because of abuse. Sewing machines lock up because of a fluke in the bobbin area. Sewing machines lock up because of broken parts.

Follow these basic sewing machine repair instructions step by step.

Crystallized and gummy lubricants underly most locked up problems. Use of the wrong lubricants can cause serious harm because many lubricants contain ingredients that leave gummy residue as they dry. Even pure clean sewing machine oil can be a problem if the machine is not properly serviced at least annually.

Lint, debris, and old gummy lubricants can cause binding in the bobbin and hook area. Failure to clean out the bobbin area every few hours of sewing can cause a sewing machine to be bound up.

Sewing machines can also lock up when a part inside the sewing machine breaks. If a gear breaks a cog, it can lock up. If a lever bends, it can lock up. If a cam assembly breaks, the sewing machine can lock up.

So, what specific steps can the sewing machine repair man do to fix a dead head machine?
If the hand wheel on the sewing machine is difficult to turn, the first thing to do is clear out the bobbin area. Open bobbin area. Remove bobbin and bobbin carrier. Clean it out. Try the hand wheel again.

Take off all the covers: top cover, bottom cover, and side covers. Blow out the machine using an air compressor. Look for threads wrapped around any parts and eliminate. Brush away and remove any encrusted debris. Lubricate the sewing machine appropriately. Test hand wheel again.

Sometimes the belt, tensioner, pulley assemblies, and drive mechanism can freeze up. Release the belt or drive from the hand wheel and try to turn the hand wheel.

If you have a Singer sewing machine, these singer sewing machine repairs can usually be done at home. It is very satisfying to diy repair of your Singer Sewing Machine.

Since gunk is one of the major causes of a sewing machine becoming dead head; remove it. Blow it out. Brush it out. Get rid of old sticky and gummy lubricants. Carborator cleaner and other solvents are useful in cleaning away these sources of binding problems. Test the hand wheel and retest. Force the shaft one way and then back the other. Search for points where points might bind.

If you find a bind between metal parts that just wont give, add lubricant. Move the pieces back and forth to loosen and free them. Work the binding areas until they become free. In extreme situations, you may use a torch or soldering iron to heat up a binding point. The heat will dissolve the old lubricants and enable you to free the bind. An extreme measure use to be used with really old machines without electronics and plastic parts, is to soak the machine head in strong solvent for several hours.

Do it yourself sewing machine repair comes with a few challenges, but it also comes with a huge sense of personal satisfaction when that dead head stuck machine is working like new again.

Save Thousands Of Dollars On Sewing Machine Repair

2009-03-06T13:03:00.005-06:00

You Can Learn Sewing Machine Repair from a sewing machine repair book, sewing machine repair course, or sewing machine repair classes. Your knowledge of sewing machine repair can literally save you thousands of dollars over the course of your sewing machine's life. Today you can enjoy do it yourself sewing machine repair as a really neat hobby or a viable business.

How was sewing different in the past?

Sewing machines were so limited back then. They only did a straight stitch or at most a zig zag stitch. They were heavy, solid cast iron or metal. Users expected to maintain and service their own sewing machine. Today, sewing machines are much lighter weight, smoother operating, and offer loads more features. Some think that makes them complicated, but any sewing machine user can learn how to do their own sewing machine service.

Self reliance was expected, and caring for ones sewing machine was no different. This expectation was often a matter of finances or practicality. In most cases, the user understood how to adjust, clean, and oil their own sewing machine.

Gradually, the sewing world changed. New power systems, electronic, computer board turned that cast iron single stitch into a powerful dynamic super sewing machine with hundreds of stitches and amazing possibilities.

Were things simpler, or just more primitive? I suppose it is a matter of opinion, but sewing machines certainly have advanced. Better sewing machines today offer hundreds of stitches, spectacular lighting, and loads of convenience features. They are amazing.

Once in a while, a fearful sewer might think, I am satisfied with this old sewing machine, I do not even want to think about a new one.

I never argue with them, but sometimes, I will offer the customer a new loaner machine while her machine is being repaired. It is amazing how many new machines get sold that way.

When it comes to sewing machine repair, however, the more advanced the sewing machine becomes the more technical skill they require. The average sewing machine user often feels overwhelmed by even doing the simplest sewing machine repairs herself. Repairing Sewing Machines has in many cases become the work of a rare specialized expert known as the Sewing Machine Technician. Sewing machine repair services are even more vital today to the sewing machine user.

Sometimes when a machine acts up, a user will turn to a friend or husband to fix their ailing sewing machine. Usually, this turns out badly. While sewing machines are small, they can be quite complicated. It is easy to mess up tensions, timing, or feed systems.

Specialized sewing machine repair knowledge and skill are vital in todays amazing world of sewing machines. You can be the one with this knowledge and skill. You can learn how to do sewing machine repair yourself. A good sewing machine repair course will enable you to successfully service your own sewing machine. It is easy to learn these skills. You can be your own sewing machine repair technician.

