Sewing machine SECRETS you might not know!

Everything is a secret until you know it right? I've found so many things about my sewing machine over time that made me think "How did I NOT know that?" I've got 5 sewing machine secrets in today's video!!
The better you know your machine increases your ability to use your machine to its full potential, and the better your garments will turn out.
Take advantage of all your sewing machine can offer you by digging into its secrets!
Here's my top 2 "why did no one tell me that secret about my sewing machine” secrets…
1.
For the longest time I didn’t know that lifting the presser foot releases the tension on your threads 🤯. When you know this, it means you can adjust your threads, pull them through with ease, untangle jams when necessary!
The mystery was solved as to why sometimes the thread pulls through easily and sometimes not.
2.
Does your machine sometimes go too fast for you to stop at a specific point? I thought that all the time, until I found out you can use your hand wheel to sew with? 🤯 You can sew a whole seam with if you wanted to!
Take your foot off the pedal and use the handwheel instead and sew at your pace and be able to make a precise stop! This is great if you're sewing particularly thick areas as well!
Do you have more sewing machine secrets to add to the list?
*Learn about your sewing machine with me at VINTAGE SEWING SCHOOL : www.vintagesewingschool.com
and even take a free class!
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4 RANDOM THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT SEWING! ✂ Did you know...
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…
#sewingforbeginners #learntosew #vintagesewingschool #beginnersewing #garmentsewing #sewingsecrets #memadeclothes #sewingmachines #knowyoursewingmachine #sewingmachinefeatures

[@demitybaughman1267]

I recently just learned that if you lower your needle and sew 1 stitch (see your wheel tip) before you engage the foot pedal, you greatly diminish the occurance of thread nests! Life saver!

[@meacadwell]

Ohhhh, I like this! Thank you

[@debmetheral6596]

If you use a leader you won’t get thread nests.

[@brendahilburn1099]

Tightly holding the ends of your threads when starting sewing helps end the nests also

[@kingcheryl1654]

Tip I learned about clean from a repair man...when changing thread. Most of us pick up the spool and pull the thread back through the machine. He said this pulls fluff up into the tension guides. He suggested cutting the thread near the spool and pulling it out the needle so the thread is always moving the same direction through the machine.

[@hsing-jungwu6026]

I do the same and and to bobbin thread as well.😊

[@kanintutu]

Oh! Thank you for this tip❤️

[@janice2992]

I do not understand sewing machines so I sew by hand.

[@helenpeddycord2241]

🤯🤯🤯Great tips and reminders! Thanks so much Evelyn💕🧵🙏🏻

[@dlmj47]

Oooo ty I do just what he said not to gonna make that change.

[@AngeVPV]

I would add reading the instructions manual. People tend not to do it, but it's a source of great info!

[@neurotichellfem]

I keep mine in a ziplock bag & refer to it often.

[@lisamalkowski4240]

Dear Evelyn, You’re in my prayers. I’ve been machine sewing since I turned 10. I’m turning 60 next month. I love watching your videos because there’s always something new to learn from them. You are such an inspiration!

[@janice2992]

Evelyn is lovely, hope all is going well ❤️

[@Boobooks]

I concur with Lisa’s sentiments. Also turning 60 next month and have been hand sewing for as long as I remember and machine sewing last 40 years. I love using your tips. Love from Evelyn in WA

[@Wrightn221]

I love your comment!!! I am right behind you. I always say, "We should learn something new every day. And when we're done learning, we're dead!" We will never know it all but we should always strive to be better and thrive for knowledge.

[@linda.brotherton1689]

I'm 70 and starting again.

[@nancymoore6771]

Praying for you daily!

[@Pollyanna012]

My tip is to keep a dedicated note book and pencil nearby to use as a sewing journal. With all your projects, keep a dated note of sewing decisions : which thread, the stitch size, the method, etc. Then, if you want to you can look up your notes to pick up your project after a time and easily continue or to use on something else. I do quite a lot of patchwork, appliqué, quilting, decorative stitching etc. So it’s both fun to look back through my journal notes at little sketches, swatches, experiments and ideas, as well as a useful aide memoir x

[@nancyfuryes3335]

Not much content here. I learned this info 65 years ago.

[@janejohnson3879]

I also keep a note of the fabrics that I use, stitch, needle etc

[@natec.2346]

This is awesome, thank you! I make writeups for technical stuff, but never thought to make them for sewing and the like. I can't wait to finish more projects and remember the mistakes and cool choices I committed to.

[@EeeEee-bm5gx]

​@@nancyfuryes3335but when did you learn such good manners?!

[@rhondahenderson9327]

#2 🤯 I've been sewing for 50 years and I didn't know that when you lifted the pressure foot it would release the pressure on the thread. Thank you!

