Sewing

Machine stitch.



1.Place the spool of thread on top of the machine and pull the thread over to the first metal hook. Slide the thread under then pull it forward for the next step.

2.Bring the thread forward and down the space directly in front of the top hook. Wrap the thread under the tension dial and go back up to the internal hook. This can be adjusted using the hand crank on the side of the machine. Thread the thread through this internal hook and continue to the next step 

3.Bring the thread down towards the needle. Run the thread through the spring looking trap and then to the needle itself. After it's through the needle run it through the foot. Lead the thread out the back and move on to the bobbin.

4.Insert the bobbin thread into the bobbin. Pull thread into notch on side of bobbin. Slide the thread under the metal flap until it snaps in line with the hole on the side of the bobbin.

5.Insert the bobbin into the machine. Use the hand crank on the side of the machine to insert the needle and make one revolution. Use a ruller or other slim device to pull the two threads out and you're ready to sew.

Health and safety

• Make sure that robust needle guards fitted and used
• Carry out a risk assessment on the provision of eye guards
• Check that lighting is adequate and stays on when the motor is switched off, eg for safe threading.
• Vee belt and pulley drives are guarded
• Seating allows for good posture and ease of movement
• Electrical wiring is supplied from overhead or otherwise to avoid cables on floors
• Where automated making-up machines are in use, give special consideration to additional guarding requirements
• Put a system in place to inspect guards, needles and work areas on a weekly basis
• Guards should be adjusted for each individual operator's finger size
• A safe system of work includes removing feet from treadle when threading and changing needles
• Power should be switched off when carrying out adjustments and needle changing

Hand stitch

  

Health and safety of hand stitching:

• Keep hands away from the needle as it is very easy to stab yourself when hand sewing
• Use the right thread, thick thread for hand stitching
• Make sure the needle is sharp
• Put the needle where you can see it as it is easy to lose it.
• Concentrate at all times
• If you are tired, distracted, anxious, upset, rushed or tipsy, you are putting yourself at unnecessary risk of injury
• Keep your work area tidy. Sweep the floor for stray pins; don't keep boxes or bins stacked up where you could run into them.
• Sewing requires working with sharp objects, like needles and scissors. All of these will pierce or cut you very easily.
• Put all needles and thread away when finished with it