When my wife got upset because her sewing machine wouldnt work, I set out to learn how to repair sewing machines. It was a difficult uncharted road, but I soon discovered that just a little help made a big difference. Soon I learned how to clean, adjust, and service her sewing machine. Then within a months, I had my own successful sewing machine repair business operating out of my garage. If I could do it, anybody can do it. It is not an impossible task.

What if you could save $4,000 by doing your own sewing machine repair over the life of your sewing machine? What if you could repair your friends and neighbors sewing machines? What if you could make real money doing sewing machine repair?

How can you discover the secrets of sewing machine repair?

You will need some basic tools. You will need a good sewing machine repair course. Then you can enjoy years of a great hobby practicing the art and skills of sewing machine repair.

Click here for your free beginner's course to repair sewing machines
7 Steps To Peak Performance For Your Sewing Machine.

ServicingMy Bernina

2009-02-24T12:35:00.003-06:00

Learning how to repair a sewing machine is exciting. You get to see and work on so many different brands of sewing machines. A good sewing macine repair book will teach you the basics, and experience with different brands is fun.

Are you one of those people who desires only the best? Then when it comes to sewing machines, you want only the Bernina. For seventy five years family owned and operated Bernina of Switzerland has set the pace for sewing machine innovation, quality, and performance. The brand maintains the highest customer loyalty in the industry.

Berninas are very special and require highly skilled and specialized technical service. The subtle differences make it difficult for the ordinary sewing machine technician to do a proper job of servicing. Therefore, Bernina Sewing Machine Repair is not something you want to leave to just anyone. Demand a fully certified Bernina Sewing Machine Repair Technician, and check out their experience and reputation.

Can we get repair services locally, or do we have to ship a machine to Switzerland?

You can usually find your Bernina Sewing Machine Repair Center listed in the yellow pages. Look under sewing machine repair. You might search on Yahoo or Google. Search for sewing machine repair with your zip code. Every authorized dealer will have a certified technician on site to support and service your needs.

Bernina sales, support, and service is available in most larger cities through Berninas network of over six hundred authorized dealers. Also, you will find about twenty five Bernina corporate stores located inside Hancock Fabric Super Stores.

What if there are no local dealers in my area? Bernina maintains a national service center in Aurora, Illinois which can provide support if you ship them your machine. The technicians are top notch, but it can be very expensive. It also takes more time than a local shop would.
You also have the option of doing your own sewing machine repair even on your Bernina.
Yes. You can learn to service your own Bernina sewing machine. To do so you will need three things. First, you will need a good general sewing machine repair knowledge. Second, you will need access to Bernina parts. Third, you will need a local certified Bernina Sewing Machine Repair Technician. He can assist you if you get into trouble.

The general sewing machine repair knowledge can be learned. Check out the excellent sewing machine repair course by David Trumble. These courses will enable you to do most of the Bernina Sewing Machine Repairs. This includes standard service, cleaning and oiling, and minor adjustments. Some dealers will offer periodic introductory classes to basic Bernina service as well.

Sewing machine repair parts are available through your local retail dealer or corporate store. Also, parts are available through Bernina of America if you own a Bernina dealership.
Is it possible to open my own Bernina store? Yes. Depending on the availability of territory and your qualifications, it is possible. Berninas requirements are pretty hefty. You must submit and have a detailed business plan approved by Bernina. The dealer purchase price runs about $40,000. The Bernina New Dealer Training Program must also be completed.

Getting help is important. Especially, when you are first starting out. You will need the help of a certified Bernina Sewing Machine Technician. He can help you solve the more complex problems. It is well worth a drive of a few miles to get help. Have an experienced technician diagnose and resolve complex problems with you. It can be a great learning experience.

Find out more about how to repair a sewing machine from Author David Trumble's sewing machine repair book as well as his sewing machine repair classes. Click here to down load Dr. Trumble's free sewing machine repair beginner's course.

Sewing Machine Repair: Electricity Revolutionizes Sewing

2009-02-19T14:43:00.003-06:00

The awesome invention of the sewing machine has inspired creativity for over 150 years.
When Elias Howe invented the sewing machine in 1846, it was an amazing mechanical device driven by human power. The evolution of the sewing machine included foot power, hand power, and eventually electrical power. This transition has had huge impact on moder day diy repair singer sewing machine and over all sewing machine repair.

The power system of the sewing machine in those days involved the use of levers, gear, belts, and wheels. The user would start the process either by hand or foot power, and the sewing machine would transfer that movement across the sewing machine to its various parts. This enabled the machine to move the needle, hook, and feed systems to generate sewing.

A major advancement occurred when the human power was replaced by electrical power. Electric motors were mounted behind the sewing machine with a small pulley connected by a belt drove a larger wheel on the upper shaft. The electric power was essentially changed into mechanical power.

The electric motor made sewing faster, easier, and more reliable. It never got tired pumping or cranking. In the early years of this change over, existing sewing machine were often converted by replacing the hand cranks or treadles with motors mounted, aligned, and connected by belt to the machine. While the treadle and hand crank machines are now nostalgic treasures, they do not compare to the productive ability of the motorized sewing machine.

