Seamstresses have a special relationship with the double needle for a sewing machine. Novice craftswomen are alarmed by its unusual appearance. They wonder how they can install it and use it effectively. But professional seamstresses are sure that they cannot do without such a needle if they want to make beautiful and even parallel lines, decorative double patterns, neat gathers and pintucks.
The needle can be easily installed on most models of sewing machines, making sewing a pleasure.
Types and purpose of double needles
The appearance of the needle is directly related to its purpose - to sew a double stitch evenly and accurately. Moreover, on the front side the stitches will run like two parallel lines, and on the back they will form a zigzag stitch. This is very convenient when you need to sew on an elastic tape or braid - for example, when sewing underwear or children's clothes. When processing the edge of a knitted product, such a needle can completely replace a flat-stitch machine, producing a neat and beautiful stitch. Stitching an even double seam on jeans is also a job for this needle. It is also used for stitching the edges of collars, cuffs, and pockets. It produces quilted products effectively and quickly.
If you thread different colored threads into a needle, you can get original decorative embroidery. When the distance between the needles is small, the second thread produces a shadow effect, and the lined outline gives the impression of a three-dimensional pattern.
The types of devices differ in the gap between the needles and the lines created. This gap ranges from one and a half to six millimeters. Needles differ in thickness and eyelet size, depending on what fabric they are intended to be used for. To sew denim, suiting or other thick fabric, you will need the appropriate JEANS model needle. It is slightly thicker than usual and has a very sharp tip. For stitching on knitwear or processing a knitted product, use the STRETCH model. It has a rounded tip that does not damage the fibers of the material. When you need to make a seam with metallized threads, the METALLIC needle model is used. The UNIVERSAL needle is suitable for sewing cotton, silk, tulle and most other types of fabrics.
How does a double needle work?
The peculiarity of the double sewing accessory is that two identical needles are fixed parallel to each other on one flat polyamide holder. The distance between the fixed needles differs different models, measured in millimeters, indicated on the packaging and on the holder.
Otherwise, the needle structure does not differ from the universal model. It is made from hardened steel and coated with nickel or titanium for added strength. On top, above the holder, it has a standard flask for strengthening in the needle holder. It is cylindrical in shape, with one beveled side, which must be turned away from you during installation. Each needle is equipped with an eye for thread, a long groove to protect the thread from chafing, and a short groove to help the thread form a loop.
How to choose the right needle
Before purchasing a needle, you should carefully read the instructions for the sewing device and find out which models of needles it is compatible with. For example, for Janome machines, manufacturers recommend using needles from the Japanese brand Organ. And in the Janome 2041 S model, a double needle is included in the package. About what kind of needle the best way suitable for a home machine, you can ask the seller in any specialized sewing store in Moscow.
The needle you choose should match the weight of the fabric and the type of thread used. Another condition that you need to pay attention to when choosing an accessory is the distance between the needles. When the machine has a zigzag width of 5 mm, the gap between the needles should not exceed 4 mm, and you will only have to sew with a straight stitch. If you want to stitch with a zigzag, then a gap of no more than 2 mm is allowed between the needles, and the zigzag width will have to be adjusted to 3 mm. Otherwise, there is a high risk of damaging the needle.
Installation Rules
Before installing the needle, you need to make sure that the sewing device model is adapted to work with such an accessory. Machines of the Podolsk 142 model cannot sew with a double needle. In the needle plate they have only one round hole for the needle, and a slot is required for the movement of the double accessory. There is such a narrow gap on some models of “Seagulls”, but during installation you must carefully check that the needle passes exactly in the center of the gap.
To be able to install a needle, the machine must have the ability to sew with zigzag and install an additional spool stand. For example, the Jaguar 979 has a reel seat disc in its basic set of accessories, while the Brother X5 and Janome 6125 QC have an additional reel seat. And the Janom models JUNO 1615, 2030 DC or 4030 HC are already available with two such holders, as well as paired devices for driving and guiding the thread.
Installing a double needle in a machine is no different from the routine process of replacing a universal needle. The accessory is taken with your fingers so that the cut of the flask is turned in the direction opposite to the user, and inserted all the way into the needle holder. The fixing screw is carefully tightened with a special screwdriver from the machine tool kit. Before starting work, be sure to check the progress on the scrap and, if necessary, adjust the position of the needle and the tension of the threads.
