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Centimeter by centimeter he watched his cock grow thicker,
{{sewing}}
spreading Christa's cunt ever wider in its wake.  Both of her hands came
{{blackbox}}[[File:Sewingstation.jpg|200px|right]] You are in the Sewing Studio of Noisebridge [[upstairs]].
down to grip the base of his cock as she looked down in disbelief.  At
least six inches were outside of her now, and she had taken him nearly all
the way before.  Curt opened his eyes and stared in disbelief.  He was
growing even faster this time!  His cumming continued to make him buck
like a bronco as his shaft grew ever more horse-like.  Thicker and longer
-twined with huge, thick veins- his erection plowed into Christa's tight
bush like a dog trying to fit into a rabbit hole.  


"Ahhh!  Curt!  Omigod ... you're goin' too ... far!"
You see sewing machines, fabric, a large cutting table, sewing tools, and knitting machines.


Drastically, Curt tried to pull himself out of Christa before he
'''EXITS:''' [[Upstairs]]
hurt her.  Her moaning and bucking were intense and -just before he could-
{{cursorboxend}}
he felt himself hit a massive climax.  Rigid, he watched as his cock
{{headerbox}}
rocketed upwards in size, spreading her cunt lips and making her squeal
'''Noisebridge's sewing guild hosts sewing events and maintains three industrial sewing machines, a variety of domestic sewing machines, and knitting machines.'''
half in pain, half in ecstasy.  His balls pumped and churned as they lay
heavy on his thighs.  In shock he looked at them, tangled in their mass of
pubic hair.  Each was larger than a large grapefruit!  His shaft had to be
at least three and a half inches across and nearly sixteen inches long!
The spasm began to fade, but the tingling in his balls remained.  Orgasm
subsiding, Curt felt his body grow limp in its wake.  


Slowly, Christa pulled off of him and slumped next to him on her
* '''RESOURCES:''' Sewing Machines, Knitting Machines, Rug-making Machine, [[Vinyl Cutter]] (downstairs near Print Shop)
bed.
* '''EVENTS:'''
* '''CHANNELS:''' #sewingstation on [[Slack]], [https://discord.gg/VzQPXCmW Sewing Channel on Discord]
* '''GET TRAINED:''' [[Sewing/Who_can_use_the_sewing_machines|Who can use the sewing machines]]
* '''MAINTAINERS:''' {{:Sewing/Maintainers}}</span>
{{recruiting}}
{{photography}}
{{boxend}}


His massive rod stood up from his midsection like a bent flagpole.  
[[File:Sewingstation.jpg|500px|link=sewing|right|thumb|The [[2169]] sewing station. The [[272]] version is upstairs.]]
Gobs of his cum dripped from Christa's stretched cunt as she panted for
[[Image:Starfive - q's noisebridge project.jpg|thumb|right|Craft hacking]]
breath and rubbed her delicate hands over Curt's chest.  Opening her eyes,
she glanced at Curt's waist and shook her head slowly. "God, Curt...  I
don't believe it." She smiled, and nuzzled the smaller man's neck -her
glistening breasts pressing against his chest. "Th' bigger th' better,
I've always said...  I don't think I've Ever been this turned-on!"


Curt returned her smile and kissed Christa gently on the cheek.
=EVENTS=
He tenderly stroked her breasts, fingertips lingering on her aureoles and
nipples.  "Yeah, but any bigger and only a Clydesdale would be able to
take all of me..."


Christa shrugged as she nestled into the size of Curt's body.
* [[Sewing Project Night]]
"Maybe," she said conspiratorially, "that wouldn't be all that bad." With
* Open Project Night, an unstructured event in which participants brought their own projects for repair and alterations help, advice on techniques, materials, and machines, starting a new project with materials at the space, and just having fun sewing with fellow makers
that cryptic remark, Christa closed her eyes and gently drifted off to an
* Sew With Knits, in which we went over how to operate the industrial serger, how to operate the domestic coverstitch, overview of domestic sewing machine stitch types appropriate for stretch knit material, and advice on participants' projects
erotic sleep.


The next few days were difficult.  Even when not erect, Curt's new
==Past Events==
endowments were extremely obvious.  His penis hung all the way to his
* In early 2019, we had a “Sewing Machine Fix-a-Thon” in which we serviced some of our sewing machines and determined what parts needed to be ordered.
knees and was nearly as thick as a peppermill.  Still, that was the least
of his problems.  It was possibly due to the extreme exposure his balls
had been given to the original formula, but they'd been growing at an even
faster rate than the rest of him.  Each was the size of a grapefruit and
always seemed to carry the tell-tale signs of that tingling sensation
-together they spanned nearly a foot from side-to-side in front of his
groin.  It wasn't easy to conceal his massive endowments.  


It also hadn't been easy to resist Christa's advancements.  She
was so turned on by his recent growth, he wasn't sure she would ever stop
making him bigger.  She'd offered to tit-fuck him if he ever got too big,
and to masturbate him if it went much further beyond that.  Curt had to
admit, it was extremely tempting...  But until he knew he could reverse
the formula, he didn't dare give himself over to that temptation...


Not when the last growth spurt had so radically increased his
=HOW TO BE EXCELLENT BY NOT BREAKING THE MACHINES=
size, and the tingle still hadn't gone away...!


Mostly, he got by during the next week by wearing no pants around
We have home machines and industrial machines, and the home machines are all, to varying degrees, much more breakable. They're consumer products, often designed and built with a modern “what is this ‘repair’ of which you speak?” mindset, not built to withstand abuse or rough handling.
his dorm room, but squeezing into a pair of Zubas whenever he had a class.
Still, he got stares and more than a few proposals from some of the
prettier women (and a few of the guys) in BioChem lab. Still, he'd almost
had to cash in on a few of those "favors" to get help swiping the
necessary compounds from the storage locker.  Luckily, with his standing
in class, it was easy to stay late "working" on a project and being
allowed to "lock-up" after himself.  


Now, after about a week, he thought he may have the solution.
To that end, here are some strong guidelines for how to Be Excellent and use the home sewing machines in ways that don't break them:


