Bro', I'm a salty old bachelor who finally got sick of discarding perfectly good garments over minor issues & just got my first machine. I feel like an ancient explorer who just discovered a new continent. Right on dude!
It's a daunting step but once you feel comfortable you can make so much cool stuff! That's so many free sewing patterns on Pinterest too! So proud of you.
This video was super helpful, especially for a novice like me. The teeth in my sewing machine were caked with lint. Fabric is feeding through so much smoother now. Thanks for taking the time to explain this maintenance so throughly!
Thanks man. I am a 66 yo male. I am trying to teach myself how to sew. (I am a beginners beginner) For a weird reason I can relate to your instruction with more ease. I was given an old Kenmore 12 stitch sewing machine that has sat on a shelf in a garage for 30+ yrs. I did take it to a local service center to have a thorough going over. Once done though, your instructions will greatly benefit me. Thanks for your video.
That's amazing that you're picking up a new hobby! Trust me you'll love all the cool stuff you can make and there's tons of free sewing patterns too. Proud of you!
I was at a loss trying to figure out how to oil my machine. This video made it look too easy but I tried it anyway. Now, my sewing machine is humming instead of pounding and I'm a happy crafter again! Thank you "sew" much!!!!
This tutorial could not have been done any better. Thank you! You just saved the life of a Janome because I was ABOUT TO put oil on every possible hole I see 🥲 followed and subscribed
Love the pipecleaner tip, thank you! The other thing you mentioned that will help is to always have the presserfoot up when threading or unthreading the machine. I have probably not been consistent about having the presser foot up. Also, I probably need to change my needles more often. I agree absolutely with dusting before oiling, have done it that way since I started sewing.
OMG you fixed my machine!! I clean the race quite often but never took the whole plate off to clean the feed dogs! My poor machine had so much lint between it’s teeth it looked like little sticks of felt. Thank you!! She’s actually pulling material in with out my help!! I wish I found this video sooner
My favorite machine is my early 70's Pfaff 1222 which came with maintenance and oiling directions. But my Baby Lock Melody had no such directions and I have been uncomfortable with that as I've worked on cleaning it. Thank you so much for explaining how to clean, maintain, and oil this little beauty. I am going to follow your instructions and DO IT!
I started taking local JC sewing classes to jumpstart back into sewing after DECADES! and was delighted that every class has AT MINIMUM 10% guys! I am so happy this gender barrier is falling!
@Transplanted1 That's how I see it. In the free section, I found a curtain in a beautiful shade of brown that turned out to be a very nice cotton. Bonus was the soft wool sweater in the bag I washed in very hot water and will make washable wool hats. It says large but would barely fit a child. So cute.
Thank you! I learned several things watching your video. Shortly after watching, I even started cleaning the feet by removing the cover (with a pipe cleaner, no less!). Now I know why that screwdriver came with the sewing machine. Placed a new needle in, and not only was the stitching less strained, I could easily backstitch! Awesome!
I've had a problem with my Baby Lock breaking needle thread lately after doing a lot of machine embroidery. Tried your pipe cleaner trick on the tension disks; pulled out all sorts of lint and thread bits. Stitching fine now! That ONE hint was fantastic! It's great to see another dude into sewing and your tutorials are practical as well as helpful. Perhaps the masculine appeal is the mechanics of operating and maintaining the machines, as well as trouble shooting and problem solving. A buddy who is a diesel mechanic is restoring a vintage 1930s Ford roadster. He was appalled at the prices of professional upholstery work and decided to try it himself. He had his mom's 1970s Japanese sewing machine and I showed him some basic operation. He saw parallels between sewing and mechanics; he was able to do the headliners and seat covers! He was proud that he was able to hem up a pair of jeans after watching YOUR video!!!
I would like to say thank you very much for your videos. I have two Kenmore's and both started having tension issues where the back side was gathering thread. Nothing I adjusted helped. HOWEVER, I took both apart, as you have shown, and cleaned out a ton of dust bunnies. Put everything back together and WOW....just like new. Amazing that this simple clean project worked so well. Thank you for making the effort for these videos and thank you for saving me money because I was headed out to a repair shop!
WOW_ ROB - I'm 72 yrs old and have learned so much from watching your video on oil &cleaning your machine. I have an old Kenmore from the 1960's cabinet model. It has sorta seized up on me. I have neglected it. (sorry) so before I go off to buy supplies I wanted to know what I was doing before I go out. I have had someone service my machine but not for YEARS. I have those 2 oil holes. I thought that is what they were & now I know thanks to you. I feel confident now taking to the oil bottle. THANKS carole
Hi Grayson_C, Thank you for tuning in to the Man Sewing tutorials! It is very important to clean and oil your machine regularly. I would recommend that you schedule an appointment with your sewing machine serviceman to look over your machine. Hopefully you are back to sewing in no time!
Rob, thank you for your thorough explanation of how to resolve tension issues. I started out with a bunched up mess of thread on the bottom of my fabric and am now able to start sewing much needed face masks. You are terrific!
I've notice that I'm getting the stitching on the bottom of the piece isn't quite right some of the sts are loops or saggy not quite right I've not adjusted the tension at all it's as it was bought
You know, I am a little in shock. I got my hand-me-down machine in August ‘23 and have made 12 quilts since. I’m working on my 13th right now and not once did it occur to me to oil my machine. I called my local maintenance guy and he said the suggested timeframe is every 8 hours of sewing to swap out your needle & oil. It’s been a lot longer than 8 hours….
My bobbin cage kept lifting and jamming my thread on the bottom .. I watched ur video and cleaned my bobbin cage, put it back and it worked .. I had dust down there ., thank you so much
This was awesome! No one ever told me to clean my sewing machine before. I did just what you said, and wow! I've never seen that much fuzz this side of a lint trap before. Thanks!
Great advice. I do service and appreciate you telling people to do just the things they need to do. Yes I have had them dripping in oil! I tell people "you have to service your car so yes, you have to service your sewing machine." That is a hard pill for those who buy the Walmart special for $100.00 and a service is near that if there are no broken peices. But If they see great machines like you have they will move up to a machine that makes them happy. Nothing is nicer than using a good quality machine if you have struggled with a low budget one. The dealer I work with sometimes borrows out a decent machine if the customer has need of service and has a project they need to finish, and they usually come back to buy one just like they were using.
Hi Rob, I loved this tutorial and learnt a thing or two or three. I thought I was all set in my cleaning as I never let the fluff build up and NEVER use canned air after seeing what it did to a machine on Pinterest. I am guilty of doing exactly what the manufacturer said and NOT oil, but I will now do as you have clearly explained. The second thing I learnt today was about threading with the foot raised. I did not know that, how could I not know that? I thread whether it's up or down which explains why sometimes I find it much harder to do. The third thing I learnt was to clean there also. I always use a pipe cleaner to clean even where my drop in bobbin is to get to those places the brush can't reach. I even bought myself a set of mini accessories for the vacuum so I could suction. So you see I thought I was good but I missed the areas you mention where the thread goes. THANK YOU SO MUCH. This is so helpful.
I never knew oiling the bobbin area was a thing. I have placed a magnet beside my machine that I put the screws and needle on so not to have them disappear. Now I am going to give it some oil and put back together. Thank you.
I just want to thank you ..after watching a ten other channels you helped me fix my tenion I had been working on it for a couple of days .Thank you Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for the maintenance videos. I just had my machine cleaned professionally but didn't know what I needed to do to keep it running well. My thread kept breaking and it would sound like it hit something. Sure enough my feed dogs were full of fuzz.
Thank you, Rob, for the tutorial. I find it somewhat difficult to follow you as you speak so quickly! I´m not a native, so I sometimes put subtitles in English. But, I find your explanations very clear and useful. Love your ring!