Twin needle sewing methods
The double type of needle is most often used to sew a straight seam, with the help of which the edges of parts are connected (for example, in jeans), a neat edging of a collar or sleeves is made. Zigzag sewing is also possible; for this, the appropriate mode is set on the machine.
Another way to sew is to thread needles with different colored threads and use an accessory to decorate the piece.
To sew with a double needle, you need to insert the threads correctly. Some machine models, such as the Janome 7518 A or 7524 A, have paired thread feeders and thread guides. In them, a thread is pulled from each spool, and then their tips are inserted into the needle eyes - each thread in its own, left and right.
When all the thread devices are single, then two threads are passed through them together and only at the base of the needle they are separated. The left one is passed through the lower thread guide and threaded into the eye of the left needle. The right one is passed without threading near the thread guide and threaded directly into the eye of the right needle.
How to sew with a twin needle on a sewing machine:
- Place the product under the foot, move the handwheel towards you and lower the needle into the fabric so that it pierces it in the desired place at the beginning of the seam.
- Extend the working threads beyond the foot by at least 10 cm.
- Lower the presser foot and start working, controlling the thread tension.
- The edge to be sewn should go to the right of the needle, and the entire product to the left.
- Having completed the stitching, raise the needle and presser foot and cut the thread.
Features of working on a sewing machine with a double needle
Before starting work, you need to loosen the tension of all threads - the upper and especially the lower. When creating a seam, the top two threads use one bottom thread. To avoid constant tears, it should not be pulled too tight. The thickness of the lower thread should be one number smaller than that of the upper threads.
The spools must be installed so that the threads unwind from them in opposite directions, otherwise they will get tangled when sewing. When piercing the fabric with a needle, rotate the flywheel towards yourself, do not forget to bring the long ends of the threads behind the presser foot - at least 8-10 cm. To ensure a neat stitch, you need to sew at a reduced speed.
Safety at work
Before stitching with a double needle, you need to check the position of the switch responsible for selecting the desired stitch. If the distance between the needles is 4-6 mm, then it should only be in straight stitch mode. The width of a possible zigzag in sewing devices usually does not exceed 6 mm. If zigzag or other offset mode is selected, the needle will hit the needle plate and break. A plate scratched by a needle will further damage the fabric, leaving puffs on it.
The needle, which lowers during sewing, passes next to the shuttle at a distance of several hundredths of a millimeter. This is how the manufacturers intended it so that the shuttle could pick up the thread from the needle and form a loop. If the needle is installed incorrectly or does not match the machine model, this can cause the needle and hook to break. To avoid troubles, you need to select a needle that matches the model of the sewing device and the density of the fabric. The installed needle should not wobble or have any play when moving.
How to sew various products with a double needle, see the video below.
USING DOUBLE NEEDLES FOR A SEWING MACHINE
Any sewing machine sews with a double needle - this is not a function of the machine itself, but of the needle that you insert. You need to thread 2 spools of thread on top, then insert the threads into 2 eyes of the needle and sew. Since there is 1 bobbin at the bottom, the bottom line looks zigzag, and the top line looks like 2 parallel lines. It turns out beautifully when the tension of the upper threads is slightly tightened, then the seam on the knitwear turns out to be convex.
When you get the hang of it, try threading two different colors of thread up and using a double needle to make a decorative stitch, it’s very beautiful! Just be careful at the beginning, some machines make such a mistake that the width of the decorative stitch goes the entire width of the foot and the second tail of the needle risks running into the foot.
But! I would like to note that any machine can use double needles if the thread is inserted into the needle from the front. And now, I suggest you familiarize yourself with useful information on this topic, taken from various sources
The twin needle can be installed in any sewing machine with a zigzag stitch. The main thing to pay attention to before you buy double needle This is the width of the throat plate hole. The distance between the needles should not be wider than this hole. How to sew and how to use a double needle? Just like you use one needle, only with two top threads, passing both threads through one tensioner.
Twin needle sewing increases the capabilities of your machine and makes decorative and finishing stitches easier. Using a double needle for knitwear makes it possible to imitate the stitching of a flat-stitch machine. A sewing double needle is indispensable when sewing clothes with double stitching. Finishing stitches on jeans, patch pockets, details on men's shirts, etc. You can stitch evenly and neatly by sewing a seam with a double needle.
