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If you need to replace the needle on your sewing machine, don’t fear. It’s very easy! I’m going to walk you through it, step by step. The process is the same for almost all sewing machines…
There are all sorts of reasons why the needle might break on a sewing machine. If this is a recurring issue for you, read this post: Why Does the Needle Keep Breaking on My Sewing Machine
Sewing Machine Needle Replacement Instructions
First, you’ll need to find a replacement needle and the screwdriver that came with your sewing machine. I like to buy sewing machine needles in bulk so that I always have a spare on hand.
Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Sewing Machine Needles
Here are the steps to follow to replace the needle in your sewing machine:
- Step 1: Choose the right needle for your sewing project. Sewing machine needles come in lots of different types and sizes.
- Step 2: Turn your sewing machine off so you don’t accidentally press the foot pedal and injure yourself.
- Step 3: Use the handwheel to raise the needle to its highest position, if it’s not already there. This gives you the space you need to easily take out the old needle and replace it.
- Step 4 (optional): Place a small piece of paper under the presser foot to cover the hole where your needle goes down. This prevents the needle from falling into the hole when removing it. This has happened to me, and it was a little difficult to retrieve the old needle!
- Step 5: Locate the needle clamp or screw. It is typically to the right of the needle. Use a screwdriver to loosen it, and the needle should fall right out. You don’t need to completely remove the screw.
- STEP 6: Insert a new needle with the flat side to the back. You’ll notice that all sewing machine needles have a flat side at the top of the shaft. Insert the needle all the way up and hold it in place. Madam Sew has a nifty Needle Inserter Tool that makes this super easy. The needle should be straight.
- Step 7: While holding the needle in place, tighten the screw or needle clamp.
- STEP 8: Rethread your sewing machine and test to make sure everything is working properly. Check to make sure the needle doesn’t hit the plate or anything else.
Congratulations! That’s it.
How Often Should I Change the Needle in My Sewing Machine?
Did you know that you’re supposed to change the needle in your sewing machine every 8 hours of sewing? That’s a recommendation from Schmetz, and I find it to be about right…
You should also change the needle when:
- The needle is damaged/broken.
- The needle is bent.
- The upper thread repeatedly snaps or breaks.
- The needle is always in contact with the fabric.
- You notice resistance when sewing the fabric.
- You are using a different fabric and require a specific needle size or type.
I typically replace the needle in my sewing machine at the start of every new project (or when it breaks). I think it’s easier to remember that way, since who really tracks the number of hours they sew? Plus, I can insert the correct type of needle for my sewing project and not worry about it.
Do you have any questions? Let me know in the comments below.
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