Parts of Sewing Machine and Their Functions
Sewing machines have many parts that work together to create stitches and sew fabric. While sewing machines differ by brand and model, most contain similar basic parts and components. Understanding the main sewing machine parts and how they function allows you to use your machine most effectively.
In this comprehensive guide, we will go over the key parts found on most standard sewing machines and explain what they do.
Main Sewing Machine Parts and Components
Spool Pin
The spool pin, also called a spool holder or spool spindle, holds the spool of thread in place. It controls the direction of the thread as it unspools and feeds through the machine. Many sewing machines have two or more spool pins to accommodate different types of thread spools or for specialty techniques like twin needle stitching. Spool pins are usually horizontal but some machines have vertical spool pins.
Bobbin Winder
The bobbin winder winds thread from the spool onto the bobbin. Bobbins hold the lower thread that interlocks with the upper needle thread to create stitches. The bobbin winder is typically located at the top or side of the machine. To ensure even winding, it’s best to start with an empty bobbin.
Bobbin Case
The bobbin case is the housing that holds the bobbin. It provides tension to the bobbin thread as stitches form. Bobbin cases are designed for specific machine makes and models. Only use the bobbin case recommended for your machine.
Feed Dogs
Feed dogs are the teeth-like mechanisms under the throat plate that grip and advance the fabric as you sew. As the feed dogs go up, they grab the bottom layer of fabric and pull it back. This regulates stitch length and prevents the fabric from simply moving with the needle. Feed dogs should remain up for general sewing.
Throat Plate
Also called a needle plate or stitch plate, the throat plate is a metal plate surrounding the needle that has a small hole for it to pass through. Throat plates often have seam guide lines for help sewing in straight lines or specific seam allowances. The plate covers the feed dogs and bobbin case and can be removed for cleaning.
Needle
The needle is the pointed metal shaft that pierces and guides thread through the fabric. Machine needles come in a variety of types and sizes for different fabrics and threads. They attach to the needle bar which is held tightly in place by the needle clamp. Always make sure needles are fully secured.
Needle Clamp
The needle clamp, also called a needle bar clamp, secures the needle to the needle bar. A small screw tightens the clamp to keep the needle steady.
Presser Foot
The presser foot applies downward pressure, pressing the fabric against the feed dogs so it can be moved smoothly and evenly through the machine. Presser feet come in different types like zipper feet, walking feet, etc. There is a lever to lower and raise the presser foot.
Presser Foot Lever
This lever lifts and lowers the presser foot. Lower the presser foot lever before sewing and raise it to insert or remove fabric. On some machines, the presser foot lever also engages or disengages the tension discs.
Take-up Lever
As the needle moves up and down, the take-up lever also moves to pull the upper thread through and regulate proper tension. The thread passes through this small lever for optimal stitch formation.
Tension Assembly
The tension assembly includes tension discs that apply the right amount of pressure to the thread to create balanced stitches with even tension. If the tension is too high, stitches pucker. If too lose, seams unravel. Tension dials or digits on computerized machines adjust the tension.
Stitch Length Regulator
The stitch length regulator controls the length of each stitch. For general sewing, use a medium-length stitch. Use a shorter stitch for delicate fabrics, longer for heavy fabrics like denim. The regulator may be a dial or digital setting on computerized machines.
Pattern/Stitch Selector
This lets you choose the stitch type, from straight, zig-zag, and various decorative stitches. The selector is typically a dial on mechanical machines and digital buttons on computerized machines.
Reverse Sewing Lever
The reverse sewing lever allows you to sew backwards and reinforce stitches. Depress this lever to reverse the machine direction and secure thread at the start and end of seams. It may also be called a backstitch lever.
Bobbin Winder Thread Guide
Found on machines with built-in bobbin winders, this thread guide routes the thread from the spool to the bobbin winder for smooth winding.
Hand Wheel
Also called a flywheel or balance wheel, the hand wheel manually raises and lowers the needle. Turning it counterclockwise also winds bobbins on some machines. The hand wheel gives you greater control for precision work like inserting zippers or topstitching.
Power Switch/Cord
The power switch turns the machine’s electricity on and off. The power cord plugs into an outlet to deliver power. Make sure the machine is switched off when not in use.
Sewing Light
The sewing light illuminates the needle area for clear visibility. Check that the light works prior to starting a project. Replace burnt out bulbs promptly for ease of sewing.
Thread Cutter
Usually located behind the needle area, the thread cutter provides a convenient cutting edge for trimming threads after locking stitches.
Stitch Width Selector
On zig-zag machines, the stitch width regulator adjusts the width of decorative stitches. For utility stitches like zig-zag, a narrow width is ideal. Widening the width creates decorative effects.
Drop Feed Switch
Some machines have a drop feed switch or button to lower feed dogs for specialty techniques like free motion quilting where you manually move the fabric. Raise feed dogs for regular sewing.
Face Plate/Side Cover
The face plate or side cover protects internal mechanisms and reduces dust buildup. Open this panel to access the bobbin case or for cleaning lint and stray threads.
Foot Control
The foot pedal controls sewing speed and start/stop functions. Press down on the pedal to engage the motor and sew faster. Ease off the pedal to slow. Some computerized machines have a start/stop button instead.
Other Helpful Sewing Machine Parts
- Bobbins – Bobbins hold the lower spool of thread for stitches. Wind with the thread type and weight called for in your project. Always use the correct bobbin for your machine’s bobbin case.
- Spool Pin Cap – The cap goes over the spool pin and holds thread spools snugly in place as they feed. Look for a rubber grip cap that fits your spool pin size.
- Thread Guides – Thread guides route thread from the spool to the needle. Following the numbered guides prevents tangles.
- Thread Take-Up Spring – This small spring maintains proper thread tension on older machines. It’s located near the take-up lever.
-HOPPING Foot – A HOPPING foot holds fabric taut for tasks like sewing across thick seams. Also called a Jean-a-Ma-Jig foot.
- Extension Table – Expand your work surface with a flat extension table that attaches to the machine bed. Helpful for large quilts and home dec projects.
- Knee Lifter – This lever lifts the presser foot using knee pressure, keeping hands free to position fabric. Attaches to the bed or base.
Tips for Getting to Know Your Machine’s Parts
- Refer to your instruction manual for diagrams of your machine’s specific parts and accessories. Manuals also explain proper operation.
- Take advantage of in-person sewing machine tutorials offered at many fabric and craft stores when purchasing a new machine. Ask questions!
- Check out free online tutorials for guidance on finding and using basic parts. Videos can be especially helpful visual resources.
- Give yourself time to get comfortable with your machine! First learn the main parts, then gradually explore decorative stitches and specialty feet. Mastering one function before moving to the next helps build skills.
- Print out a sewing machine anatomy diagram to keep near your machine for easy reference as you learn. Visual cues help commit the parts to memory.
- Invest in a thorough sewing machine maintenance session with a technician to keep parts oiled and operating well. Learn to do basic cleaning yourself between visits.
Understanding your sewing machine parts positions you for success with any sewing project! Follow your machine’s threading diagram, refer to the manual when needed, and enjoy exploring all your machine’s capabilities. With practice, using the parts will become intuitive. Happy sewing!