How to use a double needle
How to use a double needle? Just like with a regular needle, you just need to buy a suitable double needle for your sewing machine model and thread both upper threads simultaneously into two needles. Bottom thread in the bobbin will be used by both upper threads at the same time.
Twin needles are not suitable for all machines.
Double needles can sew different fabrics, but only in machines with a zigzag stitch; straight-stitch machines like Podolskaya are not intended for their use. The needle plate of these machines has one round hole, while the double needle requires a narrow and wide slot, which is used in zigzag stitch machines. In addition, additional thread guides and a stand for the second spool are required. If you are going to install a twin needle on your Chaika sewing machine, pay attention to how the needle is positioned in the hole when it is sewing a straight stitch. The needle should pass exactly in the center of the needle hole. If there is misalignment when using a double needle, it may break.
An additional creel is required for the second spool of thread.
Modern sewing Janome machines, Brother, Juki and many others have a creel for two spools of thread and paired thread feeders and thread guides, into which the upper threads are threaded separately.
Double needle installation
A double needle fits into any sewing machine, just like a regular needle. The flat of the needle (cut) should be directed back, away from you, and the round side should be directed towards you, forward. Each coil must have a separate pin (coil holder), sometimes an additional one is installed for this. If there is only one spool stand on the machine body, then a second one is included in the kit. The threads from the spools are passed through all the thread guides, including the upper thread tensioner, together, and only the lowest thread guides separate them into needles. The left thread is threaded into the left needle, the right thread into the right needle. If there is only one thread guide, like Chaika’s, then the left thread is passed through the thread guide, and the right one next to it, directly into the eye of the right needle.
What are they and their purpose
A double needle can have different distances between the needles - narrower, wider, and there are even triple needles. Different widths make it possible to choose the width of the finishing stitch and use it for design. The use of double needles is more intended for decorative seams that do not experience heavy loads.
Of course, it can be used to make finishing stitches on a pocket or flap shirt. But, we should not forget that to form a seam, a double needle uses only one thread - the bottom one, so such a seam will not be particularly strong. But, for example, for embroidering two or three parallel patterns at the same time, a double needle is simply irreplaceable. This pattern looks especially impressive if the threads are of different colors. Using double needles with a narrow gap between them, you can create an imitation of shadow in the design. Using narrow needles, I place threads on top of each other, creating a shadow effect. In addition to simple finishing stitches, double needles can be used for sewing on braid, performing elastic gathering, tucks and other operations.
Attention! Incorrectly selected double needles may break
double needle
When buying double needles in a store for your sewing machine, pay attention to the maximum width of the needle plate opening on your machine, or simply the width of the zigzag stitch on your machine. Incorrectly selected needles may break, hitting the needle plate.
In addition, before you start sewing with a double needle, watch the stitch type switch. The stitch should not be set to a zigzag or other needle offset, such as zipper stitching, etc. The double needle should only work in straight stitch mode. In any other mode, they will simply break on the needle plate of the sewing machine.
Use of double needles
Have you used twin needles on your sewing machine yet? Now you will find out how many decorative and other possibilities its use in creating clothes provides.
To use double needles you need:
Front threading
The presence of a zigzag stitch in a sewing machine.
The distance between the needles should not exceed the maximum zigzag width of your machine!
Preparatory operations.
Double needle
Install a double needle on your machine, just like a regular single needle.
If your machine has two spool holders, install the spools so that one spool thread unwinds clockwise and the other counterclockwise. This will prevent the threads from getting tangled when sewing.
If you don't have two thread guides, insert one thread into the thread guide and leave the other loose.
Thread the threads into the corresponding needles. The machine is ready to sew. I advise you to sew at minimum speed, this will also help prevent threads from tangling.
Decorative stitches (embroidery)
Does your machine have decorative stitches? Try using twin needles to embellish clothing with these stitches.
Decorative stitches
The double needle allows you to embroider two parallel designs at the same time. You can thread the upper threads in different colors.
If you use narrow needles 1.8 - 2.5 mm, the stitch patterns will overlap each other, creating a shadow effect.
For decorative stitches, use a needle size smaller than the maximum zigzag width on your machine!
Sewing on braid
Sew on the braid
Place a needle slightly smaller than the width of the braid into the needle holder and attach the satin stitch foot to the machine. This foot has a wide groove on the sole.
Set the machine controls to straight stitch and desired stitch length. Loosen the upper thread tension. Thread the ribbon through the needle hole of the foot (or under the foot).
