How To Thread Your Sewing Machine

I’ve had requests from beginning sewers who wanted a clear guide demonstrating how to thread a sewing machine. I hope these step-by-step photos help!

Place a spool of thread on the spool pin. Secure by placing a spool cap on the pin. Pull the thread to the left.

Loop the thread around the left side of the upper thread guide and draw the thread downward.

Guide the thread down through the gap. Loop beneath the check spring holder, then pull the thread upward.

Hook the thread into the eye of the take-up lever by pulling the thread from right to left. You may need to turn the handwheel to raise the take-up lever.

Pass the thread through the lower thread guide.

Slide the thread behind the needle bar thread guide on the lefthand side.

Thread the needle from front to back.

How to Use An Automatic Needle Threader

Some machine models have an automatic needle threader. Here’s how to use this handy feature.

 Lower the presser foot and raise the needle to the highest position by turning the handwheel.

Pull the needle threader lever down until it catches.

Loop the thread around the outside of the lefthand guide.

Pull the thread to the right and draw it beneath the righthand guide. The thread will catch within a tiny hook.

Draw the thread up along the right side of the guide.

Raise the lever gently but quickly. This draws the thread through the needle’s eye. Make sure the thread is drawn through the needle and towards the back of your machine.