The first chemical seemed to be stimulated by sexual arousal and
# '''First, always be gentle.''' Treat the machine like a puppy. It will bite you, die, or incur a huge bill if you damage it.
semen production. In other words, the more he came, the bigger he got.  
# '''Do not pull fabric through the machine.''' Let the feed dogs do the work, or drop them if you want to free-sew or embroider. Pulling work through the machine is a good way to bend or break the needle, damage the bobbin and/or bobbin case and/or shuttle, pull the shuttle out of phase, or otherwise damage something. You're lucky if it's the needle or bobbin; those are replaceable. Anything else takes the machine out of commission.
Curt also thought that he may get bigger if his cock was in direct contact
#* If fabric isn't feeding properly, you may need to adjust the presser foot pressure. See point #4.
with a woman's vaginal juices. Why that would be the case was still a
# '''Always turn the handwheel the correct direction''' On most of our machines, this is '''towards you'''. If you can't remember, press lightly on the pedal and you'll be able to feel which way the handwheel wants to turn. Turning the handwheel the wrong way won't necessarily break the machine, but it can mess up your stitch, break your thread, or cause a snarl that can break the needle.  
mystery to him ... in addition to the twin questions of where the extra
# '''Change the machine's configuration as you need, but put it back when you're done.''' Every machine should have a standard presser foot and a “universal” needle (size 90/14) loaded when not in use. It should be on the default settings for presser foot pressure and tension. Anyone who needs something different should make whatever changes they need, '''and''' change them back before they put the machine away/leave.
mass had come from so quickly and why he could still get 16" erections as
# '''Put the machine away when you're done/before leaving.''' The cutting table is not a machine storage rack.
easily as 3 inches... Technically, the blood requirements would be too
# '''Keep the machine's parts with the machine.''' Some machines have a storage compartment on the front of the bed (the bottom portion of the machine where the bobbin is). The domestic machines have a kit for holding bobbins, feet, needles, spool caps, screwdrivers, and anything else necessary to using the machine. The pedal should be kept with the machine at all times, and should have a paper tag tied to it identifying which machine it belongs to. (Such tags are kept in a drawer in the sewing area.)
high, and he should've been getting light-headed.  
# '''Use the correct needle, and change the needle when needed.''' Always check which needle is loaded into the machine before you start sewing—make sure it's right for the type (woven vs. knit vs. solid) of fabric, the tightness of weave/knit, and the weight of the fabric.
#* Non-woven materials such as leather or vinyl require special “leather” needles, made to pierce solid objects. Knitted fabrics, including T-shirt fabric, require “ball point” needles, which are less likely to pierce/cut a yarn. Tight weaves such as microsuede may require “microtex” or “sharp” needles that can find their way between the yarns. Denim and heavy canvas may require “denim” (a.k.a. “jeans”) needles. Most normal woven fabrics will work with a “universal” needle.
#* If you're using the right kind of needle but it isn't going through/is skipping stitches or is stitching irregularly or with difficulty, try a heavier diameter or (if woven) a denim needle. Most likely the needle is not able to cleanly penetrate the fabric. Continuing to sew in this state is a good way to permanently bend (i.e., ruin) or break the needle.
#* Needles wear out! They are a consumable. If you're pretty sure you have the right kind and diameter of needle, change it out for another like one. If that works better, safely dispose of the worn needle—don't put it back for some other sucker to try.
# '''Avoid computerized machines unless you ''really'' need them.''' Computerized machines are much more delicate than mechanical machines. The best reason to use a computerized machine is it's the one with embroidery features and you need that. Otherwise, take a mechanical one such as the Kenmore 385 if it's available—they hold up better.
# '''Use the correct type of bobbin for the machine you're using.''' Bobbins come in a variety of types, including Class 15, Class 15J, Class 66, and numerous oddballs. This page lists the correct type of bobbin for each machine, and the same information should soon be stickered onto all of our machines. Any machine, otherwise working, may fail to sew correctly (skipped stitches, shuttle snarls, etc.) with the wrong kind of bobbin in it.
# '''Do not use a damaged or broken bobbin.''' If it's cracked, chipped, or bent, don't use it. Transfer the thread (if any) to a new bobbin of the same type (or of the type for the machine you're going to use), then chuck the busted bobbin in the trash.


His cursory examination of himself showed a development of muscle
=RESOURCES=
and ligament tissue along the length of his shaft, and that could account
for his amazing erections, but he couldn't confirm it.  Nonetheless, he
thought as he looked at the light blue liquid, this seemed to be
appropriate to reverse whatever effects had been caused by the original
fluid.  Christa wouldn't be happy, but he had to think of living a normal
life rather than a horse-like stud!  Still, it wouldn't hurt for one last
time.


As Curt carefully turned off the Bunsen burner and went to sleep,
==Sewing Machines==
he didn't notice the shadowed form slip in through his open window and
walk slowly towards his desk...


===Industrial Sewing Machines===
* [[Juki DDL-227 Straight Stitch]]
* [[Singer 251-12 Straight Stitch]]
* [[Juki LU-563 Walking Foot]]
* [[Juki MO-2416 Serger]] (subclass FF6-500)
*Shoe Patcher, hand cranked (not yet up and running)


Curt's balls still were tingling as he carefully got out of
===Domestic Sewing Machines===
Christa's car at her parent's cabin on Lake Hutton.  The sky was clear and
*[[Bernette 55]]
the deeper blue that comes with Evening in Northern Minnesota; the
*[[Singer 4166]]
reflection of the sun off the narrow stream that bubbled down the hill
*[[Brother XR135]]
next to the cabin into the lake was enchanting.  Christa was still
*[[White E-6354]]
somewhat down since he'd told her that he had developed the reverse
*[[Singer Stylist 533]]
formula and would use it after they had made out this last time.  As she
*[[Kenmore 385]]
had said, she really liked men who were freakishly large...
*Singer SEQS-6700 Embroidery Machine
*Coverstitch


Curt had just smiled past the word "freakishly" and let it go at
===Other Amenities===
that.
* Large table with cutting mat surface (50 inches x ? inches )
* Irons and Ironing board
* Sewing/craft/fashion library
* Domestic knitting machines
* Buttons, buckles, zipper, grommets, etc
* 1 dress form
* Full length mirror


Christa opened the door to the family "hunting lodge" and set down
===Before donating a machine to Noisebridge===
the bag of groceries on the counter nearby.  The place was huge.  Curt let
out a low whistle of breath as he surveyed the scene.  At least ten
trestle tables filled the room beyond the small kitchen in a grand hall
that reminded him of Beowulf's "Herot".  A small balcony ran around the
room about a story overhead and numerous small doors led off from the main
hall into the private bedrooms that filled this place.  Christa hadn't
been kidding when she'd told him her father had liked to hunt with a "few"
friends every autumn.


The fact that this hunting lodge could house at least thirty men
Please reach out to a maintainer. We're looking to simplify our fleet. At the very least, this will mean getting rid of home machines that don't meet certain criteria (Class 15 bobbins, drop-in bobbin case, ''works'', etc.). We may go further than that and standardize on one model, but that's TBD.
and their equipment was something she hadn't mentioned.  Nearby, a wooden
sign declared the room rates for the weekend during hunting season.
Apparently, her father also made a tidy sum on the place too...  


Christa smiled as she pulled out the jar of blue liquid that Curt
The Community Thrift Store on Valencia would also probably love to have it.
had brought from his dorm room.  It was more than twelve times what he
needed, but it wasn't as concentrated as the original formula.  He'd just
have to keep adding it until he got it right.  Christa shook her head.  


"Y'know, guys all over the country would kill to have your problem;
=== Sewing Machine Usage Tips ===
and you're going to give it all up..."
* Please DO NOT unthread the sewing machines unless you must. (e.g. to remove a spool of thread, simply cut it close to the spool so that the next person can simply tie a knot with the next thread and pull it all the way through to the needle). This is most important for the serger.  


Curt shook his head with a crooked grin. "Well, if I get any
* Domestic and industrial machines use different needles, bobbins, and feet, so check to make sure you are using the right kind. The industrial machines each have a kit hanging on the pegboard behind them. Domestic machine supplies are either in a kit on the table, or are located in labeled drawers on the white cabinet (PLEASE KEEP IT ORGANIZED).
bigger, I'll start having problems walking. The idea of being hung like
** The closest place to get domestic machine parts and supplies is Fabric Outlet on Mission between 17th & 18th st. Industrial machine parts are only available by mail order (if you know anyone local please let us know) 
the Eifel Tower may interest me, but not until I can get things under
** Needles may differ between machines and come in sizes (10, 11, 12, 14, 16, etc.). The higher numbers are heavier gauge needles suitable for thicker fabrics.
control!" He chuckled and started bringing in the suitcases from the
** Needles also come in different types, including (this is an abridged list; look to other sites for more complete lists):
porch. Christa simply grinned as she watched him work and the mass of his
***Jersey: Has a ball point, for knitted fabrics (including T-shirt fabric).
groin shift around in his pants.  
***“Universal”: Moderately sharp, for most woven fabrics. Denim needles are the same but more rigid, for tighter weaves of thick yarns (like denim or canvas).
***Microtex needles are the sharpest, for tight weaves of thin yarns, like microsuede or nylon.
***Leather needles have a tiny blade at the tip, for cutting holes in leather and vinyl. Don't use a leather needle for woven or knitted fabrics: The blade will cut the threads rather than squeezing between them, leaving holes that may start rips.
**Needles for the industrial straight stitch and walking foot machines must be inserted with the scarf facing right. Please check the respective manuals.


