Sewing Machines Logo

Related Topics:

Posted on Aug 25, 2010
Answered by a Fixya Expert

Trustworthy Expert Solutions

At Fixya.com, our trusted experts are meticulously vetted and possess extensive experience in their respective fields. Backed by a community of knowledgeable professionals, our platform ensures that the solutions provided are thoroughly researched and validated.

View Our Top Experts

Does it make a difference whether I use a 14 or 16 in my Kenmore sewing machine, basic 12 stitch. I had a 16 needle in it but after my friend cleaned it, in trying it, the needle hit the presser foot> My guess is that it bent the needle, and so it skips stitches on the bottom. When I put in a new size 14 needle, it is better but skips a few here and there too. The tension is set on 3. The top looks great, but the bottom skips a stitch or two every 5 or 6 stitches. Don't have a lot of money to take it in so I was hoping it was something simple.

1 Answer

Anonymous

Level 2:

An expert who has achieved level 2 by getting 100 points

All-Star:

An expert that got 10 achievements.

MVP:

An expert that got 5 achievements.

Vice President:

An expert whose answer got voted for 100 times.

  • Expert 255 Answers
  • Posted on Aug 26, 2010
Anonymous
Expert
Level 2:

An expert who has achieved level 2 by getting 100 points

All-Star:

An expert that got 10 achievements.

MVP:

An expert that got 5 achievements.

Vice President:

An expert whose answer got voted for 100 times.

Joined: Jan 09, 2008
Answers
255
Questions
0
Helped
100988
Points
545

Hi. You use different size needles for different fabrics and fabric weights. Size 16 needles are used for heavy fabric, like canvas, duck, or blue jeans. Size 14 needles are still on the heavy/thick fabric size. Size 10 needles are for very light-weight fabrics and size 12 needles are for medium-weight fabrics. Also, you need to pay attention to the type of fabric--if sewing on knits, you need ballpoint needles. If sewing on woven fabrics, you need sharps or universals. Universals are supposed to be for knits, too....but ballpoint needles are SO much better!
Use the right size and type of needle for your fabric, don't sew over any pins (they can bend or even break the needle), and make sure you don't pull or push the fabric while you're sewing on it. Let the feed dogs do the work of moving the fabric--you just gently guide it.
Hope this helps!

  • Roger Saunders
    Roger Saunders Mar 08, 2015

    Very Helpful. Good concise guide!

×

Add Your Answer

×

Uploading: 0%

my-video-file.mp4

Complete. Click "Add" to insert your video. Add

×

Loading...
Loading...

Related Questions:

1helpful
1answer

I have a Bernina 930 record, zigzag stitch it misses some zigzag stitches & does straight stitches

If your Bernina 930 record sewing machine is experiencing issues with zigzag stitches and straight stitches, here are some troubleshooting steps you can try:
  1. Check the needle: Ensure that the needle is properly inserted and not bent or dull. Replace the needle if necessary, making sure to use the correct needle type and size for the fabric you are sewing.
  2. Adjust the stitch width and length: Verify that the stitch width and length settings are properly adjusted for the desired zigzag stitch. Refer to your machine's user manual for instructions on how to adjust these settings correctly.
  3. Clean and lubricate the machine: A build-up of lint or lack of lubrication can affect the machine's performance. Clean the bobbin area and other accessible parts of the machine using a soft brush or lint brush. Apply a drop of sewing machine oil to the recommended areas as specified in the user manual.
  4. Check the tension: Improper tension can lead to skipped stitches. Ensure that the upper thread tension is properly adjusted for the fabric and thread you are using. Consult the user manual for guidance on adjusting the tension correctly.
  5. Test with different fabrics and threads: Try sewing on different fabrics using different types of thread to determine if the issue is specific to certain materials. This will help identify whether the problem lies with the machine or the materials being used.
  6. Have the machine serviced: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to have your Bernina 930 record serviced by a professional. There could be underlying mechanical issues that require expert attention.
It's important to note that the Bernina 930 record is a vintage sewing machine, and finding a qualified technician with experience working on older models may be beneficial if further repairs or adjustments are needed.
1helpful
2answers
0helpful
1answer

Stitch selector knob turns but doesnt change stitch from a straight stitch on kenmore ultra stitch eight, model 13453

when a part on the sewing machine does not respond like it's suppose to ,,then it would be a good idea to have the sewing machine checked
0helpful
2answers

Hi i want to buy a sewing machine wich one is best. kenmore or brothers sewing machine

Hi,

I would prefer Kenmore, enmore makes perhaps the largest selection of mechanical machines. The very cheapest Kenmore sewing machines, like the Kenmore Mini (*est. $100) and Kenmore 15208 (*est. $120), stick with a four-step buttonhole, and have just six and eight stitches, respectively. The Kenmore 15212 (*est. $150) and Kenmore 15218 (*est. $170) both have a one-step buttonhole. The cheaper Kenmore 15212 has 12 stitches. The slightly more expensive model has 18 stitches, including a smocking stitch, overcast and elastic stretch stitch in addition to the basics. Both Kenmore sewing machines are good, basic models, say reviews. Both have just a 90-day warranty, however. Bear in mind that Kenmore sewing machines are made by different Asian companies each year, resulting in varying degrees of quality; this also explains the low prices. Some users report difficulty with tension and light fabrics.

Let me know,if needed further assistance.

Hope i helped you.

Thanks for using ' Fixya ' and have a nice day!!
1helpful
1answer

Sewing machine not stitching

Sounds like you need to retime the machine, if you email me I can attach instructions [email protected]
0helpful
1answer

Kenmore Sewing Machine: stitch not forming bobbin thread problem

sounds like it needs a service call. if you do not have a sewing repair man you use regularly to clean machine the local fabric store should know who you could call.
0helpful
2answers

I have an old kenmore 12 stitch sewing machine that the needle sometimes looks like it wants to more and other times it just sits there. the shaft that runs across the inside under the top cover will not...

Sounds like your machine is in need of a good cleaning and oiling. If you aren't handy with taking apart things and getting them back together I suggest taking it to a sewing machine repair place. In the meantime you can try oiling any spots you can access. Use sewing machine oil, found at any sewing/fabric store and even most Wal-Marts.
0helpful
1answer

Kenmore sewing machine #16227 needle thread making big loops on wrong side of fabric. Changed needle, cleaned, adjusted/readjusted and readjusted needle and bobbin tension. Will sew a decent stitch...

It is most likely because you have it on a type of stitch but did not switch the didstance that you want the zig zag to be. Just change you stitch or your distance.
0helpful
3answers

Sewing machine straight stitch is not straight

It sounds like it is making a blind stitch, does it look something like this? -----v-----v-----v-----v-----v If so it might be on the blind stitch setting instead of the straight stitch! ;-)
Not finding what you are looking for?

239 views

Ask a Question

Usually answered in minutes!

Top Kenmore Sewing Machines Experts

Cindy Wells

Level 3 Expert

6688 Answers

ZJ Limited
ZJ Limited

Level 3 Expert

17989 Answers

Brad Brown

Level 3 Expert

19187 Answers

Are you a Kenmore Sewing Machine Expert? Answer questions, earn points and help others

Answer questions

Manuals & User Guides

Loading...