[@lindadean6909]

My mother was a great seamstress. My clothes fit me perfectly. I never wanted to sew myself until now . I am 74 and they say learning something new is really good for the mind so I will “see” how it works out. I am watching videos and definitely reading my manual book but your tips are most helpful. Thank you

[@trishjordan8859]

Same here, I am 67 and to be honest I was to go,go,go to learn anything like sewing when young but my mother and grandmother both were excellent seamstresses. My sister and I both picked it up this year as a hobby and I am doing well and having so much fun. My first project was about 50 no paper paper towels. 😂 I love them and oddly enough it gave me time to learn so much about my machine before making mistakes that may have discouraged me. I am going to goodwill for fabric right now for the same reason. So many sheets, table cloth and material remnants to find. So it took away the fear of messing up an expensive piece. I am going slow and having a ball😊

[@julien2912]

@@trishjordan8859 What is a no paper paper towel? Do you mean like a kitchen towel? Or like a dinner napkin?

[@doris1826]

And always remember, even if you own a brand new, super-smart machine, there is no dishonor in sewing some of your piece by hand. This is especially helpful on curves, sleeve caps or anywhere a seam is particularly difficult to fit under a presser foot. Develops your hand sewing skill, too.

[@billminckler6550]

I totally agree. Both machine sewing and hand sewing work together. I really enjoy hand basting in coordination with my machine sewing. 🫣😉

[@user-ti8bw1ri5h]

You're so right!

[@ReallyJillRogoff]

I now sew only by hand. Have had enough of machines that break down as soon as you look at them!

[@heidibee501]

My machine is temperamental so hand sewing is an essential skill for me but l am sure that one of today's tips will improve my machines functionality.

[@Kayenne54]

I learnt to put curved sleeves on while the garment was still "flat" (side seams not sewn up yet). It was just easier for me to line up the centre of the sleeve with the shoulder seams (already sewn). Realized later that that is probably what they do in commercial sewing facilities. Once the top section of sleeve is sewn on, everything is right sides together, I would sew up each side (again, the garment pieces are "flat"). So my first step was always just the shoulder seam. Same thing for facings. Do everything "flat"; don't try and sew around narrow curves if it can be avoided.

[@meganmills6545]

You know how sometimes it is hard to start a seam at the edge of the fabric, even if you hold the tails and start with the needle down* before you lower the presser foot? For new stitchers who haven't already figured this out, you don't have to start at the edge - you can get the fabric right under the foot and and start the seam doing a few stitches in reverse (rolling the handwheel to do it slowly if you like) and then start stitching forwards to complete the seam as normal once your needle gets to the edge of the fabric. Alternatively, if you don't have reverse, you can start the seam with the fabric turned 180-degrees, so it is like stitching the end of the seam. Once you get to the edge you turn the fabric around 180-degrees and carry on to stitch to the end of the seam as usual. (That tip, and its counterpart at the end of the seam - when you turn the fabric 180-degrees at the edge of the fabric and stitch a few stitches along your seam again before withdrawing the work - is also handy for the times when you don't want the thread tails right at the edge of the fabric.) *That's another tip users of old vintage machines learn early on - but I didn't learn until I started using vintage machines after decades of sewing. Putting the needle into the fabric first and then putting the presser foot down prevent the thread tails getting "sucked" into the machine when you start a seam.

[@Katya1086]

My grandmother was an excellent seamstress working on old machines of cause and she did exactly that, thank you for reminding about these great tips!

[@susanfreeman6350]

I’ve been sewing since I was 10, and turn 73 next week. My mom was a superb seamstress and started me out. I learned more in high school and have been sewing ever since. Before the advent of petite sizing, I had to sew nearly all my clothes and made lots of window treatments and slip covers through the years. I loved making clothes for my boys when they were little and now for my daughter in law and granddaughter. So, I did know all your tips, but would also add that I moisten a cotton swab to insert around the bobbin case when cleaning my machine. It acts like a magnet picking up the lint. I keep a piece of blue painter tape on the side of my machine where I log the date I last cleaned the machine. I also log the date and needle size there too. I always cover my sewing machine and serger when not in use so that dust doesn’t settle into the thread paths of both machines, exacerbating tension issues. Finally, I store all thread in a covered case or drawer to keep it dust free. I had an ominous feeling with all the comments wishing you well and I sincerely hope for the best possible resolution to whatever you are going through right now.

[@amylee6592]

Great tip about using painters tape on side of machine with cleaning date and needle type written on it. Going to use this.

[@sharondonelow5364]

Evelyn has a video out that tells us about what she is going through.

[@allthebest744]

These are all great tips!

[@juliastockhausen7173]

Good idea to keep thread storage covered!!

[@shirleyhundt2404]

Never thought about storing my thread covered. Great idea

[@ivorybow]

I am a vintage machine user, a 1932 Singer, and a 1940s Featherweight. I had to learn to make full use of the machine. On my antiques, I reverse stitch by lifting my stitch length lever to the top and then back to position while stitching. I now have a new Brother, and though it is beautiful and has all the bells and whistles, nothing beats the beautiful perfection of the straight stitch of the antiques.