Curt finished putting the suitcases in one bedroom and turned to
* If you've never operated a sewing machine before please attend a Sewing 101, which happens every 2nd friday, before you use our machines on your own. The class fills up and has a waitlist, so we ask that you only come if you've secured a spot on Meetup. Sewing machines are delicate creatures and we want to minimize the amount of breakage.
join Christa back in the kitchen. She stood not far from him with her
**Read the manual! You'll probably learn something even if you've been sewing for a long time.  
back to the broad double-doors.  Curt started feeling nervous again.  
**Printed manuals for each industrial machine are in the gray binder on the bookshelf. We don't have manuals printed for all the domestics, but a Google search should bring them up.
Sheesh!  She was insatiable!  Slowly, she pulled off her sweater revealing
her massive, heavy assets.  Slowly, she swung the doors shut behind her
and sauntered towards Curt. Running her fingers along the side of his
neck, she gently pushed him backwards towards the bed.  


"Christa..."
*Use scraps for testing to determine thread tension and sewing speed.


She shushed him with a single finger and kissed him lightly on the
===Recommended reading===
lips.  "Shhh...  If we're gonna make the most of this weekend, we're
starting now..."


Slowly, Christa pushed him down, lay provocatively on top of
[http://www.threadsmagazine.com/item/3751/machine-needle-know-how About sewing machine needles]
Curt's body, and rested her ample breasts in his hands. Curt happily
stroked and fondled them as Christa gently massaged Curt's 16-incher
through the material of his jeans.  Curt drew three rapid, deep breaths of
shuddering pleasure as Christa's talented fingers probed his
grapefruit-sized balls.  As she bent her face down to plant her lips on
his, she deftly undid his button-fly Zubas and pulled down his underwear.


At first, his massive organ got caught in the elastic binder,
[http://www.threadsmagazine.com/item/6847/perfect-machine-tension-every-time Understanding thread tension]
making him wince slightly. Christa smiled at his expression and pulled
back from his eager hands to watch what she was doing more carefully.  
Gently, she licked his engorged knob and pulled his pants off the rest of
his legs.  More quickly then, she removed his shirt and the rest of her
own clothing so the two rested naked on the king-sized bed.  Curt's
enormous flagpole stood at attention to Christa's ministrations as she
licked his knob and repeatedly squeezed his semen-heavy balls.  The
tingle, which had been there constantly since the last time they made out,
started to increase even more.


Slowly though, Christa pulled her mouth away from his cock and
[http://leatherworker.net/forum/index.php?showtopic=25126&st=0 Sew heavy material]
slowly rubbed it down her naked chest, between her breasts and gradually
across her flat, tight belly.  Rising to her knees, she slowly lowered
herself down around the monster organ with a look of ecstatic glee on her
face.  Curt couldn't say anything.  It felt too good.  He just hoped she'd
be able to handle what he became next...  


Grinding slowly against her cunt, Curt watched as she devoured
[http://www.wipo.int/pctdb/en/wo.jsp?WO=2002000984&IA=US2001041173&DISPLAY=STATUS What is a thread wiper?]
inch after inch of his manhood. Five inches; then seven. Finally ten,
eleven and twelve.  Curt could feel the round end of his prick start
bouncing against the inner wall of Christa's cervix, as she took in all
she could length-wise.  Lowering her hands to the six inches remaining
outside, she stroked his erection as she fucked the upper foot.  Still the
tingling grew.  


With a deep moan, Curt could feel the spunk churning in his balls.  
[http://www.citysewing.com/diference-between-clutch-motor-servo-motor/ Difference between clutch and servo motors]
"Watch ... watch out ... Christa. <pant> Here ... here <grunt!> I ...
cum...!" The pressure exploded inside him and spread along his shaft with
lighting unlike any in the previous experiences.  Curt watched as his rod
began to grow again.  And grow...


And Grow...
==Winding a Bobbin==


And GROW...
=== Juki DDL-227 & Juki LU-563 ===
*To wind a bobbin, place the empty bobbin on the horizontal spindle to the right of the machine body (near the hand wheel). Run a second thread through the upper holder, down to the tensioner at the back of the right side of the machine, in line with the spindle. Thread the end through one of the holes in the bobbin side, from the inside to the outside.  Press the lever to push the spindle down in contact with the sewing machine belt.  While holding the thread end so it doesn't just whip out of the bobbin, press the pedal to run a couple of inches (if there were fabric in the machine).  Soon enough you can let go of the thread end as it will have been caught by windings on top of it.  If you are doing a lot of sewing, you can start a new bobbin before the current one is empty, and let it wind up as you sew.  When the bobbin is full, the lever will automatically snap out away from the belt and stop winding thread.


Inch by inch, his erection grew longer and thicker.  He could
=== Most home sewing machines ===
scarcely believe it. He watched as his once-small penis broke all
The bobbin winder is usually on the top of the machine near the right corner (right being the side with the handwheel). It should look like a short spindle that can't be removed and sticks up about half an inch (the thickness of a bobbin) from a flat round surface.
boundaries.  Past eighteen inches ... past twenty...  Curt's balls bucked
and pumped their contents into Christa's vagina with a force like a garden
hose.  Spurts of semen squirted from around his embedded cock as it grew
wider and thicker; stretching Christa's cunt ever further.  Christa wasn't
getting off...  She stayed glued to his boner, riding it like a horse and
crying out in ecstasy as she was expanded beyond belief.  


Twenty-two inches passed and twenty-four neared as Christa was
Place a bobbin on the spindle, then:
forced halfway to her feet by the rapid progression.  Curt's cock, now at
least four inches across continued to expand.  Curt gasped as his gaze
settled farther down.  His balls were enormous.


The two large sacks bounced and jiggled like bowling-ball sized
* On some machines, the handwheel can be pulled out to switch from sewing to bobbin-winding. (Push it back in when you're done winding bobbins.)
water balloons!  More and more cum leaked from Christa's orifice as she
* On the big Singer machine, the handwheel has a part that flips up to engage the bobbin-winder.
rode and bucked with Curt's hips.  Finally, with a look of pain -or
* On the Brother machines, the bobbin spindle can be slid between the left (sewing) and right (winding). In the latter position, a brake slightly intersects the bobbin and will stop it from getting over-wound.
perhaps resignation at attempting the impossible- Christa pushed with all
her strength against the bed and pulled her cunt off Curt's expanding
member.  Cum spurted up her body, across her tits and drenching her hair.  
Still growing, Curt watched with awe as his balls and rod expanded well
into the stallion range of size.  Another minute passed and slowly, ever
so slowly, Curt felt the pressure ease and the tingle return to its
normal, background level.  


Weary and panting, Curt closed his eyes and lay back on the bed.  
Once the machine is in winding mode and is powered on, press the pedal slightly and make sure thread is going onto the bobbin properly. Once it's winding properly, floor the pedal until the bobbin is fully wound (some machines will stop the bobbin automatically; others may require you to pay attention).
He could feel his still-stiff pole waving in the gentle breeze of the
air-conditioning.  Absently, he felt Christa touch his rod softly.  He
opened his eyes to watch her gently measure along his length and then his
balls.  She was covered in sweat, cum and excitement.  She looked more
turned-on than Curt thought a person could look.  


She glanced up triumphantly.  "My God Curt!  You've broken all the
Remember to switch the machine back to sewing mode when you're done winding bobbins!!!
records!  Twenty-six inches long ... twenty-six, Curt!  Your balls are as
big as basketballs and your width is," she measured quickly across his
still engorged knob, "six inches across!" She glanced down at the base of
his rod and smiled.  "An' that's only the tip ... you're at least a good
two inches thicker at the base!" Wiping a handful of cum off her face,
Christa proceeded to slowly slurp it up.  "You always make the best
dinners," she said coyly.


Curt sat up as his cock deflated and started to hand heavily
== Repairing a Sewing Machine ==
across his lap.  It took a full two minutes for the erection to go down.
Before declaring a machine broken, try the steps on [[Sewing/Troubleshooting]] first.
Gingerly, so as not to knock his giant's balls against his knees, his
swung his feet over the bedside. His dick must've weighed close to
fifteen pounds!  Swinging it over the edge, he could feel it pull heavily
against his midsection and his balls knock together enticingly.  Curt
winced as the tingle got momentarily stronger.  He could almost feel
himself start to rise to attention again.  Gritting his teeth and forcing
himself to remain un-aroused, Curt patted Christa's shoulder.  "Look ...
it's getting tough to resist more sex.  Can you get the formula in here
now?"


