I85PREP
⌘ K
Maharashtra SSC Stitching with Sewing Machine Divyang study materials
Maharashtra SSC Stitching with Sewing Machine Divyang study resources

Maharashtra SSC Stitching with Sewing Machine Divyang practice questions

One question at a time. Build your Maharashtra SSC Stitching with Sewing Machine Divyang understanding.

First 50 of 200 questions. Each one lists the choices, the correct answer, and an explanation. The checker at the top of this page saves progress in this browser when it is available.

Continue in the practice tool above to load more questions, 50 at a time.

Question 1Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Before threading a domestic sewing machine, what is the correct first step for safe operation?

  1. Set the stitch length to zero and lower the feed dogs
  2. Remove the bobbin case from the machine
  3. Loosen the needle clamp screw fully
  4. Switch off the power and raise the presser foot Correct answer.

Explanation

Threading is done with the machine switched off so the motor cannot start if the foot pedal is touched accidentally, and the presser foot is raised so the thread can pass freely through the tension discs. This protects both the operator's fingers and the thread path.

Question 2Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

On a treadle or motorised machine, what does the presser foot do while stitching?

  1. It pulls the bobbin thread up through the needle plate
  2. It cuts the thread after the seam is finished
  3. It holds the fabric firmly against the feed dogs Correct answer.
  4. It controls the tension of the upper thread

Explanation

The presser foot presses the fabric down so the feed dogs can grip and move it steadily under the needle. Without this pressure the fabric slips and the stitch length becomes uneven.

Question 3Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

A candidate notices the needle is bent after hitting a pin. What is the correct action before continuing work?

  1. Replace the needle with a new one of the same size Correct answer.
  2. Increase the thread tension to compensate
  3. Straighten the needle by hand and continue
  4. Continue stitching but reduce the motor speed

Explanation

A bent needle cannot be trusted to run true; it may strike the needle plate, break, or damage the timing. The safe practice is to fit a new needle of the correct size and type.

Question 4Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Which part of the machine moves the fabric forward after each stitch?

  1. The tension dial
  2. The bobbin winder
  3. The take-up lever
  4. The feed dogs Correct answer.

Explanation

The feed dogs are toothed bars that rise through the needle plate and move the fabric a set distance for each stitch. The stitch length dial changes how far they travel.

Question 5Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

What is the purpose of the handwheel on a sewing machine?

  1. It raises and lowers the presser foot
  2. It turns the mechanism by hand to position the needle Correct answer.
  3. It winds the bobbin automatically
  4. It sets the upper thread tension

Explanation

Turning the handwheel by hand moves the needle bar and take-up lever so the needle can be positioned for threading, starting a seam, or bringing up the bobbin thread. The handwheel must always be turned towards the operator.

Question 6Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Which action reduces the chance of the needle piercing the operator's finger while guiding fabric?

  1. Guiding the fabric with fingers well back from the needle and watching the guide line Correct answer.
  2. Watching the needle rather than the fabric edge, with fingers close to the needle
  3. Stitching at the highest speed to finish quickly
  4. Removing the presser foot so the fabric is visible

Explanation

Fingers should stay a safe distance from the needle while the eyes follow the seam guide or fabric edge. This keeps control of the fabric without placing fingers in the needle's path.

Question 7Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

The upper thread keeps breaking during stitching. Which cause should be checked first?

  1. The bobbin is wound too loosely
  2. The presser foot is raised while stitching
  3. The feed dogs are lowered
  4. The thread is incorrectly routed or the tension is too tight Correct answer.

Explanation

Upper thread breakage most often comes from a missed thread guide, a rough spot, or excessive upper tension. Checking the thread path and tension setting is the logical first step before replacing parts.

Question 8Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Why should the needle be raised to its highest point before pulling the fabric away after finishing a seam?

  1. So the feed dogs can be lowered safely
  2. So the presser foot spring is released
  3. So the take-up lever releases the thread and the thread does not bend the needle Correct answer.
  4. So the bobbin winder can engage

Explanation

At the top of its travel the take-up lever has finished drawing thread, so the thread can be pulled out without bending the needle or jamming. Pulling fabric while the needle is down strains the needle and the timing.

Question 9Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

What does the take-up lever do during the stitch cycle?