[@squirrephant5368]

I realised this only recently: If you are sewing something in a "loop", such as a hem, cuffs, some facings, etc you dont need to backstitch! just overlap your stitching and it will have the same effect, except neater looking and easier! Also, you can do (if your machine allows) 30 stitches per inch at the begining and end of seam instead of backstitching. I do with seams I expect to cut or grade down.

[@sonjawade6799]

Evelyn. Wether or not these are tips & secrets to any of us. How thoughtful of you to pre-record and inspire all of us your followers whilst going thru such a difficult time. I recently purchased the readers digest sewing book you had mentioned in one of your tutorials. Yes it is an old book, but so so helpful. THANK YOU. You always look beautiful & radiant, while providing informative tutorials. Your tutorials are like being in a sewing classroom. See how much you are loved by your followers, in our prayers & thoughts. It is time for you to take time for yourself. Stay strong & positive Evelyn. Sending my love, Sonja from the uk 🇬🇧❤️😘 x

[@ironwolfusa]

The zipper foot! Never thought of using it for edge stitching. The rest was taught to me by mother, especially the lock stich (reverse). One of the first she taught me. I just want you to know Evelyn, you are in our prayers every night. All the best to you!

[@sheryllawrence6639]

The zipper foot top was new. Hope your treatments are going well

[@oosterkamps]

I love the zipper foot when I sew on binding.

[@jennywatson9949]

Thank you, new sewer here. Multi function zipper foot 🤯

[@judithgrace8359]

Praying for you, Evelyn, thank for pre filming these. Keeps you lovely face at the forefront of our minds while you go through your treatments.

[@dinaSgood]

I admit I knew all of these tips...because I had a mother who was my teacher and she was very knowledgeable. It is by having a great instructor such as yourself, that we learn how to work smarter, not harder. I always love your tips and tricks, and I cannot stress enough for a beginner sewer to get GOOD LESSONS at the start so you don't have to unlearn bad behaviors. This video once again highlights the value of great sewing lessons! I have been sewing since I was 5 years old because of a wonderful mom/teacher but still I pick up on your enthusiasm and passion and you motivate me to push myself to be better. Sending you lots of healing well wishes on your journey. We believe in you and once again thank you for all of your videos.

[@marilynbook4211]

Zipper foot, 60 years of sewing and only used it for zippers, never even thought about using it for top stitching but will now. Hope you are doing well and we will see you soon.

[@lisamalkowski4240]

I’ve been machine sewing since I turned 10 yrs old in 1973. I never knew I could use my zipper foot for things either😮.

[@bearteeka4782]

I recently used my zipper foot for non-zipper sewing and felt like such a rebel! It's nice to see others do it.

[@abeal49]

i lost the regular foot to the 1952 Singer I learned to sew on 60 years ago and never used anything but the zipper foot until I bought a new machine decades later

[@judy2547]

​

[@annkeoghslevin]

I'm the same, a great tip for staying close to the edge of the fabric. Thank you Evelyn.

[@arvettadelashmit9337]

To reverse on an older sewing machine, I was taught to put the needle in the down position, lift the presser foot, turn the fabric around, put the pressure foot down, then sew back to where you need to stop. I was also taught to rewind my bobbin when the thread cannot be pulled up by the top thread. Bobbins are supposed to be wound slowly on the older machines. Always use the same thread in the bobbin as used on top (in the older sewing machines).

[@peggydid]

Here's a tip I was really thankful to learn, years ago, as I studied a sewing book. Hold the top thread down for the first few stitches to prevent it being pulled down and wadding up underneath at the beginning of a seam. Just put your finger on it. No worries where the thread on the bottom is. I hope this is helpful to someone! Yes, I learned the other secrets already! Thanks, Evelyn for all the reminders and tips! Hugs and prayers! Peggy

[@dawnjohnson8739]

This is good. Thank you!

[@billminckler6550]

I like to start with my needle down. Especially with vintage machines, you start with more power. 👏

[@gaylegordon5797]

quilters use waste fabric often called "spiders" because of the threads handing off them. they just start stitching in the waste (holding the threads behind as you should anyway) butt the scrap against the good fabric and just sew. there will be one little close stitch holding them together and just snip.

[@Sheryl0705]

Zipper feet are amazingly versatile! My prayers continue for you. Sending as much encouragement as possible!❤️🙏🏻

[@debrathibodeaux4844]

I fave been through breast cancer and beat it twice in the last twenty years , I’m praying 🙏 for you.

[@meganmills6545]

I left a comment on the video where she announced that news. The comment was about a song called "I'm gonna l**ve you through it". It was written especially about breast cancer but it kept not letting my comment stick. At first I thought it was because I put the link to the song. Now I wonder if it's because of the name of the song, hence my asterisks. You might already know it but if you don't then I recommend having a listen to it. I think of it as the anthem for the huge outpouring of support all the viewers were showing. If you have a listen you'll understand when I say that it just lovely to see all the survivors like you doing what you can here to l**e someone through it. The version I like the best has various cancer survivors like you sharing their stories about the support they got from people and how that helped them get through it.