Broken from her size-induced revelry in Curt's cum, Christa looked
If a sewing machine is actually broken and non functional, as opposed to just you can't figure out how to make it work, please call Billy from Apparel City at 415-816-8645 (mobile) and schedule an appointment for him to come fix it.   
momentarily distracted and crestfallen.  Then, with a slow, weary nod of
* He usually charges around $80 per hour, plus parts.   
her head, she walked out of the room to return after a minute with Curt's
* Email the [https://www.noisebridge.net/mailman/listinfo/sewing/|sewing list] and people will chip in to cover this.  If you can't manage this process, email the sewing list and find someone else who can.  Also, please put a note on the machine so people know what is going on with it.
mason-jar-sized beaker.  "Well," he said as he dipped a corner of the bed
sheet into the mixture, "say 'goodbye' to 'junior'..." With that, he began
dabbing the blue liquid over his penis and testicles.  It didn't seem to
be drying right away, like the first formula, but it did stain his skin
similarly.  After several minutes of generous application, Curt lay back
on the bed and waited.  


And waited.
= Sewing Machines =


And Waited...
== 130-Stitch Computerized Sewing and Quilting (Brother XR1355) ==
'''Works''' as of 2021-12-28


An hour passed with no effect.  The tingle was still there.  A
This machine is on the home sewing machine table (Table 3).
cold chill descended on his heart as he began to suspect that his work had
failed like last time...  


'Like last time...' The thought raced through his head.  Christa
=== Overview ===
was lying next to him gently rubbing his back. "Christa..." She looked up
* This machine does 130 different stitches including lots of cool decorative flowers and patterns.
into his eyes slowly.  
* Bobbin: Clear plastic, class 15 ([https://www.joann.com/brother-sa156-clear-plastic-class-15-bobbin/16386419.html Brother SA156]). Please use bobbins in Table 3 toolbox.


Curt cleared his throat.  "Christa; last time I created this
=== Manual for Brother XR1355 ===
formula, it needed stimulation to work ... this time may be the same."
Christa nodded, a small smile growing on her face as she realized where
this was heading.  "I also used a concentrated version.  I want to know if
you'd like to give me a little ... hand here."


Christa's smile broadened as she nodded assent.  She moved to a
* PDF - http://download.brother.com/welcome/doch001142/xr1355ug02en.pdf
position straddling Curt's chest and planted both her arms above his
*Spanish copy located on bookshelf in grey binder.
shoulders.  "Sure ... but this time," she made a rapid motion behind his
field of vision, "we do it my way." In a second, a loose strap had been
looped around each of Curt's wrists, pinning his arms in place above his
head, attached to the headboard.  Quickly (and accidentally stepping on
one of Curt's balls in the process), she likewise snared his feet and tied
them in place.  


"Christa?  What're you..."


"Hold on Curt!" she interrupted.  "Let me try this...  Do you agree
to let me pump you off until you shrink down to a more manageable size?"


Curt's brow furrowed as he tried to figure out what Christa was
getting at.  After all, it was obvious that was what he had just asked
her.  Slowly, he answered, "yes..." She smiled triumphantly.


"Just remember you said that..." And she started to lick and pump
== Singer Simple 3229 sewing machine ==
him back to a full erection.  Curt moaned in pleasure, and watched her as
'''Works''' as of 7-17-2021
she went.  It took two hands, but after a few minutes, she stopped and
left the room.  A minute later, she returned with a massive, six-foot tall
foam-rubber cylinder attached to a pulley and some rope.  Still smiling,
she looped the pulley up and over the ceiling beam that crossed the room
twelve feet overhead.  Then, she tied the ropes -around the bed frame
beneath him- to Curt's hips.  Finally, she pulled the suspended cylinder
down and slid it over Curt's erection.  Fastening hit around his hips as
well.  The whole system was tight.


With a smile and gentle pull on the tube, she said "Let the games
*Manual: [https://manual.singer.com/Manuals/RetrievePDF/195 pdf]
begin..."
*Bobbin: [https://www.singeronline.com/si15clbo.html Class 15]. Use bobbins in the toolbox on Table 3.


The tube descended along Curt's shaft, erotically caressing its
=Specialty Machines=
entire length like a giant cunt.  Hell, Curt thought, I've even got room
to spare!  As he automatically pumped his hips against the sensuous
pressure, the tube moved in response, pumping him even more.  Between his
legs, Christa fondled and licked his balls.  The tingle began to increase,
as he neared orgasm.  Forcing his head to watch, should he lock in ecstasy
again, Curt glanced at his glans to see the reduction take place.


It didn't.  Instead, he began to grow again.  Inwardly, he
== Brother Coverstitch Serger ==
screamed denial as the erotic sensations clouded his mind and sent it
'''Works''' as of 2022-02-15
spiraling to new heights of ecstasy.  Now, his erection truly resembled a
This machine is on Table 4. This machine is useful to alter and finish clothes (hems).
horse-sized schlong.  Even bigger.  As he pumped and came, he watched the
base thicken across his midsection, soon reaching a diameter of at least
ten inches.  He could feel by the rubbing against the inside of the tube
that his cock was at least a foot longer.  Christa laughed in delight.
Curt's balls had expanded to beach-ball size.  There was no way he could
walk now ... not at least without a wheelbarrow to carry his dick around
in.  Far above at the top of the tube, he could see a garbage bag billow
out from the top, collecting the cum that had shot up that far.  


The harness kept pumping.


"Christa ... take it off; it's not working!"
=== Overview ===
*intro ([https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fwYR3pUFJJw])
*narrow cover stitches (no tri-cover stitch as the third needle was broken in the head of the machine.
*should work for a variety of fabrics


"Oh it's working all-right," she responded, indicating the pulley
=== Manual ===
and rope.  
([https://support.brother.com/g/b/manualtop.aspx?c=us&lang=en&prod=hf_2340cveus])


"That's not what I mean!" Curt gasped as his own automatic bucking
=== Repair Instructions ===
drove the pump harder along his enlarged member.  "The formula ... it
didn't work!"


Christa smiled.  "Sure; it probably does...  But I switched it the
{{#ev:youtube|IG23Sy5pS0g||center|A huge thanks Farley and Ken for putting together this video!|frame||true|middle|width=50%}}
other night..."


Curt's eyes widened, as much in ecstasy as shock. "What?!!!  You
== Leather Stitching Machine ==
replaced it?  <gasp> With what?"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zawvl5ZZIdI


Christa shrugged.  "Oil, water and food dye...  I've got the real
== Knitting Machine ==
formula in the next room."
We have a [[Industrial Knitting Machine|Raynen CHJX-1-52 52-inch flat knitting machine]].


Curt clenched his eyes shut as another shudder ran though him.  As
confused, betrayed and angered as he was with Christa, the sensations of
erotic pleasure, began to overwhelm his mind.  Dully, he began to enjoy
the helpless growth...  Christa walked up to where he lay, gyrating on the
bed and gently lowered her breasts over his face.  Tentatively, Curt's
tongue wandered over her lush surface, searching out the sweat and salt on
her skin.  Smiling, she gradually pulled backwards and grabbed her
sweater.


Curt looked at her confused.  "Christa...?"


With a shrug, she pulled her clothing on and walked to the
== '''[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYQY5-UepEk Watch Video Tour March 2023]''' ==
double-doors. "Just gotta few errands to run, Curt...  I'll be back." She
paused and looked back through the door as she left.  "After you've had a
little time to grow on me..." With that, she shut the door and left.


Curt felt the tingle grow as he started to cum again.
= Manual Snap Setting Tools =
We have hand presses but no dies for them.


