DEFINITIONS The “Need to Know Info”

Bobbin Winder Threads bobbin evenly and tightly Located on top of machine

Thread Guides Guides thread through the machine so that it doesn’t tangle or knot

Backstitch (Reverse) Stitch backwards to make stitch stronger Use at the beginning and end of seams

Stitch-Length Determines how long and far apart stitches are

Stitch-Width Determines how wide stitches are An EX: would be a zigzag stitch

Needle Position In the center of the stitch-width selector Determines which side of the presser foot the needle is positioned on

Needle Plate Under the presser foot Has measurable stitch guide lines

Dog-Feed System Feeds the fabric through the machine by using its teeth

Presser Foot Raises and lowers Puts pressure on the fabric

Bobbin Case Holds the bobbin

Spool/Pin Holder Holds the thread in place

Presser Foot Lifter Raises and lowers the presser foot Usually in the back of the machine

Take-up Lever Moves the thread through the upper tension disks

Foot Pedal/Control Controls the speed at which a fabric moves through the machine

Hand Wheel Allows slower, more careful stitches Turn it towards you It also allows you to manually move the needle up and down

Hand Wheel Release Allows you to wind the bobbin with out running the machine needle

Machine Needles The flat side of the needle goes towards the back of the machine when being replaced

Notions Items used to make/finish an outfit EX: Buttons, zippers, hook-and-eye

Seam Ripper Item used to remove stitches

Pins Hold the fabric together while cutting and sewing

Shears Large scissors that are used for cutting fabric

Scissors Smaller, used to cut out patterns

Seam Gauge 6 in. ruler used to measure small hems and small measurements

Tape Measure 60 in. flexible ruler used to take body measurements

Tailor’s Chalk Used to make marks on fabric Will remove easily without damaging