[@joanneberry5390]

I was 9 years old when I started sewing in 1959. My parents bought me my own machine, and it wS pretty old even then! No reverse stitch, so I actually turned my garments around every time. Luckily, they were small. This tip is so simple, I can't believe I never thought of it! Thanks for some great help!

[@tammyluich7303]

Me too! Wow

[@joyscout348]

I didn’t know about the non-reversing technique. Always learn from your videos. Prayers for you nd your doctors.

[@suzieb7622]

You can also just lift the foot and pull the fabric back while sewing 'backwards' 💖thanks mom for teaching me that💖

[@Liesl_Cigarboxguitar]

Evelyn, you are in my prayers every morning, I hope that's ok. I'm learning so much with you...my oldest sewing machine is a CWS Jones, she's 97 years old, and I'm getting lovely results. ❤ God.Bless x

[@Cocoloba]

Evelyn, I'm keeping you in my thoughts and hope your treatments are going well -- it was so thoughtful of you to pre-make videos to keep us going in your (hopefully short) absense. The "back stitching" tip was new to me (I figured the entire piece had to be turned 180 degrees and stitched, then rotated back into original position and re-stitched. That would've been fun with a nice, full, to-the-floor skirt!). I'm going to add a tip that I recently learned that solved a big problem I was having. Hope it's ok to post the link to another KZbinr's video, but it's short and he explains it beautifully. It has to do with 2 different types of thread spools and why it matters how the thread is fed into your machine. I was having all sorts of weird little random knots and stuff happening because I was using "cross-threaded" spools mounted as if they were parallel-threaded spools. This was solved simply by dropping the spool into a jar and letting the thread feed off from above. Here's the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jYvZqJebn62dqZI

[@sibyllolson3237]

Wow! That is a great vlog you suggested. I have been sewing a long time and never knew that about thread. My machine is over 40 years old and don’t think it has 2 thread holders.

[@chayawitkin6374]

Thanks for the link! Incredible!

[@mootpro]

Thanks so much for that link Linda.

[@vicki9298]

Love you sweet lady❤ Praying often for you

[@SWAB737800]

No suprises for myself. The last one, I once had soooo much fluff built up between the feed dog channels that it wouldn't push the fabric through. I didn't see the fluff, it was grey and so well compacted it looked like die cast metal! I was about to buy a new machine over a lil bit of fluff.

[@cynthiavh2241]

I still consider myself a beginner, but I knew all of these! One thing I also discovered is that you can use the hand wheel to do embroidery on your garment. Trace your pattern in chalk or one of those erasable fabric pens, and go over it with the stitch of your choosing. You can experiment and try out different things based on the types of stitches your machine has!

[@adamas66]

Your zipper foot tip, 🤯 mind blown! As for older machine “reverse” stitches, you might like to try -stitch as usual then with needle down position, lift presser foot, turn the item around, stitch over the stitches for 3 or 4 stitches. When done, repeat the process again and continue sewing! Learnt this when started sewing on a vintage manual sewing machine about 30-something years ago! Also sending you much love and healing. ❤ May you recover very soon. Stay strong!

[@victoriahannah1633]

I never thought of edge stitching with a zipper foot. I love the way you say zipper. It’s so nice to see you with all you have going on. I’ve been frequently praying for you.

[@kayt986]

Mind blown!! 🤯🤯 The zipper foot and the thread tension issue?? Absolute genius! Thank you for sharing Evelyn! Also, we will keep praying for strength, wellness and healing as you go through your treatments ❤❤❤

[@nbks6w8]

Evelyn, you are in my prayers…how very thoughtful of you to make videos in advance.

[@zsantis3831]

🤯 🤯 🤯 i’m 51 and I just got my first sewing machine. Just about everything is new to me! I love your channel I feel like I have a friend teaching me to sew. I’m going to watch your series from beginning if possible.

[@thesmilingone888]

Great tips! Thank you x Mine would be, take pics at each step of dismantling the bobbin area so you know how to put it all back together again. I learnt the hard way! 😢😂

[@amylee6592]

This is a very good tip. Things never look the same when they are dissassembled.

[@allthebest744]

😂 Great tip!

[@njitram2000]

How about this one: the teeth below the presser foot that move the fabric along can be retracted. On my machine (Husqvarna Emerald 116) there is a hidden switch at the back of the free arm but you need to remove the accessory box. Now, this is meant so that you manually move the fabric forward (which I have not needed yet) but if you slide the switch back and forth, it retracts the teeth but does not let them out again until the next stitch. This way you can slide a particularly thick/layered/grippy fabric under the foot without it getting caught on the teeth.

[@neurotichellfem]

Those teeth are called feed dogs. You lower the feed dogs if doing freehand embroidery.

[@njitram2000]

@@neurotichellfem Good to know. And embroidery makes sense

[@niccyknickers]

🤯 the second one about the thread not pulling through!! that had my mind blown! As for sewing with the had wheel - funny story, my friend didnt know the pedal was part of a machine so she has made a few garments entirely by 'hand' via machine 🤣😅

[@bperez9066]

The zipper part was a great tip! I have one and never used it.

