I hope you have a wonderful weekend! It’s hard to believe we’re already in May—time has gone by so fast. Memorial Day will be here before we know it. I truly enjoy this time of year: seeing our American flag waving, fireworks lighting up the sky, barbecues, vacations, and a few extra days off to spend with family.
Today, I wanted to talk about something many of us have experienced: what to do when your sewing machine or serger isn’t working right.
Before frustration sets in, here are the steps I always walk through first.
Step‑by‑Step Sewing Machine Troubleshooting Tips
1. Check the Threading on Your Sewing Machine
This is always my first step. If you’re even slightly unsure that the machine is threaded correctly, pull out the manual and double-check. One missed guide can cause tension issues, skipped stitches, or thread breakage.
2. Change Your Sewing Needle
The problem could be as simple as the needle. It may be the wrong size for your fabric, dull from use, or have a tiny nick you can’t easily see. A fresh needle often solves the issue immediately.
3. Use High‑Quality Thread
Some machines are more forgiving than others, but many perform best with quality thread. Using good thread can help your sewing machine or serger run more smoothly and reduce lint buildup.
4. Clean and Oil Your Machine (If Needed)
Make sure your machine is clean. Remove lint from under the bobbin case and check the feed dogs for stray threads. If your machine requires oil, add a few drops in the designated spots. My sewing machine doesn’t need oil, but my serger definitely does.
When Sewing Problems Aren’t Your Fault
This step is important—and easy to forget. Sometimes the problem isn’t you.
I spent several evenings trying to get my serger to do a cover stitch. It would start sewing, but the stitches were loose and uneven. I rethreaded multiple times, changed needles, confirmed the thread was correct, and cleaned the machine. Nothing worked.
Finally, I asked my husband to take a look. Within seconds, he said, “Your spring is bent.”
No amount of rethreading, needle changes, or cleaning was going to fix that.
We no longer have a Viking dealer near us, but I contacted the closest one, gave them the part number I needed, and was told they could send the replacement. Hopefully, we’ll be back to sewing cover stitches soon.
Sewing Machine Not Working? Sometimes It Just Needs a Repair
I think many of us automatically assume that when a sewing machine or serger isn’t working correctly, it must be something we did wrong. But sometimes, machines simply wear out or need a new part—and that’s okay.
Has this ever happened to you? Have you ever spent hours troubleshooting only to find out your machine needed a repair?
I’d love for you to share your experience in the comments below—your story might help another sewist who’s dealing with the same issue.
Happy Sewing –
Valerie
The Saturday Seamstress 