Tag Archives: sewing project

Essential Troubleshooting Tips for Your Sewing Machine

Posted on by Empisal
Sewing Equipment
05 Aug

Have you been having problems with your sewing machine recently? Worry no more! We have compiled the following tips on how to troubleshoot your machine:

Tips on How to Troubleshoot

If you have a sewing machine project and you recently had some problems, then the following will help you:

    • Thread that Bunches under the Fabric

First, unplug the sewing  machine, and you need to thread  it again. This allows the machine to receive the thread correctly and it refreshes the tension system. Then, raise the needlebar  to the highest level possible, and proceed to use the machine to sew to confirm if it is the correct tension.

    • Skipping and Uneven Stitches

The problem is commonly caused by a broken, damaged or bent needle. The tip to troubleshooting this challenge is by replacing the needle with a new one. The other reason for this challenge can be, during sewing, when you bow down when handling your fabric. This quickly causes skipped and uneven stitches and at some point, even a damaged or broken needle. The solution to this is to place your fabric where the machine can feed itself when sewing. 

    • Frequent Needle Breakages

If your machine is encountering frequent needle breakages, it can be very annoying. While this may look like a big issue, it is usually not. The primary cause of frequent needle breakages is ignoring the needle-use guidelines. The solution to this problem is using the right needle for the right fabric. Simply use the smaller needle sizes for lighter fabric and the big needle sizes for a sturdier fabric. 

    • Shredding Threads

The primary cause of this problem is a poor quality sewing machine or an old sewing machine. A worn-out needle can also cause this problem as well as a wrongly styled needle. The solution to this problem is to ensure that the thread freely passes through the eye of the needle. Or else, purchase an affordable sewing machine that is of a good quality.

For more information on tips on how to troubleshoot your sewing machine contact Empisal.

REF: https://www.singer.com/troubleshooting-tips

How to Hem Knit Garments

Posted on by Empisal
06 Aug

A professional finish to any sewing machine project requires a good hem. It stops the knit fabric from rolling up, can add a pop of colour if a contrasting thread is used and gives the garment a defined outline. A useful sewing machine that can be utilised for a variety of functions (such as hemming a garment) is essential for your successful sewing machine projects. The Empisal Dressmaker 120A would be ideally suited to all your needs. So, all you need to professionally hem a garment is the Empisal Dressmaker 120A, and coupled with his guide, you will be hemming garments like a professional in no time!

The Zig-Zag Stitch

This is one of the simplest stitches one can add to any garment. The zig-zag stitch setting is available on any affordable sewing machine. All you need to do is press the seam allowance and use your sewing machine to stitch a narrow zig-zag. The only care that must be taken is that one should keep the fabric from stretching as this will cause the seam to become wavy.

The Rolled Hem

An extremely aesthetic way of finishing a garment, the rolled hem does need more sewing equipment. Specifically, a serger (also known as overlockers, like the Empisal Overlocker EOL4D). However, with a serger, a rolled hem becomes a very easy and very professional looking hem. Set the serger to the rolled hem position and choose a very short stitch. The stitch tends to be quite tight, so adjust the differential feed towards the neutral setting. If you choose to use a contrasting thread, the hem can add a great pop of colour to the garment.

Knit Binding

Great for accentuating the end of a piece, like a neckline or the end of a sleeve, a knit binding adds a certain class to your garment. Use a band of fabric that is just over 3 times the width of the desired finished band and about 75% of the length of the raw edge. Attach the binding to the raw edge using a zig-zag stitch, stretching it as you go. Press the seam allowances towards the binding, then wrap the finished edge of the binding to the inside, covering the previous stitching and edge-stitch it. Trim the excess fabric for a neat finish.

Empisal

For over 35 years, Empisal has been supplying sewing equipment to Southern Africa that caters to every sewing project need. From overlockers to a steam press, we have it all. For the right sewing machine for your sewing machine project, contact us today.