I definite have to thank you. I took my older Janome sewing machine in to get serviced about 5 years ago and haven't used to since, however with the new circumstances that we are all facing. I decided to sew some masks up and yes some jeans. I do have a newer Bother but it's a computer sewing machine and it's for quilting etc. Even that one sat around for a few years. Anyways I watched your video and cleaned and oiled the Janome. I was going to get rid of it, but thanks to you I got it working and it's better for heavier jobs. I saw that the the Janome is a better sewing machine or it's on Amazon as a heavy duty machine. I was having problems getting the Janome to sew properly but I did. I'm keeping both. Learned a few tips from watching your videos Thank you again and Happy Sewing
Thank you for your excellent cleaning tips! I have a lovely Pfaff 230 that was made in Germany between 70 and 75 years ago (about the same age I am), complete with Automatic Dial-A-Stitch system and its original user manual. I paid $100 for her, refurbished, from a Singer store in Dallas in 1973 and have never been tempted to replace her. Much of your advice in this video applies well to this grand old lady, who with her all metal body and mechanisms, still functions as well as I imagine she did when she was an agile young girl. I seldom use the decorative stitches she offers, but the last time I tried she was pretty cantankerous. I suspect these lady parts of hers need some cleaning and oiling as well.
thank you for this Rob! I have a 1950 singer Anniversary machine my mother bought (and paid for from sewing for $$), and have in the past 2 years purchased another singer Classic (I wanted the easy ability for zigzag and other stitches). I'm old :-) and a bit timid about taking these machines "apart", but know they need to be dusted and the old one oiled. You have now given me confidence to do what I'm able. And I agree...at least every 2 years let the pro's correct and clean. And cleaning the tensions....well, who knew????
Thank you for another great video. I always use a very small, natural bristle cosmetic (eye shadow) brush. They're cheap. Readily available and instead of "brushing" away the lint, every bit of lint actually clings to the natural bristles. After a few strokes I just wipe all the lint off the brush onto a piece of scrap fabric or batting.
thank you, thank you, thank you. This is the first video I have seen that explains clearly how to do maintenance on my sewing machine. Rob you are wonderful and I enjoy your video very much. It's nice to see that quilting is not just for females.
Thanks so much for your video! Local sewing machine repair is closed due to the virus and my machine was acting up due to all the masks I've been making! This video help explain so much and I was able to get my old girl working right again! People helping people!!!!
I bought 3 in 1 because it's half the price of machine oil. I guess I'll have to bite the dust and but the expensive oil. My little Janome only shows one place to oil. I sub'd to some different sewing channels and after sewing my whole life-mostly when I was younger-I've learned so much! I feel like a dummy. One thing that's my biggest issue is I'm not changing my needle often enough. I just use and use and use them until I need to change if I change the type of fabric I sew. I'm going to throw all my needles away! I sub'd. I want to get back to sewing more! Thanks!
Hi Rob. I work for a sewing machine/quilt store in Round Rock, TX. I appreciate your videos, and I often refer to our customers to look at different training videos to get the most out of their machines. On the tension video-- well done (even I learned a few things!)-- it would be helpful to edit it to include HOW to adjust the bobbin case with the adjustable screw for horizontal loading machines . It is not always practical to use 40 weight thread in the fixed bobbin case provided by Babylock/Brother-- using 60 and 90 weight bobbin thread does work best when using the decorative stitches. And, not all machine lines have fixed screws, e.g., the Pfaff/Husqvarna line standard bobbin case does not include a fixed screw. So, hopefully you can address this and show folks how to adjust that screw on a horizontally placed bobbin case. And, it is always good to leave one bobbin case, side or top loading, at the manufacturer's setting, and buy a second adjustable one to play with as needed-- embroidery stitches, bobbin work (and some brands with top loading bobbins have special bobbin work cases), etc. Thanks for helping inform our customers how to take care of their machines, and when it is really necessary to bring them in! Sometimes once a year is really overkill...
Never too old to learn. I've worked in the garment industry as a sewing machine operator. I don't touch my personal old non-electronic machine without oiling it. I wonder if I should back off a bit. I also keep a small pad of fabric to sew a few inches so my material doesn't get oily. I keep this under the presser foot when not in use. Is that OK? I now know not to use 3 in 1. The tip about the pipe cleaner is brilliant. I'm now a subscriber.
OMG. This was such a fun video! And I learned so much. I have a new machine and I'm definitely grateful for these tips. Thank you so much for sharing this video. Hi to you from a newbie sewist in Kingston, Jamaica! 🙂
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I have been so scared to touch my machine but you made it easy for this 72 yr old. I will definitely clean it regularly now. 😀
Love your videos. I always keep a magnetic pin tray handy when I'm taking out needles, screws, etc. You don't want to lose those darn little bitty screws. It helps! Thanks for all you post, AWESOME!
I've just watched 3 of your fantastically helpful videos. I actually adjusted my bobbin tension once a while back from my owners' manual (after several moves) like you show, but I've been 'scared' of unscrewing that plate to clean & oil, and never knew not to pull threads backwards when changing spools, nor that the foot had to be raised while threading, nor even that a pipe-cleaner could be used to clean the tension system in my Pfaff 1530! I'll certainly be watching more soon. Thanks! It doesn't seem like rougher treatment in moving should affect the bobbin, but I spent quite a while analyzing the top v bottom thread tension, like you showed and was also in my now lost manual before I finally made the adjustment! I have access to the manual online, so I'm OK.
Hello! First of all, thank you for all that you do! I would love to see more sewing machine maintenance videos. For instance, everyone shows how to service and change the tension assembly when it's the old knob, but not when it's the dial wheel like the newer machines have. I have a machine where I was trying to adjust it and the spring fell out and so far I've not seen anything (videos, service manuals, or schematics) online on how to orient it when I put it back together. I'm thinking I can't be the only one looking for this info. Anyhow, I love your stuff and I hope you keep doing what you're doing!
Thank you, Rob, you are great. I have a very modest sewing machine and I try to clean it periodically taking out all those little things she has inside. But sometimes I feel I miss too many parts. Thank you for your advice!!
Thank you -this was extremely helpful. I did not know what other functions the release of the pressure foot did other than taking the pressure off the fabric. Rather sad you don't get this type of info in sewing classes.
Awesome video. Thank you for explaining on how to maintain our sewing machines. I have some bad habits I need to break if I want to keep my machine in good order.
This might be late, but thanks for the tip on needles. I had been informed that some ladies said they had used their needles for months without a problem. My experience is that after several hours, the machine would start to lock up, and upon changing the needle, that problem went away. I can only guess that is because the needle was worn by my sewing of the quilt top, then quilting the whole thing.
I live on an island and I wish our local shop was agreeable. I tried to get my hand-me-down sewing machine (from the 70s?) serviced. The store owner promptly pushed me to purchase one of her beautiful brand new $1,000 - $9,000 sewing machines. I told her it was not in my budget. Honestly, if i could afford a 9K machine I wouldn't be tuning up this old clunker so I could keep my kids clothed! After politely declining her financing options and turning down her "once in a lifetime deal" with discounts. She finally told me that she refused to tune-up my machine since it was old and the "screws may break off" when she opened it up. So I collected my dinosaur machine off the table and did my 'walk of shame' out the door. Anyhow, long story just to say thank you for posting videos like this. Not all of us have the option of having our machines professionally serviced. :)
That's awful! Thankfully there are plenty of vintage and old machine lovers out there, and tips to take care of our machines without relaying on horrible sellers (honestly, if someone was that pushy and then my machine died, I'd rather buy online that set foot in there ever again).
