Help - new sewing machine and clueless

BrokenBetty_2

I have a new sewing machine - £20 in the charity shop

Its been tested by the shop staff, and working perfectly.

I have no clue how to use it, i have never used a sewing machine - this is my weekend challenge!

So hints, tips, and any kit ideas for the clueless please.

C_J

What make of sewing machine is it? If you search the internet you will probably find a user guide or manual relating to your specific machine, including tips on maintenance.

You will need to learn how to wind a bobbin (the bit which goes underneath the needle) and how to thread your machine up. The threading varies slightly from machine to machine (ie some thread the needles front to back, others from side to side) but if your machine has been helpfully left threaded by the charity shop, you shoudl be able to work out the direction the thread has to take.

There are some useful guides for people new to machine sewing here :

http://www.tillyandthebuttons.com/p/learn-to-sew.html

BrokenBetty_2

Its an Empisal, model 945d.

Seems to be unususal - going by the lack of it on my google searches. Might be a south african brand?

Thankfully, it is already threaded, and comes with the instruction book.

Thank you for the link!!!

Gigervamp

Have a few practice goes on it using some old fabric to get used to sorting out the tension and seeing how hard you need to press the pedal. Don't press right down on it all the way or the fabric will run away from you!

Kernow666

youtube maybe ? plenty of instructional videos on there

NewShadow

Would any of these be near you?

http://whatsonni.com/hobbies-and-pastimes/?pg=1&

Any local centre that offers clubs near you could probably point you in the direction of a 'craft' club.

It's likely the people there could show you the basics, and once you know the basics you can use (most) any machine.

scaredy_cat

http://www.manualsdrive.com/results.php?lang=en&search=EMPISAL%20945D#.VusRRvlkjIU

Finefoot

As its an unusual model, check the needle size and buy a few. check the bobbin size as well, while you are at it.

jackyann

A threading tip from my overlocker:
Take a very bright thread, tie it on to the thread already in there, then pull gently - you can watch the thread as it goes through (even photograph it)
It almost certainly won't go through the needle, but that is the simple part! It is also possible the knot will get stuck on something, so be gentle, but I have found that a carefully tied reef knot, ends cut short, will pass.

I think you will have to do a good internet search for bobbins & needles, but with any luck it will take some "universal" ones.

Do your trial sews with plain cotton or some other "easy" fabric. Begin with some simple machine patchwork - bag or cushion cover, then make something like an apron. By then you will get the feel of the machine.

Where I live we still have old-fashioned adult education classes, and there is usually one on beginning to sew.

I would also look out your local sewing machine shop. They are usually very helpful, and are quite used to people coming in with machines inherited from great-aunts with no instructions. They know that if they are nice to you, and charge nothing, or a small fee for helping, then you are likely to be back, for accessories or even another machine! Some of them also run "get to know your machine" courses.

I have been sewing all my life and love it!

Justamum

There's a beginner's video here which might be helpful. There are other video links on that page too. Happy sewing!