  1. It locks the handwheel when the bobbin is full
  2. It holds the bobbin in the shuttle
  3. It pulls thread from the spool and tightens the stitch Correct answer.
  4. It feeds the fabric forward one stitch length

Explanation

The take-up lever rises to draw thread from the spool and then descends to pull the loop tight around the bobbin thread. This action forms each locked stitch and must be threaded correctly.

Question 10Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

The stitch length dial is set to a very small number. What effect does this have?

  1. The needle moves sideways for zigzag stitching
  2. The upper tension increases automatically
  3. Stitches become longer and the fabric moves faster
  4. Stitches become shorter and the fabric moves a smaller distance per stitch Correct answer.

Explanation

The stitch length dial controls how far the feed dogs move per stitch. A small setting shortens the feed movement, giving short, close stitches suitable for reinforcement or fine work.

Question 11Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

What is the correct order for threading the upper part of a domestic machine?

  1. Spool, tension discs, take-up lever, needle Correct answer.
  2. Spool, take-up lever, tension discs, needle
  3. Spool, needle, take-up lever, tension discs
  4. Spool, tension discs, needle, take-up lever

Explanation

Thread must pass through the tension discs before reaching the take-up lever, and then down to the needle. Following this order lets the tension discs and lever act on the thread as designed.

Question 12Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Why must the bobbin be wound evenly and without overlapping thread?

  1. So the bobbin thread unwinds smoothly and tension stays even Correct answer.
  2. So the bobbin fits into the shuttle more easily
  3. So the feed dogs grip the fabric better
  4. So the needle can be threaded faster

Explanation

An unevenly wound bobbin releases thread in jerks, which shows as uneven stitches and can cause the bobbin thread to break. Even winding keeps bobbin tension steady throughout the seam.

Question 13Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

A candidate must clean lint from under the needle plate. What is the safe procedure?

  1. Leave the machine running and brush the lint away
  2. Loosen the needle screw and use the needle to scrape the lint
  3. Switch off and unplug the machine, then remove the plate and brush out lint Correct answer.
  4. Blow the lint away with the machine running at full speed

Explanation

Cleaning is done with the power disconnected so the motor cannot start while hands are near the needle and feed dogs. A small brush removes lint without damaging parts.

Question 14Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

What is the main function of the tension discs on a sewing machine?

  1. To grip the upper thread and create resistance so the stitch locks in the fabric Correct answer.
  2. To lift the presser foot during stitching
  3. To move the fabric under the needle
  4. To hold the bobbin case in place

Explanation

The tension discs press on the upper thread, and the amount of pressure sets how tightly the thread is pulled. Correct tension lets the upper and bobbin threads meet inside the fabric layers.

Question 15Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

If the upper tension is far too loose, what will the stitches look like?

  1. The stitch length will become very long
  2. The upper thread will be pulled to the underside and the bobbin thread will show on top Correct answer.
  3. Both threads will meet exactly in the middle of the fabric
  4. The upper thread will lie in straight loops on the top surface

Explanation

When upper tension is too loose, the bobbin thread pulls the upper thread down, so loops of bobbin thread appear on the top surface. The remedy is to increase upper tension gradually and test on scrap fabric.

Question 16Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Which practice protects the eyes when using a high-speed sewing machine in a workshop?

  1. Keeping the machine light switched off
  2. Removing the needle guard for a clearer view
  3. Wearing safety glasses and tying back long hair Correct answer.
  4. Wearing loose sleeves that cover the hands

Explanation

Safety glasses protect against a broken needle or flying pin, and tied-back hair prevents it being caught in moving parts. Loose clothing and removed guards increase the risk of injury.

Question 17Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

What is the role of the presser foot lever?

  1. It locks the handwheel during threading
  2. It raises and lowers the presser foot onto the fabric Correct answer.
  3. It engages the feed dogs when pressed
  4. It sets the bobbin thread tension

Explanation

The presser foot lever lifts the foot so fabric can be placed or removed and lowers it to press the fabric against the feed dogs. It must be down while stitching for the feed to work.

Question 18Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Why should the machine be unplugged before changing the light bulb or opening the motor cover?

  1. To release the upper thread tension
  2. To prevent accidental starting and electric shock Correct answer.
  3. To allow the bobbin to be removed
  4. To reset the stitch length to zero

Explanation

Electrical parts remain live while the machine is plugged in, so touching them can cause shock and the motor could start unexpectedly. Unplugging isolates the machine completely before any internal work.

