Machine Set up

Before you even begin stitching, it's very important to make sure your machine is set up properly. First, take a small brush and clean the lint out of the bobbin area. Since we, quilters, use cotton thread and cotton fabric, we are going to get some lint build-up in the bobbin area. If you can take your needle plate off, it would be a good idea to take it off and use the brush around the feed dogs. These are the grippers that pull the fabric through while you're stitching and I'm positive they'll work better if they don't have a bunch of lint being felted up underneath them. Most newer machines no longer need oiling. I'm not sure how they do that, but that's what the manufacturers claim. Older machines, like the Bernina 830 that I learned on as a kid, have certain spots that need oiling on a regular basis. Just like your car, they run better when they're oiled!

It would be great if you could take your machine in once a year for a check up by an experienced sewing machine technician. I know, we all think that we just took our machine for a tune-up just a few months ago, but usually it's been 5 years or so. Yep, it costs some $$, but if it keeps your machine running good and probably will make your sewing experience much nicer, then it's worth it!

Look what I found online about servicing your own machine! Check this out. http://northseaquilters.blogspot.com/2008/03/how-to-service-your-sewing-machines.html Or become a technician and make some $$!! http://www.repairsewingmachine.com/