[@tereziasevcikova5623]

No secret revealed for me, actually another tip came to my mind. Instead using zipper foot I use "overlock" foot. The foot is holding edge of fabric fixed and you can sew really close to edge - and the seam is really all the time with same length from edge, without any irregularities.

[@windsorlewis3344]

🤯

[@neurotichellfem]

It's called an overcast foot in my machine's manual - I love it & use it for many things, too.

[@JB-vd8bi]

Thankyou!

[@Siansonea]

I did know about all of these, but I have to admit I don't remember to use my zipper foot in cases where it might be better. Usually I just have my zigzag foot on my machine, and rarely switch it out. I mainly make doll clothes, but I'm realizing that with a lot of the topstitching that I do, I should probably break out the zipper foot.

[@KathleenStidham]

I LOVE these sorts of videos - have been sewing (off and on) for more than 50 years, but some things I never knew, others I forgot. Also, I keeping you on the top of my "list" and sending you energy and love from the west coast of the U.S.

[@NadoCrowFriend]

The Zipper Foot ( like you showed) is also great for adding piping to fabric & other trims~ It lets you get nice and close.

[@alexishawthorne]

❤Thank you, Evelyn ❤

[@niejo3845]

🤯- I'm impressed number one was the only one I didn't already know. My tip is for when you're changing thread, tie the new colour to the old and gently pull it through the machine. Saves re-threading the whole machine. As a 12 year cancer survivor myself - I'm sending positive vibes to you. My best advice to you is to stay positive, follow your medical professionals advice, keep busy and drink litres and litres of water while on chemo...it really helps. Just don't be like me and be allergic to your chemo drugs - first time treatment I went into anaphylactic shock within seconds...all handled and taken care of by the medical team thankfully.

[@patriciagodfrey6345]

I first learned on my mother's treadle machine. Forward, backward, and that's it. And beautiful. Later I got an electric that went forward and backward AND zigzag! Now I have a workhorse that I alternate between loving and hating, and I'm STILL learning new things about it.

[@jmanonmakes]

I’m happy to report I knew all of these! Thank you. Praying for you every night. And watching your catalog of videos and letting the ads play!

[@cwfan2]

You won't find them on newer machines, but, older machines have oil holes all over the place. Don't forget to add a drop on a regular basis. I use an artist's paintbrush to clean my machine. You'd be surprised how much fluff accumulates in out of the way areas in your machine. Don't use canned air to clean the machine. The propellent will cause condensation. I recently ordered a set of 12 feet for my sewing machine just because I was curious about them. Most of them were duplicates of what I already had. However, there are several I've never seen before and have no idea how to use them.

[@aliceannjo]

You will have fun learning what their functions are. Also how to use them for something else.

[@yolandahsiao1969]

My library had a book devoted to different sewing machine feet, and, once I knew their names, I was also able to find tutorials on KZbin also. The different feet really can make a task easier! (Specifically my 1/4" and top stitching feet)

[@Teverell]

Canned air shouldn't leave any damp residue in your machine, unless you're using a really cheap and nasty version - it's designed for use in computers which have very small parts that are very susceptible to wet and can corrode if exposed to damp.

[@Carolmaizy]

I use an artist's paintbrush to clean out my machine, too.

[@vickieyoung1456]

@@Teverell I use canned air along with the brush and don't have any problems either. Thanks.

[@tristanarnold9616]

Sometimes, when sewing thick fabric like denim, even hand-cranking your sewing machine won't get the needle through a bunch of layers. Hammer it. With a hammer, on top of a sturdy surface. It smoothes down a lumpy seam and makes it easier to sew.

[@carolyngethings]

Great tip about locking my stitches at the start of my seams. I have two old Singers and this is great advice!

[@solarwinds-]

Oh, i know of a secret. On those machines that do not have a reverse, another way to lock that stich in place is reduce the stich length to a very tiny stitch, 1 or 2 centimeters, then after 5 or 6 stitches, extend it back out to 3 centimeters again until you get to the end of your seam, the do the 1 or 2 centimeter stitches again. Works really well. Your seam will NOT come undone.

[@soneil7745]

Tiny-tacking! It works great. I used to carefully bury the thread tails after tiny-tacking for fear the stitching would unravel, but if you set the stirches small enough you can just snip them away.

[@jenniferk7525]

I hope your treatments are going well and are not taking too much out of you. Sending strength and positivity your way! ❤️ I had discovered, on my own, some of the alternate uses for the zipper foot. I have a vintage hand-crank machine, without the back stitch feature, so I also knew about the work-around for back stitching. My main sewing machine is a 30 year-old White Jeans Machine. It’s not at all high-tech but it does everything I need it to do. I frequently also use my blind hemming foot as a guide for edge stitching.