AC motors use Alternating Current or standard household electricity from the electric outlet on your wall. This electricity cycles electric flow in one direction and then in the other all at 120 volts. Inside the motor, this alternating current is processed through a coil winding around a core with a motor shaft in the center. The coil produces a magnetic field pulling one way, and then cycles the opposite direction. The result is that shaft starts to revolve or turn. The electrical energy from the wall is converted into mechanical energy in the motor. A belt or gear is then used to turn the sewing machine. This is controlled by the sewing machine foot control which often requires the technician to repair sewing machine foot control.

Electric motors come in two types AC and DC. In both cases the electricity used to run the motor must operate in a continuous unbroken circuit or loop. If the flow of electricity in the circuit flows in one direction and then in the opposite direction, it is called alternating current. If the flow is in only one direction within the loop, it is DC or direct current. Use of a transformer can convert AC to DC or the reverse.

AC motors are used in conjunction with levers, gears, cams, and other mechanical devices to make stitches and run the sewing machine in what are known as mechanical sewing machines. For over a hundred years, this applied to all sewing machines. Even now AC driven mechanical sewing machines are used for commercial use and low end models.

In recent years, another revolution has begun. The introduction of integrated computer circuits and other electronics have brought huge improvements in the reliability and smoothness of operations. A good example of this can be found in the elna tsp air electronic sewing machine repair manual which show how air electronics controls the motor. Another advancement has been the introduction of DC pulse motors to control the sewing machine and produce stitches. The result has been amazing. These modern sewing machines make sewing so much easier and enjoyable.

Understanding the power system of your sewing machine will help you understand when it is functioning properly or improperly. If the machine is not working they way you expect, understanding will help you make adjustments and repairs. The sewing machine repair manuals offered by Dr. David Trumble provide detailed sewing machine repair instructions.

Pick up your free Sewing Machine Repair beginner's course: 7 Steps To Peak Performance For Your Sewing Machine. Also check out his indept sewing machine repair manuals.

Necchi Sewing Machine Repairs

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Necchi sewing machines are classic sewing machines. Originally manufactured in Italy, the Necchi Lydia was one of the most popular selling sewing machines in history.

The classic Italian sewing machine brand known as Necchi is currently manufactured in Asia and marketed in the United States by Allyn International of Denver, Colorado. The line has developed a strong reputation for dependability and longevity.

My first training in sewing machine repair was Necchi Sewing Machine Repair. In 1992, it was my privilege to train at Allyn International, where I learned the basics of sewing machine repair. I deeply appreciated the willingness of Allyn International and the Necchi National Sewing Machine Repair Center to provide this training. This provided a solid foundation to master sewing machine repair across many brands of sewing machines.

Sewing machine repair skills with Necchi machines, easily transfer to working on other brands. The solid classic Necchi designs are very similar to other mechanical and mid line sewing machines.

When a person becomes an authorized dealer for Necchi sewing machines, they receive strong support and certification from Allyn International to represent and service machines.

The basis of all sewing machine service is the full service. The goal of the full service is to eliminate the causes of problems and fine tune the sewing machine to operate as close to new as possible. The primary cause of sewing machine failure is the collection of lint, dirt, debris, and crystallized lubricants. The full service sets out to thoroughly clean away those sources of problem while refurbishing the machine with fresh lubrication and readjustments.

Customers often seek quick fixes to reduce their costs of service, but are usually dissatisfied with the results. Many technicians willingly perform quick fixes, when a machine is broken or failing to perform as it should. They do so aware that the quick fix machine will probably be returned for additional service within a very short period of time. Most technicians refuse to warranty quick fix services because the underlying cause of failure has not been addressed. The clean and oil are usually warranted thirty to sixty days.

A clean and oil begins when the technician receives the machine from the customer. The customers concerns are indicators for diagnostics. Then he does an external inspection. He turns the hand wheel. He performs a test sewing of straight, zig zag, and stretch stitches. He looks for problems and potential ones.

The technician then removes the covers to begin working on the sewing machine.
It is vital to make the sewing machine clean inside and out. The user needs to keep it that way. Old grease and oils dry out, crystallize, and harden. All the lint, debris, old grease, and gunk must be completely taken out.

Use pure clean sewing machine oil to lubricate clean metal to metal contacts. Use Triflow to lubricate plastic parts. Use gear grease on older metal gears along their teeth.
Mechanical sewing machines require frequent removal of old oils and grease and fresh application of lubrication. Metal to metal contacts will bind if the lubricant gets old and crystallized. Keeping lubricants fresh keeps the sewing machine operating smoothly.

The simple classic designs of the Necchi sewing machine make it one of the easiest sewing machines to repair and service. Most sewing machine shops will provide service, but only authorized dealers have ready access to Necchi parts except through after market sources.

Learning to do your own Necchi sewing machine repair is fairly quick and easy. Allyn International is very helpful in providing new dealers with excellent support. A basic sewing machine repair course will help you learn the fundamentals to effectively service Necchi sewing machines. Sewing machine repair instructions and Sewing machine repair manuals make it very easy to do repair. In an emergency, you can always ship a sewing machine to Allyn International for their national service center to perform repairs for your. While this can be costly, it does give significant assurance to the beginning sewing machine technician or user.