It is generally not recommended to sew directly over pins. Instead, you should remove pins a stitch or two before the needle reaches them. This process ensures a smooth and accurate sewing experience while preventing damage to your sewing machine or injury. Here's a breakdown of the proper technique:
Why Avoid Sewing Over Pins?
Sewing over pins can be risky and cause several issues:
- Broken Needles: The needle can easily hit a pin, causing it to break, potentially damaging your sewing machine.
- Damaged Machine: A broken needle can also damage the needle plate or other components of your sewing machine.
- Fabric Misalignment: Sewing over a pin might push or shift the fabric layers, leading to inaccurate seams.
- Personal Injury: A broken needle can fly off and cause injury.
The Correct Method: Removing Pins Before Sewing
Instead of sewing over pins, follow these steps:
- Pin Fabric Securely: Before you begin sewing, pin your fabric pieces together carefully to prevent shifting.
- Start Sewing: Begin sewing slowly and steadily.
- Remove Pins Just Before: When the sewing machine needle is about one or two stitches away from a pin, stop sewing, remove the pin, and continue sewing. The presser foot should be on the fabric, keeping the layers secure while you remove the pin.
- Continue Sewing: Keep removing pins this way until you have completed the seam.
Why This Method Works
- Keeps Fabric in Place: The pins keep the fabric from shifting while positioning it for sewing.
- Maintains Alignment: Removing the pins just before sewing keeps the fabric aligned with the needle.
- Prevents Machine Damage: This method ensures a safe sewing process that protects both the machine and yourself.
Additional Tips:
- Use thin, sharp pins for best results.
- Pin perpendicular to the seam.
- If necessary, use more pins for curved seams or slippery fabrics.
- Sew slowly and steadily to give yourself time to remove pins before the needle gets close.
By removing pins a stitch or two before the needle reaches them, you protect your machine and achieve more accurate seams without the risks associated with sewing over pins. This method keeps fabric aligned while preventing needle breakage.
