Beginner Sewing Terms [Part 1]

10/28/2013

This one is for the virgin sewers out there. My beginner clients receive a list of sewing terms to assist in their learning process. I thought it would be nice to share a few with you.

Here is part 1, in a 3 part series of basic beginner sewing terms you should know.

Stitch Length

Each individual stitch is measured in millimetres. 2.5mm is the normal stitch length to hold a seam secure.

Bobbin

Thread from the bobbin feeds the bottom of a sew line. One of two thread sources required to create a sew line. Bobbin is placed by hand into machine.

Bobbins come in several heights, make sure you use the correct height for your machine.

Spool

Thread used to thread the sewing machine and to fill the bobbin. One of two thread sources required to create a sew line.

Hand Wheel

Used to manually sew or move machine needle out of project. Found on the right side of a machine, it should only be turned towards the user, never away.

Presser Foot

Presser foot sits on top of seam being sewn. It gives enough pressure to hold project in place. Presser foot is controlled by a hand leaver on domestic sewing machines.

Foot must stay up while threading machine, and must be placed down while sewing.

Happy Sewing!
Photographed and written by Sheila Wong Studios

1 Comment

Annette Adam

10/30/2013 12:32:13 am

you should come up with a video on how to properly care for your machine. I know I could use a few tips, like making sure to oil my machine periodically. Oh yes good tip Hand wheel have to check but I think my machine (Kenmore), If I turn clockwise its OK and counter clockwise it jams.(will try tonight and see could be wrong here)