And again...  And again...  And again...  And again...
There are a few misc. hand-setting tools in the grommets box


Christa opened the door to her father's hunting lodge with a light
= Scissors =
feeling in her heart.  She'd taken her time shopping for the groceries
they'd need this weekend, but then she'd also taken great delight in
imagining how big Curt would get in her absence.  From the kitchen, she
could hear him still grunting and moaning in the master bedroom.  Smiling,
she put the groceries away and pulled off her clothes.  Sultrily, she
walked towards the door.


And stepped in cum.
The sewing station includes a variety of scissors, including straight scissors/shears, a pair of pinking shears, and a couple other specialty scissors.


Surprised, she looked down at the eight-foot diameter puddle that
'''DO NOT USE FABRIC SCISSORS FOR ANYTHING THAT ISN'T FABRIC.''' Paper and other non-fabric things will rapidly dull blades to the point where we need to sharpen them again to use them on fabric.
oozed from under the door. Holy shit, she thought, how far had he gone?
She'd only been gone a couple hours...  Rapidly she flung open the doors
and then stood, staring in erotic fascination.  Large droplets of cum
covered the ceiling, support beams, walls, bed and windows.  The puddle in
the room was about six inches deep and still warm.  Curt had really grown.  


The foam rubber tube was stretched thicker and longer by an amount
There are some “paper only” (i.e., pre-ruined) scissors on the tools wall since we know people will look in the sewing section for scissors. There are also some “fabric only” (i.e., not yet ruined) scissors that should only ever be used for fabric.
even Christa hadn't expected. The pulley's still worked, but very
slightly ... Curt's hips couldn't lift up against his five-foot diameter
testicles enough to provide much pull to the pulleys. His cock, massive
enough when she'd left, strained at it's foam rubber prison ... three full
feet across and sixteen feet long!  Massive, blue veins crisscrossed his
massive erection, still pulsing with his last ejaculation.  Little Curt
was barely visible beyond the monster that had become his genitalia.  Like
a tiny bug on a much larger animal, Curt looked sweaty, tired and ...
aroused.  


He smiled gently at her as she stepped tenuously into his field of
Also related: There is a sharpening stone on the tools wall in the sewing station.
vision.  "I knew you'd get back." He glanced his eyes over the length of
his penis. "Long line at Rainbow?"


Christa smiled and bent forward to lick the cum from his chest,
= Thread snips =
face and hair.  The large plastic bag she'd put over the top of the tube
had long since ruptured spraying its contents over the room.  His semen
was still warm and delicious.  She wrapped her arms around his body and
undid the straps.  Slowly, she removed the equipment and peeled the last
remains of the foam-rubber tube from his pulsing member.  God, was it
huge!


With trepidation, she pulled it down and gave it a tiny lick on
Thread snips are the small scissor-like tools used for cutting the thread sticking out of a work so you can remove the work from the machine.
the underside of it's head.  Slowly, she rubbed up and down the length of
his shaft, reveling in the warm feel of the smooth flesh and warm cum
glistening on its broad surface.  She turned to Curt, "well, I got my
wish...  Wait here..." With that, she left the room.  


Curt raised an eyebrow. "Where would I go?"
Thread snips shouldn't be used to cut fabric—use the fabric shears (scissors) or rotary cutters for that. Neither should they be used on non-fabric things like paper or tape.


A second later she returned.  Curt could hear her enter, but
There are three pairs of thread snips hanging from the tools wall in the sewing section.
couldn't see past his own softening erection.  After cumming six times in
the last two hours, he was still horny ... it was strange but oddly
pleasurable.  Vaguely, he wondered if he'd ever be un-horny again.  


Christa walked into his view holding his jar.  With a smile she
= Rotary cutters =
shrugged, "I guess you've earned this..." Slowly, she moved to start
dabbing it on his erection.


"Wait."
These look similar to pizza cutters but are '''NOT FOR FOOD USE''' (both because it trashes the blade and because the blades are not food-safe: new blades are coated in machine oil).


Surprised, Christa looked up.
All of our rotary cutters are 45mm, except for one, which is 60mm but has no blade. It's unclear whether we'll keep that one, since we would need to keep 60mm blades in stock and that would mean figuring out where to keep them and what to use them for.


Curt smiled half-crooked.  "I thought we had several days up here
== How to use ==
... no reason to go so fast..." Christa looked at Curt, clearly surprised.
He laughed at her expression.  "Well, what did you expect?  I thought you
wanted to see how big I could get?  Let's see what this baby can do..."


Christa smiled slowly and put the jar down on the floor. Making
Each rotary cutter has a cutting (blade extended) position and a safe (blade retracted) position. The Olfa ergonomic cutters will also spring back to retracted automatically, and can't be extended unless the safety button is pushed to the unlocked side.
sure that the bed had rollers she opened the double doors to the main
hall.  They'd need plenty of room for what she had in mind...  


Curt dropped the steaming spaghetti noodles into the strainer and
Rotary cutters should be used on a cutting mat such as the one on the main sewing station table. Usually you want a straight cut, so you should use an acrylic ruler to guide the blade.
ran water over them to wash off the excess starch. With flair, he flopped
the whole, steaming mass into a serving dish and brought it over to the
table in the middle of his small dorm room.  The neighbors might complain
about the smell of cooking Italian food, but he didn't really care.  


His over-sized Zubas still took some getting used to, as did the
Rotary cutters are EXTREMELY sharp, so be careful. Please keep the cutter blade-side-up so it's less likely to come into accidental contact with the table or anything on it—if you can see the blade, you can avoid contact with it.
huge three-footer tucked away beneath them.  With balls the size of
volleyballs it was difficult to hide what he'd become, but he'd have to
learn to live with it.  Christa watched him walk with amusement and a
seductive gleam in her eye.  Now that he was guaranteeably bigger than
anything on two legs, she was always in the mood.  


It was three weeks later.
=== Safety tips ===


Smiling he took their antipasto salads from his soda-fridge and
*Follow an acrylic ruler.
served their dinner. It had taken the whole jar, and twelve ejaculations
*Keep your body (including fingers) out of the path of the blade.
to undo what had been done to him, and even then he was stuck at this
*Only use a sharp blade. Don't use a rotary cutter with a dull or trashed blade. Change out the blade if you have to.
impossible size.  Still, it could've been worse...  
*Don't force it to cut if it's not cutting.


This was the first time they'd been able to get alone together in
== Maintenance ==
weeks; both of their studies for fall finals had been hell.  Now they had
the whole three weeks of Christmas break to spend together indulging their
every, carnal desire.


"You ready for this break?" asked Christa through a mouthful of
Rotary cutters are mostly pretty foolproof. As long as you don't cut yourself, your ruler, wood, another rotary cutter, a 1973 Oldsmobile, or anything else that isn't fabric, the blade should enjoy a good, long life.
salad.  


Curt nodded and started spooning up the noodles and sauce on her
But, every blade wears down eventually. Blade sharpeners exist, but we don't currently have one, and a sharpener can't save a chipped or bent blade.
plate. "Yeah, bio-chem was a real bear ... I'll be glad to take a break
for a few weeks..."


Christa paused and raised an eyebrow at him.  "No, you don't
If a blade can't be sharpened, there are new 45mm blades in the storage drawers along the wall.
understand ... are you really ready?"


Curt put down the spoons he'd been using and crossed his arms.
=== Changing the blade ===
"We discussed this, no more size games with my prick ... I'm lucky it
reduced to the size it did!  Understand?"


"O.K. ... o.k. ...  Can't blame a girl for trying, can ya?"
Different rotary cutters have different parts, but they all have these four, in this order:


Curt chuckled, knowing her, she 'tried' every six minutes.  "No
*Hub/screw
... I suppose I can't..."
*Rotary cutter body
*Blade
*Nut


Christa stabbed another bit of the antipasto and smiled. "This is
You should try to keep all of the parts (including those not listed—some cutters do have some bonus parts) in the correct order. If you get the order wrong, the blade might not spin freely or it might be too far from the cutter body. If that's the case, no biggie, just disassemble and try again.
really good, Curt. You learn this recipe at home?"