Place the fabric under the foot, lower the needles into the fabric and sew. The braid is attached to the fabric on both sides at the same time.
Ruffles with elastic
Sewing on elastic
Wind a thin sewing elastic band (like Hungarian) onto the bobbin. The upper threads must match the fabric and match the color.
Set the stitch length to 2-2.5 mm and sew with a straight stitch.
An elastic band tucked into the shuttle mechanism will create thin fabric uniform assemblies. Admire how the application similar technology decorated the blouse.
Raised tucks
Relief tucks on fabric
For the following embellishments you will need a special foot for raised tucks. The foot has grooves on the sole into which the fabric is pulled during sewing, resulting in a raised fold.
Different pleat sizes require different presser feet. The wider and deeper the grooves, the more voluminous the relief can be obtained. Many parallel grooves on the foot allow you to lay reliefs that are even relative to each other.
The foot with 7 grooves is designed for small pintucks and is used on light fabrics.
A foot with 5 deep grooves is used for sewing on medium fabrics and allows you to make larger pintucks. This foot can also be used for sewing in cord.
Raised tucks
To make reliefs on light fabrics, it is recommended to use needles with a width of 1.6 - 2 mm; on medium tissues, needles 2.5 - 3 mm; and needles 4 mm or more on medium and heavy fabrics.
When stitching pintucks, the upper thread tension regulator should be set to 7-9, that is, to the maximum.
When decorating fabric with reliefs, keep in mind that the consumption will be higher.
Raised tucks
It is very important to perform the first tuck exactly, since the evenness of subsequent ones will depend on this. Therefore, draw the first line on the fabric and only then place a tuck along it.
It is advisable to first make reliefs on the larger part, then apply the pattern over the part and mark the cut lines.
Embossed tucksRelief tucks
For wide stitching of reliefs, use a quilting guide.
Reliefs can be both decorative and serve as darts.
See how you can decorate a summer blouse with raised tucks. Use embossed tucks to decorate underwear, children's clothing, blouses, and summer tops.
Reliefs on fleece
raised tucks
How much time do you spend knitting a sweater? Try knitting a sweater in one day using a double needle. Believe me, it's very simple and fast!
For such reliefs as in the photo, you will need fleece and a double needle of at least 5 mm. Such reliefs will look beautiful on velvet.
Reliefs with cord
reliefs with cord
To sew in the cord, use a double needle of such a width (the distance between the needles) that the cord passes freely between the needles.
Install any foot suitable for sewing in cord: a foot for sewing on beads or a foot for large embossed tucks.
Reliefs with cord
Using a chalk or disappearing marker, draw a straight or curly line on the fabric where you want to add cord trim.
Pin the end of the cord to the beginning of the line on the wrong side of the fabric.
Place the fabric with the cord under the foot, make sure that the cord fits exactly between the needles and start sewing with a straight stitch following the line drawn on the fabric.
This is what the “reliefs with cord” trim on a blouse looks like. And these figured reliefs are made on transparent fabric with a backing of cords in a contrasting color.
Sewing knitwear
knitwear
To sew knitwear, use special needles for sewing knitwear with a width of 4-5 mm.
In the photo, the hem was made with a 4 mm needle. On the front side you can see a double straight stitch, on the reverse side there is a zigzag stitch, which allows the knitted fabric to stretch. This stitch imitates sewing on an overlocker.
Knitwear
Set your machine to the straight stitch and desired stitch length.
Fold the edge of the knitted product, lay a stitch along the front side at the same distance from the fold.
Carefully trim the allowance close to the zigzag.
Sample stitches using a double needle were made on a Janome sewing machine model My Excel 23X. This machine has a maximum zigzag width of 6.5 mm.
Sample stitches using a double needle were made on a Janome sewing machine model My Excel 23X. This machine has a maximum width
Every year more and more special accessories appear on sale, allowing you to significantly expand the capabilities of household sewing equipment. Among the abundance of paws, rulers and other devices, the double needle deserves close attention, because with its help you can easily and quickly perform a lot of decorative seams and operations.
Device and types of double needle
The main distinguishing feature of a double needle is the presence of two blades at once, attached to the flask using a jumper. Thanks to this design, it is possible to lay 2 lines at the same time. This structure makes it possible without special effort
form 2 absolutely identical lines with the same distance between them along the entire length. ATTENTION!