I don't have a local service center either. I tried to get mine to a shop close by and I was told very nicely they only service the "high dollar" machines. She truly was nice about it. My husband got that particular machine at Walmart. It still runs for sewing but the embroidering feature won't work anymore. I contacted another service center about 30 mins from me and he basically told me the same thing. I just clean my machine the best I can. Keep the needles changed and oil it from time to time. I would love a machine with all the bells and whistles but should something happen to it I won't be able to get work done on it...I just can't see myself spending that kind of money.
Diane DeHart you might also check out Andy Tube sewing channel here on youtube. He has done many tutorials and some of them are from sewing machines from the 1970s.
I lived in Hawaii and they pulled the same on me so I just went across the street to Sears and bought a new one. Now on mainland I had my old dinasour cleaned and it works better then the new Singer.
Hi Rob! I appreciate this tutorial a lot - I've got two machines, one older Janome I use as a backup and a Singer Confidence Quilter that's my main machine. I know you said every two years for professional maintenance, but I think you should mention how often you should be dusting out your machine at home. I use mine for my home sewing business (I sew stuffed animals for craft shows) and find that I need to dust out my feed dogs and bobbin area every month or so. :) Thanks for such awesome tutorials and tips!
You saved the day! I'm in the process of sewing masks and my machine was giving me Viking Tribute 145M was giving me fits and with the Viking store closed I had to do some trouble shooting. Your help seems to be working. I'm sewing again! Thank you!
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! I've only been sewing since September '15 , and was trying to figure out the best way to oil my machine (Singer Tradition 2277), and this helps immensely! I plan to get as many miles as possible out of my machine, but the maintenance aspect has been somewhat tricky for me.
Hello I'm Tom from Colorado and I just got my grandmothers Singer 500a from 1961 lol, it's in excellent condition because she only used it four times, I need to oil it and clean up the fuzzy bunnies, this model doesn't have a belt so that's good I was told. Any tips? P.s. I just made my first stitch with it after an hour trying to figure out how to load the string and I think I figured out, it's my first attempt at sewing ever.
Thank you so very much, just before I watched this, I had seen half a dozen of these vlogs but not one of them addressed my issue, I was also about to purchase blow off air can until I saw you, and what a minefield of info you are, you addressed most if not all my concerns, some unvoiced. I love this video and will thumbs up for sure.
Hi Never watched your videos before - but will be watching them again! Loved your explanations - clear and humourous. I will be recommending you to my quilting group. Thanks so much . Davina Cheshire, England.
Hi you seem all knowing, watching your clips I've managed to get my mom's old Singer 4562 sewing again I'm very grateful. I have a variety of accessories that I have no clue what they are for. May I send you pics? Maybe you could share what they are used for?
Thank you for you very clear, informative video, the problem I am having with my Brother sewing machine is that when I double my material for hemming then this clanking noise starts, it sounds fine when just normal sewing, I have never oiled my machine as it stated that it is already oiled, so Im thinking that I will try the oil in the bobbin case and see if that works, you have given me some very handy hints and I will follow your instructions, thank you once again
Rob.... something I have found when cleaning my machine (in the area where the thread comes out of the bobbin case), I get a build up of lint from the thread and have to use a pin to pick it out. I can tell the difference when sewing whether I have a build up or not. I have to clean this quite often. Thanks form the video... was quite informative
Thanks for the tips. I'm in the process of trying to service my mother's sewing machine for her. My Dad used to do it because he used to sell them. He's passed on now so she needs me to help her. Thanks!
I know this video is old and 1) I thank you for it,. Going to have to find the time to "maintain" my machine that has been acting up. 2) nice shout out to having a relationship with our local dealer; hard to find though. For those of us who are "sometimes" sewing, who have basic machines that were likely purchased at a big box craft store (Michael's, etc., mine for instance was purchased at a store that has gone out of business) or purchased online - finding a local brand-recommended local service shop is sometimes difficult, and also cost prohibitive. $95 to start - and could be more if parts are needed, and who are we to argue? It is like taking my car to the mechanic and arguing with him about what I don't know. I can add another $55 to the service charge and buy a brand new machine. So, before I do that, I'm going to try to service my sewing machine and hope it is fruitful.
Thanks for the heads up. I just wanted to know, I'm guessing it's dust n oil after every quilt, right n a new needle. I hv an older Kenmore, I've had it at least 50 years. Sews like a charm. Did so much better last time, bobbin winder even got better. Thank you😂
Other solutions… Instead of brushing / pushing lint out of the way - and into another crevice of the sewing machine, just get rid of it - with a vacuum: brushing lint out of one area and into another area is hardly a rationale maintenance cleaning solution, although a brushing action may be needed to loose some stubbornly entrenched lint. There are sources for vacuum hose attachments that reduce down to create a ¼-½ inch suction source instead of the 1¼ inch vacuum hose opening. This helps one get down into tighter areas. Of course the primary hose opening is a great way to suck up / get rid of dust from a broader area. Using a reducer hose lowers the intake suction pressure (see Boyle’s Law) so you would not be using higher suction pressure to damage more delicate sewing machine parts. Lint is very light and easily removed from the most inaccessible places of a sewing machine, particularly in the feed dog wells. Alternatively, you can just an empty regular plastic squeeze bottle, commonly used for liquids. Use this to squeeze air thru it’s nozzle into an area to be cleaned. Often this might push lint into a deeper recess of the machine, so use this technique in areas where this might not be an issue. This would preclude introducing oil or water or other junk onto / into the sewing machine - your issue with pressurized air cans. Using higher quality thread reduces lint build up; so what if it costs a little bit more. Clean up time is certainly more costly that the minor increase in thread costs: your time is valuable! If you happen to use too much oil, use a Q-tip to soak up the excess. All you really need is a light oil coating in areas needing oil: commonly the bobbin and threader. This is especially true on the second “quilting” machine you serviced. On my older Pfaff, not oiling the bobbin thread hook guide (or whatever it is officially called) cause more sewing problems than any other issue, probably in the 90% range. If I experienced a stitching problem, the bobbin was the first place I serviced. Then the tension, etc. I then manually turned the sewing flywheel or balance wheel to make the bobbin hook rotate around a couple or more rotations. ANY oil still visible was soaked up with a cotton swab stick. Bottom line is the newer the model of machine, the fewer parts need lubricating: as in one or two places. Follow Rob’s advice: DO NOT put _any_ oil where it is not supposed to be. IF you do not know, do not do it or read your manual or take it to your service provider. The newer machines have so much electronics and self-lubricating parts, lubrication is pretty much a thing of the past. And use sewing machine oil. Would you oil the hard drive or air circulation fans on your computer?
"Would you oil the ... air circulation fans on your computer?" Yes I would, if they're running slow or noisy; it's a quick and easy job that can extend their useful life.
@@eternaloptimist2840 you really shouldnt oil most fans. They use a sintered bronze sleeve bearing, while oil may seem to improve their operation the effects are very short term and cause more issues by attracting dust which turns to a goo with the oil.
@@batvette Clearly my experience differs from yours - a good light oil that doesn't go gummy, and applied only sparingly, could make all the difference.
This was so much fun to watch. I have a Singer heavy duty 4411. I've other Singer heavy duty machines many years ago. With is one, for some reason after a few days of sewing, the tension gets messed up and I have to move it to 0 in order to get normal stitches. Then after a few hours of sewing I have to change it to a 3. Anything higher than a 3 doesn't give me good stitches. This machine has always done this. I never knew I had to change the needle fairly often! I learned something! I keep the same needle in until it breaks or if I change fabric thickness. Would you know why my machine starts making crazy stitches after a few days of sewing? Thanks for this video- can't wait to look at more!
