Department of education

Division of Oriental Mindoro

Learning
Clean and
Lubricate
Machine

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of this lesson, you are

expected to do the following.

3.1 Observe proper handling and cleaning of the machine

3.2 Resolve common machine troubles
3.3 Perform regular maintenance schedules
Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School
San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Lesson 1
CONTENT STANDARD
 The learner demonstrates understanding in performing basic maintenance
of sewing machine in dressmaking/tailoring.

PERFORMANCE STANDARD
 The learner consistently performs basic maintenance of sewing machine in
dressmaking/tailoring.

LEARNING COMPETENCIES
 Clean and Lubricate Machine

LEARNING OBJECTIVES 3.1

 OBSERVE PROPER HANDLING AND CLEANING OF THE
MACHINE

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Definition of Terms

Absorbent – a material property that sucks-up or takes in the manner of sponge.

Adjust – change present setting as in adjusting tensions.

Balance wheel – the wheel at the right of the arm that sets the mechanism in
motion.

Band wheel – the wheel below the upper mechanism that leads the balance wheel
through the belt connection

Band wheel crank – moves the band wheel.

Bent – a change of shape or angle caused by pulling or pricking to a harder part

such as machine needle driven out of throat plate slot.

Blunt – refers to an unsharp or dull needlepoint that is irreplaceable.

Damp cloth – a cloth applied with moisture on water.

Lubricant – a material capable of reducing friction when applied between moving

parts.
Lubricate – the act of applying a lubricating agent between moving parts to reduce
friction and preventing the form of rust.

Vital – extremely important and necessary for something to succeed or exist.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

What do you already know?

Let us determined how much you already know about the use of sewing
tools and equipment. Take this test.

Pretest LO 3 – 3.1

Directions: Read and analyze each item carefully and choose the letter of
the best answer from the options below. Write your answers in your quiz notebook

1. The upper part of the sewing machine head being driven by hand when starting
the machine
a. balance sheet b. band wheel
c. stop motion screw d. treadle
2. The control of sewing machine lies on the:
a. balance sheet b. band wheel
c. belt d. treadle
3. The part of the sewing machine that controls the looseness and tightness of
stitches is:
a. bobbin b. presser foot
c. thread guide d. upper tension
4. A machine problem when there is incorrect size of needle or thread is:
a. fabric jams b. needle break
c. seam pucker d. skipped stitches
5. The part of the sewing machine that controls the stroke of the fee dog is:
a. face plate b. feed dog
c. slide pucker d. stitch regulator

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

What do you need to know?

Read the Information Sheet 3.1 very well then find out how much you can remember and
how much you learned by doing Self-check 3.1.

Information Sheet 3.1

OBSERVE PROPER HANDLING AND

CLEANING OF THE MACHINE
A sewing machine is an investment. Whether you use it every day or every
once in a while, it’s important to take good care of your machine. Performing routine
maintenance tasks and keeping your machine clean can add years of life to your
sewing machine.

Here are some tips on how to care for your machine.

 Keep Your Sewing Machine Covered

Dust is the enemy of machinery. To keep your machine as clean as
possible, store it under a dust cover or in a hard case.
To prevent interior lint buildup, Martha Stewart recommends using only
new and high quality thread when you sew. She also recommends unplugging
the machine regularly, and dusting inside the bobbin case with a cosmetic
brush.

 Change Needles Regularly

It’s easy to forget how much work your needle does. Over time,
needles become dull, which can lead to looped threads, skipped stitches, pulls
in the fabric and potential damage to the machine.
Experts recommend changing your needle every eight hours, or every
time you complete a project.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

You may also need to change your needle to match the weight and
weave of the fabric you’re using.

 Used Compressed Air to Remove Lint

Whenever you complete a project, give your machine a thorough
cleaning. Using high-quality, new thread will help minimize lint build-up, but it
won’t eliminate it entire. Compressed air can help remove lint and thread
from feed dogs, tension discs and the bobbin area.
When using compressed air, make sure the nozzle is at least four
inches away from the machine. Keeping the nozzle a fair distance away will
help ensure you don’t introduce any moisture into the machine.

