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Automatic Presser Foot Lift Guide The presser foot lift raises the foot when you stop sewing. On automated machines, this happens without you reaching for the lever. Two Lift Systems System How It Works Reliability Cost to Replace Knee lever…
Programmable Stitch Patterns In my shop, programmable stitch patterns are the feature that splits basic machines from advanced ones. The machine stores the stitch data in memory. It recreates the pattern through the motor control system. How Stitch Patterns Are…
Automatic Bobbin Winder Problems The automatic bobbin winder should wind the bobbin evenly and stop when full. I see four common problems with these winders. How the Automatic Winder Works The winder uses a small drive wheel pressed against the…
sewingmachine Automatic Features Guide I’ve seen this problem on many machines over the years. Here’s how to fix it. The most common cause is wear and tear on the parts. A simple replacement usually solves it. For more detail, see…
Sewing Machine Sensors in Automation All automation features depend on sensors. If you understand the sensor, you understand the feature. Hall Effect Sensors A hall effect sensor outputs a voltage proportional to the magnetic field passing through it. In a…
Sewing Machine Light Bulb Guide The light bulb illuminates the sewing area. Most home machines use a 15-watt incandescent bulb or an LED replacement. The bulb type is usually a bayonet base or wedge base. LED bulbs run cooler and…
Sewing Machine Bobbin Case Rusted: Clean vs Replace Decision Guide I’ve seen a lot of rusted bobbin cases in my 15 years fixing sewing machines. Most come from machines pulled out of basements, attics, or estate sales where they sat…
Sewing Machine Hook Race Rusted: How to Clean and Polish A rusted hook race is one of the most common problems I run into on machines that were stored in a damp basement or garage for a few years. The…
Automatic Tension System Guide The auto tension system promises set-it-and-forget-it stitching. No more tweaking the tension dial between fabric changes. But when things go wrong, you need to understand what is happening inside the machine. How Automatic Tension Works There…
Automatic Thread Trimmer Guide The auto thread trimmer is the automation feature I get the most questions about. When it works, you do not think about it. When it stops working, you notice every time you finish a seam. How…
