There are many well-experienced adults who every year head down to Urgent Care or the Emergency Room because of poor safety practices. Using a sewing machine is using a piece of heavy equipment. These machines operate at incredibly fast speeds, slam needles down with remarkable force, and the many tools involved can cause injuries as well. Fortunately, with a few good safety practices, you won't have to worry.
Keep A Safe Distance
The entire throat and bobbin case are a danger zone. Sure, your finger might not go under the presser foot, but that doesn't mean your fingers are safe when the needle attacks from above the presser foot. Never, put your hands within an index finger's length of the needle.
Put Your Hair Up
There are a lot of things going on when you're using a sewing machine. You wouldn't believe how often people catch their hair when they're threading a bobbin or leaning in too close to their machine. Keep your hair up or covered. Tie a bandana or headscarf around the arm of your sewing machine as a reminder.
Pay Attention to the Task at Hand
Nothing can help you avoid accidents more than merely focusing on what you're doing. Be sure to turn off the TV and just keep your eyes on the project in front of you. When you're paying attention, you can see issues as they arise, whether it is a bunching seam or jam in your bobbin.
When these issues happen, you can stop right away rather than waiting for your machine to “yell” at you. Not only is concentration one of the critical aspects of safe sewing, but it will help you produce much better results.
Check the Integrity of Your Needles
Most sewers have had a needle or pin snap on them. It's essential to look at the integrity of your needles and pins before using them. If you notice that your pin collection is getting a little old, it may be time for a new round of replacements. Additionally, for your sewing machines needle, be sure that you check it for strength. Changing the sewing machine's needles often is highly recommended.
Take Out Your Pins
It doesn't matter how often you say it; someone will sew over a pin and still be surprised when it snaps the needle and sends it flying across the room. Think about how dangerous that entire situation is and understand that the only way to prevent it is to take out your pins. You can even use pin alternatives such as clips, so you don't have to worry about it at all.
Use a Machine for its Purpose
Finding the right sewing machine can take years but finding a comfortable machine that fits your needs is vital for safety reasons. If you're planning on handling thick fabrics, then you need an industrial machine. If you run thick fabrics through a standard machine, you're just asking for trouble!
Be Aware of Other Dangers
Along with needles and having your hair caught, you have a considerable risk present every time you sit down to sew.
Electricity.
Be careful not to overrun your machine or cause it to heat up. If you notice that your machine is getting hot, unplug it and take it to a professional for servicing or repair. Additionally, you need to be careful with your power cord. Folding your cord can cause it to fray or become damaged.
Disconnect the Power
When you walk away from your sewing machine, disconnect the power. Most machines allow the power cord to detach from the machine, so you're not crouching down the outlet to unplug it. So many preventable accidents happen because someone left their machine turned on.
Take Heed of Your Machine's Needs
Sewing machines cannot last forever without some level of attention. They need oiling or cleaning and although many don't need it often, a once a year servicing can help you avoid many dangers. You can learn to clean and oil the machine yourself. It would also help if you learned how to troubleshoot common problems. Look through your owner's manual to learn what the various warning codes are and how to correct the problem quickly.
To keep your sewing machine in top shape and ensure you have the necessary tools to keep yourself safe, be sure to check out GoldStar Tool’s large inventory of sewing machine tools and supplies.
