4 Things To Do When You Get a New Sewing Machine

Congratulations! You have a new sewing machine, but now what do you do? Here are 4 things that I recommend you do when you get a new sewing machine.

You can find a tutorial for the sewing machine mat in the photo here.

I wanted to take a minute and talk a little bit about some things to keep in mind if you get a new Sewing Machine.  

Several years ago I became a Brand Ambassador for BERNINA sewing machines. Until I started sewing with my Bernina I had been sewing on the same sewing machine for 12 years.

I know that getting a new Sewing Machine is not a regular occurrence for most of us (It’s not for me).   For those of you shopping for a sewing machine or who just purchased a new one, or even got one as a gift this year (who hoo congrats!!), I thought I’d share a few tips that I’ve learned along the way.

Which Sewing Machine Should I Buy?

Many years ago I wrote a “How to Pick a Sewing Machine” blog post.  This is the most frequent question that I get on my blog.  I hope that it addressed some of the questions that you may have as you are shopping for a new machine. The post is older but the information is still relevant.

Now I’d like to talk a little bit about some things you can do after you get your new machine to avoid some potential frustration.

Where do I Buy a Good Quality Sewing Machine?

A: I recommend a Sewing Machine Dealer

I mentioned in my previous post about picking a machine that I recommend buying a machine from a dealer.  Purchasing from a dealer gives you a REAL person that you can come to when you have problems, or if you get stuck.  

Can’t remember how to thread your machine? You can take it into the dealer and they can show you.  Having problems with your bobbin? Most can service your machine for you.

In addition to one on one interaction, many dealerships also include new owner sewing classes as a part of your purchase.

With that in mind here are 4 things to do after you get a new machine.

4 Things You Should Do After You Buy a New Sewing Machine

One: Take a New Owner Class

I purchased my first sewing machine at the Smocking Shop in Louisville Kentucky. I also picked up my BERNINA and took new owner classes for it from the same shop.  

One of the things that I like most about purchasing a machine from a dealer is that they almost always come with free new owner classes. Each shop is different so be sure to ask before you buy, but at the Smocking Shop (at this time I picked up my machine, it may have changed) they provide free new owner classes for EVERY machine they sell.  Even the ones that cost $199.  

Plus you can go back and take the class as many time as you need until you feel comfortable.  

I hear many people say that they are having a hard time learning to sew.  I think that some of this may stem from they don’t know how to use their machine.  Taking a class is one of the best things you can do to improve your sewing skills.

Two: Read the Owners Manual

I know I say this a lot. But you guys it’s so important. How many times in school did our teachers tell us to “read the instructions”??

The same goes for a sewing machine.  Read the manual!!! Do you know what all of those feet are that came with your machine are for?  Okay if you won’t read it at least keep it close by.

Or if you have a BERNINA you can watch the instructional DVD that comes with the machine and check out their youtube channel.

Three: Make Sure You Understand the Maintenance Required for your Machine

Each sewing machine manufacturer is different.  Some machines need to be oiled regularly. Check to see if the machine will need to be oiled, and if so, how often.  It’s really easy to do.  

All machines will need to have the bobbin casing cleaned out regularly.  Just pop it off and use the brush that came with your machine to clean out the lint.

Four: Don’t Miss your One Year Check-Up:

You take your car to get the oil changed every 3-6 months right? Well, your sewing machine is not any different.

A full tune-up will keep your machine working for years to come. You invested a lot of money in that machine, make sure that you take care of it.

Regular maintenance can help keep your machine sewing at full quality for years. If you purchased your machine from a dealer you should be able to return it to that dealer for a check-up. There may be a fee, as each dealer is independent.

I hope that some of these tips and the tips I’ve shared in previous posts help you.  I am a Brand Ambassador for BERNINA but I want you to know that these tips apply NO MATTER what sewing machine you have. Regardless of the cost of the machine.  

Knowing how to properly use your machine will save you SO much time and frustration!

If you liked this post you may also like:

7 Must-Know Sewing Tips & Tricks

50+ Sewing Projects Perfect for Beginners

5 Must-Have Sewing Machine Feet

Things I Wish I Knew Before I Started Sewing

This post has been updated from a previous version.