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How to use an Automatic needle threader
How to Use an Automatic Needle Threader – Complete Guide
Using an automatic needle threader can save you a lot of time and frustration, especially if you're working with small needles or multiple projects. This convenient feature is designed to quickly and precisely thread the needle, making sewing easier and faster. However, it’s important to follow the right steps to make sure the threader works correctly every time. Here is a detailed guide to help you get the most out of your automatic needle threader.
Step 1: Insert a New Size 90 Needle
The first step in using an automatic needle threader is inserting a fresh, properly sized needle into your sewing machine.
The size 90 needle is a good starting point for general sewing.
Make sure the needle is fully inserted into the needle holder with the flat side facing the correct direction (usually to the back).
A well-placed needle ensures smooth threading and avoids any potential problems when the threader operates.
Step 2: Raise the Needle to Its Highest Position
Before engaging the automatic needle threader, it’s crucial to raise the needle to its highest position.
You can do this by either manually rotating the handwheel or using the machine’s automatic lift feature, depending on your model.
Ensuring the needle is at its highest point guarantees that the threader can easily pass through the eye of the needle and perform its function properly.
Step 3: Activate the Needle Threader
Now that your needle is in place and properly aligned, pull the automatic needle threader down.
At this point, you should see the tiny hook of the threader, which will pass through the eye of the needle.
It’s essential to ensure that the hook lines up with the eye, as misalignment can prevent the threader from working.
The machine may make a slight click as the threader engages, so listen for this sound.
Step 4: Position the Thread and Guide It
Next, take the sewing thread and guide it toward the needle using the plastic hook located on the left side of the needle threader.
Place the thread near the point of the needle, and gently push it against the needle, moving the thread upward.
As you move the thread, ensure it stays close to the needle until it reaches the stop bars.
This helps position the thread in the right place, ensuring a clean threading process.
Step 5: Let the Threader Return to Its Resting Position
Once the thread reaches the stop bars, slowly release the threader.
The needle threader should twist backward and return to its resting position.
This movement allows the threader to pull the thread through the eye of the needle.
Make sure to let the threader spring back into place to ensure the thread is securely in the needle's eye.
Step 6: Catch the Thread Loop
Once the needle threader has finished its job, you will notice a small loop of thread hanging from the back of the needle.
Gently pull the loop of thread toward you.
This will ensure the thread is correctly placed in the needle, ready for you to start sewing.
Additional Tips for Using the Automatic Needle Threader
- Ensure the Needle Is Straight: Before you use the threader, make sure that your needle is perfectly straight. A bent needle can cause the threader to malfunction and even damage the needle.
- Use the Correct Thread: Choose a high-quality thread that matches the needle size and type. Avoid using overly thick or thin threads, as they can interfere with the threading process.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Using an automatic needle threader may seem challenging at first, but with a little practice, it becomes much easier. Take the time to practice threading with different types of needles and threads to get the hang of it.
- Keep the Needle Threader Clean: Over time, dust, lint, and thread build up can accumulate in the needle threader. Gently clean the needle threader with a soft brush or lint roller to keep it functioning optimally.
Why Using the Automatic Needle Threader is Beneficial
Using an automatic needle threader can significantly reduce the time and effort required to thread your sewing machine. It’s especially helpful for people with limited vision, dexterity issues, or anyone who sews frequently. Additionally, automatic threading reduces the likelihood of thread breaks and ensures that the needle is threaded correctly every time, leading to cleaner, more consistent stitches.
Final Thoughts
While it may take a bit of practice to get used to the automatic needle threader, once you do, you’ll appreciate how much time it saves. This tool is a fantastic feature for both beginner and experienced sewists. By following the above steps and tips, you can use the automatic needle threader efficiently, making your sewing projects quicker and easier.