The past few weeks I have been putting my serger to the test with some casual sewing. And I think it’s time for some basic machine maintenance. It’s not really a task that anyone likes to do or talk about but it is so important to keep our tools in tip-top shape. So, let’s jump-start the week with some basic maintenance. Think of it like dusting the house – it’s not something we want to do but we need it needs to be done!
I promise basic machine maintenance requires just a few handy tools and discipline.
This project is for all levels.
Skill Level- 1 Button
Tools:
- A spray can of compressed air
- Small soft brush (should be in the accessory bag)
- A pair of long tweezers (if you have them)
Basic Instructions:
- It is important to start with your machine unplugged. It might sound silly but there is no reason to take chances!
- Position the needle in the upright position and open the front door.
- Pump a few spurts of air from your spray can to clean out all built up dust. Be sure to use that long, thin straw to get all up and inside the machine being careful to blow the build up OUT of the machine.
- If needed, use your brush & tweezers to grab any larger loose bits.
Machine Maintenance is a MUST
Check out this picture, it was taken after just one project. Yuck! To avoid dust build up, I like to clean my machine after each project or two.
*This is just basic maintenance and should not replace the regular trip to the shop for a tune up. I do not suggest adding oil or removing any parts for a basic cleaning.
If you follow a basic machine maintenance routine you will not only prolong the life of your machine but it will run smoother too.
Comments & Reviews
I have to remember to do this all of the time! Great reminder – thanks!
Just finished a big project so I definitely need to take care of these things on my serger. My book tells me where to oil so I probably will do that too. Of course my Viking Designer Diamond gets plenty of use and never needs me to oil it. Plenty of use keeps the parts running good so I’m told.
I use the vacuum attachment to suck out the lint and dust. Do you think that the canned air would push the dust up into the machine and clog the oiled parts faster?
The vacuum attachment is a great idea and I’ll bet would make quick work of the job. Yes, I the canned air can be an issue but I am really using it to push everything out of the machine. There have been many call outs about the canned air and am thinking many people are afraid to use it. I am not recommending it to push things into the machine, merely to blow some of those pesky lint particles out the surface sections. It is better to be safe than sorry in this case and the vacuum or dust buster can always be used.
~Heather