Also love the coin idea. If you don’t mind losing the dime, take a piece of Styrofoam, take a larger spool of thread and push it into the foam for about an eighth to 3/16 of an inch. Push the coin on its side into the middle, then take low temp hot glue and put it into the hole around the coin. Let it set for a couple days to be sure it all hardens. Should make it easier to use. Also, if your foam melts with the glue (test first) line the hole with foil - wrap a piece around the spool before you push it into the hole, then push the coin thru the foil and into the foam. Don’t push the coin in too far, as you only need a small part of it to fit into the screw, and it is easier to use if the glue part rests on the bed of the machine. Again, thanks for these videos.
Same here. Actually, mines probably 45 years old. Couldn't get the base plate off too save my life! But I did get it cleaned up and most of it oiled. Thank you!
Beat you both -- my Kenmore zigzag is over 60 years old. My folks bought it on the Sears revolving credit card (I have the receipt) and it's still working. But it weighs a ton, lives in a cabinet, and is too heavy for me to take in for service, so I just clean and oil it myself. It has the red paint on the oil spots, just like he mentioned in the video.
Hi, new to your channel and loving it! I have owed from new a New Home 551, I bought her in 1976 🤪. She has been serviced only about twice, as my need to sew clothes, quilts etc diminished over the years. About 20 years ago we moved from UK to France, and have found it difficult to find anyone here who can service (not just dust and oil) this old friend! My husband is used to dealing with hi fi/computers so between us, I believe we could manage it, however, some guidance on RUclips would be incredibly helpful, I have looked, but as yet not found a good guide. I am itching to start Sewing again and having heaved my machine on to the table , I find she's feeling her age, and things like the bobbin winder doesn't work properly as the machine won't disengage like she used to.....any help would be greatly appreciated.....thank you. Merci
I spent a lot of time this morning doing every step that you said to do on my brother 950d. You're amazing! I thought I was going to have to take it in for service. Lo and behold it was dirty. Not sure why I didn't think of that myself. Never stop posting I love love love love love this Channel. You've helped me out of a lot of jams no pun intended LOL
The man that has done my maintenance for years, asked me to bring in my can of sewing oil when I picked up my 1967 singer. So I did, he took it from me and tossed it in the trash, saying you don't get to oil anything else. I've always sent my machine in once a year. Now I have a Babylock too, but still have no oil rights if I want him to service my machine 😉
wow my machine was full of lint, and I cleaned and oiled my machine and ow it sounds like brand new,, it is very quiet too, thank you for the good tutorial
Thanks Rob I noticed my machine is not acting right it is pretty new just a few months old, i have been sewing alot of projects quilts so on . so maybe a good cleaning will do the trick. Thanks for your great tips and tutorials . Tell your daughter she is great on camera i loved her tutorial. I have 3 great nices im going to make the doll bed for .
Bless you! I just encountered the wick of my Janome...it came out when I was dusting my bobbin case. First I didn’t know what it was. Figured that out, but I was afraid that once out, it would have to be repaired by a tech. If I can just clean it and reinsert it, I can at least finish my project. My machine hasn’t seen service in a VERY long time, and I’m afraid when I take it in I could encounter the same problem as the commenter with the 70s vintage machine on the island, I’m going to take it in and give it a try though, cuz I’m the kind of girl who can dish out shame to someone who really deserves it., lol. Imagine being dissed like that! What has happened to people? Grrr!
You surely have a "basic tools" video about this, and I just haven't caught it yet - probably with a cute bag to keep everything together!However, since I haven't seen this on supply lists: Add a magnetized bowl to your clean/fix/explore tool-kit. or a least a bowl & a small magnet in it. Corral all those bits! As a side benefit, you don't need to search the floor for roll-aways.
I like your video it's really helpful.but .but Iwant to k now what you could do When you trying to change your needle and your needles Scrow spinning and never hold the needle .and your needle falls?
Oh thank you Rob so much! The idea of using a dime to loosen is awesome! I had such a hard time getting the screws out since there is NO room to do this. On a video, could you please show us how to attach our different feet? I got a whole box of feet I ordered from Ebay and there are no instructions on how to attach it. Thank you for your vids. You are my go to to learn how to do things as I am fairly new to sewing but I am seriously addicted!
After you take the needle and all the rest off, it is nice to turn the machine back on, JUST so that your light is shining right down inside the machine and you can see a lot better, what you are doing.
Do you have a bunch of caffeine before you film these ? 😂 you have the most energy of anyone I’ve seen making sewing machine maintenance videos, it’s great, thank you 🙏
Very informative video. My Machine is a Brother CE8100, not a high end but works for what I needed. Mine doesn't have to top or side doors to get to the insides. I've cleaned the bobbin race. Thanks for the warning about canned air, won't use that again! My manual says NOT to oil the bobbin race. It sometimes makes a bit of a grinding , clunk noise when I first start to sew. Does machine need cleaning inside and if so, how do I access that area? Thank you spuch for your excellent advice!
If there is a wick in the center of the magnet area of the drop in bobbin, why aren't we dropping a wee bit of sewing oil in there? Really love your web site!
I couldn't get a screwdriver or the dime (too thick) to work on the metal plate screws on my Singer One Plus machine. In looking for something to use I spotted an empty bobbin! The edge worked great to turn the plate screws!
I always drop my screws into a magnetic pill bowl when I take them out so I don't lose one. First time I dropped one I spend almost an hour looking for one I dropped taught me to do that.
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Bro', I'm a salty old bachelor who finally got sick of discarding perfectly good garments over minor issues & just got my first machine. I feel like an ancient explorer who just discovered a new continent. Right on dude!
It's a daunting step but once you feel comfortable you can make so much cool stuff! That's so many free sewing patterns on Pinterest too! So proud of you.
@@ImTheKatBurglar Rock on with your good self!
This video was super helpful, especially for a novice like me. The teeth in my sewing machine were caked with lint. Fabric is feeding through so much smoother now. Thanks for taking the time to explain this maintenance so throughly!
thems aint teeth my guy
thems your dogs
Thanks man. I am a 66 yo male. I am trying to teach myself how to sew. (I am a beginners beginner) For a weird reason I can relate to your instruction with more ease. I was given an old Kenmore 12 stitch sewing machine that has sat on a shelf in a garage for 30+ yrs. I did take it to a local service center to have a thorough going over. Once done though, your instructions will greatly benefit me. Thanks for your video.
That's amazing that you're picking up a new hobby! Trust me you'll love all the cool stuff you can make and there's tons of free sewing patterns too. Proud of you!
I was at a loss trying to figure out how to oil my machine. This video made it look too easy but I tried it anyway. Now, my sewing machine is humming instead of pounding and I'm a happy crafter again! Thank you "sew" much!!!!
This tutorial could not have been done any better. Thank you! You just saved the life of a Janome because I was ABOUT TO put oil on every possible hole I see 🥲 followed and subscribed
I was too before I watched this video! And with 3 in 1 oil!
Love the pipecleaner tip, thank you! The other thing you mentioned that will help is to always have the presserfoot up when threading or unthreading the machine. I have probably not been consistent about having the presser foot up. Also, I probably need to change my needles more often. I agree absolutely with dusting before oiling, have done it that way since I started sewing.
Sounds just like me
OMG you fixed my machine!! I clean the race quite often but never took the whole plate off to clean the feed dogs! My poor machine had so much lint between it’s teeth it looked like little sticks of felt. Thank you!! She’s actually pulling material in with out my help!! I wish I found this video sooner
Mine too...a brush would not suffice! I needed to pull those lint logs out with a needle!
My favorite machine is my early 70's Pfaff 1222 which came with maintenance and oiling directions. But my Baby Lock Melody had no such directions and I have been uncomfortable with that as I've worked on cleaning it. Thank you so much for explaining how to clean, maintain, and oil this little beauty. I am going to follow your instructions and DO IT!
Wow this is so awesome! Thanks for the great tips and advice. My 8 yr old son was so stoked to see a man who can sew. He loves to sew like me.
