How to Thread a Sewing Machine

Machine from a flea market or thrift shop with no instructions? Now you can finally use it

The Machine Setup

This is your basic sewing machine. No fancy stuff. It has a presser foot and a thin arm where the bobbin goes for hemming and detailed work. I set mine up on my ironing board so that I have my iron ready and I also like to stand when I sew. You will find what works best for youâ¦play around with the setup a little.

Step1

This is where the thread goes. If you have a cap or stopper put it on after you put the thread on. Also put the side of the thread with the little cut (for holding the end on the thread) to the back or bottom. This will prevent hang ups.

Step 2

Allow the string to unwind and put it through this hoop. Mine can also snap in from the back but usually with older machines this is a hoop.

Step 3

This can also be a loop but mine slides in through the back.

Step 4

Bring the thread down and around this nob toward the back (notice that you can not see the threadâ¦this is the right way). Then back up. Some older machines this is a silver nob thingy, this is the tension. You will feel which is the right notch to put the thread through.

Step 5

From the tension bring the thread up and from right to left put it through the hole here. Mine can also slide in from the back.

Step 6

Then bring it down from the take up lever into the coiled thread guide.

Step 7

Then into the next thread guide.

Step 8

Then thread the needle front to back or right to left depending on you machine. Pull enough thread through so that it doesnât pull out when the needle moves 5-10 inches.

Step 9

Now for inserting the bobbin.

Step 10

Pull the string out tight and set the bobbin into the tray. Insert the thread into the metal notch and pull back.

Step 11

Now to get the bobbin string to the top of the casing so you can sew. Holding the top thread in one hand and turning the wheel with the other, turn the wheel one revolution toward you and you will notice that the thread goes down into the casing and fishes out the bobbin thread. Pull the loop out straight and then close the casing. Ready to sew?!!