Hello!

I have a singer sewing machine which suddenly stopped working properly. The top thread keeps getting stuck on the hook and the neddie won’t even pick up the bottom thread so not sure if it’s a timing issue or what. I’ve been told it’s $100 fur service so want to know if that’s worth it??


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  • I’m still new to sewing but I have had an issue with the needle bring slightly bent causing problems. It wasn’t until I took the needle out that I could tell. Have you looked on YouTube to see if there is guide to help you before taking it to get looked at? That way you could eliminate what the problem could be.


  • You can get lint from the material stuck in the “teeth” underneath the Plate that the needle feeds down through. Try removing it with a very fine screwdriver, an ordinary needle or a strong long pin you use to hold materials together. My Mum had a similar problem with her sewing machine. I bought myself a new one. Mum had hers in the boot and asked how much it would cost to have it looked at. They guy guessed what it was, fixed and tested it within 5 minutes.


  • Have you tried changing the needle ? Or sometimes the thread too if it’s too thin . I’d also be inclined to pull out the bobbin and casing and give it a clean with a paintbrush . Good luck !


  • It does sound like a timing issue. Did the needle hit an object when sewing prior to this?


  • I would give it a good clean, especially getting fluff out with a small brush. Then try oiling it, tightening any loose bits and re-thread and see how you go.


  • Your local sewing shop may even have the names of people that service sewing machines at reasonable rates.


  • A service for any machinery is always well worth it and the benefits usually outlay the costs.


  • Cleaning and oiling also worked for us :) worth giving it a go.


  • If you use your machine a lot, I don’t think $100 is too much to pay to fix it. After you try the below suggestions of course, even better if you can fix it yourself


  • You’ve had 2 excellent answers already, and I agree it’s amazing how a tiny bit of fluff can throw things out. One of my kids fiddled with the cotton tensioner and threw out my machine. $100is about what I paid for my machine’s last service too.


  • I’d give it a good clean, sometimes dust can build up where the robin sits etc. I guess you have to weigh up how often you use your machine and see if its worth servicing or buying a new one.


  • When my sewing machine gives problems the first thing I always do is open it up and give it a good clean and remove all dust. Make sure there aren’t anywhere little of threads stuck. I also make sure the thread is leaded well, give it a new needle and apply sewing machine oil.
    Every now and then a good service is certainly worth it, just like you do with your car. But this depends of course of how valuable the machine is and how important the machine is for you.


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