 Annual Servicing
To keep your machine in tip top shape, make it a point to have it
professionally serviced each year. No matter if you have a cheap sewing
machine or an expensive model, annual servicing is a good idea.
A knowledgeable and experienced service person will adjust the timing
and tension, and clean the areas of your machine that you can’t get to
without taking the entire machine apart. Your machine’s life will be greatly
extended if you have it serviced by a professional from time to time.

 Oiling the Machine

Like most other machines, sewing machines benefit from regular oiling.
Sewing machines have a lot of internal moving parts. Oiling the machine will
help these parts run smoother and for longer.
Sewing machine oil can be purchased online or in most craft stores,
and is designed specifically for use with sewing machines.
Never use anything but sewing machine oil in your machine.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Quality sewing oil is clear and should not stain your garments. A couple
of drops is all you need to keep your machine well-oiled. Just be sure to clean
out the machine, particularly the bobbin case, before you apply the oil
Follow the instructions in your user’s manual on how to oil your sewing
machine. Once you’ve applied the oil, run stitches across a few pieces of
scrap fabric to remove any extra oil.

Note: Some machines are self-lubricating and don’t need to be oiled. Check your
user’s manual to find out whether your machine needs to be oiled.
Find an Experienced Professional to Repair Your Machine

At some point in time, your sewing machine is going to need repairs,

especially if you use it often. It’s important to find an experienced professional that
you trust to perform these repairs.

Manufacturers typically have a team of specially trained technicians to work

on their machines. For example, if you have a Singer sewing machine, you would
want to get it serviced by a technician trained by Singer.

If you’re lucky enough to find a very experienced technician, he or she may

have knowledge of or worked on multiple brands of sewing machines.

Finding a local technician isn’t always easy, but nearby sewing shops may be
able to offer recommendations. Also, check with other sewers in the community to
see where they bring their machines.

 Clean One Part of the Machine at a Time

Every sewing machine comes with a user’s manual, and that manual
often includes directions on how to clean various parts of the machine. Once
you start opening up the machine, it can quickly get confusing if you have
screws and parts strewn across the table.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

To avoid this confusion, work on one part of the machine at a time.

Once you’ve finished cleaning and working on one part, return that part back
to how you found it.
By working a little at a time, you can ensure that you put your machine
back together properly.

 Wipe Down the Machine After Each Use

To keep your machine clean, wipe it down with a rag after each use.
Be sure to unplug the machine before you wipe it down.
A quick once-over with a rag and a quick cleaning of the bobbin case
can help remove dust, lint build-up and thread pieces that may damage the
machine.

Setting of Sewing Machine and Its Troubles

A treadle sewing machine works by foot action and doesn't require any
electricity. If taken care of properly, an antique treadle sewing machine can sew a
better stitch than its modern counterpart can. It takes some practice to keep your
treadle machine sewing smoothly, but once you've mastered the foot action, you can
enjoy sewing and getting a little exercise at the same time

SETTING OF SEWING MACHINES

Perfect machine stitching is easy to achieve if you set the machine properly.
This involves threading the upper and lower parts of the sewing machine. The
beginner
In dressmaking must learn how to thread the head of the sewing machine as
one of the first steps in becoming a competent operator.

THREADING THE MACHINE

Each part of the threading mechanism on the head of a sewing machine has

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

a definite purpose in guiding the thread from the spool to the needle. The thread
must pass through the various guides in a given order so that the machine will sew
properly the formed stitches.

A. ORDER OF THREADING IN THE UPPER PART

1. Spool Pin
2. Upper thread guide
3. Between metal disc of tension
4. Thread take up lever
5. Lower thread guide
6. Needle
STEPS:
1. Put the spool of thread on the spool pin.
2. Bring the thread to the thread guide .
3. Pull the thread between the metal disc of the tension.
4. Bring the thread up to the thread take up lever and raise it as it goes.
5. Pull the thread down to the thread guide.
6. Pull it through the lower thread guide.
7. Thread the needle.