Question 19Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

A candidate is stitching thick denim and the needle keeps deflecting. What is the best adjustment?

  1. Lower the feed dogs and push the fabric by hand
  2. Fit a heavier needle and increase presser foot pressure for the fabric Correct answer.
  3. Increase upper tension to maximum
  4. Use a finer needle and reduce presser foot pressure

Explanation

Thick fabric needs a stronger needle and enough presser foot pressure to hold it so the needle does not bend. Matching needle size and foot pressure to fabric weight prevents deflection and breakage.

Question 20Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Which combination correctly matches a machine control with the result it produces?

  1. Bobbin winder - tension of the bobbin thread during stitching
  2. Stitch width dial - length of each stitch
  3. Stitch length dial - distance the feed dogs move per stitch Correct answer.
  4. Presser foot pressure - tightness of the upper thread

Explanation

The stitch length dial changes how far the feed dogs advance the fabric for each stitch. Each control on a machine has one specific function, and confusing them leads to poor stitch quality.

Question 21Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Skipped stitches appear consistently on a stretch fabric. Which explanation is most likely?

  1. The bobbin is overfilled and the handwheel is stiff
  2. The needle is too large and the thread too heavy for the fabric
  3. The wrong needle type is fitted and the fabric is not held firmly enough Correct answer.
  4. The stitch length is set too short for the thread

Explanation

Stretch fabrics need a ballpoint or stretch needle and firm presser foot pressure so the loop forms reliably. A sharp universal needle and light pressure let the fabric lift with the needle, causing skipped stitches.

Question 22Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Why is it unsafe to place fingers under the needle plate area while the machine is switched on, even if the foot pedal is not pressed?

  1. The light bulb may overheat and break
  2. The feed dogs may start automatically when fabric is sensed
  3. The machine may start if the pedal is accidentally touched or the switch is knocked Correct answer.
  4. The needle plate becomes magnetic and pulls metal tools

Explanation

A powered machine can start the moment the pedal or switch is operated, including by accident or by another person. Keeping hands away from the needle and feed dog area unless the machine is off and unplugged removes that risk.

Question 23Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

A machine runs but the fabric does not move forward. Which fault should be checked first?

  1. The feed dogs are lowered or the stitch length is set to zero Correct answer.
  2. The needle is inserted with the flat side to the rear
  3. The take-up lever is not threaded
  4. The bobbin thread is the wrong colour

Explanation

If the feed dogs are dropped or the stitch length is at zero, the fabric stays in place while the needle stitches in one spot. Checking these two settings first is quick and solves most no-feed complaints.

Question 24Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

What is the correct way to test that tension is balanced after changing the upper thread?

  1. Pull the thread by hand until it snaps
  2. Stitch directly on the garment and adjust while sewing
  3. Stitch a short seam on a scrap of the same fabric and inspect both sides Correct answer.
  4. Set both dials to their highest numbers

Explanation

Testing on a scrap of the same fabric shows how the upper and bobbin threads interlock before the real work is risked. Both sides should show even stitches with no loops.

Question 25Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

Which statement about the bobbin case is correct?

  1. It raises the feed dogs after each stitch
  2. It locks the presser foot in the raised position
  3. It guides the upper thread down to the needle
  4. It holds the bobbin and its small screw adjusts bobbin thread tension Correct answer.

Explanation

The bobbin case houses the bobbin and its tension screw controls how freely the bobbin thread unwinds. Bobbin tension is adjusted only in small steps and only after upper tension is correct.

Question 26Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

On a domestic sewing machine, what is the main job of the feed dog?

  1. It presses the fabric down against the needle plate from above
  2. It grips the fabric from below and moves it forward one stitch length at a time Correct answer.
  3. It holds the bobbin thread tight while the needle rises
  4. It pulls the upper thread down to form each loop around the bobbin

Explanation

The feed dog is the toothed part that rises through the slots in the needle plate, grips the underside of the fabric and carries it forward by the set stitch length. Its teeth must be clean and sharp so the fabric moves evenly. The presser foot presses from above, and thread handling belongs to the take-up lever and bobbin case.

