Sewing Question

[Tarheel Hanger]

So I just got a singer 4423 heavy duty machine because of the good reviews from here but I'm having a small problem. When I start a hem , the end of the hammock pulls down into the machine and I have to take the bottom plate off to get it back out. I don't have this problem as I'm sewing. Any tips on how to start the hem better. I known it's a rookie mistake but it's pretty annoying. Thanks in advance!! I look forward to many cool new projects to come.

[Snowball]

There could be several reasons why it happens and solutions.
It is very thin materials and it happens to most of us from time to time.
Not even a one hole plate under the presser foot can prevent it.
A dull needle can cause it.
Wrong seize needle vs. the thread can cause it (needle too small).
Wrong needle type. They have to be sharp. Microtex is one of the better types. Needles gets worn!
Avoid to start at the very edge if you can.
When you start a hem you can start ½” from the edge and back out and go forward without stopping. Sometimes it helps to speed up but you need to be in control.
Changing the presser foot could perhaps help it depends on the type you are using. If there is pressure all the way around on the fabric the needle it can’t push it down.
Paper under the fabric or between the layers can help.

[Flatliner]

I believe it was Hutzelbien recently who suggested a taping a paper extension on the fabric at the start with light fabrics. I haven't tried it yet but it seemed like a great idea. I would sure check the other suggestions too. What I have historically done is sewn an inch or so with the fabric backwards and then rotated it back around with the needle down and the foot up.

[Kpi890]

Some people use a walking foot or a rotary foot to prevent this when sewing sil or other thin slippery fabrics

[Flatliner]

I have a walking foot and consider it the best thing since sliced bread, however, I am not sure it would solve this particular issue if I am understanding it correctly.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Snowball]

I have a walking foot and consider it the best thing since sliced bread, however, I am not sure it would solve this particular issue if I am understanding it correctly.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I agree. It will not solve the problem! My machine has top feed/walking foot and it still happens (Pfaff Select 3.0)

[Bubba]

What kind of needle are you using? Do you have a zigzag plate on currently?

[bobamos]

Wow!! This DIY stuff is tougher than it looks... And it already looked tough to me. I sure hope the wife is more up to speed on this stuff.. (She will be doing the sewing as I know I can't.)

[HammockCanoe]

When you start a hem you can start ½” from the edge and back out and go forward without stopping.

Snowball has very good suggestions, from my experience, this one works best for me (1/2" or 3/4"). If you go to the Dream Hammock youtube channel, PapaSmurf has a tutorial on making a zipper bag, you'll notice that he does the same thing.

[Tarheel Hanger]

I do not have a zigzag plate. Just the 1 that came with it. I have been starting back & reversing. What tension do you guys use for hammock's? I'm not doing that bad, I finished 4 hammocks today. Got a big trip this weekend & making a hammock for everyone.