‘Slim is smart’ – this slogan is really enchanting to me. For this, my love has shifted from a conventional sewing machine to its mini version.
Now, we are experiencing an ever-growing sewing world. With this blessing, it is no more a dream to sew anywhere, at any time.
Suppose you are a beginner or want to acquaint your kid with sewing or dealing with any delicate project.
Then this portable, mini machine is a perfect choice. Its simple stitching option, easy setup, user-friendliness, and lightweight must favor your need.
You may be with the wrong notion that they are relegated to sew only doll’s clothes. But, amazingly, they are available with many features of full-size options. You will face the slightest difficulties while operating. Start sewing just after following the steps stated below:
Assembling Different Parts
Unlike some conventional sewing machines, mini sewing machines are shipped completely assembled. It’s only due to their small size. But, some integral parts of it like a power cord and foot pedal come separately. You need to plug them into the machine while attempting for first use. That’s all. Now you are all set to use it.
Threading the machine
You are ready with clothes to be stitched and an assembled machine. The threading process may differ from machine to machine. Having know-how of a machine will automatically generate the idea of threading any machine. Now, follow the general steps stated below:
Placing Thread Spool on Thread Spindle:
You see a threaded spindle on the top-right of the machine, which may be retractable. Firstly, pull it upward to extend it & place a spool of thread on it. Don’t get confused about another spindle on the right side of the front part of the machine. Its bobbin spindle enables you to use a bobbin in lieu of a full-size spool of thread.
Removing the cap, slide the bobbin onto the bobbin spindle. For its secured placement, you need to push the cap back. Ensure that the machine is turned off when you are performing the task of threading.
Winding Empty Bobbin:
In the second phase, start wrapping the bobbin (compatible with your machine) with the loose end of the thread of the spool 4/5 times manually. You will come across a winding post centering the handwheel of the machine. Press the bobbin on the post.
Holding thread in your hand, turn on the machine and press the foot pedal. Thus guiding the thread from side to side, you get a bobbin full of thread. In many cases, automatic bobbin winding systems are absent in mini sewing machines. Then do it manually but evenly on all sides.
Guiding Thread
Thirdly, the loose end of the thread is to be guided threading mechanisms of your lovely sewing device. Doing so, and following your instruction manual will give you ease. Because a slight difference is there according to machines of different manufacturers. You’ll notice a series of holes or hooks known as thread guides.
Threading the Needle
Mini sewing machines come with a separate needle threader (to maintain their small size). Raise the needle to its highest point with a handwheel and pass a thread through the eye (hole) of the needle. Then, tug about 5” of thread towards the back. Thus you can avoid threads slipping back through the eye with the start of the machine’s mechanisms.
Setting Bobbin in Bobbin Compartment:
First, get the bobbin case, sliding off the cover of the bobbin compartment. Keep a threaded bobbin into it. Then place it in the compartment. Ensure the same color and fiber content of bobbin thread and spool thread. Now, you are to pull the loop of bobbin thread out above the feed dogs (metal bars having a toothy texture).
You can easily do so, by lowering the needle with the top thread to catch the bobbin thread. Just turn the handwheel. Atip is there for you. You must have control over the loose ends of the thread. Otherwise, they will slip into the thread channel.
Lastly, pass them under the presser foot, pulling them towards the back of the machine. With this, you have completed threading your machine. Cover the bobbin compartment as it was.
Ensuring Power Supply:
The mini sewing machine may be either battery-run or run with a power supply. Select battery type and quantity as per manual. If you go for an electric supply, connect the power cord to the power source. I got a bitter experience once, as I forgot to turn off the switch. Don’t repeat my mistake. On the right side of the machine, you see a slot to which you are to connect the foot pedal jack.
Keeping the machine on your work table, position the foot pedal on the floor to reach and press the pedal comfortably.
Testing the machine stitch
It is always better to start with a test scrap of fabric. It tells you whether your machine is threaded correctly and set for use or not. Thus, you avoid spoiling your fabrics just in case of anything is wrong with your machine.
Testing the Machine speeds
Despite having limited features, some mini sewing machines possess different speed options, such as low speeds for beginners and faster speeds for experts. So, test speed while testing the stitching. If you don’t want to get puzzled by the sudden experience of speed, determine the speed that suits you and your actual project the most. You need to apply steady pressure on the foot pedal to begin sewing.
Begin stitching
Now a happy moment for you – start working on your actual project. To get the best out of it, place the mini-machine on a flat and stable surface. First, position your fabric under the raised presser foot and needle.
Then lower the presser foot and needle and turn the handwheel so that the needle can pass through the fabric. Don’t be forgetful of holding the loose ends of thread-like me. It will bother you unthreading the machine. After completion of your stitching, pull out the fabric, lifting up the presser foot and needle.
Conclusion:
The flexibility, affordability, and portability of this machine have made it a must-have tool for every sewer. You can easily face any sort of sewing emergency, even while traveling. Places where you are now, have no electricity – no tension. Batteries are there to run the machine.
Again, your batteries are not working, depending on the power cord provided that electricity is available. This portable small-size machine takes up a very small space in your travel bag or your home.
Don’t undermine its quality for its mini size. “Size Doesn’t Matter.”