Question 27Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

A candidate must stop the machine instantly because the fabric is jammed. Which control should be used?

  1. The stitch length dial, turned to zero
  2. The foot pedal, released completely Correct answer.
  3. The reverse lever, pushed fully back
  4. The presser foot lever, lifted quickly

Explanation

On a pedal-controlled machine the foot pedal is the on/off speed control, so lifting the foot off it stops the motor at once and is the fastest safe response. Hands should stay away from the needle area while the machine may still move. The other controls change stitch settings or foot pressure and do not cut motor power.

Question 28Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

A candidate notices the needle is bent slightly to one side after stitching over a thick seam. Why must the needle be replaced before continuing?

  1. A bent needle will hit the needle plate or bobbin case and can break, sending fragments towards the operator Correct answer.
  2. A bent needle causes the bobbin winder to overfill the bobbin
  3. A bent needle makes the stitch length dial read incorrectly
  4. A bent needle makes the presser foot lever stiff to operate

Explanation

A bent needle no longer travels in a straight line through the needle plate hole, so it can strike the plate or bobbin case and snap. Broken needle fragments can fly towards the face and eyes, which is why eye protection and immediate replacement matter. Needle condition does not change dial readings or bobbin winding.

Question 29Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

The machine sews normally on thin cotton but the needle seems to struggle and the motor slows on thick canvas. Which adjustment is most appropriate?

  1. Turn the upper tension dial to its highest number
  2. Lower the feed dog below the needle plate
  3. Reduce the presser foot pressure to its lightest setting
  4. Fit a larger needle size suited to heavy fabric and increase presser foot pressure if needed Correct answer.

Explanation

Heavy fabric needs a thicker needle so the shaft can carry the load without bending, and adequate presser foot pressure so the feed dog can grip the fabric. A needle that is too fine for canvas flexes, strains the motor and may break. Tension and feed dog height do not solve a needle-to-fabric mismatch.

Question 30Sewing machine parts, controls and safe operation

After a candidate fits a new bobbin, the machine makes a loud clattering noise and the hand wheel becomes stiff. Which inspection step is most logical first?

  1. Change the stitch width selector to a straight stitch
  2. Check that the bobbin is seated the right way round in the case and that the case is fully clicked into the shuttle Correct answer.
  3. Re-thread the upper looper and adjust the differential feed
  4. Loosen the upper tension discs by two full turns

Explanation

A bobbin inserted upside down or a bobbin case not fully seated will foul the shuttle race, causing noise and a stiff hand wheel. The correct first step is to remove the bobbin and case, confirm the thread direction and refit until the case clicks home. Tension or stitch selector changes cannot fix a mechanical jam in the bobbin area.

Question 31Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

On a domestic sewing machine, which part holds the bobbin and rotates to form the lockstitch with the needle thread?

  1. The spool pin on the top of the machine
  2. The tension disc assembly on the face plate
  3. The presser foot lever at the front of the arm
  4. The bobbin case hook assembly in the lower mechanism Correct answer.

Explanation

The hook (shuttle) in the lower mechanism catches the needle thread loop and carries it around the bobbin, interlocking the two threads into a lockstitch. The spool pin, tension discs and presser foot all serve other functions in the thread path and fabric feed.

Question 32Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

What is the correct order for threading the upper thread on a typical single-needle lockstitch machine?

  1. Take-up lever, spool pin, tension discs, needle, thread guides
  2. Spool pin, thread guides, tension discs, take-up lever, needle Correct answer.
  3. Tension discs, spool pin, take-up lever, thread guides, needle
  4. Spool pin, take-up lever, needle, tension discs, thread guides

Explanation

The upper thread must pass from the spool through the guides, then between the tension discs, then through the take-up lever, and finally down to the needle. Threading the take-up lever last or skipping it causes poor stitch formation and thread breakage.

Question 33Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

After winding a bobbin, which check confirms it is correctly inserted in the bobbin case before sewing?

  1. The thread tail is left long and hanging loose outside the case
  2. The bobbin turns freely and the thread pulls out smoothly in the correct direction Correct answer.
  3. The bobbin is pressed down firmly so it cannot rotate at all
  4. The bobbin case is removed and the bobbin run without any thread

Explanation

A correctly loaded bobbin sits in the case with the thread wound in the right direction so it unwinds smoothly when pulled. If the bobbin is reversed, the thread will jam or the stitch will loop underneath.