That's so awesome! I love hearing about other dudes who sew! Give him a high five from me. :)
CraftyMauiGirl representation matters! ❤️
I started taking local JC sewing classes to jumpstart back into sewing after DECADES! and was delighted that every class has AT MINIMUM 10% guys! I am so happy this gender barrier is falling!
Sewing is fun! There's nothing like nice clothes that fit perfectly. Curtains make great pants.
@Transplanted1 That's how I see it. In the free section, I found a curtain in a beautiful shade of brown that turned out to be a very nice cotton. Bonus was the soft wool sweater in the bag I washed in very hot water and will make washable wool hats. It says large but would barely fit a child. So cute.
Thank you! I learned several things watching your video. Shortly after watching, I even started cleaning the feet by removing the cover (with a pipe cleaner, no less!). Now I know why that screwdriver came with the sewing machine. Placed a new needle in, and not only was the stitching less strained, I could easily backstitch! Awesome!
I've had a problem with my Baby Lock breaking needle thread lately after doing a lot of machine embroidery. Tried your pipe cleaner trick on the tension disks; pulled out all sorts of lint and thread bits. Stitching fine now! That ONE hint was fantastic!
It's great to see another dude into sewing and your tutorials are practical as well as helpful. Perhaps the masculine appeal is the mechanics of operating and maintaining the machines, as well as trouble shooting and problem solving. A buddy who is a diesel mechanic is restoring a vintage 1930s Ford roadster. He was appalled at the prices of professional upholstery work and decided to try it himself. He had his mom's 1970s Japanese sewing machine and I showed him some basic operation. He saw parallels between sewing and mechanics; he was able to do the headliners and seat covers!
He was proud that he was able to hem up a pair of jeans after watching YOUR video!!!
That's awesome! One can definitely draw from mechanical backgrounds in sewing! I hope you are working on some fantastic projects!
Weird how the metal bits and the fabric bits got separated by gender. Prehistorically?
I would like to say thank you very much for your videos. I have two Kenmore's and both started having tension issues where the back side was gathering thread. Nothing I adjusted helped. HOWEVER, I took both apart, as you have shown, and cleaned out a ton of dust bunnies. Put everything back together and WOW....just like new. Amazing that this simple clean project worked so well. Thank you for making the effort for these videos and thank you for saving me money because I was headed out to a repair shop!
WOW_ ROB - I'm 72 yrs old and have learned so much from watching your video on oil &cleaning your machine. I have an old Kenmore from the 1960's cabinet model. It has sorta seized up on me. I have neglected it. (sorry) so before I go off to buy supplies I wanted to know what I was doing before I go out. I have had someone service my machine but not for YEARS. I have those 2 oil holes. I thought that is what they were & now I know thanks to you. I feel confident now taking to the oil bottle. THANKS carole
Hi Grayson_C, Thank you for tuning in to the Man Sewing tutorials! It is very important to clean and oil your machine regularly. I would recommend that you schedule an appointment with your sewing machine serviceman to look over your machine. Hopefully you are back to sewing in no time!
thank you - I tackle cleaning it tomorrow. thanks for your comments
Rob, thank you for your thorough explanation of how to resolve tension issues. I started out with a bunched up mess of thread on the bottom of my fabric and am now able to start sewing much needed face masks. You are terrific!
I've notice that I'm getting the stitching on the bottom of the piece isn't quite right some of the sts are loops or saggy not quite right I've not adjusted the tension at all it's as it was bought
My wife sews, whenever the machine gives trouble, I clean it up. Thanks for the tips and I love your enthusiasm.
You know, I am a little in shock. I got my hand-me-down machine in August ‘23 and have made 12 quilts since. I’m working on my 13th right now and not once did it occur to me to oil my machine. I called my local maintenance guy and he said the suggested timeframe is every 8 hours of sewing to swap out your needle & oil. It’s been a lot longer than 8 hours….
I am a semi retired appliance repairman. Great video. My Wife sees quilts on a Janome 6700p.Thanks for the good info.
My bobbin cage kept lifting and jamming my thread on the bottom .. I watched ur video and cleaned my bobbin cage, put it back and it worked .. I had dust down there ., thank you so much
You are the best for information on sewing machines. Like your tips.
This was awesome! No one ever told me to clean my sewing machine before. I did just what you said, and wow! I've never seen that much fuzz this side of a lint trap before. Thanks!
Me too ,no one told me to clean it.
Great advice. I do service and appreciate you telling people to do just the things they need to do. Yes I have had them dripping in oil! I tell people "you have to service your car so yes, you have to service your sewing machine." That is a hard pill for those who buy the Walmart special for $100.00 and a service is near that if there are no broken peices. But If they see great machines like you have they will move up to a machine that makes them happy. Nothing is nicer than using a good quality machine if you have struggled with a low budget one. The dealer I work with sometimes borrows out a decent machine if the customer has need of service and has a project they need to finish, and they usually come back to buy one just like they were using.
I should make that clear. They come back to buy the one like the one they borrowed.
Hi Rob, I loved this tutorial and learnt a thing or two or three. I thought I was all set in my cleaning as I never let the fluff build up and NEVER use canned air after seeing what it did to a machine on Pinterest. I am guilty of doing exactly what the manufacturer said and NOT oil, but I will now do as you have clearly explained. The second thing I learnt today was about threading with the foot raised. I did not know that, how could I not know that? I thread whether it's up or down which explains why sometimes I find it much harder to do. The third thing I learnt was to clean there also. I always use a pipe cleaner to clean even where my drop in bobbin is to get to those places the brush can't reach. I even bought myself a set of mini accessories for the vacuum so I could suction. So you see I thought I was good but I missed the areas you mention where the thread goes. THANK YOU SO MUCH. This is so helpful.
I'm so glad you learned a few new things, Conchita! :)
I never knew oiling the bobbin area was a thing. I have placed a magnet beside my machine that I put the screws and needle on so not to have them disappear. Now I am going to give it some oil and put back together. Thank you.
I just want to thank you ..after watching a ten other channels you helped me fix my tenion I had been working on it for a couple of days .Thank you Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for no canned oil use . The pipe cleaners work thank you so much my 7550 is humming again. Phyllis
Thank you Rob! Your face is light a big ole ray of sunshine! It really draws in your listeners!
We got Mum's old Thomson SZ from the 1950s out the other day and a few of your videos made it run just like new. You're brilliant! Thank you.
Thank you so much for the maintenance videos. I just had my machine cleaned professionally but didn't know what I needed to do to keep it running well. My thread kept breaking and it would sound like it hit something. Sure enough my feed dogs were full of fuzz.
Thank you, Rob, for the tutorial. I find it somewhat difficult to follow you as you speak so quickly! I´m not a native, so I sometimes put subtitles in English. But, I find your explanations very clear and useful. Love your ring!
I definite have to thank you. I took my older Janome sewing machine in to get serviced about 5 years ago and haven't used to since, however with the new circumstances that we are all facing. I decided to sew some masks up and yes some jeans. I do have a newer Bother but it's a computer sewing machine and it's for quilting etc. Even that one sat around for a few years. Anyways I watched your video and cleaned and oiled the Janome. I was going to get rid of it, but thanks to you I got it working and it's better for heavier jobs. I saw that the the Janome is a better sewing machine or it's on Amazon as a heavy duty machine. I was having problems getting the Janome to sew properly but I did. I'm keeping both. Learned a few tips from watching your videos Thank you again and Happy Sewing
Janome sewing machines all have an aluminum "skeleton". This makes them stronger and with their better motor, helps to reduce vibration.
Thank you for your excellent cleaning tips! I have a lovely Pfaff 230 that was made in Germany between 70 and 75 years ago (about the same age I am), complete with Automatic Dial-A-Stitch system and its original user manual. I paid $100 for her, refurbished, from a Singer store in Dallas in 1973 and have never been tempted to replace her.