"Oh no ... Betty Crocker is good enough teacher for me." He paused
No tools are needed.
to sip from his Coke.  "Still, I did make the vinaigrette myself..."


"Really?" She munched another mouthful, enjoying the play of
#Remove the nut by hand, keeping your thumb on the hub/screw on the other side.
flavors and spices. "It's really good ... 's gotta 'tang' to it that I
#Gently turn the cutter over and let the blade fall out onto your fingers, and any other parts onto the table.
don't recognize."
#Sharpen or replace the blade.
#Put the blade onto the screw.
#Put the screw (with blade) into the cutter, and put all of the other parts, ending with the nut, onto the other side.


Curt smiled slowly. "Oh, that's the special ingredient..." Again
= Parts Needed =
he sipped from his Coke, satisfied. Then, sitting back, he began watching
 
Christa's chest...
Some of the parts (especially pedals and/or cords) for the sewing machines have, shall we say, installed a walking foot. Here's what we're currently missing:
 
=HISTORY=
*2008: Noisebridge began having sewing machines at [[83c]].
*2009: Rachel [[Industrial_Sewing_Machine_Donations|purchased industrial sewing machines]] from the sewing shop that formerly occupied Noisebridge's 2169 space with member donations and held its first [[Sewing Workshop]] at [[2169]].
*2015: Grand reopening event of the rebooted Sewing Station.
*2019: Sewing station moved over near the fire escape. Also, we did a Sewing Machine Fix-a-Thon and started holding training classes.
 
==Grand Reopening Poster ==
 
[[File:Sewing-Area-Poster.jpg|none|300px]]
 
== Machines not currently available (location unknown or else) ==
 
====Brother XR1355====
Status: Location unknown as of 2023-04-20
130-Stitch Computerized Sewing and Quilting (Brother XR1355) Works as of 2021-12-28
This machine is on the home sewing machine table (Table 3).
Overview This machine does 130 different stitches including lots of cool decorative flowers and patterns. Bobbin: Clear plastic, class 15 (Brother SA156). Please use bobbins in Table 3 toolbox.
 
====Singer Ultralock 14U64A serger====
Status: Broken as of 2023/02. Ready for discard
Type: Domestic serger
Year: probably 1990s
Notes:dropped when being carried by handle. On/off switch broken, possible replacement part found, just needs to be wired on. side plastic casing broken, could possibly be repaired with plastic molding material. Part not necessary to functioning, but nice to have to protect machine from dust
This is a four-thread overlock machine. It's evidently meant for knitted fabrics, as a silkscreened note on the upper-left of the front of the machine notes that it requires a Singer 2045 needle, which is a ball point.
The thread guides above the machine are on a pole that telescopes out. Make sure to raise it before using the machine; it works better that way.
*Manual: http://www.singerco.com/uploads/download/974c69637ba13cd29bf98419910a853043dc9e83.pdf
*Parts list: http://parts.singerco.com/CPpartCharts/14U00/14U64A.pdf
 
====Brother Exedra E-40====
We've gotten rid of this machine (when we moved the sewing station over to the fire escape) but we still have the digitized manual: https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/File:Brother_E-40_Operation_Panel_Instruction_Manual.pdf
 
====Kenmore Overlock 3/4D====
Manual: In Manuals Collection, also https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/File:Overlock_34d_38516631.compressed.pdf
 
====Brother SE400 Embroidery Machine====
'''currently missing''' as of 2021-07-14
This machine is awesome, and can do many different stitches as well as CNC embroidery.
It's usually stored on the wall of the sewing area. It looks like a home sewing machine but is as expensive as an industrial one and is many people's favorite machine.
* [[Embroidery Machine]]
* Bobbin: Class 15 ([https://www.joann.com/brother-sa156-clear-plastic-class-15-bobbin/16386419.html Brother SA156])
* Manual: https://download.brother.com/welcome/doch000184/885v31_v32_v33_om04en.pdf
 
====Pfaff Creative 1471 sewing machine====
'''Location unknown''' as of 2021-7-14
This machine has a bobbin case, so it requires a little bit more knowledge to change out the bobbin than newer machines that have a top drop-in bobbin.
*Bobbin: Special metal bobbins. There's a parts drawer specifically for Pfaff bobbins.
*Manual: http://www.pfaff.com/SiteMedia/PFAFF/Products/Machines/Support-manuals/creative1471-manual-EN.pdf
 
====Singer CG-590-C====
Manual: In Manuals Collection
 
====White YM-43-8====
Manual: Unknown
 
====Singer 621-B====
Manual: Unknown
 
====Singer Heavy Duty 4423 sewing machine====
'''Broken''' as of 2019-11-04: Shuttle pops up out of bobbin race, resulting in failure to make stitches and internal pressure upon the bobbin race door.
Has a top drop-in bobbin. Likely to become our workhorse, as the Heavy Duty is a sturdy mechanical machine.
Has a one-step buttonhole feature with a plastic buttonhole foot. Tricky to use but handy if you know how.
A knob on the top of the machine, near the slot where the take-up lever pops up, enables adjusting the presser foot pressure. Like top thread tension, this should generally not be messed with and should be put back after a job that does require adjusting it, but changing the presser foot pressure makes sense in certain circumstances:
*For thick works such as three or more layers of denim (e.g., when hemming denim garments), reduce the presser foot pressure in order to be able to drive over the inseam and outseam.
*For light works made of thin or sheer fabrics, or slippery fabrics, you may need to increase the pressure to ensure the feed dogs can properly feed (all layers of) the work.
'''Always put the presser foot pressure back how it was when you're done!!!''' Setting up future machine-users for difficulty/failure is un-excellent.
*Bobbin: Class 15
*Quick-start guide: http://www.singerco.com/uploads/download/HD%20Series_ANT_Generic_QSG_F_0222_lo-res.pdf
*Manual: http://www.singerco.com/uploads/download/a719909a6ca001462cb1c2536a04506fa9ff327c.pdf
 
====Singer 57817====
'''Works''' as of 2020-01-06. Missing the reverse button, though.
This machine can only do straight and zigzag stitches. No overcast or anything else.
*Bobbin: [https://www.sewingpartsonline.com/singer-57817-sewing-machine-parts.aspx?sort.ss_cat_sort=desc&keywords=bobbin&index=1 Class 66]
*Manual: https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/File:Singer_57817.pdf
 
====Brother XL-2300i====
Currently on the top of one of the sewing area shelves.
Overview
* Bobbin: Class 15 ([https://www.joann.com/brother-sa156-clear-plastic-class-15-bobbin/16386419.html Brother SA156])
Manual + quick set-up guide
* https://support.brother.com/g/b/manualtop.aspx?c=us&lang=en&prod=hf_xl2600i2610eus
 
====Automatic Snap Setting Machines====
In November 2020 we received a generous donation of two Automatic Snap Machines worth over $4000 from Craig Spring http://www.brotus.com !
 
One pair (one female, one male) of fully automatic, electric powered, 20 line, snap setting machines. These are older model machines manufactured by the Ho Hung Ming company in Taiwan (https://www.hohm.com).
 
They have a US location at: Ho Hung Ming USA Enterprise, 13525 Alma Ave, Gardena, CA 90249, Phone: 3103274847.
 
One of the advantages of these older machines is that they are simple mechanical machines built to last. Like an old car, they are easier to repair than newer ones. In 22 years, he never needed to repair these machines. They still run like a beast.
 
As there exists no manual for these machines, Craig and DK gave a servicing and use demonstration on Nov 15, 2020 via Jitsi and X uploaded it to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc2ozToy38Q
 
Photos are at https://discuss.noisebridge.info/t/automatic-snap-setting-machines-donation-instructions/2132
 
[[Category:Pages with a Noisebridge Tiny URL]]
{{guilds}}

Latest revision as of 14:23, 25 November 2025

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Fabrication | Sewing | 3D Printing | Print Shop | Wood Shop | Metal Shop | SparkleForge | Laser Cutter | Vinyl Cutter V · T · E
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You are in the Sewing Studio of Noisebridge upstairs.

