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Sewing

Learn the basics of sewing with a sewing machine.

Sewing Machine

The Idea Lab has two Husqvarna Viking Emerald 118 sewing machines available for use. The information in this section will go over the parts of the machine, machine settings and machine maintenance. 

Husqvarna Viking Emerald 118

Sewing Machine Parts

This first pdf is a diagram of the terms for the machine parts you'll need as you begin to sew with the Husqvarna Viking Emerald 118. Feel free to print it out for reference, or just come back to it if you can't remember a part. 

The second pdf is a glossary of the terms in the diagram. 

Sewing Machine Tutorials

Needle Threader: Some machines, including the Emerald 118, have an automatic needle threader. It is a handy tool when you get the hang of it - give it a try! (But you can always just thread your needle by hand, front-to-back.)

This sewing machine comes with several accessories including clear bobbins and several types of presser feet. This list describes each foot; the video will show you which foot is which. 

  • Utility Foot A: Standard presser foot, used for general sewing.
  • Utility Foot B: Similar to Foot A; back has grooves to allow foot to navigate thicker stitches more easily (satin stitches).
  • Overlock / Edge Foot J: This foot is helpful for the overlock stitch, when sewing crosses over the edge of the fabric. 
  • Blind Hem Foot D: This foot allows an even hem to be made from the underside of the seam.
  • Zipper Foot E: The zipper foot allows stitching close to the zipper. It can be attached on either the left or right side of the foot, depending on which side of the zipper is being installed.
  • Buttonhole Foot C: Use this foot when making longer buttonholes manually, rather than using the automated buttonhole process. 
  • Buttonhole Foot R: When you are able to use the automatic buttonhole feature, or for attaching buttons, use this foot. 
  • Non-stick Foot H: This foot has a smooth back, allowing the foot to glide over vinyl and other "sticky" fabrics.

Adjusting the Tension: Occasionally, you will notice loose stitches This sometimes indicates that the tension needs to be adjusted.

*Note: Before you change the tension, try re-threading your machine, watching each step carefully, then remove the bobbin and replace it, making sure it turns in a counter-clockwise direction. 

Stiches

This video reviews the basic stitches. 

What are utility stitches and when do you need them? This video will tell you more about these stitches. 

There is a stitch selection guide tucked into each machine. This video will show you what all those squiggly lines mean. 

Maintenance

There are times when you'll need to open up the machine and brush out some lint, or change the needle. Here is a video to walk you through some of the basics, but also ask a librarian for help.

 

For more information on the machine and other maintenance practices read through the user manual.