✂■ Sewing Machine & Related Topics – Student
Handout
1. Introduction to Sewing, Sewing Equipment and their Functions
Sewing is the process of joining fabrics or other materials with the help of a needle and thread,
either by hand or using a sewing machine. It is one of the oldest textile arts and is still an important
part of fashion and garment production today.
Basic Sewing Equipment:
1. Measuring Tools – Tape measure, ruler, hem gauge (for accurate measurement).
2. Cutting Tools – Fabric scissors, pinking shears, rotary cutter (to cut fabric neatly).
3. Marking Tools – Tailor’s chalk, fabric markers (to mark stitching lines).
4. Needles & Pins – Hand sewing needles, machine needles, dressmaker pins (to hold fabric).
5. Thread – Cotton, polyester, silk threads (different strengths for sewing).
6. Iron & Ironing Board – For pressing seams, giving finishing to garments.
7. Seam Ripper – Used to remove wrong stitches.
2. Parts and Functions of Domestic Sewing Machine
A domestic sewing machine is commonly used in homes for basic stitching and simple garment
construction. It is user-friendly and designed for personal or household use.
Main Parts & Functions:
- Spool Pin – Holds the thread spool.
- Bobbin & Bobbin Case – Supplies thread from below.
- Presser Foot – Holds the fabric in place.
- Feed Dog – Moves the fabric forward during stitching.
- Hand Wheel – Manually raises and lowers the needle.
- Stitch Regulator – Controls stitch length.
- Tension Disc – Adjusts thread tension.
- Needle & Needle Clamp – Pierces fabric with thread.
3. Machine, Types of Machine Needle, Stitch Formation, Care and
Maintenance, Troubleshooting
Types of Machine Needles:
- Universal Needle – For general fabrics.
- Ballpoint Needle – For knits and stretch fabric.
- Jeans/Denim Needle – For heavy fabrics.
- Embroidery Needle – For decorative stitching.
- Leather Needle – For leather & vinyl.
Stitch Formation:
- Lockstitch – Common straight stitch.
- Chain stitch – Looped stitch, flexible.
- Zigzag stitch – For finishing edges.
- Overlock stitch – For preventing fabric fraying.
Care and Maintenance:
- Clean lint and dust regularly.
- Oil moving parts as per manual.
- Use correct needle and thread.
- Cover machine when not in use.
- Service annually.
Troubleshooting:
- Skipped stitches → Change needle.
- Thread breaking → Check tension/threading.
- Fabric puckering → Reduce tension/use right needle.
- Machine noisy → Clean and oil.
4. Introduction to Industrial Sewing Machines
Industrial sewing machines are heavy-duty machines used in factories for mass production. They
are designed for long hours of work, handling heavy fabrics, and high-speed stitching.
Types:
- Lockstitch machine – Straight stitches.
- Overlock (serger) – Edge finishing.
- Flatlock machine – Used in sportswear.
- Coverstitch machine – For hemming.
- Buttonhole & Button-sew machine – For attachments.
Functions:
- High speed (faster than domestic).
- Specialized functions (hemming, embroidery, overlock).
- Heavy fabric handling.
- Durability for long hours.
Care and Maintenance:
- Regular oiling (automatic lubrication in some).
- Clean bobbin, shuttle, and feed dog.
- Replace worn parts quickly.
- Follow manufacturer’s safety guidelines.