You see sewing machines, fabric, a large cutting table, sewing tools, and knitting machines.

EXITS: Upstairs

>

Noisebridge's sewing guild hosts sewing events and maintains three industrial sewing machines, a variety of domestic sewing machines, and knitting machines.

RECRUITING! Maintainer volunteers wanted, consider volunteering to become a maintainer. E

PHOTOGRAPHY WANTED: We need some updated photos of this. Does anyone have or want to take some photos they can Upload? | Category | {{photography}}

The 2169 sewing station. The 272 version is upstairs.
Craft hacking

EVENTS

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  • Sewing Project Night
  • Open Project Night, an unstructured event in which participants brought their own projects for repair and alterations help, advice on techniques, materials, and machines, starting a new project with materials at the space, and just having fun sewing with fellow makers
  • Sew With Knits, in which we went over how to operate the industrial serger, how to operate the domestic coverstitch, overview of domestic sewing machine stitch types appropriate for stretch knit material, and advice on participants' projects

Past Events

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  • In early 2019, we had a “Sewing Machine Fix-a-Thon” in which we serviced some of our sewing machines and determined what parts needed to be ordered.


HOW TO BE EXCELLENT BY NOT BREAKING THE MACHINES

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We have home machines and industrial machines, and the home machines are all, to varying degrees, much more breakable. They're consumer products, often designed and built with a modern “what is this ‘repair’ of which you speak?” mindset, not built to withstand abuse or rough handling.

To that end, here are some strong guidelines for how to Be Excellent and use the home sewing machines in ways that don't break them:

  1. First, always be gentle. Treat the machine like a puppy. It will bite you, die, or incur a huge bill if you damage it.
  2. Do not pull fabric through the machine. Let the feed dogs do the work, or drop them if you want to free-sew or embroider. Pulling work through the machine is a good way to bend or break the needle, damage the bobbin and/or bobbin case and/or shuttle, pull the shuttle out of phase, or otherwise damage something. You're lucky if it's the needle or bobbin; those are replaceable. Anything else takes the machine out of commission.
    • If fabric isn't feeding properly, you may need to adjust the presser foot pressure. See point #4.
  3. Always turn the handwheel the correct direction On most of our machines, this is towards you. If you can't remember, press lightly on the pedal and you'll be able to feel which way the handwheel wants to turn. Turning the handwheel the wrong way won't necessarily break the machine, but it can mess up your stitch, break your thread, or cause a snarl that can break the needle.
  4. Change the machine's configuration as you need, but put it back when you're done. Every machine should have a standard presser foot and a “universal” needle (size 90/14) loaded when not in use. It should be on the default settings for presser foot pressure and tension. Anyone who needs something different should make whatever changes they need, and change them back before they put the machine away/leave.
  5. Put the machine away when you're done/before leaving. The cutting table is not a machine storage rack.
  6. Keep the machine's parts with the machine. Some machines have a storage compartment on the front of the bed (the bottom portion of the machine where the bobbin is). The domestic machines have a kit for holding bobbins, feet, needles, spool caps, screwdrivers, and anything else necessary to using the machine. The pedal should be kept with the machine at all times, and should have a paper tag tied to it identifying which machine it belongs to. (Such tags are kept in a drawer in the sewing area.)
  7. Use the correct needle, and change the needle when needed. Always check which needle is loaded into the machine before you start sewing—make sure it's right for the type (woven vs. knit vs. solid) of fabric, the tightness of weave/knit, and the weight of the fabric.
    • Non-woven materials such as leather or vinyl require special “leather” needles, made to pierce solid objects. Knitted fabrics, including T-shirt fabric, require “ball point” needles, which are less likely to pierce/cut a yarn. Tight weaves such as microsuede may require “microtex” or “sharp” needles that can find their way between the yarns. Denim and heavy canvas may require “denim” (a.k.a. “jeans”) needles. Most normal woven fabrics will work with a “universal” needle.
    • If you're using the right kind of needle but it isn't going through/is skipping stitches or is stitching irregularly or with difficulty, try a heavier diameter or (if woven) a denim needle. Most likely the needle is not able to cleanly penetrate the fabric. Continuing to sew in this state is a good way to permanently bend (i.e., ruin) or break the needle.
    • Needles wear out! They are a consumable. If you're pretty sure you have the right kind and diameter of needle, change it out for another like one. If that works better, safely dispose of the worn needle—don't put it back for some other sucker to try.
  8. Avoid computerized machines unless you really need them. Computerized machines are much more delicate than mechanical machines. The best reason to use a computerized machine is it's the one with embroidery features and you need that. Otherwise, take a mechanical one such as the Kenmore 385 if it's available—they hold up better.
  9. Use the correct type of bobbin for the machine you're using. Bobbins come in a variety of types, including Class 15, Class 15J, Class 66, and numerous oddballs. This page lists the correct type of bobbin for each machine, and the same information should soon be stickered onto all of our machines. Any machine, otherwise working, may fail to sew correctly (skipped stitches, shuttle snarls, etc.) with the wrong kind of bobbin in it.
  10. Do not use a damaged or broken bobbin. If it's cracked, chipped, or bent, don't use it. Transfer the thread (if any) to a new bobbin of the same type (or of the type for the machine you're going to use), then chuck the busted bobbin in the trash.

RESOURCES

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Sewing Machines

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Industrial Sewing Machines

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Domestic Sewing Machines

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Other Amenities

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  • Large table with cutting mat surface (50 inches x ? inches )
  • Irons and Ironing board
  • Sewing/craft/fashion library
  • Domestic knitting machines
  • Buttons, buckles, zipper, grommets, etc
  • 1 dress form
  • Full length mirror

Before donating a machine to Noisebridge

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Please reach out to a maintainer. We're looking to simplify our fleet. At the very least, this will mean getting rid of home machines that don't meet certain criteria (Class 15 bobbins, drop-in bobbin case, works, etc.). We may go further than that and standardize on one model, but that's TBD.

The Community Thrift Store on Valencia would also probably love to have it.

Sewing Machine Usage Tips

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  • Please DO NOT unthread the sewing machines unless you must. (e.g. to remove a spool of thread, simply cut it close to the spool so that the next person can simply tie a knot with the next thread and pull it all the way through to the needle). This is most important for the serger.
  • Domestic and industrial machines use different needles, bobbins, and feet, so check to make sure you are using the right kind. The industrial machines each have a kit hanging on the pegboard behind them. Domestic machine supplies are either in a kit on the table, or are located in labeled drawers on the white cabinet (PLEASE KEEP IT ORGANIZED).
    • The closest place to get domestic machine parts and supplies is Fabric Outlet on Mission between 17th & 18th st. Industrial machine parts are only available by mail order (if you know anyone local please let us know)
    • Needles may differ between machines and come in sizes (10, 11, 12, 14, 16, etc.). The higher numbers are heavier gauge needles suitable for thicker fabrics.
    • Needles also come in different types, including (this is an abridged list; look to other sites for more complete lists):
      • Jersey: Has a ball point, for knitted fabrics (including T-shirt fabric).
      • “Universal”: Moderately sharp, for most woven fabrics. Denim needles are the same but more rigid, for tighter weaves of thick yarns (like denim or canvas).
      • Microtex needles are the sharpest, for tight weaves of thin yarns, like microsuede or nylon.
      • Leather needles have a tiny blade at the tip, for cutting holes in leather and vinyl. Don't use a leather needle for woven or knitted fabrics: The blade will cut the threads rather than squeezing between them, leaving holes that may start rips.
    • Needles for the industrial straight stitch and walking foot machines must be inserted with the scarf facing right. Please check the respective manuals.
  • If you've never operated a sewing machine before please attend a Sewing 101, which happens every 2nd friday, before you use our machines on your own. The class fills up and has a waitlist, so we ask that you only come if you've secured a spot on Meetup. Sewing machines are delicate creatures and we want to minimize the amount of breakage.
    • Read the manual! You'll probably learn something even if you've been sewing for a long time.
    • Printed manuals for each industrial machine are in the gray binder on the bookshelf. We don't have manuals printed for all the domestics, but a Google search should bring them up.
  • Use scraps for testing to determine thread tension and sewing speed.
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About sewing machine needles

Understanding thread tension

Sew heavy material

What is a thread wiper?