Double needles intended for old-style machines and new household machines have slight differences in structure. Not every craftswoman is able to notice that the grooves - the indentations located on the blades of the needles - are several millimeters longer or shorter than usual (especially if she does not know about their presence), but the capricious technique immediately identifies this feature and refuses to sew. Therefore, when purchasing, be sure to focus on this nuance.
- There are twin needles:
- for decorative stitching, low-stretch fabrics; for hemming knitted fabrics
(twin stretch).
- blade diameter;
- space between the points.
They are usually marked with two numbers separated by a fractional line. Where the larger value corresponds to the needle number, and the smaller value corresponds to the distance between the points.
Needles with a distance of 4 to 6 are used:
- for hemming lower cuts;
- for sewing pockets and flaps;
- for seaming connecting seams to improve the aesthetic appearance.
Samples with a distance between blades of 1.6, 2.0, 2.5 are more often used to form decorative finishing stitches. Using threads of different colors or shades allows you to achieve a highly artistic effect with a minimum of effort.
Of particular interest to many seamstresses is the combined double needle, one of which is regular and the other is winged. This design is indispensable when hemming tablecloths, napkins or finishing light clothing.
Features of working on a sewing machine with a double needle
You should immediately note that the seams made with such a needle have a decorative purpose rather than a functional one. This is why they are used:
- in finishing works;
- when hemming the bottom of the product and sleeves;
- when sewing pockets.
They are never used for those nodes where significant load is expected.
Despite the fact that you can sew with a double needle on any household machine that has a zigzag function, not all manufacturers equip the equipment with an additional spool pin and paired thread removers and thread guides. Of course, enterprising seamstresses can easily get out of this situation by using a bobbin winder as a second rod, or simply installing 2 spools on one rod (sometimes you have to use a bobbin with wound thread instead of a spool).
The innovative method has a right to life, but it is not applicable to all household machines. Some capricious models tolerate such experiments very painfully. For their operation, it is very important that the threads unwind at the same speed and enter the needle with identical tension, because even a slight imbalance leads to stitch defects.
In such cases, long hours of setting up the machine and kilometers of sewn samples will not lead to desired result– the stitches will turn out to be of poor quality. To solve this problem, it is best to purchase a creel. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a sewing accessory purchased in a special store, or a homemade holder for 2 spools.
Increasing the length of the thread from the spool to the thread tensioner, together with the same speed of unwinding the bobbins, will do the trick - the quality of the seams will increase several times without any additional manipulations with the equipment.
Installation Rules
In order to install a double needle in a sewing machine, you should follow the same rules as in the case of a regular one:
- Take a close look at the needle flask; one side of it always has a slight truncation, the so-called flat. This design feature allows you to accurately place the needle in the machine. The flat side should always be facing away from the seamstress.
- Make sure that the distance between the blades does not exceed the size of the slot in the work plate.
- Insert the flask into the hole until it stops and tighten the fixing screw tightly.
- Insert the bobbin with the thread wound into the hook.
- Place 2 spools on the rods and thread according to the instructions for the machine. In models that are not designed with paired thread tensioners and thread guides, the threads of both spools are threaded together and only near the needle - the first of them goes into the thread guide, and then is threaded into the hole, the second is immediately threaded into the hole, bypassing the thread guide.
form 2 absolutely identical lines with the same distance between them along the entire length. When threading a sewing machine with a double needle installed, the thread from the left spool should go into the left blade, and the thread from the right spool, respectively, into the right blade.
How to sew with a twin needle
Unfortunately, there is no single algorithm by adhering to which it would be possible to force sewing equipment to perform perfect stitches the first time. Few craftswomen manage to immediately set up the machine in the right way when sewing; very often it:
However, with due diligence and methodical experimentation, you can achieve an ideal result on any sewing machine that has a zigzag option.
form 2 absolutely identical lines with the same distance between them along the entire length. When sewing stitches with a double needle, the thread tension should be minimal. If, when stitching parts with a regular needle, the thread tension toggle switch is set to 5–6, then when stitching with a double needle, it should be moved to position 1–2.
When working, it is very important not to violate the correspondence between:
- fabric thickness;
- needle number;
- thread number.
Even if, when sewing with a single needle, failure to comply with these conditions does not lead to noticeable flaws, then it is worth installing a double needle on the machine, and all possible seam defects will appear fully.