Much of your advice in this video applies well to this grand old lady, who with her all metal body and mechanisms, still functions as well as I imagine she did when she was an agile young girl.
I seldom use the decorative stitches she offers, but the last time I tried she was pretty cantankerous. I suspect these lady parts of hers need some cleaning and oiling as well.
Sue Mauer sue, I also have a Pfaff 230. What a great old machine (c 1962). A workhorse. I love it. I clean and oil every 5 bobbins.
thank you for this Rob! I have a 1950 singer Anniversary machine my mother bought (and paid for from sewing for $$), and have in the past 2 years purchased another singer Classic (I wanted the easy ability for zigzag and other stitches). I'm old :-) and a bit timid about taking these machines "apart", but know they need to be dusted and the old one oiled. You have now given me confidence to do what I'm able. And I agree...at least every 2 years let the pro's correct and clean. And cleaning the tensions....well, who knew????
Glad you enjoyed this tutorial, Joyce! I'm sure your machine will enjoy its spa day! :)
Thank you for another great video. I always use a very small, natural bristle cosmetic (eye shadow) brush. They're cheap. Readily available and instead of "brushing" away the lint, every bit of lint actually clings to the natural bristles. After a few strokes I just wipe all the lint off the brush onto a piece of scrap fabric or batting.
thank you, thank you, thank you. This is the first video I have seen that explains clearly how to do maintenance on my sewing machine. Rob you are wonderful and I enjoy your video very much. It's nice to see that quilting is not just for females.
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks so much for your video! Local sewing machine repair is closed due to the virus and my machine was acting up due to all the masks I've been making! This video help explain so much and I was able to get my old girl working right again! People helping people!!!!
I bought 3 in 1 because it's half the price of machine oil. I guess I'll have to bite the dust and but the expensive oil. My little Janome only shows one place to oil. I sub'd to some different sewing channels and after sewing my whole life-mostly when I was younger-I've learned so much! I feel like a dummy. One thing that's my biggest issue is I'm not changing my needle often enough. I just use and use and use them until I need to change if I change the type of fabric I sew. I'm going to throw all my needles away! I sub'd. I want to get back to sewing more! Thanks!
hello, this was so, so helpful before thinking of taking in for service. I've use my machine for about six months. thanks again.
Hi Rob. I work for a sewing machine/quilt store in Round Rock, TX. I appreciate your videos, and I often refer to our customers to look at different training videos to get the most out of their machines. On the tension video-- well done (even I learned a few things!)-- it would be helpful to edit it to include HOW to adjust the bobbin case with the adjustable screw for horizontal loading machines . It is not always practical to use 40 weight thread in the fixed bobbin case provided by Babylock/Brother-- using 60 and 90 weight bobbin thread does work best when using the decorative stitches. And, not all machine lines have fixed screws, e.g., the Pfaff/Husqvarna line standard bobbin case does not include a fixed screw. So, hopefully you can address this and show folks how to adjust that screw on a horizontally placed bobbin case. And, it is always good to leave one bobbin case, side or top loading, at the manufacturer's setting, and buy a second adjustable one to play with as needed-- embroidery stitches, bobbin work (and some brands with top loading bobbins have special bobbin work cases), etc. Thanks for helping inform our customers how to take care of their machines, and when it is really necessary to bring them in! Sometimes once a year is really overkill...
Thank you so much! Those tips are great. :D
Never too old to learn. I've worked in the garment industry as a sewing machine operator. I don't touch my personal old non-electronic machine without oiling it. I wonder if I should back off a bit. I also keep a small pad of fabric to sew a few inches so my material doesn't get oily. I keep this under the presser foot when not in use. Is that OK? I now know not to use 3 in 1. The tip about the pipe cleaner is brilliant. I'm now a subscriber.
OMG. This was such a fun video! And I learned so much.
I have a new machine and I'm definitely grateful for these tips. Thank you so much for sharing this video.
Hi to you from a newbie sewist in Kingston, Jamaica! 🙂
Thank you so much for this tutorial. I have been so scared to touch my machine but you made it easy for this 72 yr old. I will definitely clean it regularly now. 😀
Love your videos. I always keep a magnetic pin tray handy when I'm taking out needles, screws, etc. You don't want to lose those darn little bitty screws. It helps! Thanks for all you post, AWESOME!
That is so true!
Thank you so much for all your tutorials, Rob! I love to watch them and get ideas as I am just a beginner quilter and your videos are such a help!
I've just watched 3 of your fantastically helpful videos. I actually adjusted my bobbin tension once a while back from my owners' manual (after several moves) like you show, but I've been 'scared' of unscrewing that plate to clean & oil, and never knew not to pull threads backwards when changing spools, nor that the foot had to be raised while threading, nor even that a pipe-cleaner could be used to clean the tension system in my Pfaff 1530!
I'll certainly be watching more soon. Thanks!
It doesn't seem like rougher treatment in moving should affect the bobbin, but I spent quite a while analyzing the top v bottom thread tension, like you showed and was also in my now lost manual before I finally made the adjustment! I have access to the manual online, so I'm OK.
Hello! First of all, thank you for all that you do! I would love to see more sewing machine maintenance videos. For instance, everyone shows how to service and change the tension assembly when it's the old knob, but not when it's the dial wheel like the newer machines have. I have a machine where I was trying to adjust it and the spring fell out and so far I've not seen anything (videos, service manuals, or schematics) online on how to orient it when I put it back together. I'm thinking I can't be the only one looking for this info. Anyhow, I love your stuff and I hope you keep doing what you're doing!
Thank you, Rob, you are great. I have a very modest sewing machine and I try to clean it periodically taking out all those little things she has inside. But sometimes I feel I miss too many parts. Thank you for your advice!!
Thank you -this was extremely helpful. I did not know what other functions the release of the pressure foot did other than taking the pressure off the fabric. Rather sad you don't get this type of info in sewing classes.
Can I use a tiny vacuum to clean? Thank you for the tutorial, very helpful!
Looking around the web first before I touch this old Singer. I must Applaud you, sir!
Awesome video. Thank you for explaining on how to maintain our sewing machines. I have some bad habits I need to break if I want to keep my machine in good order.
Thanks for tuning in, La-Kia!
La-Kia Kommeren envelope
I can't believe I didn't know the tension disks move in and out depending on the foot position. Life changed!
This might be late, but thanks for the tip on needles. I had been informed that some ladies said they had used their needles for months without a problem. My experience is that after several hours, the machine would start to lock up, and upon changing the needle, that problem went away. I can only guess that is because the needle was worn by my sewing of the quilt top, then quilting the whole thing.
This video helped me get my sewing machine back up in 5 minutes 🙌🏾🙌🏾
I was going to pay to get it fixed, thank you!
I live on an island and I wish our local shop was agreeable. I tried to get my hand-me-down sewing machine (from the 70s?) serviced. The store owner promptly pushed me to purchase one of her beautiful brand new $1,000 - $9,000 sewing machines. I told her it was not in my budget. Honestly, if i could afford a 9K machine I wouldn't be tuning up this old clunker so I could keep my kids clothed! After politely declining her financing options and turning down her "once in a lifetime deal" with discounts. She finally told me that she refused to tune-up my machine since it was old and the "screws may break off" when she opened it up. So I collected my dinosaur machine off the table and did my 'walk of shame' out the door.
Anyhow, long story just to say thank you for posting videos like this. Not all of us have the option of having our machines professionally serviced. :)
That's awful! Thankfully there are plenty of vintage and old machine lovers out there, and tips to take care of our machines without relaying on horrible sellers (honestly, if someone was that pushy and then my machine died, I'd rather buy online that set foot in there ever again).
