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It’s hard to complete your sewing projects if you have a sluggish sewing machine. Here are five reasons why your sewing machine is running slowly, and what to do about each one.
Your Bobbin Case Is Full of Lint
Lint builds up in your bobbin case as you sew. It can get in the way of your needle and prevent the hook in your bobbin case from forming stitches properly. Clean your sewing machine frequently to ensure your sewing machine can run at optimal speed.
Your Bobbin Winder Is Engaged
If your bobbin winder is engaged, your sewing machine will not sew. Be careful not to bump your bobbin winder while you sew because your sewing machine will stop working suddenly. This is more likely to happen on older sewing machines that have an inner wheel on the handwheel to engage your bobbin winder. It can come loose while you’re sewing. If your bobbin winder is partially engaged, your sewing machine might run slowly.
Your Speed Control Is Set to Slow
Many computerized sewing machines have a speed setting. If your sewing machine is running slowly, make sure that your speed isn’t set to the slowest setting.
Your Gears Need Oil
Oil helps the gears inside your sewing machine move more quickly and smoothly. You should apply sewing machine oil to your gears whenever you clean it. However, keep in mind that many newer sewing machines do not need regular oiling. Check your user manual to see when and how to oil your sewing machine.
Your Cord Is Loose
Your cord can come loose as you sew, especially if your table is vibrating a lot. If your cord is barely in, your sewing machine might work sometimes and not others. A tell-tale sign that your sewing machine cord has come loose is that your light will flicker or not turn on. If your sewing machine is running slowly, check your cord. There are two connection points to check — at your outlet and at your machine. Make sure that neither connection has come loose.
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