B. THREADING THE LOWER PART OF LOCKSTITCH SEWING MACHINE/ or

TREADLE SEWING MACHINE
STEPS:
1. Remove the bobbin case by pulling on the bobbin case latch.
2. Remove the bobbin from the case and wind the thread .
3. Put the bobbin back to the bobbin case and pull the thread through the
little slot at least 4 inches.
4. Be sure that you hear the bobbin case inside the shuttle.
5. Start the mechanism by rolling the balance wheel forward to get the thread
of the bobbin through the needle.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

6. Pull the upper and lower thread together by 4 inches.

As you enjoy using your sewing machine , problems cannot be avoided , but
knowing its causes is another challenging skill to develop. How can you classify
these problems or troubles?

CLASSIFICATIONS OF SEWING MACHINE TROUBLES

If the sewing machine in your laboratory are kept in good condition and are
carefully adjusted and properly threaded, not too many things can go wrong. But
there are certain difficulties that occur during an operation so often , so you should
know these minor and common problems their causes and remedies. There are
two classifications of sewing machine troubles, namely :

1. Minor sewing machine trouble

This refers to problems that arise involving incorrectly attached accessories or
supplies , unadjusted tensions , or that requires a little dusting or oiling.
2. Major sewing machine trouble
This involves replacing or removing damage spare parts that made the sewing
machine not totally functioning.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

How much have you learned?

Self-Check 3.1

Directions: Arrange the steps in threading the upper and lower parts of the sewing
machine. Write number 1 for the first step, 2 for the second step, and so on. Write
your answer in your quiz notebook.

A. STEPS IN THREADING THE UPPER PART

_____ Thread the needle
_____ Pull it through the lower thread guide
_____ Pull the thread down on the thread guide.
_____ Bring thread to the thread guide.
_____ Pull the thread between the metal disc of the tension.
_____ Bring the thread up to the lower thread take up lever and raise it as it goes.

B. STEPS IN THREADING THE LOWER PART

_____Remove the bobbin case by pulling on the bobbin case latch.
_____ Pull the upper and lower thread together by four inches.
_____ Remove the bobbin from the case and wind the thread.
_____ Start the mechanism by rolling the balance wheel forward to get the
thread of the bobbin through the needle.
_____ Be sure that you hear the case being locked upon inserting the bobbin
case inside the shuttle.
_____ Put the bobbin back to the bobbin case and pull the thread through the
little slot at least four inches.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

How Do You Apply what you have learn?

Find out by accomplishing the Scoring Rubric honestly and sincerely.
Remember it is your learning at stake!

CONDUCT SAMPLE RUN

Direction: INDIVIDUAL TASK:

Prepare swatches of silk, denim and cotton. Stitch on the swatches by
stitching straight lines at various stitch length . Test the output and record your
observation on the table.

Materials:
1. Fabric swatches of silk, denim and cotton
2. Thread
3. Machine Needle – size 14
4. Pair of Scissors
5. Pencil
6. Ruler

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Lesson 2
CONTENT STANDARD
 The learner demonstrates understanding in performing basic maintenance
of sewing machine in dressmaking/tailoring.

PERFORMANCE STANDARD
 The learner consistently performs basic maintenance of sewing machine in
dressmaking/tailoring.

LEARNING COMPETENCIES
 Clean and Lubricate Machine

LEARNING OBJECTIVES 3.2

 RESOLVE COMMON MACHINE TROUBLES

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Definition of Terms

Manipulation – the act of managing or operating manually or mechanically a given

tool or equipment.

Posture - the correct working body position for a given task.

Pucker – wrinkling of fabric caused by very tight stitches.

Replace – putting something new in the place of an old or damaged part.

Rewind – winding again or repeat winding.