I don't have a local service center either. I tried to get mine to a shop close by and I was told very nicely they only service the "high dollar" machines. She truly was nice about it. My husband got that particular machine at Walmart. It still runs for sewing but the embroidering feature won't work anymore. I contacted another service center about 30 mins from me and he basically told me the same thing. I just clean my machine the best I can. Keep the needles changed and oil it from time to time. I would love a machine with all the bells and whistles but should something happen to it I won't be able to get work done on it...I just can't see myself spending that kind of money.
Diane DeHart you might also check out Andy Tube sewing channel here on youtube. He has done many tutorials and some of them are from sewing machines from the 1970s.
I lived in Hawaii and they pulled the same on me so I just went across the street to Sears and bought a new one.
Now on mainland I had my old dinasour cleaned and it works better then the new Singer.
@@laurafifer4453 we must be on the same island! Ppl behave differently when our options are somewhat limited. 😒
This is valuable information. I get many seeing machines donated to me. I needed these instructions. Thank you.
Hi Rob! I appreciate this tutorial a lot - I've got two machines, one older Janome I use as a backup and a Singer Confidence Quilter that's my main machine. I know you said every two years for professional maintenance, but I think you should mention how often you should be dusting out your machine at home. I use mine for my home sewing business (I sew stuffed animals for craft shows) and find that I need to dust out my feed dogs and bobbin area every month or so. :)
Thanks for such awesome tutorials and tips!
If you're sewing that kind of fabric regularly I would clean out after each toy was finished, that's what I was taught to do
This tutorial helped get my 20-year old Kenmore humming like new again. Thanks!
Hello Robb,great idea to use a ten-cent coin. However, I find that a metal bobbin gives better hold and no risk to slip like the mini coin.
Thank you for this video. I searched 2 hours for info on oiling a Baby Lock Esante ES1 that I picked up at a thrift shop, with no luck until you!
You saved the day! I'm in the process of sewing masks and my machine was giving me Viking Tribute 145M was giving me fits and with the Viking store closed I had to do some trouble shooting. Your help seems to be working. I'm sewing again! Thank you!
Wow. The clearest, most helpful video for cleaning out there. THANK YOU!
THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! I've only been sewing since September '15 , and was trying to figure out the best way to oil my machine (Singer Tradition 2277), and this helps immensely! I plan to get as many miles as possible out of my machine, but the maintenance aspect has been somewhat tricky for me.
So glad I could help, Pete! :D
Hello I'm Tom from Colorado and I just got my grandmothers Singer 500a from 1961 lol, it's in excellent condition because she only used it four times, I need to oil it and clean up the fuzzy bunnies, this model doesn't have a belt so that's good I was told. Any tips? P.s. I just made my first stitch with it after an hour trying to figure out how to load the string and I think I figured out, it's my first attempt at sewing ever.
Thank you so very much, just before I watched this, I had seen half a dozen of these vlogs but not one of them addressed my issue, I was also about to purchase blow off air can until I saw you, and what a minefield of info you are, you addressed most if not all my concerns, some unvoiced.
I love this video and will thumbs up for sure.
Thank you so much for the positive feedback! Be sure you are subscribed to the Man Sewing Channel because we release a new tutorial every Monday!
Thank you .. your tips and tricks have been lightbulb moments for me.
Hi
Never watched your videos before - but will be watching them again! Loved your explanations - clear and humourous. I will be recommending you to my quilting group.
Thanks so much . Davina Cheshire, England.
Hello Davina! Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe to my channel so you don't miss any of my upcoming tutorials! Have a blast quilting!
Hi you seem all knowing, watching your clips I've managed to get my mom's old Singer 4562 sewing again I'm very grateful. I have a variety of accessories that I have no clue what they are for. May I send you pics? Maybe you could share what they are used for?
Thank you for you very clear, informative video, the problem I am having with my Brother sewing machine is that when I double my material for hemming then this clanking noise starts, it sounds fine when just normal sewing, I have never oiled my machine as it stated that it is already oiled, so Im thinking that I will try the oil in the bobbin case and see if that works, you have given me some very handy hints and I will follow your instructions, thank you once again
Rob.... something I have found when cleaning my machine (in the area where the thread comes out of the bobbin case), I get a build up of lint from the thread and have to use a pin to pick it out. I can tell the difference when sewing whether I have a build up or not. I have to clean this quite often. Thanks form the video... was quite informative
Thanks for the tips. I'm in the process of trying to service my mother's sewing machine for her. My Dad used to do it because he used to sell them. He's passed on now so she needs me to help her. Thanks!
I know this video is old and 1) I thank you for it,. Going to have to find the time to "maintain" my machine that has been acting up. 2) nice shout out to having a relationship with our local dealer; hard to find though. For those of us who are "sometimes" sewing, who have basic machines that were likely purchased at a big box craft store (Michael's, etc., mine for instance was purchased at a store that has gone out of business) or purchased online - finding a local brand-recommended local service shop is sometimes difficult, and also cost prohibitive. $95 to start - and could be more if parts are needed, and who are we to argue? It is like taking my car to the mechanic and arguing with him about what I don't know. I can add another $55 to the service charge and buy a brand new machine. So, before I do that, I'm going to try to service my sewing machine and hope it is fruitful.
Thanks for the heads up. I just wanted to know, I'm guessing it's dust n oil after every quilt, right n a new needle. I hv an older Kenmore, I've had it at least 50 years. Sews like a charm. Did so much better last time, bobbin winder even got better. Thank you😂
Other solutions…
Instead of brushing / pushing lint out of the way - and into another crevice of the sewing machine, just get rid of it - with a vacuum: brushing lint out of one area and into another area is hardly a rationale maintenance cleaning solution, although a brushing action may be needed to loose some stubbornly entrenched lint. There are sources for vacuum hose attachments that reduce down to create a ¼-½ inch suction source instead of the 1¼ inch vacuum hose opening. This helps one get down into tighter areas. Of course the primary hose opening is a great way to suck up / get rid of dust from a broader area. Using a reducer hose lowers the intake suction pressure (see Boyle’s Law) so you would not be using higher suction pressure to damage more delicate sewing machine parts. Lint is very light and easily removed from the most inaccessible places of a sewing machine, particularly in the feed dog wells.
Alternatively, you can just an empty regular plastic squeeze bottle, commonly used for liquids. Use this to squeeze air thru it’s nozzle into an area to be cleaned. Often this might push lint into a deeper recess of the machine, so use this technique in areas where this might not be an issue. This would preclude introducing oil or water or other junk onto / into the sewing machine - your issue with pressurized air cans.
Using higher quality thread reduces lint build up; so what if it costs a little bit more. Clean up time is certainly more costly that the minor increase in thread costs: your time is valuable!
If you happen to use too much oil, use a Q-tip to soak up the excess. All you really need is a light oil coating in areas needing oil: commonly the bobbin and threader. This is especially true on the second “quilting” machine you serviced. On my older Pfaff, not oiling the bobbin thread hook guide (or whatever it is officially called) cause more sewing problems than any other issue, probably in the 90% range. If I experienced a stitching problem, the bobbin was the first place I serviced. Then the tension, etc. I then manually turned the sewing flywheel or balance wheel to make the bobbin hook rotate around a couple or more rotations. ANY oil still visible was soaked up with a cotton swab stick.
Bottom line is the newer the model of machine, the fewer parts need lubricating: as in one or two places. Follow Rob’s advice: DO NOT put _any_ oil where it is not supposed to be. IF you do not know, do not do it or read your manual or take it to your service provider. The newer machines have so much electronics and self-lubricating parts, lubrication is pretty much a thing of the past. And use sewing machine oil. Would you oil the hard drive or air circulation fans on your computer?
"Would you oil the ... air circulation fans on your computer?" Yes I would, if they're running slow or noisy; it's a quick and easy job that can extend their useful life.