Sewing Machine Projects: How to Sew a Cape for Your Little Superheroes

Posted on by Empisal
How to sew
26 Feb

Every Superhero needs a cape. Gone are the days of tying a towel around your little one’s neck, this sewing machine project tutorial will teach you how to sew your child their very own superhero cape, so they can fight the bad guys in style!

Supplies:

  • 2 meters of fabric
  • Thread
  • Velcro
  • Measuring Tape
  • Iron
  • Sewing Supplies

Method:

  • Tear two pieces of fabric 78 cm in length, then lay the two pieces on top of each other and fold them in half. You will need a marking tool, such as chalk or a pencil. On one end of the fabric mark a line at 28 cm. On the other end mark a line at 14 cm.
  • Using a measuring tape or a piece of long string, connect the two marks and draw a straight line between.
  • Cut your fabric 1.5 cm away from the line you just created and cut a straight line across the wider bottom edge.
  • Find a bowl or plate that measures 20 cm across. Lay the round object on top of your fabric at 14 cm from the top and 10 cm from the fold. Then trace the object from edge to edge on your fabric.
  • Next, cut 1.5 cm away from this round line you have created.
  • While the fabric is still folded, gently round the bottom and top corners of the superhero cape. Unfold your fabric and it should look like a cape!
  • Leave the two pieces of fabric lying on top of each other and head to your sewing machine. Pinning isn’t essential, just make sure you keep them lined up while you are sewing.
  • Sew around the cape at 1.5 cm and remember to back stitch. Leave a 5-cm opening so you can turn the cape right side out (I recommend leaving it on the bottom of the cape).
  • Once you have sewn, clip around the neck of the cape to relax the seam.
  • Turn the cape right side out! Warm up your iron and press the edges and all the wrinkles flat. Then hand sew that little opening closed.
  • Cut a square of Velcro. Sew the squares close to the edge, placing them on opposite sides of the cape. They will overlap when you put them together.

This sewing project will make your child super happy! Attach it around the neck and watch them fly!

About Empisal

For over 35 years, Empisal has been supplying haberdashery items, overlockers, sewing equipment and steam press items. Whether you’re about to start your sewing journey and are looking for an affordable sewing machine, or whether you are an old hand and need to top up your supply, Empisal is a one-stop-shop for all your sewing machine project needs.

Follow the links for more information about us or our products. Otherwise, contact us today!

Say “I Love You” With This Valentine’s Day Sewing Machine Project!

Posted on by Empisal
Sewing machine
12 Feb

With the ‘Day of Love’ just around the corner, a thoughtful, heartfelt sewing project is one of the most intimate ways you can give a gift of love. Valentine’s Day Crafts are fun and easy to make. With a sewing machine project, you can make all your loved one’s homemade gifts and decorate your home with tons of hearts for the love-ly day! This year, don’t forget about romantic Valentine’s Day crafts and Valentine’s Day crafts for kids. All you need is a sewing machine and a full heart.

Cross My Heart Pillow

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an easy sewing project for your home. The Cross My Heart Pillow has three applique hearts and a cute pom-pom trim. Sew a pillow that is a perfect decoration for this romantic holiday. Find the pattern here:

Cupid’s Table Runner

Make a table runner that will add a hint of romance to your table when you sew up this lovely piece of red and pink kitchen decor. A table runner is insanely easy, and you will love adding it to your February home. Whether you just want to add some lovey-dovey touches to your home or have a big dinner planned, Cupid’s Table Runner will add that extra hint of DIY you have been looking for. Find the pattern here.

Fishy Kisses Mug Rug

Give a clever gift to your beau or best friend when you make cute and romantic Mug Rugs. Skip the flowers that wilt and the chocolate that melts and give free Fishy Kisses Mug Rugs. That way the one you love can think of you fondly every morning with their coffee. The Fishy Kisses Mug Rug takes a few hours to make and shows you how to make a mug rug that is unlike any other free sewing pattern out there. Find the pattern here.