Therefore, before starting work you should:
- make sure that the thread and needle are in numerical correspondence;
- make sure that the selected type of needle is suitable for sewing this type of fabric;
- check that the machine is refueled correctly;
- reduce thread tension;
- make a sample.
A high-quality seam made with a double needle consists of 2 parallel lines on the front side and a zigzag stitch on the back side.
In this case, the fabric between the rows of stitches should not be pulled together, and the lower thread should protrude outward.
How to make decorative designs and finishing To perform decorative stitches, remember that the selected pattern cannot be too wide. The blade moving from side to side should not extend beyond the hole in the plate. IN otherwise
it will come into contact with metal and break. To minimize the risk, it is best to choose needles with a small point spacing of 1.6 mm to 2.5 mm. Before starting work, check the patency of the needles at idle speed without threads, slowly rotating the flywheel by hand.
- Sometimes clothing design involves ruffles. You can make them using the same double needle. You will need for this operation:
- a needle with a large distance between the points (5.0–6.0 mm);
a thin elastic band that should be wound onto a bobbin instead of thread.
- The presence of a special foot and a double needle in tandem allows you to perform a lot of additional operations:
- sew on cord or thin beads;
form tucks.
Rules for safe operation The impact of the tip on a steel plate in best case scenario simply leads to bending of the part, and in the worst case, to a violation of integrity. At high speed, a fragment of the rod may well bounce off and cause serious injury.
- Therefore, before you start sewing:
- check the alignment of the needle and the slot in the plate; make sure that the machine is set to straight stitch only and does not accidentally switch to zigzag, decorative finishing
or embroidery.
Always remove pins and bobby pins before using the machine. Even if they do not come into contact with the rod and do not violate its integrity, they will loosen the rack.
Do not use blunt, much less bent, needles. The presence of such defects will inevitably lead to failure.
A double needle can be installed on a Chaika machine if, during sewing, a single needle enters exactly into the center of the hole. Most modern machines, such as Janome, Brother, Juki, initially provide two spool stands. How to sew with a double needle?
Double needle
Installing a double needle significantly expands the possibilities sewing machine. When working with knitwear, it can imitate the stitching of a flat-stitch machine; the double needle also allows you to create decorative finishing stitches on other products.
To create a straight and neat double stitch on a patch pocket or trim men's shirts, you only need to stitch the product once. In all cases, the use of double needles is mainly intended for creating decorative seams; they are not designed for heavy loads.
During sewing, the machine uses only one bobbin thread for both needles, so the strength of the seam is significantly reduced. However, double and triple needles open up a wide scope for decorative embroidery of contours, for this you can use threads of different colors and even create a shadow effect. Also, double needles are used when sewing braid and creating a gather with an elastic band.
There are several types of double needles. They differ in the distance between the needles; the width of the resulting seam depends on it. The needles are selected according to the maximum seam width of your machine: if you choose them incorrectly, during operation they will touch the edges of the metal plate and eventually break.
Preparing to use a double needle
The first point is setting the sewing machine mode
Before you start working with a double needle, you need to make sure that the machine is in straight stitch mode. If it is set in a zigzag position, the twin needle will simply break when it hits the metal plate. The bobbin thread tension needs to be loosened so that it can be used for both needles.
To get started, you need to correctly install both upper threads. The spools are placed on separate upper spindles; to work with a double needle, it is recommended to select thin threads with high elasticity. To make the stitch even, the bottom thread should be one number thinner than the top threads.
A double needle is placed in a sewing machine in the same way as a regular needle. When installing, the flat of the needle is directed away from you, the round side of the flask is directed towards you. Threads from two spools are passed through all thread guides; they are separated only at the very bottom. If the machine has only one thread guide (such as the Chaika), then one thread is passed through the lower thread guide, and the second is immediately passed through the eye of the needle.
In any case, you need to sew with a double needle at minimum speed, otherwise the threads may begin to tangle with each other.
This device significantly expands the capabilities of the sewing machine when creating decorative stitches for various finishes.
Twin needle sewing methods
Twin needle expands sewing possibilities
There are several main methods of sewing with a double needle:
- Straight hold, in which the machine creates two even lines parallel to each other. When sewing knitwear, polyester threads are suitable for this; for light fabrics, the thread tension should be weak, for thick ones - medium. To create two straight parallel stitches you will need a zigzag foot.