Stitch length – the length of each individual stitch.

Stitch regulator – the part of a sewing machine that controls the stroke of the
feed dog and regulates the length of stitches.

Treadle – this is where the feet rest to drive the band wheel through the pitman
rod.

Tension – the force that is applied by the machine on your thread.

Trend – a general tendency in the way a situation in changing or developing.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

What do you already know?

Let us determined how much you already know about the use of sewing
tools and equipment. Take this test.

Pretest LO 3 – 3.2

Directions: Read and analyze each item carefully and choose the letter of
the best answer from the options below. Write your answers in your quiz notebook

1. The oil that lubricates and gives the machine longer life .
a. baby oil b. coconut oil
c. crude oil d. machine oil
2. The correct cloth used in wiping spilled oils during cleaning .
a. damp cloth b. dry cloth
c. oiled cloth d. any of the above
3. The part of the sewing machine that should be avoided during the application of
oil.
a. bobbin winder b. rubber ring
c. stitch regulator d. stop motion screw
4. The cleaning material that maintains moving parts of a sewing machine in smooth
operation.
a. absorbent cloth b. lint brush
c. lubricant d. water
5. A good practice of cleaning and lubricating the sewing machine .
a. every two weeks b. once a week
c. once a month d. twice a week

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

What do you need to know?

Read the Information Sheet 3.2 very well then find out how much you can remember and
how much you learned by doing Self-check 3.2.

Information Sheet 3.2

RESOLVE COMMON MACHINE

TROUBLES
Machine Troubles Causes Remedies

 insufficient oil  oil the sewing

 loose screw machine
1. Machine runs noisily  thread or dust  tighten loose screw
clogged in the  clean the shuttle
shuttle Race. race before oiling
 too tight belt  change belt if
 insufficient oil already old
2. Machine rotates  bearings or shuttle  oil the arm shaft
Heavily race is clogged with  clean the shuttle
dust or thread race and bearing ,
then oil
 improper threading  check the threading ,
 tight tension change the texture
 thread too coarse of thread and attach
3. Needle thread breaks  needle blunt set the needle properly
incorrectly to the needle bar
 presser foot not (flat side of the
properly adjusted needle should face
 poor quality thread the needle bar) .

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

seam maybe too thick  use correct presser

or heavy foot, check if presser
 bobbin case turns foot is secured and
 fabric is pulled properly fastened
forcibly  if seam is too heavy
 needle may be bent change needle to
 size of needle correct size
 tension  check the position of
the bobbin case,
reset the shuttle race
assembly
 change the bent
needle
 to avoid needle
bending, pull the
upper and lower
threads toward the
rear of the presser
foot after stitching
and cut the threads
 don‘t force the
fabric, just guide it
 change the size of
needle
 adjust tension
 bent needle , dull  change the needle or
needle or wrongly correct positioning
4. Stitches skip attached needle  change needle size
 unmatched size of and thread
needle or thread to  increase pressure on
the texture of fabric the presser foot

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

 no enough pressure  check the threading

on the presser foot
 threading maybe
incorrect
 dull needle  use blunt needle
 improper threading  check the threading
 unbalance tension of : if loops appear
the upper and lower under the fabric,
threads check the upper
 defective thread threading; adjust the
take up lever upper tension
regulator;
: if the loops appear
on top of the fabric,
check the lower
threading; the
5. Stitches loop thread, may be
inserted in the
tension groove of
the bobbin ; check
also the latch spring
of the bobbin case.
 balance the tension
of both threads
 change the thread
take up lever spring.
 Improper threading  correct threading
 Improperly attached  attached the needle
needle correctly
 Bent or dull needle  change to blunt
6. Upper thread breaks  Tight upper thread needle