Question 34Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

What is the main purpose of the take-up lever in the upper thread path?

  1. To pull the required length of needle thread and tighten the stitch as the hook releases the loop Correct answer.
  2. To press the fabric against the feed dogs during sewing
  3. To wind the bobbin while the machine runs
  4. To control the length of the stitch

Explanation

The take-up lever rises and pulls the slack needle thread, tightening the interlacing point into the fabric. Without it, loops remain loose on the underside and the stitch is weak.

Question 35Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

Why should the presser foot be raised before pulling the thread through the tension discs during threading?

  1. Raising the foot locks the handwheel for safety
  2. Raising the foot advances the feed dogs
  3. Raising the foot releases the tension discs so the thread seats between them properly Correct answer.
  4. Raising the foot disconnects the motor

Explanation

When the presser foot is raised, the tension discs separate, allowing the thread to slip between them into the correct position. If the foot is down, the discs are closed and the thread may sit outside them, giving wrong tension.

Question 36Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

Which maintenance action keeps lint from clogging the bobbin area and causing skipped stitches?

  1. Leaving the machine threaded when not in use
  2. Loosening the needle clamp screw before storage
  3. Brushing out lint from the bobbin case and hook area after each sewing session Correct answer.
  4. Oiling the needle every time the machine is used

Explanation

Lint and dust collect in the bobbin case and around the hook, and this build-up interferes with loop formation. Regular brushing of these areas prevents skipped stitches and thread jams.

Question 37Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

What does the stitch length regulator control on a lockstitch machine?

  1. The speed of the motor
  2. The amount of upper thread pulled by the take-up lever
  3. The distance the feed dogs move the fabric between needle penetrations Correct answer.
  4. The pressure of the presser foot on the fabric

Explanation

The stitch length regulator changes how far the feed dogs advance the fabric for each stitch. A longer setting gives fewer, longer stitches per centimetre.

Question 38Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

A candidate sets the upper tension dial to a very high number. What is the likely visible result on the seam?

  1. The stitch length becomes longer automatically
  2. The bobbin thread loops appear on the underside of the fabric
  3. The upper thread pulls the bobbin thread up so loops show on the top surface Correct answer.
  4. The needle thread breaks only when the machine is idle

Explanation

Excessive upper tension pulls the interlacing point upward, so the bobbin thread is drawn to the top and small loops or dots appear there. Correct balance is restored by reducing the upper tension.

Question 39Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

During sewing, the needle thread keeps fraying and breaking just above the needle eye. Which cause should be checked first?

  1. The presser foot pressure set too high
  2. Too little bobbin thread on the bobbin
  3. The stitch length set too short
  4. A burr on the needle eye or a bent needle Correct answer.

Explanation

Fraying right at the needle eye points to mechanical damage such as a burr, a bent needle, or a wrongly inserted needle. Replacing the needle and checking its seating usually solves the problem.

Question 40Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

What is the correct way to insert a new needle in the needle bar?

  1. Insert it with the eye facing sideways regardless of the machine
  2. Insert it only halfway so it can be adjusted during sewing
  3. Tighten the clamp screw loosely so the needle can self-align
  4. Push the needle up fully into the clamp with the flat side facing the specified direction and tighten the screw firmly Correct answer.

Explanation

The needle must be seated fully in the clamp with its flat shank oriented as the manufacturer specifies, and the screw tightened securely. A partly inserted or wrongly oriented needle causes skipped stitches and can damage the hook.

Question 41Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

After cleaning and oiling the machine, why is it important to run a test stitch on scrap fabric before sewing the actual garment?

  1. To confirm tension balance and remove any excess oil from the thread path Correct answer.
  2. To stretch the fabric before cutting
  3. To sharpen the needle before use
  4. To reset the stitch length to zero

Explanation

A test seam shows whether tension is balanced after reassembly and absorbs any surplus oil so it does not stain the garment. It also confirms that the machine was threaded correctly after maintenance.

Question 42Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

The machine makes a loud knocking sound and the needle strikes the needle plate. What is the most likely cause?

  1. The presser foot is raised
  2. The bobbin is wound too tightly
  3. The upper tension dial is set too low
  4. The needle is bent or set too low in the clamp Correct answer.

