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With the other articles in this series we introduced you to the main elements of timing the machine: needles, the hook, and most importantly the need for the hook point to be at the right position to pick up the thread. Let's think about all that plus a couple of other things as well in order to understand timing. Timing refers to the mechanical adjustments that allows the feed system and the hook/needle position to be at the right spot in order to pick up the thread. Now, let's face it, every brand of machine has its own specifications as to how to make these elements work together so there's no way this article can address anything more than the general idea so that you can understand what is the goal. so here's some things you can check yourself. 1, The feed system: What you want is for the feed dogs to not move the fabric while the needle is in the fabric. Take the thread and fabric away. Turn the machine on and select the straight stitch set at the longest stitch your machine will do. Turn the handwheel all the way around twice and stop when the needle tip is just out of the needle plate. At this moment the feed dogs should have come up and be just even with the top of the needle plate. Now turn the handwheel until the needle is all the way up. At this moment the feed dogs should be completely raised and all the way to the rear of the movement and ready to drop and come to the front of its cycle. Now remember: every machine is different but this is the general way the feed system works. Now, add to this the information we've already given you about the loop lift, hook, and needle bar and You'll have a good understanding of what needs to be considered when the question of timing comes up. If skipped stitches are still bedeviling your work then your machine probably needs to seek outside help. |