[@nancyloomis3046]

I pretty much knew all these, but I'm not a new sewist. A lot of these problem solvers kind of hit you as you learn more, but for newbies, it really helps to point out things that they may not think about. 😁 My tip: When I somehow get my thread all knotted up when sewing a seam at a difficult spot (on maybe a very sheer fabric for instance) and it seems like the fabric is just all stuck down into the machine and nothing wants to move...Just slowly move your hand wheel up and down, up and down, BY HAND, don't use any power for this, while gently pulling at the stuck fabric...maybe a smidge back and forth. The fabric will slowly come out of the grip of your feed dogs and you can start again.

[@HarunoHime07]

Thank you for releasing these videos still. ❤ But the tip on the zipper foot has made me realize I can use it on my next portion of my project so another thank you is in order!

[@amandagebur5414]

Moving the fabric to manually lock the stitches ... 🤯 So simple, so easy. I'd read somewhere to just spin the whole project. So simple, so very irritating. This makes me want to bust my 1920s Singer and 1912 White Rotary out of storage. Thank you! ❤

[@yvettefeyjoo-booth2670]

😮Wow Evelyn I had no idea to use the zipper for other things besides a zipper. Thank you for this video love it.

[@EC-xc9gy]

I have figured out all these things, but I thought I was just being lazy and using the machine wrong! It never occurred to me to consider this messing with my machine as "secret tricks"! I will be less hesitant to use them, now. Thanks, Evelyn! Thinking of you and sending prayers. 💕

[@susanyasinsky930]

I started learning how to sew on a Singer that was made in 1910 when I was 5 years old. The desk had a knee peddle instead of the foot peddles of today. I sat on my aunt’s lap back then and it didn’t take long for me to be hooked on sewing. That was 64 years ago. When I was working, I’d go to the fabric store in the same shopping center while on my lunch hour, race home after work and whip up a dress to go out that night with my boyfriend, now husband. My mother was always in a state of mind blown. I did know all of your “secrets”. With the reverse stitch on small pieces, I would have simply turned the fabric around. That’s me though. Today, I make a lot of quilts for gifts. With a new granddaughter on the way in September, I have been looking for more ideas for a baby quilt, especially for the binding. I enjoyed your video and I’m sorry I didn’t learn anything. Still enjoyed watching you with all of your enthusiasm. Happy sewing!

[@breeinatree4811]

The only one I didn't know was the one were you didn't have to go in reverse on the machine. Thank you for your videos. I hope you'll get well soon.

[@jasperrodrigues7026]

Part of my job is cleaning and servicing sewing machines so I had these 🤯 moments a while back. A tip I was taught; those super cheap paintbrushes with the black bristles you buy at dollar stores / the ones that come in cheap art kits work PERFECTLY for cleaning lint from your machines, the lint just sticks to them and it's really easy to pull the lint from those brushes. Happy sewing :) (and inevitable seam ripping) - Jasper

[@margaretpare8206]

I also use makeup brushes. They're very thick and soft. Grab all kinds of lint. Because of long handle will go all the way down to the bottom. Also using magnetic tools, ie screwdriver, will pickup lost pins and screws

[@hilsbeasley539]

Bless you, Evelyn, I hope things are going well. xxx

[@argheimrobb]

The trick #2...is 🤯 for me! Now I know why my thread won't come from the needle 😅 Keep sending you strength, support and love from the other side of the planet (France). Queen warrior...the enemy won't win 💪

[@ValeCoiro]

A little “secret” that i found was the little “knife” on the side of the machine that you can use to cut the thread! I use it all the time

[@suzieb7622]

Omg! Just found my machine's little knife yesterday 🙈 soooo happy 😊 I thought it was only on newer, more modern, more expensive machines!

[@LAM-eh6oe]

Thanks Evelyn - looking forward to using my zipper foot for close edging seams! 🤯 Hope all goes well with your treatment ❤️

[@diamondtrinket]

The lock in was a new one for me ,and also using the zip foot for close up sewing

[@deborahpatton861]

Same for me. Thanks Evelyn!

[@dorisamstutz5888]

Wow I feel so smart I actually knew all of these. I guess when you are old and your first sewing was using a trundle machine you learn a lot.

[@vintagemel6358]

I think that zipper foot tip just changed my life. Definitely a, "How did I not know that?" moment.

[@julieharwood8570]

Great tips Evelyn as always. Thank you. Stay strong lovely lady ❤

[@rosepetalsupcycle]

Great tips! Thank you and continued prayers. ❤🤯🤯🤯🤯❤

[@carolSchiffhauernottingham]

Omg, I absolutely love you❣️❣️❣️❣️ My older sewing machine won't go in reverse most times and you have just solved that problem for me❣️❣️❣️

[@platyadmirer]

It is so cute to see so many comments about people’s moms and sewing. So cute!!