- Decorative stitching with the simultaneous creation of two parallel patterns, for which you can use multi-colored threads. For decorative stitching, it is better to use a narrow double needle with a minimum distance between the two needles. Machine embroidery threads are best suited for this stitch. Using dark and light tone thread allows you to create a shadow effect that will look very interesting on the product. For light fabrics, the thread tension should be low.
- Openwork stitch using a double winged needle. This is a special device that allows you to move the fabric fibers apart and create holes characteristic of openwork stitching. They will be especially noticeable if the stitching is laid across the fabric fibers or diagonally. To create such a stitch, you can use threads that match the color of the fabric for machine embroidery; the thread tension should be normal.
- Decorative hem imitating a flat seam. This method is very convenient for processing the edges of knitted products; the seam is smooth and neat. The threads are selected according to the fabric; for light material, the tension should be low. The edge of the knitted fabric is folded to the wrong side, after which a stitch is laid along the front side, the distance to the edge should be at least 15 mm. Then you need to cut off the remaining allowance close to the stitching.
- Sewing on the tape: When creating a double stitch, both sides of the tape are sewn in just one pass. The width of the double needle should be slightly less than the width of the braid itself; a straight stitch is used for stitching. You can use a satin stitch foot for this.
Creating embossed tucks on fabric
Sewing with a twin needle takes practice.
Another way to decorate finished products– creation of relief tucks on the material. For this work, a special foot with grooves on the sole is used. During sewing, the fabric is tightened in them, this allows you to give it an interesting three-dimensional relief.
Grooves of different sizes allow you to get different folds; the wider they are, the more voluminous the relief obtained on the fabric will become. The double needle allows you to create interesting reliefs on fleece and velvet; in appearance they completely copy knitted product. To decorate fabric with embossed tucks, you need to follow several rules:
- The upper thread tension should be set to level 7-9, that is, almost to the maximum.
- It is very important to make the first tuck even, since all subsequent ones will be lined up along it. To make it beautiful, it’s better to draw it first straight line on fabric.
- The needle width for working with light fabrics should be no more than 1.6-2 mm, for working with dense and heavy materials - 4 mm.
- On light fabrics, you can use a foot with seven grooves; it is designed for creating small tucks. On heavy fabrics, use a foot with five grooves.
Mastering the techniques of sewing with a double needle significantly expands the possibilities of finishing a variety of products.
Creating a relief with a cord looks very interesting on the material. In this case, select a cord whose width is slightly larger than the width of the double needle. On the wrong side of the fabric you need to draw a line and pin a cord to it at the beginning and at the end.
After this, the cord is sewn with a double straight stitch, as a result of which a relief pattern is formed on the material. Try learning how to sew with double stitches to create an unusual decorative stitch.
The following video will show you how to sew with a double needle:
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Craftswomen who begin to sew with a double needle see excellent results - the quality of sewing improves, productivity increases and more opportunities for development appear. unique design. Thanks to its design, the double needle is suitable for most fabrics used, it is simple and convenient in daily use. But most importantly, it is suitable for almost all Janome sewing machines that have the “ zigzag ».
In this article we will talk about how to sew correctly using a double needle, what to look for when choosing this work accessory, how to set up machines and what safety rules to follow when performing assigned tasks.
What does a novice seamstress need to know?
The first thing you need to figure out is how the double needle works. Its design differs from conventional needles and includes a small thickened flask. It has a special flat insert for turning back, which is located in the rear. If you look at the body, you can see that two needles are attached to each other. In addition, the design includes an elongated groove, a rod, an additional short groove, an eyelet for threading and a sharp part that pierces the fabric in the necessary places during operation of the sewing machine. At first glance, the device seems complicated, but as you work, you can quickly figure out how to use a double needle correctly.
Exists several varieties of such needles on machines, distinguished by their purpose:
- suitable for different fabrics - they are called universal;
- For working with dense matter, for example, jeans;
- which are used when sewing knitwear(super-stretch), and the design of such double needles is distinguished by a more rounded tip, which gently pushes the threads apart without piercing the fabric.
When deciding to purchase a double needle, it is important to pay attention to such parameters as the distance between the needles and the dimensions of the hole for threading. Threading them is practically no different from using one needle design, however, it will be necessary to use two spools, taking into account the passage of threads through the upper tensioner.
The advantages of using a double needle are obvious - you can speed up the work of finishing products with double stitches, repeat the properties of a flat-seam stitch without using a special sewing machine, and make a neat double seam on pockets, denim and other products. At the same time, the time to achieve the goal is significantly reduced.
