Q&A for How to Operate a Mini Sewing Machine

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What do I do if the thread is knotting on my fabric?

Andrea Beaulieu
Professional Tailor & Fashion Designer
Andrea Beaulieu is a Professional Tailor, Fashion Designer, and the Owner of MOORE, a Brooklyn, New York based storefront and apparel workshop for gender-neutral, contemporary streetwear as well as custom-tailored products. Andrea has over 20 years in the fashion design and marketing industries and specializes in pattern making, draping, and the construction of garments. She holds a BS in Fashion Design and Merchandising from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Andrea Beaulieu

Professional Tailor & Fashion Designer

Expert Answer

If the thread is knotting on the bottom of your fabric, adjust the upper tension. If the thread is knotting on the top, adjust the bobbin.

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Question

Why am I having trouble threading the bobbin?

Andrea Beaulieu
Professional Tailor & Fashion Designer
Andrea Beaulieu is a Professional Tailor, Fashion Designer, and the Owner of MOORE, a Brooklyn, New York based storefront and apparel workshop for gender-neutral, contemporary streetwear as well as custom-tailored products. Andrea has over 20 years in the fashion design and marketing industries and specializes in pattern making, draping, and the construction of garments. She holds a BS in Fashion Design and Merchandising from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Andrea Beaulieu

Professional Tailor & Fashion Designer

Expert Answer

The tension and bobbin are the most challenging parts of the machine to master, so be patient with yourself and your machine. Make sure to read through the manual before you start, and keep it handy in case you need to do any troubleshooting.

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Question

Can you make clothes with a mini sewing machine?

wikiHow Staff Editor
Staff Answer
This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

wikiHow Staff Editor

Staff Answer

Yes, you can! The main drawbacks of mini sewing machines are that they break more easily than full-sized ones and have a harder time handling thick fabrics, like denim and leather.

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Can a mini sewing machine sew jeans?

wikiHow Staff Editor
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wikiHow Staff Editor

Staff Answer

Most mini sewing machines are not built to handle thick materials like denim. However, you can find some small models that are designed for that purpose. Make sure to read the specifications on the machine or talk to a knowledgeable sewing machine vendor so you know what your machine can do.

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How do I choose a needle for my sewing machine?

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wikiHow Staff Editor

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First, you’ll need to check what kind of needle system your sewing machine uses. Most home machines use the 130/705H system. The system should be labeled on the package that your needles come in. You’ll also need to pick the right kind of needle for the type of thread you’re using and the kind of fabric you want to sew. For example, a universal needle will work on most fabrics, but a ballpoint and stretch needle is better for loose knits and stretchy fabrics, like Lycra.

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