[@achaley4186]

Wow! I got them all except I hadn’t considered the stitch locking one as my vintage machine has a backwards stitch. Thank you for boosting my confidence! You are looking great and I pray your health is the same. Happy Easter 🙂🙏🏼❤🍇🫐🍉 fruit for hydration and cleansing 🙂

[@dottiepark]

My edge stitching is always a mess. I was thinking of using my quarter inch foot but the zipper foot is a great idea. Thanks!🤪💣💥

[@maritzakincaid4303]

One more tip - when I became a quilter after many years of garment sewing, I purchased a walking/even feed foot for my machine to help with keeping those little pieces lined up. The surprise was that when I went back to sew a garment, that foot really helped all the pieces "fit" together better. Now I keep it on my machine all the time with the exception of needing a zipper or other special foot. You're never too old to learn!

[@neurotichellfem]

I love my walking foot, too!

[@sxylibrarian]

Ohhhh, I am definitely trying this!! I just completed a project with (synthetic) satin and I didn't occur to me until after I finished that the walking foot may have been helpful.

[@2u2a]

The thing I would consider a secret feature is this black button on the typical sewing foot side. For the longest time I couldn't find any information about it online, and if I did it was just short mention. Then once I was watching some tutorial on KZbin and it showed how it is used to keeping your foot paralel when you sew over humps. Now I use it all the time, I rarely need to grab my hump jumper.

[@KLeonardM]

A+ for me. I also utilize my walking foot quite a bit with thicker fabric. Prayers continued for your health journey Evelyn. God bless you.

[@patriciasinclair3210]

I have a modern machine with a blind hemming foot. I use this all the time if I want to top stitch something. I move my needle to the left, and It gives an even width, and the edge lines up perfectly with your material. Thank you for all the tips

[@cherylguth3937]

I am praying for you, Evelyn, during this challenging time. I have enjoyed your videos for several years, and they have helped me through some sad, lonely times. Hope you are encouraged by knowing so many people care about you.

[@janem3378]

❤❤❤ you've blown my mind again. Zipper foot is coming out of storage.

[@kingcheryl1654]

I've learned so much from you and are a big part of why I started sewing again. It is such an enjoyable part of my life. Thanks and prayers.

[@mariamurray7675]

🤯!! A bit lol. I didn’t ever think of using my zipper foot for edge stitching. I can see now that it will be so handy. The lock stitch is new to me as well. Another new thing to try! I know I should clean my machine, but I don’t do it often enough, so thanks for the reminder. Thank you Evelin - thinking of you ❤.

[@mariamurray7675]

*Evelyn :).

[@colleen.f.s]

Mind blown 🤯 on zipper foot, double over stitch, and wonderful reviews on the others! Thank you for sharing!

[@debbdesai8855]

You are still in my prayers. I have to go back for a PET scan on May 17, 2023. We’ll see then. Love your videos. They are so great. Thank you for sharing. Please look into the many other ways to fight cancer. CRSPR, Nano technology, etc. Get well soon.

[@DonnasWonderland]

Love the handwheel sewing tip I never thought to use it for actually sewing I use is to move my needle all the time and THANK YOU for telling me why my thread doesn't move I had not made the connection between the foot lifting and the releasing of the thread awesome tip. Thinking of you Evelyn hope your doing ok x

[@billminckler6550]

I hand wheel it ANYTIME there’s a risk of a problem. Always on thick seams. And, using the hand wheel is still FASTER than hand sewing. Thanks !

[@DonnasWonderland]

@@billminckler6550 I’d got it in my head the sewing wouldn’t be uniform or as strong using the hand wheel I don’t know why but definitely going to be using it now

[@curtriceennis2924]

Hello Evelyn, I have often wondered what else the zipper foot can be used for. It's great to know what you suggested about the edge stitching. If you haven't already, could you possibly please make a video for us showing some different uses for various machine feet? Also, I was like 🤯 or 😃 when you said what you did about the presser foot and thread tension. It's no WONDER, when I thread my needles, I've sometimes been having trouble with the thread not "moving" good when I am putting it through the eye of the needle. YAAAY !!! I NOW know what the trouble has been for me !!! 😉🥰😉 And, about using your hand wheel to sew, do you know why they say you shouldn't turn the "wheel" AWAY from you ? I've not been able to find that out. I was also wondering how I can lock my stitching without having to always use the back - stitch function on my machine. Speaking of tips, I have a tip to do when you change your needle. You may have covered this before, but, prior to even taking the needle out of the holder, I recommend that you place a piece of cloth over your presser - foot area. Just make sure it's big enough to cover it well ... I learned that the hard way when I broke a needle and went to change it. As I pulled the broken needle out of the holder, it slipped out of my fingers, and, just happened to fall down and through a presser foot opening !!! I had to take the cover off the front and back of the lower portion of the previous machine I had to finally get the piece of broken needle out of it ... Well, that was an almost brand new machine I had gotten just a few weeks prior, and, I think that incident was one thing that led to it eventually breaking on me because after it happened, a few days later, my machine started making funny noises. 🙀😮😿 I now remember to place something over the bottom of my machine before I ever change my needles. 😉 Take care, Evelyn, and I hope you're doing at least well. Please make more tip videos for us when you can. Love your channel.😻

[@annedaniel5256]

I think that I need tips on looking as polished as you do Evelyn! It is lovely to see someone so beautifully presented. Wishing you strength and sending prayers as you travel through various medical treatments. I'm very much looking forward to seeing you when you are fully recovered.