Installation and start of the sewing process
It’s worth noting right away that a double needle is not suitable for every sewing machine. The design of the device must provide the ability to perform a zigzag stitch, so the width of the hole on the needles does not exceed the gap between them. Before starting work, make sure that the maximum dimensions of the zigzag correspond to the design and goals. In addition, the presence of two spools and the front type of threading is important.
Almost all Janome sewing machines allow you to effectively use double needles, so owners of equipment from this brand receive a lot of advantages and do not encounter any difficulties, paying maximum attention to sewing rather than adjustments.
When starting to use double needles, you need to immediately understand the features of the process. Typically, getting started consists of several steps, following following rules:
- threading the upper threads with the obligatory loosening of the lower one, which is located in the bobbin, because it will be used by two threads from above at the same time;
- adjustment of all used threads according to their tension parameters - experts recommend using thin threads with good elasticity during the learning process;
- you should make sure that the second thread is slightly thinner than the first - this will help make a better double seam.
It is also important that the sewing machine has paired racks for placing spools, two drivers and a thread guide. This allows the top threads to be threaded correctly using separate pins without installing an additional pin. As for the refueling itself, use a double needle on suitable model Janome is very simple. The process is practically no different from using one needle - the rounded bulb is directed towards itself, and the cut is positioned away from the master. The right thread is threaded into the right needle, and the left thread in the corresponding direction.
Features of work
Thanks to the double needle, you can sew almost any product, performing decorative seams and hems, sewing on braid, assembling with elastic, making exquisite reliefs with cord and protecting the relief structure. But how to work with double needles correctly?
Having configured the threads correctly, you should adhere to following rules:
- the rotation of the flywheel on the machine is self-directed;
- features of the fabric used - the main parameter for choosing a needle and thread thickness;
- in progress constantly monitor the tension, stitch and set stitch parameters;
- to perform a neat stitch, it is necessary that the allowances are located on the right, and the working part of the product is on the left side;
- the material is placed under the foot, a precise puncture is made and only then the foot smoothly lowers;
- the threads must be pulled out behind the foot in compliance with the length from 8 to 10 cm;
- at the final stage, the foot and double needles are raised, the part is moved back and the threads are cut using a special knife, which is located on the sleeve;
- if the fabric comes off the rack teeth, the work stops immediately;
- do not forget to place a piece of fabric under the foot after finishing sewing and turn off the device.
It becomes clear that using double needles for a sewing machine is practical and very convenient. Especially if your technology provides such an opportunity. Modern Janome sewing machines are ideal for working with double needles, moreover, they can even be used with triple needle designs, which significantly expands the possibilities during the work process. In addition, any machine of this brand is distinguished by functionality, power, ease of adjustment, impeccable build quality and record long service life. It is successfully used at home and bought at various sewing enterprises - factories, ateliers, fashion houses, clothing repair shops, etc.
Safety regulations
Many craftswomen whose sewing machines allow the use of double-type needles often encounter thread breaks. This is a fairly common mistake that results from improper filling and adjustment. You should know that the peculiarities of the work require maintaining a slightly weakened tension - it is important not to pull too hard on the upper threads. The fact is that the bottom thread in this design is the only one, and it is secured by the two top ones. And if the tension is incorrectly applied, then a rupture will inevitably occur.
Starting to use sewing machine and when sewing with a double needle, be sure to adhere to the following safety rules:
- if the machine is new and you have never worked on it - in detail read the instructions and recommendations given by the manufacturer;
- to store all needles, not just double ones, you need to use a special container (needle bed) with a tight-fitting lid;
- for additional safety of storing needles, you can tightly wrap them with thread;
- if the needle breaks– place it separately in a closed box, otherwise using other needles you can get hurt;
- constantly check the number of needles to avoid loss of accessories and accidental injuries;
- If rust has formed on the needle, do not use it for work, as uneven punctures and difficult-to-remove stains may form on the fabric.
We can conclude that thanks to a double-type needle, you can expand the functionality of existing equipment and make your machine more convenient and productive. This is especially true for owners of Janome sewing equipment, since many models from this manufacturer provide everything necessary for the safe and effective use of such needles. Many craftswomen even prefer to specifically buy a machine of this brand in order to use double needles in their work, since with their help the work becomes high-quality and fast, and the resulting products are pleasing beautiful design and are in high demand.