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

 poor quality thread  reset the upper

 unmatched needle tension regulator
 use good quality
thread and thread
size or texture
 improper winding of  winding the thread in
the thread in the the bobbin uniformly
bobbin  change the needle
 bent or dull needle  use good quality
 poor quality thread thread
 incorrectly set feed  lower the feed dog if
dog the fabric is thin;
 bobbin does not raise the feed dog if
freely turn the fabric is thick
7. Lower or under  too tight bobbin  check if bobbin is
thread breaks case spring clogged with dirt or
thread
 loosen the adjusting
screw of the bobbin
case or adjusting the
tension of the upper
thread
 too long stitch  adjust stitch
length for the fabric regulator to correct
 tension is too tight length
 size of needle and  adjust the upper and
thread do not match lower tension
 too high feed dog regulator
adjustment  use appropriate size
8. Seams Pucker  too heavy pressure of needle and thread
on the presser foot  adjust the height of

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

the feed dog

depending on the
thickness or thinness
of the fabric
 lessen pressure on
the presser foot
 feed dog not in  adjust the feed dog
proper sewing to proper sewing
position position
 stitch regulator not  adjust stitch
set on zero regulator to desired
9. Fabric does not move  too tight pressure stitch length
on presser foot  add pressure to
presser foot by
adjusting the
pressure regulator
screw
10. Fabric jams in  Needle may be too  Change the size of
machine big needle
 Throat plate  Needs round hole
plate

STANDARDS FOR SEWING MACHINE OPERATIONS

Observe while using / running sewing machine and list the things that
you have noticed. By following correct procedures you will make your work
easier, more interesting and challenging. Here are some pointers that you
have to follow in the manipulation of your sewing machine:

1. Start with the right tools and supplies.

Have your needle, thread, screw driver,
pins and scissors ready for use. With
tools at hand, you can start working

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

continuously on your machine.

2. Always maintain good working posture.

Sit on your back slightly leaning forward.
It can prevent body pains after working
on your machine.

3. Thread the sewing machine

correctly. You can follow the guide
book if you have. This will save your
time to get a correct threading.
Refer to someone to check if you have
threaded it properly.

4. Be sure that the needle is properly

set according to the directions for
specific models. A properly attached
needle will make your work without any
trouble.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

5. Set the stitch regulator according to

project specifications and test the
stitches for possible adjustments.

6. Check tension dials and adjust

according to project requirement of the
stitches. A correct adjustment on the
tension dials will make perfectly sewn
garment.

7. Turn power off (for motorized/electric

machines ) when the sewing machine is
not in use. This will save electricity and
avoid possible minor accidents.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

8. Keep sewing tools. Dust the sewing machine then put a little amount of machine
oil in slots. This will make the sewing machine available for the next user

Note:
The control of the sewing machine lie on your feet not in your hand so learn
to start and stop the sewing machine instantly at a given point using this control.
Lower the presser foot while sewing but be sure to insert a piece of paper or fabric
swatches so that the feed dog will not be worn out.

Getting to stitch
Before you start, make sure the two threads are back between the two toes
of the presser foot.

CHARACTERISTICS OF GOOD STITCHES

1. The length of stitch is proportioned to the texture of the fabric.
2. The stitches are the same in length.
3. The stitches appear the same on both right and wrong sides of the fabric.
4. The stitching follows the intended line smoothly and accurately.
5. There are no skipped or broken gaps in stitching.
6. When retraced, it appears as one line of stitching.
7. The stitching has no tangles.

HOW TO MAKE ADJUSTMENT ON THE MACHINE

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

There are two tension adjustments on the sewing machine the upper and the
lower. The upper tension controls the thread from the needle, while the lower
tension controls the thread from the bobbin case.
These tensions must be adjusted to suit various fabrics. If the tensions on
both threads are properly adjusted, the threads will lock at the center of the material
and form a correct stitch.
The size of the stitches varies with the type of work being sewed. Thin
materials require a short stitch, a light thread, a fine needle, and a tight tension.
Heavier materials require a longer stitch, a coarser thread, a larger needle,
and less tension.
Sewing machine needles become dull through hard usage and also through
ordinary wear; sometimes, they become bent by improper use. The condition of the
needle should be checked when sewing difficulties occur. A defective needle should
be replaced by a new needle of proper size. A dull needle will show a flat shiny spot
at the very tip when rotated between the fingers.
The straight of a needle can be tested by rolling the larger end on a flat
surface; bent needles will wobble and straight needles
will roll true.