[@dorijean6614]

I'm 65 and have been sewing since I was 17 on and off. I have known all of them and have used most of them. ❤ Cleaning and oiling sewing machines have always been a must. I have to say, I have learned so much from you Evelyn, you're an amazing seamstress. ❤

[@robintheparttimesewer6798]

While I have used the zipper foot for other things I’ve never thought of using it for top stitching! I got a small very cheap vacuum cleaner 15 or 20 years ago. I also got an additional add on of what at the time were called keyboard attachments. It’s a fast and easy way to clean up all that fluff. Hope that all is going well! Best wishes from Canada!

[@dawnjohnson8739]

Good idea!

[@christinei5490]

Thank you, take care of yourself ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@asheraucoin]

Such a good teacher with a lovely personality! Blessings love and light to you. You're loved and so appreciated. Get well dear one.

[@nikishazechiel6848]

I lost the little brush thing so I got a cheap paint brush and use that to clean my machine. The lifting of the foot to free the tension was a mind blower for me. Thank you!

[@suzieb7622]

Paint brush 👏 my mum used that!

[@renchinnamunian9693]

Thanks for the tips. It's my first time to your channel so I don't know if you've mentioned these before. A few tips that made a huge difference for me : 1. Change the needle after each project. Maybe during the project if it's a long one. I quilt & use at least 2 needles per project. The needle gets blunt & starts to make poor stitches. It also sounds different when it's blunt; makes a thumping sound. If you are doing multiple small projects, make a note of the last time you changed the needle so you know how long it has been used. Needles are cheap & this will really help prolong the life of your machine. 2. Use the correct needle for the fabric. If you use a universal needle that will give you okay results. But if you are sewing a lightweight fabric or batik fabric use a microtex needle to pierce the fabric cleanly & make the job easier. 3. Use the correct stitch plate. If zigzagging or making a decorative stitch then use the stitch plate with the wider opening. But if it's just a straight stitch then use the one with the single / narrow opening. This stops the fabric luffing or flapping when the needle pushes through it. It gives a much nicer stitch.

[@gsparks8444]

I knew about most of the tips you mentioned but it’s always nice to get a reminder (I need to clean my machine!!!). Thanks for another great, helpful video! ❤

[@cherylforrester8639]

🤯🤯 The zipper foot and thread tension never occurred to me thank you. All the best to you 🧘‍♀️ 🙏

[@mariafernandez6537]

Great info. I never thought about #2 with pulling the thread with the foot down/up. Like you said, sometimes it worked and others it didn't! You are in my prayers every night and I hope your treatments are going well. You'll soon be back to your regular self. Sending healing hugs.

[@kogabear1]

I’ve mostly sewed with a vintage machine with narrow feed dogs so getting a seam close to the edge was never a problem, now I’m using a machine with modern sized feed dogs and realizing to move the needle left or right of center helped, actually I never thought about using the zipper foot. Good tip.

[@dawnwyda7950]

Hi Evelyn, I did not know about using the zipper foot for edge stitching! And I did not know about the backstitching trick. Hugs to you!

[@kirstenschull2010]

Well, you certainly look elegant! My mom taught me on a Viking Husqvarna, but also taught me to use a treadle Singer. so I could appreciate the beauty of machine sewing. She used to unpick my mistakes so I didn't get too frustrated and give up on sewing. I was pleasantly surprised that I knew all your tips, but you often teach me something new. You are a gem!

[@sherrycallahan8578]

Hey my friend, even though we have never met i feel like you are a friend that comes to my house to sew with me. I have been praying for you and will continue to pray for you. I know it is a journey . I think the biggest "secret" to the sewing machine is the instruction book that comes with it. When I am between projects or just have a short time to sew I like to sew through the manual. You learn things about your machine that help you sew better, care for the machine better and find some new ideas as you go.

[@megangoggans1208]

I knew about how to clean my machine properly because of you! :) I'll never forget how you talked about how a machine doesn't have "those little felt pads" and that that's exactly what I thought that they were! Thank you for the knowledge about not manually double stitching on a fancy digital machine. I've never used one of those and would have tried to do it and messed up settings I'm sure.

[@aliloucreations1817]

I was 6 when I first started sewing , I done it all by hand , my first machine was a bernina and I still have it today and work’s brilliant, but just for anyone who has a below feeding bobbin when your puttin your spools into the bobbin case make sure your spool is turning clockwise otherwise it just tangles all your thread up ❤❤

[@leemacdonald2329]

You can also lock your stitches on a machine without reverse by taking a few stitches, leave the needle down, turn the fabric around, stitch a few stitches, again leave the needle down, turn the fabric back to the original direction and continue on.

[@kendal4452]

🤯Wow, that zipper foot can be used for other things. I was wondering why my threat wouldn't pull. I learned ALOT in this video. Thanks Evelyn.