CHANGING THE NEEDLE

About the Needle

The sewing machine needle is probably the most important part of the sewing machine. Choosing the proper needle for your sewing project will result in a beautiful finish and fewer problems. Below are some things to keep in mind about needles.

The smaller the needle number, the finer the needle. As the numbers increase, the needles get thicker.

Use fine needles with lightweight fabrics, and thicker needles with heavyweight fabrics.

To avoid skipped stitches, use ball point needle (gold colored) 90/14 with stretch fabrics.

To avoid skipped stitches, use ball point needle (gold colored) 90/14 when sewing character or decorative stitches.

Use a 90/14 to 100/16 needle with transparent nylon threads, regardless of the fabric being sewn.

A home sewing machine needle 75/11 is inserted in the sewing machine.

Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations

The following table provides information concerning the appropriate thread and needle for various fabrics. Please refer to this table when selecting a thread and needle for the fabric you wish to use.

 

Fabric

 

Thread

Size of needle

 

Type

 

Size

 

 

 

 

 

Medium weight fabric

 

Broadcloth

Cotton

 

60 - 80

75/11 - 90/14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taffeta

Synthetic mercerized

 

60 - 80

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flannel, Gabardine

Silk or silk finished

 

50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lightweight fabric

 

Lawn, Batiste

Cotton

 

60 - 80

65/9 - 75/11

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Georgette

Synthetic mercerized

 

60 - 80

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Challis, Satin

Silk

 

50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Heavyweight fabric

 

Denim

Cotton

 

30 - 50

90/14 - 100/16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corduroy

Synthetic mercerized

 

50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tweed

Silk

 

50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stretch fabric

 

Jersey

Thread for knits

 

50 - 60

Ball point needle

 

 

 

 

 

 

(gold colored)

 

 

Tricot

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

75/11 - 90/14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Easily frayed fabrics

 

 

Cotton thread

 

50 - 80

65/9 - 90/14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synthetic thread

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Silk thread

 

50

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For top stitching

 

 

Synthetic mercerized

 

30

90/14 - 100/16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Silk

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Memo

For transparent nylon thread, always use needle 90/14 - 100/16.

The same thread is usually used for the bobbin thread and upper threading.

CAUTION

Be sure to follow the needle, thread, and fabric combinations listed in the table. Using an improper combination, especially a heavyweight fabric (i.e., denim) with a small needle (i.e., 65/9 - 75/11), may cause the needle to bend or break, and lead to injury. Also, the seam may be uneven, the fabric may pucker, or the machine may skip stitches.

1

Getting Ready

37

Page 38
Image 38
Brother QC 1000 operation manual About the Needle, Fabric/Thread/Needle Combinations

QC 1000 specifications

The Brother QC-1000 is a versatile and user-friendly sewing machine designed for both beginners and experienced sewers. Packed with advanced features and innovative technologies, the QC-1000 stands out as a reliable companion for a wide range of sewing projects, from simple alterations to intricate quilting.

One of the most prominent features of the Brother QC-1000 is its extensive collection of built-in stitches. It boasts over 100 unique stitch patterns, including utility stitches, decorative stitches, and quilting stitches, which allow users to explore their creativity. The machine also includes multiple automatic buttonhole styles, making it easier than ever to create professional-looking buttonholes with minimal effort.

The QC-1000 is equipped with a large LCD touchscreen display, which simplifies the selection of stitches and settings. The intuitive interface allows users to easily view and adjust stitch length and width, as well as customize their sewing experience. This user-centric design ensures that even beginners can navigate the machine without feeling overwhelmed.

Incorporating advanced technology, the QC-1000 features automatic needle threading, a helpful function that saves time and frustration. Additionally, the machine has a drop-in bobbin system that allows for quick and easy bobbin changes, further streamlining the sewing process. The built-in sewing guide provides helpful tips and stitch recommendations, making it an excellent teaching tool for newcomers to sewing.

The Brother QC-1000 is also designed with a spacious work area, ideal for quilting and larger projects. The wide table attachment provides extra support for handling bulky fabrics, ensuring stable and precise stitching. The machine's high sewing speed and powerful motor enable users to tackle projects efficiently without sacrificing quality.

Durability and reliability are key characteristics of the Brother QC-1000. Constructed with high-quality materials and engineered for consistent performance, this machine is designed to withstand regular use. It also features a comprehensive warranty, providing peace of mind for users.

Overall, the Brother QC-1000 is an exceptional sewing machine that combines versatility, advanced technology, and user-friendly features, making it a preferred choice for sewers at any skill level. Its ability to handle various sewing tasks with ease ensures that it will be a valuable addition to any sewing room.