About Empisal 

For over 35 years, Empisal has been supplying haberdashery items, overlockers, sewing equipment and steam press items. Whether you are about to start your sewing journey and are looking for an affordable sewing machine, or whether you are an old hand and need to top up your supply, Empisal is a one-stop-shop for all your sewing machine project needs.

Follow the links for more information about us or our products, otherwise, contact us today!

Decorate your home with these festive sewing projects

Posted on by Empisal
06 Nov

If you love decorating your home for Christmas celebrations, then these easy festive sewing projects from Empisal, manufacturers of the EMPISAL EES50 are just for you!

  • Christmas bunting: Easy to make, hang up and re-use every year, bunting adds warmth and colour to any area of your home. Hang it above an entrance, over your fireplace or above your windows for an instant splash of Christmas spirit. This is also a great way to use up scrap material in Christmas colours.
  • Quilted ornaments: If you’d like to try your hand at quilting but don’t want to commit to a huge project, these easy tree ornaments are the perfect way to practise your skills – and get a bright, pretty result! Ideal for trees, these can also be hung on bunting, off wreaths and scattered across a table top.
  • Christmas stocking: These make a quick and easy sewing project that your kids can then customise with felt, glitter, sequins and other accessories. They also make a great gift for the grandkids! After the kids have gone to bed, fill them with little treasures and treats, and hang them up to be discovered in the morning.
  • Christmas placemats: Make your table truly unique with your own Christmas placemats. Start trawling the fabric shops now for colours and patterns that fit with your theme – you can even choose two colours for a reversible option or make every placemat unique.
  • Advent calendar: This is a great idea for families where kids just can’t wait for Christmas! You can count down the last 24 days before Christmas together, with an individual treat to open each new day. Some ideas for filling your advent calendar include sweets, hair accessories, novelty stationery, key rings, stickers, stamps and bouncy balls. Other fun ideas include holiday treats like a visit to Father Christmas, a late bedtime pass or going into the city to see the Christmas lights.

Express your creativity with Empisal, SA’s sewing machine specialists (H2)

At Empisal, we’ve been providing high quality, affordable sewing machines, sewing kits, overlockers, steam presses and ironing equipment to South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa for over 35 years.

Whether you’re learning to sew or a professional, Empisal has the right sewing machine for you. With the EMPISAL EES50, you’ll be able to take on new projects with ease and get the most out of your sewing skills.

For more information on our sewing machines and products, please contact us today.

Common sewing machine problems and how to fix them

Posted on by Empisal
Sewing machine
07 Aug

Sewing machines, like any equipment, can run into problems on occasion. Here are some of the most common sewing machine issues and how to solve them, from Empisal – the makers of the EMPISAL EES 50 SEWING MACHINE

  • Thread bunching: Also known as ‘bird nesting’ because of its resemblance to a messy bird nest, this can result from a number of issues. Luckily, regardless of the cause, it is simple to sort out. Just re-thread your machine using the manual as reference and ensuring that the take up lever is in the HIGHEST  position. Then check the position of your bobbin case and reset if necessary.
  • Thread breakage: Threads can snap if the machine is incorrectly threaded, or if your thread is not suitable to the project or being used in a sewing machine (for example, hand sewing thread). It’s always best to use high-quality threads and, if it is breaking, to re-thread your machine using the manual for reference.
  • Skipping stitches: This usually results from problems with your sewing machine needle. Check it to see if it is bent or blunt, and replace if needed. When sewing, always make sure you are allowing the feed dog to feed the fabric into the machine, as forcing it can easily bend the needle. Also, always use a high-quality needle to ensure the best results – we recommend Schmetz, who have a wide range of needles suited to different fabrics and techniques.
  • Still having problems? If you have tried these solutions and are still having problems with your sewing machine, you may need to have it professionally cleaned and serviced. Sewing machines require annual services in order to keep producing high-quality results, and wear-and-tear, debris build-up and other issues can compromise your project and damage your machine.