A. HOW TO ADJUST TENSION ON THE NEEDLE THREAD

The stitch tension control determines the amount of tension on the thread as
they pass through the machine.
1. Correcting a Loose Top Stitch
When the needle thread tension is too tight, the thread will lie straight
along the upper surface.
 Lower the presser foot
 Turn the small thumb nut at the front of the tension
discs to the

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

left ( counter clockwise ) to decrease the tension.

2. Correcting a Loose Bottom Stitch

When the needle tension is too loose , the thread will lie along the underside of the
material.
 Lower the presser foot
 Check to make sure that the thread is between the
tension discs.
 Turn the small thumb nut at the front of the tension
disc (clockwise ) to increase the tension.
 Check the stitch on pieces of scrap material.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

B. HOW TO ADJUST TENSION ON

BOBBIN THREAD
1. Checking Bobbin Case
 Remove the bobbin from the bobbin
case.
 Clean the inside of the bobbin case.
Remove all particles of lint and dust with
a small point stick.
Note : If the tension spring is bent away
from the
bobbin case , or if the ends of the spring near
the delivery eye are damaged, they should be
replaced. Consult your teacher if defective
parts are discovered.
2. Adjusting Tension Spring on Bobbin
Case
The tension on the bobbin thread is
controlled by adjusting the tension spring on
the outside of the bobbin case. It is seldom
necessary to change this adjustment once the tension has been properly set . The
operator will usually be able to correct the stitch by varying the tension on the
needle thread.

a. Correcting a loose bobbin thread

If the tension on the bobbin thread is too loose, the needle thread will lie
straight along the upper surface of the material.
 Tighten the tension
 Turn the regulating screw in the tension spring to the right.
 Test the tension. Thread the bobbin case. Hold the end of the thread and
allow the case to hang freely.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

 Check stitch on pieces of scrap material

b. Correcting a Tight Bobbin Thread
If the tension on the bobbin thread will lie straight along the underside of the
material.
 Loosen the tension. Turn the regulating Screw in the tension spring slightly
to the left.
 Thread the bobbin case and test the tension.
 Check stitches on pieces of scrap material.

HOW TO REGULATE THE LENGTH OF THE STITCH

The length of the stitch is regulated by the stitch regulator on the front side
of the head.
 Move the stitch regulator downward to lengthen stitch
 Move the stitch regulator upward to shorten stitch.
 Check the length of stitch on pieces of scrap
material.

Note: For normal stitching, set the regulator at 10 to 12 stitches per inch, or
at the number 3 for metric scale machines.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

HOW TO REGULATE THE PRESSURE ON THE MATERIAL

The pressure on the material is regulated by adjusting screw on the top of the
machine.
 Turn the adjusting screw to the right to increase the pressure.
 Turn the adjusting screw to the left to decrease the pressure.
 Check the pressure by stitching on pieces of scrap material of the same
weight.

Note: A pressure that is too heavy will cause the machine to run hard and will leave
the print of the feed on fine materials.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

How much have you learned?

Self-Check 3.1

I .Directions: Write check ( y ) if the statement is a good characteristic of

stitches and cross ( X ) if it is not. Write your answer in your quiz notebook.

________1. The stitches have no tangles.

________ 2. The stitching follows the intended line smoothly and accurately.

________ 3. The length of stitch is not proportioned

________ 4. There are skipped or broken gaps in stitching.

________ 5. The stitches appear on both right and wrong sides of the fabric.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

How Do You Apply what you have learn?

Find out by accomplishing the Scoring Rubric honestly and sincerely.
Remember it is your learning at stake!

