TOP SEWING MACHINE SAFETY TIPS
Every year, many well-experienced adults visit Urgent Care or the Emergency Room due to poor safety habits. Utilizing a sewing machine is like using heavy machinery. These machines move at breakneck rates, hammer needles down with incredible power, and the numerous equipment involved can cause injury. Fortunately, you won't have to worry if you follow a few simple safety precautions.
Keep A Safe Distance
The entire throat and bobbin case are at risk. Your finger may not travel beneath the presser foot, but that doesn't imply it's safe when the needle attacks from above the presser foot. Put your hands no closer than an index finger's length away from the needle.
Put Your Hair Up
When you use a sewing machine, there are a lot of things going on. You'd be surprised how often individuals catch their hair while threading a bobbin or leaning in too near to their sewing machine. Keep your hair pulled back or covered. As a reminder, wrap a bandana or turban around the arm of your sewing machine.
Pay Attention to the Task at Hand
Nothing helps you prevent accidents more than concentrating on what you're doing. Turn off the television and concentrate solely on the task at hand. When you pay attention, you can spot problems as they emerge, whether it's a bunching seam or a bobbin jam.
When these problems arise, you can stop the machine immediately rather than waiting for it to "yell" at you. Concentration is not only one of the most important components of safe sewing, but it will also help you generate far better outcomes.
Check the Integrity of Your Needles
Most sewers have had a needle or pin snap on them at some point. Before using needles and pins, make sure they are in good condition. If your pin collection is looking a little worn, it may be time for a new round of replacements. Additionally, ensure that the needle on your sewing machine is strong. It is strongly advised to change the sewing machine needles on a regular basis.
Take Out Your Pins
No matter how many times you mention it, someone will stitch over a pin and be astonished when it snaps and sends the needle flying across the room. Consider how serious the scenario is and realize that the only way to avoid it is to remove your pins. You can also use pin substitutes such as clips to avoid having to worry about it.
Use a Machine for its Purpose
It can take years to locate the proper sewing machine, but selecting a comfortable machine that meets your demands is critical for safety. If you intend to work with heavy textiles, you will require an industrial machine. Running thick materials through a normal machine is a recipe for disaster!
Be Aware of Other Dangers
Along with needles and having your hair caught, you have a considerable risk present every time you sit down to sew.
Electricity.
Take cautious not to overload or overheat your machine. If you see your machine becoming too hot, unplug it and take it to a professional for service or repair. You should also be cautious with your power cord. When you fold your cord, it can fray or become damaged.
Disconnect the Power
When you leave your sewing machine, turn off the electricity. Most machines allow you to disconnect the power cord from the machine, eliminating the need to crouch down the outlet to unhook it. So many avoidable accidents occur because someone forgets to turn off their machine.
Take Heed of Your Machine's Needs
Sewing machines cannot last indefinitely without some sort of maintenance. They require oiling or cleaning, and while many do not require it frequently, a once-a-year service can help you avoid several hazards. You can teach yourself how to clean and lubricate the equipment. It would also be beneficial if you learnt how to troubleshoot typical issues. Examine your owner's handbook to learn about the various warning codes and how to swiftly resolve the issue.
Check out GoldStar Tool's huge collection of sewing machine equipment and supplies to keep your sewing machine in top shape and to guarantee you have the gear you need to keep yourself safe.
