How To Oil Your Sewing Machine: A Quick Step-By-Step Guide For Beginners
If you’re anything like me, the mere thought of attempting to oil your sewing machine might bring on a case of cold sweats! To be honest, I was pretty intimidated by the idea myself.
But it turns out that oiling your machine isn’t all that hard – and with just a few quick steps, you can be well on your way to making sure your beloved sewing machine is running smoothly for many years to come.
This tutorial is for essential sewing machine oiling, but I’ll be sharing some additional tips and techniques at the end of this post to help you keep your machine in tip-top shape. Let’s get started!
Why oiling your sewing machine is essential!
There are many reasons why oiling your sewing machine is essential. To begin with, it keeps things running smoothly and helps avoid problems later on.
One of the first things that will happen if you do not correctly maintain your sewing machine is that the needle will skip stitches. This is often due to the thread not pulling through the needle hole because of a lack of oil. It can also result from the groove in which the needle rotates, filling with lint and other materials from fabric scraps or dust.
Not only does oiling keep your sewing machine running smoothly, but it also keeps the internal parts of your machine from rusting. This will extend the life of your sewing machine and make it easier to clean, which is crucial because even with regular oiling, dust and lint can accumulate in the inner workings of your machine.
It is vital to use sewing machine oil specifically designed for this purpose.
If you don’t have any on hand, it is best to buy a small bottle of sewing machine oil before attempting to oil your machine. The oil can be purchased at a local fabric store or online.
Read: why is the sewing machine often oiled?
How Often Do You Need To Oil Your Sewing Machine?
How often you have to oil your machine is dependent on how frequently you are using the machine and the kind of fabrics you choose to use. If you’re a regular machine user and use fabrics like velvet, you’ll often clean and oil the machine. If you’re a moderate user, then you should oil your machine at least once every couple of months.
Sewing machine oil types and their application
The basic principle behind sewing machine oil comprises the most common lubricant, such as petroleum. However, there are many organic and synthetic alternatives. Coconut oil is among the most popular natural oil for machines.
There are two kinds of machine oil: Synthetic oil and Mineral oil. Both work equally well; however, they differ in a few ways.
Mineral oil is an oil that’s petroleum-based and is more affordable. It has no harmful consequences in general, except for tiny oil stains on your clothing. Mineral oil can be utilized in all machines.
Synthetic oil lubricates steel parts and the plastic component that makes up your machine. It shields your machine from oxidation and helps polish the parts of the machine to prevent thread breakage. Synthetic oil is more expensive than mineral oil.
It is now time to oil the sewing equipment. We hope that you are aware of the different kinds of oils. Select the oil for your sewing machine.
Read Sewing Machine oil substitutes.
How to oil your sewing machine
Before you begin the process of oiling, Let us remind you that it will require additional equipment such as clean clothing and a brush, a compressed air container, and of course, oil. To make it easier for you, we will show you the oiling methods in a variety of steps.
Step 1:- Disconect your machine and then read the manual.
The first task is to disconnect your sewing machine. Follow the directions to take the component off to prepare the machine to be oiled. Read the instruction manual as each brand has its own.
A few machines come with the screwdriver to use to loosen the components. A few instruction manuals cover the procedure for oiling for ease of use. To prepare your machine, you must remove the throat plate, which collects much dust and textiles.
Step 2: Clean the sewing machine
It is necessary to wash all parts before oiling. Take apart all the smaller parts and eliminate any extra objects that could hinder oiling. Utilize a nylon brush or paintbrush to scrub away all dust accumulated between the places and crevices.
Then, remove the bobbin’s case and scrub it clean. When the smaller components are thoroughly cleaned, use the time to dry with a clean cloth significant components. Also, ensure that you clean the area between the feed dogs by using the tip of a screwdriver.
Step 3: Make use of a compressed air can.
The parts that aren’t removed by the brush, it is possible to clean them using compressed air. Because it’s challenging to reach the parts’ depths, you can make use of the sprayer.
The compressed air can force the pieces of lint to escape, which could cause damage to your sewing device. It is essential to wash the inside of the machine since the oil will be able to reach them and only after that.
Step 4: Oiling and lubricating your machine
When your machine has been cleared, it’s time to clean the machine. The manufacturer includes an oil bottle included with the machine.
You could use coconut oil or car oil if it’s completed or even purchase an entirely new one. The method for oiling can differ based on the nature of the oil.
Drop a few drops of oil in the race of the hook to coat the hook of your shuttle.
Add a few drops of oil in the unit where the bobbin’s case is and into the needle.
After that, put several drops of the bobbin hook’s silver ring. In the same way, put a few drops into the outer ring on the hook for the bobbin.
Then, you can spread some oil over the moving parts and test whether the friction has formed or not.
Step 5:Clean off any oil that has accumulated.
After you’ve finished the oiling procedure, it’s time to wash off the excess oil. The extra oil could ruin the next project. Use a piece of cloth that is soft and absorbs any additional oil.
- Put a bit of clothing under the foot of the presser that can absorb the excess oil.
- Make use of a soapy cloth to cleanse the parts of the machine. Then clean the residue by using a clean cloth.
- Use a piece of paper to release the disk that is tense.
- Remove the bobbin’s cover and the needle pin.
Step 6:Reinstall the components.
The overall oiling process is complete. It’s now time to install the machine components. Install your throat plates, bobbin’s case, needle, and other parts. Plug your machine back in and test a few seams before beginning your next project.
More tips and tricks for beginners!
When you are disassembling the machine take only a few pieces to facilitate the process and reduce the risk of getting lost.
If you encounter any issues you are having trouble with, follow the instructions guideline.
To ensure consistency in performance, you must clean and oil your sewing machine regularly.
The most effective thing you can do is to ensure that you are to cover the equipment to avoid dust accumulation after each use.
Common mistakes when oiling your sewing machine!
I will tell you the common mistakes that are made when oiling your sewing machine. You will be able to save money and time by applying this knowledge, making your machine last longer.
- Using the wrong oil
The most common mistake that people make when oiling their machines is using the wrong type of oil. Most people don’t take the time to read the manufacturer’s instructions regarding sewing machine oil.
In many cases, sewing machine oil used for one brand doesn’t work on another brand of the sewing machine. Some even go to the extent of using baby oil on their sewing machines.
- Using too much oil
Another common mistake is that people use too much oil, which ends up dripping all over the place and creating a mess. I can tell you from experience that too much oil will not make your machine run better. It will just create a mess.
Also, some people think that they need to oil their machine every time they sew with it. This is not true at all! You only need to oil your machine if you’ve had a problem with it.
The first thing to do is check the oiling holes on your machine. If they are dry, then apply some sewing machine oil to them. You should only need to use a drop or two of oil at a time.
Next, make sure that you keep your bobbin case clean and free from lint. A dirty bobbin case can cause problems for your machine as well! Also, remember that you should always check your machine manual for any instructions specific to your machine.