Sewing Machine Safety Tips

Always unplug your machine when away from it for extended periods of time. If you are unable to get to the wall plug, at least turn it off at the main machine switch. Lightning or power surges can cause damage to machines that are left on. Also, your sewing light, when left on, can generate considerable heat. Consider little fingers can also play havoc with your machine if it is unattended. This can have quite devastating consequences.

• Consider using a surge protector or power guard with any electronic sewing machine. A power surge or brownout can shorten your electronic circuit’s life, leading to expensive repairs. We can supply good-quality surge protectors at a reasonable price to help give you peace of mind.
• Try to arrange your cords so they cannot be snagged while walking past. We see at least one machine a month that has fallen off a table by being dragged by the cord. If at all possible, cords should be arranged to the rear of the machine, with the foot control placed under the table.
• Always wear footwear. While it may feel comfortable to sew in bare feet, consider the consequences if your foot controller was to suddenly break. Electrical shocks can be avoided with footwear.
• Provide a stable and, if possible, soft sewing surface, like a carpet tile. This will help to cut noise levels. Excessive vibration can also shorten bulb life.
• Have your machine maintained by a trusted technician, at least every 2 years. A good technician will inspect your machine thoroughly and be able to arrest many faults well before you even know about them.
• When not in use, store your machine in a dry location. Try to avoid covering it with anything that can ‘sweat’, as moisture build-up can lead to expensive damage.