@@eternaloptimist2840 you really shouldnt oil most fans. They use a sintered bronze sleeve bearing, while oil may seem to improve their operation the effects are very short term and cause more issues by attracting dust which turns to a goo with the oil.
@@batvette Clearly my experience differs from yours - a good light oil that doesn't go gummy, and applied only sparingly, could make all the difference.
This was so much fun to watch. I have a Singer heavy duty 4411. I've other Singer heavy duty machines many years ago. With is one, for some reason after a few days of sewing, the tension gets messed up and I have to move it to 0 in order to get normal stitches. Then after a few hours of sewing I have to change it to a 3. Anything higher than a 3 doesn't give me good stitches. This machine has always done this. I never knew I had to change the needle fairly often! I learned something! I keep the same needle in until it breaks or if I change fabric thickness. Would you know why my machine starts making crazy stitches after a few days of sewing? Thanks for this video- can't wait to look at more!
Also love the coin idea. If you don’t mind losing the dime, take a piece of Styrofoam, take a larger spool of thread and push it into the foam for about an eighth to 3/16 of an inch. Push the coin on its side into the middle, then take low temp hot glue and put it into the hole around the coin. Let it set for a couple days to be sure it all hardens. Should make it easier to use. Also, if your foam melts with the glue (test first) line the hole with foil - wrap a piece around the spool before you push it into the hole, then push the coin thru the foil and into the foam. Don’t push the coin in too far, as you only need a small part of it to fit into the screw, and it is easier to use if the glue part rests on the bed of the machine. Again, thanks for these videos.
This is awesome stuff! Thanks so much for passing it along. :)
My Kenmore sewing machine is 35 years old. I used your video to clean it, but my outdated machine is a little bit different from those you showed.
Same here. Actually, mines probably 45 years old. Couldn't get the base plate off too save my life! But I did get it cleaned up and most of it oiled. Thank you!
Beat you both -- my Kenmore zigzag is over 60 years old. My folks bought it on the Sears revolving credit card (I have the receipt) and it's still working. But it weighs a ton, lives in a cabinet, and is too heavy for me to take in for service, so I just clean and oil it myself. It has the red paint on the oil spots, just like he mentioned in the video.
I just watched your video and learned a great deal for my single needle-do you gave a comparable video for a multi-needle machine?
Hi, new to your channel and loving it!
I have owed from new a
New Home 551, I bought her in 1976 🤪.
She has been serviced only about twice, as my need to sew clothes, quilts etc diminished over the years. About 20 years ago we moved from UK to France, and have found it difficult to find anyone here who can service (not just dust and oil) this old friend!
My husband is used to dealing with hi fi/computers so between us, I believe we could manage it, however, some guidance on RUclips would be incredibly helpful, I have looked, but as yet not found a good guide.
I am itching to start Sewing again and having heaved my machine on to the table , I find she's feeling her age, and things like the bobbin winder doesn't work properly as the machine won't disengage like she used to.....any help would be greatly appreciated.....thank you. Merci
I spent a lot of time this morning doing every step that you said to do on my brother 950d. You're amazing! I thought I was going to have to take it in for service. Lo and behold it was dirty. Not sure why I didn't think of that myself. Never stop posting I love love love love love this Channel. You've helped me out of a lot of jams no pun intended LOL
Becky Burnham e
The man that has done my maintenance for years, asked me to bring in my can of sewing oil when I picked up my 1967 singer. So I did, he took it from me and tossed it in the trash, saying you don't get to oil anything else. I've always sent my machine in once a year. Now I have a Babylock too, but still have no oil rights if I want him to service my machine 😉
LOL this made me laugh I could just picture your maintenance man's face, LOL
Lmao 😂
Haha! Very funny! I wonder how many sewers he’s done that to lol 😂
Hi there Rob good too see ya thank you so much for all your information take care 👋👋👋👋👋👋
wow my machine was full of lint, and I cleaned and oiled my machine and ow it sounds like brand new,, it is very quiet too, thank you for the good tutorial
Thanks Rob I noticed my machine is not acting right it is pretty new just a few months old, i have been sewing alot of projects quilts so on . so maybe a good cleaning will do the trick. Thanks for your great tips and tutorials . Tell your daughter she is great on camera i loved her tutorial. I have 3 great nices im going to make the doll bed for .
Also, remember to change your need after nearly every project (aside from little rink a dink projects). I bet your nieces will love those doll beds!
I think that u r an incredible educator. So easy to understand.
Bless you! I just encountered the wick of my Janome...it came out when I was dusting my bobbin case. First I didn’t know what it was. Figured that out, but I was afraid that once out, it would have to be repaired by a tech. If I can just clean it and reinsert it, I can at least finish my project. My machine hasn’t seen service in a VERY long time, and I’m afraid when I take it in I could encounter the same problem as the commenter with the 70s vintage machine on the island, I’m going to take it in and give it a try though, cuz I’m the kind of girl who can dish out shame to someone who really deserves it., lol. Imagine being dissed like that! What has happened to people? Grrr!
You surely have a "basic tools" video about this, and I just haven't caught it yet - probably with a cute bag to keep everything together!However, since I haven't seen this on supply lists:
Add a magnetized bowl to your clean/fix/explore tool-kit. or a least a bowl & a small magnet in it. Corral all those bits! As a side benefit, you don't need to search the floor for roll-aways.
Thanks for the suggestion, Constance! Have fun sewing!
I like your video it's really helpful.but .but Iwant to k now what you could do When you trying to change your needle and your needles Scrow spinning and never hold the needle .and your needle falls?
Oh thank you Rob so much! The idea of using a dime to loosen is awesome! I had such a hard time getting the screws out since there is NO room to do this. On a video, could you please show us how to attach our different feet? I got a whole box of feet I ordered from Ebay and there are no instructions on how to attach it. Thank you for your vids. You are my go to to learn how to do things as I am fairly new to sewing but I am seriously addicted!
Thanks for the suggestion, Sheila! We'll definitely add your feet question to our list of possible videos!
You are so great, I enjoy your demos , it is always clear and detailed. Thank you.
What a super fantastic set of vids this week!! They were all fantastic. Thanks so much!
I appreciate your information. I clean my machine and use synthetic lubricant.
After you take the needle and all the rest off, it is nice to turn the machine back on, JUST so that your light is shining right down inside the machine and you can see a lot better, what you are doing.
Do you have a bunch of caffeine before you film these ? 😂 you have the most energy of anyone I’ve seen making sewing machine maintenance videos, it’s great, thank you 🙏
Very informative video. My Machine is a Brother CE8100, not a high end but works for what I needed. Mine doesn't have to top or side doors to get to the insides. I've cleaned the bobbin race. Thanks for the warning about canned air, won't use that again! My manual says NOT to oil the bobbin race. It sometimes makes a bit of a grinding , clunk noise when I first start to sew. Does machine need cleaning inside and if so, how do I access that area? Thank you spuch for your excellent advice!
This was so helpful! I appreciate the detail in what not to do vs what to do. Great vid! Short, sweet, and to the point!
Just a tip- There’s a handy cap holder on the lid of your oil bottle so you won’t lose the cap.
If there is a wick in the center of the magnet area of the drop in bobbin, why aren't we dropping a wee bit of sewing oil in there? Really love your web site!
I couldn't get a screwdriver or the dime (too thick) to work on the metal plate screws on my Singer One Plus machine. In looking for something to use I spotted an empty bobbin! The edge worked great to turn the plate screws!
I am So glad I learned from you not to use 3 in 1 oil Thank you Rob for another great video
I always drop my screws into a magnetic pill bowl when I take them out so I don't lose one. First time I dropped one I spend almost an hour looking for one I dropped taught me to do that.