Reliable, affordable sewing machines and equipment from Empisal

At Empisal, we’ve been providing high quality, affordable sewing machines, overlockers, steam presses and ironing equipment to South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa for over 35 years.

Whether you’re learning to sew or a professional, Empisal has the right sewing machine for you. With the EMPISAL EES 50 SEWING MACHINE, you’ll be able to take on new sewing projects with ease and get the most out of your sewing skills.

For more information on our sewing machines and products, please contact us today.

Sewing machine projects: How to sew a cape for your little superheroes

Posted on by Empisal
20 Feb

Perfect for playing dress up, superhero capes provide hours and hours of fun for your child. Luckily, they’re also easy and affordable to make, so there’s no need to visit an expensive costume shop! Here’s a tutorial on how to sew this versatile and fun item on your ESS50.

What you need:

  • 2 metres of fabric (using two types of material creates a reversible cape – twice the fun!)
  • Sew on Velcro (These are safer than ties or cord, which can be a hazard for smaller children)

Method:

  • Fold one piece of your material in half down what will be the length of the cape.
  • Using a fabric pen or chalk, outline half a cape shape on the folded material. For the neck, take a large plate and place it on the top of the folded half of material. Use it to trace out an outline that will fit around your child’s neck, keeping about 5 cm of fabric from the edge for the shoulders.
  • Cut out your cape 1.5cm outside your traced pattern so that you have room to sew.
  • Unfold your cape and use it as a template for your other piece of material so that they match.
  • Place the two pieces of material on top of each other with the correct sides against each other and pin.
  • Sew together along your chalked lines, leaving a 5cm gap to turn the material through.
  • Clip around the boarder of the cape neck to release any tension.
  • Turn cape right side out and hand stitch gap.
  • Cut two Velcro squares and hand sew them onto the opposite sides of the cape so that you can fix it around your child’s neck.

Affordable, reliable Empisal sewing machines for your next project

At Empisal, we’ve been providing high quality, affordable sewing machines, sewing kits, overlockers and ironing equipment to South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa for over 35 years.

Whether you’re learning to sew or a professional, Empisal has the right sewing machine for you. With the ESS50, you’ll be able to take on new projects with ease and get the most out of your sewing skills.

For more information on our sewing machines and products, please contact us today.

Say “I love you” with this Valentine’s Day sewing machine project!

Posted on by Empisal
06 Feb

Although it’s not a holiday, Valentine’s Day is a fantastic chance for celebrating the ones you love, whether you want a romantic dinner with your partner or to show some love to the whole family! Unlike what you may see in shops and advertisements, you don’t need to spend a lot to make a day like this truly special. Here’s a quick and easy sewing project for making some heartfelt décor on your ESS50 for your special day.

How to sew Valentine’s Day bunting

Perfect for decorating the walls and doorways, Valentine’s Day bunting is festive, easy to make and affordable!

What you need:

  • Fabrics of your choice
  • Felt
  • Ribbon
  • Hot glue gun

Method:

  • Make a heart-shaped template and cut out as many hearts as you like out of the decorative material. You will need two pieces of heart-shaped material for each finished heart.
  • Sandwich the between two fabric hearts and pin together.
  • Cut out the felt, leaving a 1.5cm border around the edges for easy sewing.
  • Sew each heart together. You can also quilt the hearts to give them a great texture.
  • Cut or pink the edges or each heart.
  • Lay out your ribbon on a flat surface and place your hearts evenly along it, leaving longer lengths of ribbon at the ends, and glue.

Find the best sewing machines in South Africa!

At Empisal, we’ve been providing high quality, affordable sewing machines, sewing kits, overlockers and ironing equipment to South Africa and Sub Saharan Africa for over 35 years.

Whether you’re learning to sew or a professional, Empisal has the right sewing machine for you. With the ESS50, you’ll be able to take on new projects with ease and get the most out of your sewing skills.

For more information on our sewing machines and products, please contact us today.