Watching an experienced seamster sew fabrics on a sewing machine, you will think it’s nothing short of a piece of cake until you try sitting on the chair for the first time to sew.
Starting outrightly with fabric as a beginner can be quite challenging (they may have a problem peddling the fabric forward), which is why trainers often recommend sewing with paper to their new trainees. Well, as you already know, sewing machines are not designed for paper; therefore, it is worth knowing whether paper can affect a machine’s performance.
This is why in this article, I have taken my time to address the question, of is sewing on paper is good or bad to enlighten people on the possible impact (negative or positive) sewing paper can have on their sewing machine.
Is sewing paper on a machine good or bad?
Well, this one question does not lend itself to a straightforward answer, as sewing on paper can be both good and bad.
The main benefit that comes with sewing on paper is that it offers sewers, especially beginners, the opportunity to practice complicated designs before they are sewn on fabrics. Another obvious advantage is that it makes it easier for beginners to learn sewing faster.
The downside of sewing on paper is that it dulls needles and causes the machine’s bobbin case to accumulate dust quickly. With these said, it can be reasonably concluded that while sewing on paper may be beneficial to the sewer, it can affect the performance of the sewing machine.
Is sewing paper bad for sewing machines?
Yes, sewing paper is bad for your sewing machine. Although you may sew on paper to help perfect your sewing or stitching skills, doing so can affect the effectiveness of your sewing machine.
This is because sewing paper with your sewing machine will create dust and dull your sewing needle, which can affect your future projects.
Can you sew papers on a sewing machine?
Yes, you can sew the paper on sewing machines. Even though sewing machines are not designed to be used on paper, you can still sew on paper to master your design or to perfect sewing in a straight line.
However, sewing on paper indeed has its shortcoming, but I can assure you that the likely consequences can be overcome with proper maintenance.
Useful tips on sewing papers on the sewing machine
- Sewing on paper causes sewing needles to dull faster; therefore, in your best interest, it will be better to dedicate a single needle for this task so that the same needle can be reserved for your paperwork.
- Stitching too close when it comes to sewing on paper can cause the paper to tear easily; therefore, to avoid this, it is recommended that you make your stitch length longer.
- Start your paper sewing project with a full bobbin because you can use up the thread while sewing. And it may be challenging for you to re-align your stitching.
- The best thread to use for paper sewing is an invincible thread because the thread cannot be entirely hidden on the face of your paper design. Using an invisible thread will make the thread less apparent.
- When turning at a corner, stop while the needle is in the paper, then raise the foot presser and turn.
Are sewing patterns reusable?
Yes, sewing patterns are reusable. If you have used a particular pattern before and you would love to use the same pattern for your future designs, you can very much use them again.
However, since patterns are not very strong, your chance of reusing them for your future project may be slim because they can become distorted or tear easily. Therefore, for you to be able to reuse your pattern, you must find ways to preserve your pattern to make them sturdier and ready for use for your future projects.
Can I use sewing machine oil on the paper shredder?
Yes, you can use sewing machine oil on the paper shredder. One interesting fact about a paper shredder is that you can oil them with any oil as long as it is not petroleum-based. Consequently, since most sewing machine oil is white mineral oil, it can be safely applied to paper shredders.
Albeit, you may want to first find out the required amount for effective performance.
Best paper for sewing patterns
The best paper for sewing patterns is professional dotted pattern paper. You may want to know how we arrived at this conclusion.
This is because even though this kind of paper is specially designed for this task (which gives it an edge over others), it comes pre-numbered, making it easier for sewers to draft patterns faster. If you would be interested in knowing a close substitute to this paper, it is the Kraft paper.
Why sewing is good for you
- Sewing helps to relieve stress.
- It helps to stimulate the growth of the brain.
- Sewing requires remembering several steps, so it can help to combat amnesia.
- Sewing improves the brain’s dopamine, which means it can make one happier.
- Sewing helps to improve eye-hand coordination.
What is sewing pattern paper called?
The sewing pattern paper is called several names. They are known as; dotted papers, alphabet paper, alphanumeric paper, or marking paper.
Is it better to sew by hand?
Yes, sewing by hand is better to a certain extent. If you are working on a sewing or decoration project or you are a beginner, sewing by hand may be a better option for you compared to using a sewing machine.
This is because by sewing with your hand, you will have better control of your sewing: the length of the stitches, the direction, and how you want the fabric to be attached.
Does sewing the paper ruin the needle?
Yes, sewing on paper can ruin your needle. When you sew paper on your sewing machine often, sooner or later, the needle will become blunt, and it will become necessary for you to change it if you are to work on another project.
This is why professionals often recommend that you have a separate needle you will be using for your paper sewing projects.
