How To Change A Sewing Machine Needle

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So how often should you change a sewing machine needle and how do you tell it needs replacing?

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It is recommended to change the needle after 8-10 hours of sewing. You may need to change more regularly if you are using heavier-weight fabrics or regularly sewing through many layers.

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Unthread the sewing machine needle and get the thread out of the way. You don’t need to unthread the whole machine.

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Turn off the sewing machine or lock it if you have that function. You don’t want the machine to start sewing if you accidentally bump something!

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Raise the needle to the highest position and lower the presser foot. This will give you the maximum amount of space to handle the needle.

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Holding the needle with your left hand, loosen the screw that holds the needle in place. You don’t need to completely remove the screw.

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Gently pull the needle down and away from the sewing machine.

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Grab your new sewing needle. Typically, the shank (top part) of the needle has a flat side and a rounded side. Placing the flat side to the back of the sewing machine, insert the new sewing machine needle into the needle clamp, as high as it will go.

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Swipe up for the full tutorial!

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