Explanation

A bent needle or one pushed too far down in the clamp will hit the plate or the hook as it descends. The needle should be replaced and reseated to the correct height.

Question 43Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

What is the function of the feed dogs on a sewing machine?

  1. To guide the upper thread into the needle eye
  2. To grip the fabric from below and move it forward by the set stitch length Correct answer.
  3. To press the fabric down against the plate
  4. To hold the bobbin thread under tension

Explanation

The feed dogs are toothed bars that rise through the needle plate slots and move the fabric forward between stitches. Their travel distance is set by the stitch length regulator.

Question 44Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

When should the bobbin case be removed for cleaning?

  1. After removing the needle plate, following the machine manual, whenever lint builds up in the hook area Correct answer.
  2. Only when the machine is sent for annual service
  3. Whenever a new spool of thread is placed on the spool pin
  4. Every time the stitch length is changed

Explanation

The bobbin case and hook area should be cleaned periodically by removing the plate as described in the manual, so trapped lint can be brushed out. Cleaning only at annual service allows lint to build up and cause skipped stitches.

Question 45Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

A seam shows the needle thread lying flat on top while the bobbin thread is pulled up in loops. Which adjustment corrects this?

  1. Reduce the stitch length
  2. Increase the upper thread tension
  3. Reduce the upper thread tension Correct answer.
  4. Increase the presser foot pressure

Explanation

Loops of bobbin thread on the top surface mean the upper tension is pulling too strongly. Loosening the upper tension lets the interlacing point return to the middle of the fabric.

Question 46Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

Why must the machine be unplugged or switched off before changing the needle or cleaning the bobbin area?

  1. To allow the thread tension to settle before threading
  2. To reset the stitch length regulator to its default
  3. To prevent accidental starting of the motor while hands are near the needle and hook Correct answer.
  4. To prevent the bobbin from unwinding

Explanation

With the power off, the motor cannot start unexpectedly while fingers are close to the needle and hook. This is a basic safety rule for all needle and bobbin maintenance.

Question 47Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

What symptom indicates that the bobbin case tension spring is too tight?

  1. The needle thread slips out of the take-up lever
  2. The bobbin thread pulls out very easily and loops form underneath
  3. The feed dogs stop moving the fabric
  4. The bobbin thread pulls out with strong resistance and the upper thread breaks during sewing Correct answer.

Explanation

The bobbin case spring sets lower thread tension; when it is too tight, the bobbin thread resists pulling and the upper thread may snap. A small screw on the case adjusts this tension.

Question 48Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

Which routine keeps the machine's moving parts lubricated without staining fabric?

  1. Pour oil over the whole machine head before each use
  2. Apply a few drops of sewing machine oil at the points marked in the manual, then run the machine briefly without fabric Correct answer.
  3. Oil the handwheel belt every day
  4. Oil only the needle and presser foot

Explanation

Oil should be applied sparingly only at the lubrication points specified in the manual, and the machine run briefly so excess oil is distributed. Over-oiling or oiling the wrong parts causes stains and attracts lint.

Question 49Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

A student notices that stitches are very short and the fabric puckers even though the regulator is set to a long stitch. What should be checked?

  1. Whether the fabric is being held back or pulled, and whether the feed dogs are obstructed Correct answer.
  2. Whether the handwheel turns clockwise only
  3. Whether the spool pin is fully inserted
  4. Whether the bobbin winder is engaged

Explanation

If the operator pulls or holds back the fabric, or lint blocks the feed dogs, the actual feed is reduced and stitches become short and puckered. The regulator setting alone cannot compensate for restricted fabric movement.

Question 50Machine setting, threading and basic maintenance

On a machine with a top-loading bobbin, how is the bobbin thread brought up before starting to sew?

  1. Run the machine at full speed until the bobbin thread appears
  2. Pull the bobbin thread with a hook through the needle plate slot from above
  3. Hold the needle thread, turn the handwheel one full turn toward the operator, and pull the bobbin thread up through the plate Correct answer.
  4. Loosen the bobbin case screw until the thread falls out

Explanation

Holding the needle thread and turning the handwheel one complete revolution lets the hook catch the needle thread and bring the bobbin thread up through the plate. This ensures both threads are under the presser foot before sewing.