How to Use a Sewing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Sewing machines may look a little intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of them, they’re like a trusty sidekick—ready to stitch up anything from a torn hem to a handmade plushie. If you’re brand new to sewing, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get started.

Step 1: Get to Know Your Sewing Machine

Before you dive in, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the parts of your sewing machine. While models vary, most machines have these basic components:

🔹 Power Switch – Turns the machine on and off.
🔹 Presser Foot – Holds fabric in place while sewing.
🔹 Presser Foot Lever – Raises and lowers the presser foot.
🔹 Feed Dogs – The little metal teeth that move fabric under the needle.
🔹 Needle – Where the magic happens—it moves up and down to create stitches.
🔹 Bobbin and Bobbin Case – Supplies the bottom thread.
🔹 Thread Tension Dial – Adjusts how tight or loose the stitches are.
🔹 Stitch Selector Dial – Allows you to choose different stitch types.
🔹 Handwheel – Moves the needle manually.
🔹 Reverse Lever/Button – Used to sew backward for securing stitches.

Step 2: Gather Your Supplies

Before you start sewing, make sure you have everything you need:

✔️ Sewing machine
✔️ Thread (all-purpose polyester thread is a good choice)
✔️ Bobbin
✔️ Fabric (start with cotton for practice)
✔️ Fabric scissors
✔️ Sewing machine needles
✔️ Seam ripper (just in case you need to undo stitches!)
✔️ Pins or clips
✔️ Measuring tape

Step 3: Set Up Your Sewing Machine

1. Plug in and Turn On Your Machine

🔌 Find a sturdy table, plug in your sewing machine, and turn it on. Some machines have a foot pedal that controls the speed, so place that on the floor where you can comfortably reach it.

2. Insert the Needle

Most machines come with a needle already installed, but if you need to change it:

1. Turn off the machine for safety.

2. Loosen the needle clamp screw.

3. Insert the needle with the flat side facing the back.

4. Tighten the screw securely.

3. Wind the Bobbin

The bobbin holds the bottom thread and needs to be wound before sewing.

1. Place the thread spool on the spool pin.

2. Pull the thread through the bobbin winding guide.

3. Insert the thread through the hole in the bobbin (from inside out).

4. Place the bobbin on the bobbin winder spindle.

5. Push the spindle to the right to engage the winder.

6. Press the foot pedal to start winding the bobbin. Stop when full.

7. Cut the thread and remove the bobbin.

4. Insert the Bobbin

1. Open the bobbin cover (location varies by machine—top-loading or front-loading).

2. Drop the bobbin in, following the correct thread direction (check your manual).

3. Pull the thread through the bobbin case slot and close the cover.

5. Thread the Top Thread

1. Place the thread spool on the spool pin.

2. Follow the numbered threading guide on your machine (usually includes threading through tension disks, the take-up lever, and thread guides).

3. Thread the needle from front to back.

6. Pull Up the Bobbin Thread

1. Hold the top thread with your left hand.

2. Turn the handwheel toward you to lower and raise the needle.

3. A loop of bobbin thread should appear—pull it out and lay both threads under the presser foot.

Step 4: Practice Basic Stitches

1. Select a Stitch

Most machines have a dial or buttons to choose a stitch type. The straight stitch (default setting) is the best for beginners.

2. Adjust Stitch Length and Width

• For basic stitching, a stitch length of 2.5mm to 3mm is a good starting point.

• For basting (temporary stitching), use a longer stitch length (4mm+).

3. Position the Fabric

1. Lift the presser foot using the lever.

2. Place your fabric under the needle, aligning it with the seam guide on the machine’s plate.

3. Lower the presser foot to hold the fabric in place.

4. Start Sewing

1. Hold the fabric lightly (don’t push or pull it—let the feed dogs do the work).

2. Press the foot pedal gently to start stitching.

3. Sew forward a few stitches, then press the reverse button and backstitch to secure the seam.

4. Continue sewing at a steady pace.

5. Finish and Cut the Thread

1. When you reach the end of the seam, backstitch again to lock the stitches.

2. Lift the presser foot and gently pull the fabric out.

3. Use scissors or the built-in thread cutter to snip the threads.

Step 5: Troubleshooting Common Issues

😵 Thread Keeps Breaking? Check if the thread is properly threaded and not too tight.
😡 Skipped Stitches? Try a new needle—dull needles cause skipped stitches.
😭 Fabric Won’t Move? Make sure the presser foot is down and feed dogs are up.
😨 Bobbin Thread Tangling? Check if the bobbin is correctly inserted and wound evenly.

Need more help? Check out these additional posts::

• Common Sewing Machine Issues and How to Fix Them

• How to Clean and Maintain Your Sewing Machine

• Servicing Your Sewing Machine

• Don’t forget the sewing machine oil!

Step 6: Keep Learning!

Check out these other sewing posts to expand your sewing know-how even more!

• Tools You'll Use in Every Sewing Project

• Essential Sewing Tool Kit: Everything You Need to Get Started

• Common Sewing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Step 7: Try Some Fun Sewing Projects

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, practice with some beginner-friendly projects:
✔️ A simple fabric basic: Learn more on Creativebug
✔️ A basic sham bolster Learn more on Craftsy
✔️ A fun drawstring bag Learn more on Creativebug
✔️ A plush toy (because why not!) Check out our free patterns!

With practice, you’ll soon be sewing like a pro!