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--- tools:sewing_machine:tech [2024/05/25 19:21] – [Thread tangle on bottom of fabric] workshop
+++ tools:sewing_machine:tech [2024/05/25 20:04] (current) – [Maintenance] workshop
@@ Line 32: / Line 32: @@
 ==== Thread tangle on bottom of fabric ====
-Thread nests on the bottom signal a problem with the **top thread**. Re-thread machine, make sure the presser foot is up, make sure the spool cap is in place and thread feeds smoothly from the spool. Some spools of thread have a notch in the endcap to secure the thread; if the notched end faces left during machine sewing the thread can get caught. If both ends are notched, try covering the notch with painters tape. Normally the spool cap comes in multiple sizes and a larger size would cover the notch and prevent the thread from catching, but we only have the tiny size.
+Thread nests on the bottom signal a problem with the **top thread**. Re-thread machine, make sure the presser foot is up, make sure the spool cap is in place and thread feeds smoothly from the spool.
+Some spools of thread have a notch in the endcap to secure the thread; if the notched end faces left during machine sewing the thread can get caught. If both ends are notched, try covering the notch with painters tape. Normally the spool cap comes in multiple sizes and a larger size would cover the notch and prevent the thread from catching, but we only have the tiny size.
 ==== Thread tangle on top of fabric ====
@@ Line 109: / Line 111: @@
 ===== Maintenance =====
+Annually, the consumer sewing machines should be opened up, cleaned of lint (use a vacuum not a can of air), and oiled. We can either send them out to be serviced ([[https://www.thorntonco.com/|Thornton]] is reliable) or train techs to do it. This would probably need its own dedicated techs session.
+If we do the annual servicing ourselves, then every ~5 years, the consumer sewing machines should have their timing checked and adjusted. I've never done this on a machine newer than 1950, so I'd recommend professionals -- especially since botched timing can lead to broken needles, damage, and injury.
 ===== Safety =====
+==== Interventions ====
+Techs should intervene if they observe any of the following while members are using the consumer sewing machine:
+  * Long hair that is not tied back. \\ //The hand wheel spins very quickly, and can grab hold of loose hair.//
+  * A loud thunk with each stitch. \\ //This means the needle is not piercing the fabric effectively, and can lead to a broken needle. Broken needles can cause eye injury. Likely culprits are too many layers or the wrong needle type (a ballpoint needle on a tightly woven heavy fabric would do it).//
+  * The sound of "an electric motor has turned on but is not moving" especially if followed by confused human sounds, and repeated instances with no stitch sounds in between. \\ //The needle may be stuck in the down position, and further attempts can burn out the motor. Likely culprits are thread jams, too many layers, and fabric getting sucked into the machine.//
+  * Sewing over pins. \\ //Tons of people do this; tons of people learned to do this from non-PH instructors. It's a bad idea, since when the needle hits a pin, it will bend (and may then puncture a hole in the machine) or break (and hit someone in the eye).//
+==== Normal Risks ====
+  * Sewing through a finger. \\ //Raise needle and presser foot, remove finger from machine, clip threads if attached, and apply first aid. The needle will probably have broken; make sure you locate all the bits so nobody steps on it. Consider sending the member to urgent care, since puncture wounds can be at higher risk of infection.//