Directions: Select a sewing machine to be assessed. Write the information called

for in the given form.
Date Sewing Machine No.
Trouble Causes Remedies
Minor:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Major:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Instruction:
In your notebook, draw a lockstitch sewing machine and identify the parts
and their functions.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Lesson 3
CONTENT STANDARD
 The learner demonstrates understanding in performing basic maintenance
of sewing machine in dressmaking/tailoring.

PERFORMANCE STANDARD
 The learner consistently performs basic maintenance of sewing machine in
dressmaking/tailoring.

LEARNING COMPETENCIES
 Clean and Lubricate Machine

LEARNING OBJECTIVES 3.3

 PERFORM REGULAR MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES

Definition of Terms
Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School
San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Cleaning – an act of cleaning dirt especially from the surface of something.

Oiling – any of numerous unctuous combustible substances that are liquid or can be
liquefied easily on warming, are soluble in either but not water, and leave a greasy
stain on paper or cloth.

Face Plate – a disk fixed with its face at right angles to the live spindle of a lathe
for he attachment of the work.

What do you already know?

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School
San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Let us determined how much you already know about the use of sewing
tools and equipment. Take this test.

Pretest LO 3 – 3.3

Direction: Arrange the following steps in chronological order. Mark the first
step as a, second as b and so on. Write your answer on a separate of paper.

A. Face Plate (presser bar, needle bar, thread take up lever, lifter).
_____1. Put back the Face Plate in place
_____2. Unscrew face plate and keep it in the drawer while cleaning.
_____3. Brush dust away then put a little amount of oil while rotating the balance
wheel to inner parts can be accessed.

B. Lower mechanism ( rotary oscillating hook )

_____1. Put a little amount of machine oil on moving parts
_____2.Remove dust with lint brush
_____3. Fasten sides of oscillating hook
_____4. Return spare parts in place
_____5. Remove bobbin case.

C. Upper tension (Disc Spring and Dial)

_____1. Brush dust and wipe with absorbent cloth with oil
_____2. Remove outer bolt , tension dial , discs and disc spring
_____3. Assemble by following the laid parts in your table
_____4. Lay each part in your front table following its

What do you need to know?

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School
San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Read the Information Sheet 3.3 very well then find out how much you can remember and
how much you learned by doing Self-check 3.3.

Information Sheet 3.3

PERFORM REGULAR MAINTENANCE

SCHEDULES
Care of Sewing Machine
How to Clean and Oil Your Sewing Machine
Cleaning and oiling your sewing machine is basic maintenance that bits of lint,
thread, dust and even fabric can get stuck in your machine. These make work
harder and can even jam your sewing machine. Clean your machine to fix these help
the machine to last longer and perform more smoothly. If you sew regularly,
problems and use sewing machine oil to help the moving parts function smoothly.
You should clean and oil your machine after finishing any large project as well
as any time you suspect it is having a problem.

INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Prepare the needed tools and supplies in cleaning the sewing machine.
2. Remove the needle if there is any. This will prevent the cleaner from pricking
fingers during the cleaning process.

FACE PLATE (presser bar, needle bar, thread take up lever, lifter).
 Unscrew face plate and keep it in the drawer while cleaning.
 Brush dust away then put a little amount of oil while rotating the
balance wheel to inner parts can be accessed.
 Put back the Face Plate in place.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

Cleaning and oiling your sewing

machine is basic maintenance that can help
the machine to last longer and perform more
smoothly. If you sew regularly, bits of lint,
thread, dust and even fabric can get stuck in
your machine.
These make work harder and can even
jam your sewing machine. Clean your
machine to fix these problems and use
sewing machine oil to help the moving parts
function smoothly.
You should clean and oil your machine
after finishing any large project as well as any time you suspect it is having a
problem.

UPPER TENSION ( DISC SPRING AND DIAL )

 Remove outer bolt , tension dial , discs and disc
spring.
 Lay each part in your front table following its
disassembling for easier assembling.
 Brush dust and wipe with absorbent cloth with oil.
 Assemble by following the laid parts in your table.

