Posted by McKenzie on October 19, 2010 | No Comments
While working on an embroidery project this weekend, I, once again, became frustrated when the thread started to break frequently. Before reaching my wits end I checked my needle. Sure enough, that was the issue. My embroidery needle had become dull. With a quick change I was back in action, but it got me thinking: How often should you change your needle?
Amazing Designs recommends inserting a new needle at the start of every project, or after about eight hours of sewing. Also, be sure to change your needle whenever it becomes bent, dull or develops a burr.
Damaged or worn needles result in:
• Broken or shredded threads
• Skipped stitches
• Puckered fabrics
• Damaged fabrics
• Uneven threads
• Hearing the needle hit the machine’s needle plate or hook
Remember, replacing your needle is an inexpensive way to prevent potential stitching problems and lots of frustration.
At Sewing and Craft Club you can purchase Klasse needles at club prices – buy 2 packs, get 1 FREE!
Posted by McKenzie on September 27, 2010 | No Comments
So, I know there are a variety of needles on the market — different brands, different sizes, different uses. But, what are the basics when it comes to needles; what is the anatomy of a needle?
Butt: Beveled end allows easy insertion in the needle bar
Shank: Household neeldes have a flat shank and allow perfect positioning of the needle in the sewing machine needle bar
Shoulder: Sloping area transitioning between the shank and the blade.
Blade: Needle size is determined by the blade diameter
Groove: Cradles and guides thread to the eye; may vary according to needle type
Scarf: Indentation above the eye that allows the bobbin hook to smoothly grab the thread under the throat plate to create a stitch; varies based on size of the needle
Eye: Hole through which the thread passes; size and shape vary based on needle type
Point and Tip: Penetrates material; length, shape and size vary according to needle types
For additional needle information and our source for this information, visit Schmetz.
Posted by McKenzie on July 27, 2010 | No Comments
I hate it when my embroidery doesn’t turn out the way I expected — am I not talking about my color choices. I’m talking about the unusual pull, puckers and just plain weirdness. Whey doesn’t mine look like their’s? Here are some tips to try when your embroidery design just doesn’t seem right:
• Rethread the machine, including reinserting the bobbin and removing and reattaching the embroidery unit
• Does the bobbin thread show on the right side? If so, use a lighter-weight bobbin thread
• Clean the lint from the bobbin area — a can of computer air spray works great for this
• Change the needle — make sure it is the right size and type, we recommend Klasse embroidery needles for most designs. And, make sure there is no adhesive residue on the needle
• Slow down the machine stitching speed — the faster it stitches, the more stress it puts on your fabric and embroidery
• Slightly loosen the upper tension
• Make sure the fabric and stabilizer are secure — you could also add a piece of wash away or hydro-melt stabilizer to the design
Posted by McKenzie on May 23, 2010 | No Comments
When was the last time you replaced your needle? Is your thread constantly breaking or shredding while sewing or emboridery? Did you know that many sew-lebrities recommend changing your needle after each major project?
If you can’t remember the last time you put a new needle on your machine, than its time for you to change it out. Sewing with a dull needle is like trying to cut a tomato with a dull knife — it doesn’t end up pretty.
Lucky for you Sewing and Craft Club offers buy 2 get 1 FREE on Klasse needles! And, the highest priced pack is your free pack. Happy stitching!
Posted by McKenzie on April 19, 2010 | No Comments
1. Use full-size design templates for accurate placement.
2. Double check our placement on your fabric before you begin stitching.
3. An Embroidery Needle should always be used for embroidery. The Embroidery Needle eye is slightly larger and allows the thread to glide through with less resistance (and therefore less breakage).
4. Attach a thread stand to your machine when embroidery multiples of multi-colored designs.
5. Always use the smallest hoop recommended for the design. This provides the perfect amount of tension for the fabric and stabilizer in the hoop to prevent it from slipping and puckering.
