Don't let all the wizbangery of modern sewing machines scare you off. Basic sewing is simple. You'll be surprised at what you can accomplish with just an afternoon of practice. Today's sewing machines maximize your sewing experience with their ease of operation, and professional results. The parts of a sewing machine are easy to identify. I can get out my pointer if you'd like.

Models and makes of sewing machines differ in layout and features, but the basic parts are similar. Your machine's manual should show a detailed diagram of your specific model. If you don't have a manual, check the manufacturer's website. Often, manuals can be found online and downloaded. Consult your machine's manual for specific instructions on use and care.

1. Spool pin: Holds a spool of thread.
2. Bobbin winder spindle: Bobbin is placed here during winding.
3. Bobbin winder stopper: Stops winding the bobbin when it reaches capacity.
4. Stitch width dial: Controls the width your stitch. It is used to create a zigzag stitch.
5. Pattern selector dial: Turn the pattern selector dial to set the symbol of the desired stitch pattern. On computerized machines, stitches are usually selected on a menu screen.
6. Handwheel: The large knob on the right side of your machine. Manually raises and lowers the needle.
7. Stitch length dial: Controls the length of the stitch. Shorter stitches for finer fabrics, longer for heavier fabrics, basting and gathering.
8. Reverse stitch lever: The machine will sew in reverse while the lever is pushed. Depending on your machine model, this may be a button.
9. Power switch: The off-on switch is usually located on the right side of the machine, beneath the handwheel.
10. Bobbin winder thread guide: A thread guide used when a bobbin is being wound.
11. Thread tension dial: Controls the tension on the top thread. If too tight, the bobbin thread appears on the right side of the fabric. If set too loose, the needle thread loops on the underside of the fabric.
12. Thread take-up lever: The top thread passes through the thread take-up lever. It moves up and down with the needle.
13. Needle clamp screw: This clamp holds the needle in place.
14. Presser foot: When lowered using a lever on the back side of the machine, this foot holds fabric in place.
15. Bobbin cover: Covers and protects the bobbin holder while sewing. 
    
16. Bobbin cover release button: Releases the cover for access to the bobbin.
17. Feed dog: The feed dog pulls fabric forward while sewing.
    
18. Needle: A needle pushes the thread through the fabric to form a stitch.
19. Needle plate: A metal plate beneath the needle and presser foot. It has an opening for the needle to pass through as it stitches, and another for the feed dogs to emerge and help move the fabric forward during sewing. Also called a throat plate.

Comments (2)

Mandy said:

	... This is such a great illustration for the parts of the sewing machine. May I inquire for permission to print this as a hand-out for my sewing students?
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June 09, 2010
Votes: +0

Liz Johnson, Editor, Sew4Home said:

	... Hi Mandy. Thanks for asking permission - as all our content here at S4H is copyrighted material. You can use this information as a hand out. All we ask is that you put our logo and web address on the hand out as authors of the information. Glad you are out there teaching others how great it is to sew!
	report abuse vote down vote up

June 10, 2010
Votes: +1

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