LOWER MECHANISM ( ROTARY OSCILLATING HOOK )

 Remove bobbin case.
 Fasten sides of oscillating hook.
 Remove dust with lint brush.
 Put a little amount of machine oil on moving parts.
 Return spare parts in place.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

OTHER MINOR PARTS

 Remove entangled threads between head and balance wheel.
 Brush accumulated dust in the treadle joints connecting the band wheel.
 Clean gummy dust on the band wheel.
 After all parts were dusted, lubricate all joints and oil slots with good quality oil.
 Wipe off all surplus oil then put a piece of absorbent cloth under the presser foot
for dripping oil.

Note : When the machine has thoroughly cleaned and oiled, run it slowly for
several minutes to allow the oil to work on its moving parts. Place a scrap of fabric
under the presser foot and lower the needle to absorb excess oil.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURE IN SEWING MACHINE

MAINTENANCE
Cleaning and lubricating a sewing machine is quite a messy task. Personal
care should be observed during this activity. The following health and safety
precautions should be practiced at the shop or at home.
1. Wear personal protective equipment. This prevents your clothing from being
tarnished by oil and dirt .Be sure to wear gloves to avoid accumulation of oil and dirt
in your nails and palms. ( Wearing of protective eye glasses is optional ).
2. Remove the upper belt or turn power off before oiling the sewing machine.
3. When a chemical or small spare parts get into your eyes, call the attention of your
teacher at once.
4. Do not remove any safety device from any machine.
5. Be sure that all screws are well-lightened before starting the machine.
6. Make sure that no screws or tools are left on the floor to avoid slipping.

7. Wipe dry spilled oils on the floor to avoid accidents.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

8. Assign colored tags for a newly maintained sewing machine

9. Provide a small bin for your garbage when performing this job.
10. Have a separate cabinet or storage for tools and supplies for sewing machine
maintenance.
11. Always refer to the sewing machine service manual for accurate application of
procedure.

Note: A sewing machine is an equipment that needs care and cleaning. Keep it
dusted and lubricated at least once a week or more often if the machine is in
constant use.

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

How much have you learned?

Self-Check 3.1

A. Directions: Write the letter of the correct answer in your quiz notebook.

1. In wiping spilled oils during cleaning, the correct cloth is ___________.

a. Damp cloth b. Dry cloth
c. Oiled cloth d. Any of the above
2. The part of the sewing machine that should be avoided when oiling is
__________.
a. Bobbin winder b. Rubber ring
c. Stitch regulator d. Stop motion screw
3. The part of sewing machine that can be considered a safety device since it
covers the lower mechanism and is important during garment construction is
_________.
a. bobbin winder b. slide plate
c. tension disc d. throat plate
4. The cleaning material that maintains moving parts of sewing machine in
smooth operation is ____________.
a. absorbent cloth b. lint brush
c. lubricant d. water
5. The good practice of cleaning and lubricating the sewing machines
____________.
a. Every two weeks b. Once a week
c. Once a month d. Twice a week

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com
 Department of education
Division of Oriental Mindoro

B. (6-10) Enumerate at least 5 Health and Safety procedure in sewing machine

maintenance

How Do You Apply what you have learn?

Find out by accomplishing the Scoring Rubric honestly and sincerely.
Remember it is your learning at stake!

Direction: Answer the following questions. Write your answers in your notebook.

1. Why is it necessary to keep the machine clean and lubricated?

2. What is the importance of removing the needle before attempting to clean the
machine?

3. What parts of the machine are to be cleaned and lubricated?

4. What materials are needed in cleaning the machine properly?

5. What kind of oil is to be used in lubricating the treadle machine?

Marcelo I. Cabrera Vocational High School

San Aquilino, Roxas, Oriental Mindoro, 5212
Mobile No. 09399387838
Email Address: micvhs@rocketmail.com