Difference between clutch and servo motors

Winding a Bobbin

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Juki DDL-227 & Juki LU-563

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  • To wind a bobbin, place the empty bobbin on the horizontal spindle to the right of the machine body (near the hand wheel). Run a second thread through the upper holder, down to the tensioner at the back of the right side of the machine, in line with the spindle. Thread the end through one of the holes in the bobbin side, from the inside to the outside. Press the lever to push the spindle down in contact with the sewing machine belt. While holding the thread end so it doesn't just whip out of the bobbin, press the pedal to run a couple of inches (if there were fabric in the machine). Soon enough you can let go of the thread end as it will have been caught by windings on top of it. If you are doing a lot of sewing, you can start a new bobbin before the current one is empty, and let it wind up as you sew. When the bobbin is full, the lever will automatically snap out away from the belt and stop winding thread.

Most home sewing machines

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The bobbin winder is usually on the top of the machine near the right corner (right being the side with the handwheel). It should look like a short spindle that can't be removed and sticks up about half an inch (the thickness of a bobbin) from a flat round surface.

Place a bobbin on the spindle, then:

  • On some machines, the handwheel can be pulled out to switch from sewing to bobbin-winding. (Push it back in when you're done winding bobbins.)
  • On the big Singer machine, the handwheel has a part that flips up to engage the bobbin-winder.
  • On the Brother machines, the bobbin spindle can be slid between the left (sewing) and right (winding). In the latter position, a brake slightly intersects the bobbin and will stop it from getting over-wound.

Once the machine is in winding mode and is powered on, press the pedal slightly and make sure thread is going onto the bobbin properly. Once it's winding properly, floor the pedal until the bobbin is fully wound (some machines will stop the bobbin automatically; others may require you to pay attention).

Remember to switch the machine back to sewing mode when you're done winding bobbins!!!

Repairing a Sewing Machine

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Before declaring a machine broken, try the steps on Sewing/Troubleshooting first.

If a sewing machine is actually broken and non functional, as opposed to just you can't figure out how to make it work, please call Billy from Apparel City at 415-816-8645 (mobile) and schedule an appointment for him to come fix it.

  • He usually charges around $80 per hour, plus parts.
  • Email the list and people will chip in to cover this. If you can't manage this process, email the sewing list and find someone else who can. Also, please put a note on the machine so people know what is going on with it.

Sewing Machines

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130-Stitch Computerized Sewing and Quilting (Brother XR1355)

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Works as of 2021-12-28

This machine is on the home sewing machine table (Table 3).

Overview

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  • This machine does 130 different stitches including lots of cool decorative flowers and patterns.
  • Bobbin: Clear plastic, class 15 (Brother SA156). Please use bobbins in Table 3 toolbox.

Manual for Brother XR1355

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Singer Simple 3229 sewing machine

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Works as of 7-17-2021

  • Manual: pdf
  • Bobbin: Class 15. Use bobbins in the toolbox on Table 3.

Specialty Machines

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Brother Coverstitch Serger

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Works as of 2022-02-15 This machine is on Table 4. This machine is useful to alter and finish clothes (hems).


Overview

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  • intro ([1])
  • narrow cover stitches (no tri-cover stitch as the third needle was broken in the head of the machine.
  • should work for a variety of fabrics

Manual

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([2])

Repair Instructions

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A huge thanks Farley and Ken for putting together this video!

Leather Stitching Machine

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zawvl5ZZIdI

Knitting Machine

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We have a Raynen CHJX-1-52 52-inch flat knitting machine.


Watch Video Tour March 2023

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Manual Snap Setting Tools

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We have hand presses but no dies for them.

There are a few misc. hand-setting tools in the grommets box

Scissors

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The sewing station includes a variety of scissors, including straight scissors/shears, a pair of pinking shears, and a couple other specialty scissors.

DO NOT USE FABRIC SCISSORS FOR ANYTHING THAT ISN'T FABRIC. Paper and other non-fabric things will rapidly dull blades to the point where we need to sharpen them again to use them on fabric.

There are some “paper only” (i.e., pre-ruined) scissors on the tools wall since we know people will look in the sewing section for scissors. There are also some “fabric only” (i.e., not yet ruined) scissors that should only ever be used for fabric.

Also related: There is a sharpening stone on the tools wall in the sewing station.

Thread snips

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Thread snips are the small scissor-like tools used for cutting the thread sticking out of a work so you can remove the work from the machine.

Thread snips shouldn't be used to cut fabric—use the fabric shears (scissors) or rotary cutters for that. Neither should they be used on non-fabric things like paper or tape.

There are three pairs of thread snips hanging from the tools wall in the sewing section.

Rotary cutters

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These look similar to pizza cutters but are NOT FOR FOOD USE (both because it trashes the blade and because the blades are not food-safe: new blades are coated in machine oil).

All of our rotary cutters are 45mm, except for one, which is 60mm but has no blade. It's unclear whether we'll keep that one, since we would need to keep 60mm blades in stock and that would mean figuring out where to keep them and what to use them for.

How to use

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Each rotary cutter has a cutting (blade extended) position and a safe (blade retracted) position. The Olfa ergonomic cutters will also spring back to retracted automatically, and can't be extended unless the safety button is pushed to the unlocked side.

Rotary cutters should be used on a cutting mat such as the one on the main sewing station table. Usually you want a straight cut, so you should use an acrylic ruler to guide the blade.

Rotary cutters are EXTREMELY sharp, so be careful. Please keep the cutter blade-side-up so it's less likely to come into accidental contact with the table or anything on it—if you can see the blade, you can avoid contact with it.

Safety tips

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  • Follow an acrylic ruler.
  • Keep your body (including fingers) out of the path of the blade.
  • Only use a sharp blade. Don't use a rotary cutter with a dull or trashed blade. Change out the blade if you have to.
  • Don't force it to cut if it's not cutting.

Maintenance

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Rotary cutters are mostly pretty foolproof. As long as you don't cut yourself, your ruler, wood, another rotary cutter, a 1973 Oldsmobile, or anything else that isn't fabric, the blade should enjoy a good, long life.

But, every blade wears down eventually. Blade sharpeners exist, but we don't currently have one, and a sharpener can't save a chipped or bent blade.

If a blade can't be sharpened, there are new 45mm blades in the storage drawers along the wall.

Changing the blade

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Different rotary cutters have different parts, but they all have these four, in this order:

  • Hub/screw
  • Rotary cutter body
  • Blade
  • Nut

You should try to keep all of the parts (including those not listed—some cutters do have some bonus parts) in the correct order. If you get the order wrong, the blade might not spin freely or it might be too far from the cutter body. If that's the case, no biggie, just disassemble and try again.

No tools are needed.

  1. Remove the nut by hand, keeping your thumb on the hub/screw on the other side.
  2. Gently turn the cutter over and let the blade fall out onto your fingers, and any other parts onto the table.
  3. Sharpen or replace the blade.
  4. Put the blade onto the screw.
  5. Put the screw (with blade) into the cutter, and put all of the other parts, ending with the nut, onto the other side.

Parts Needed

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Some of the parts (especially pedals and/or cords) for the sewing machines have, shall we say, installed a walking foot. Here's what we're currently missing:

HISTORY

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  • 2008: Noisebridge began having sewing machines at 83c.
  • 2009: Rachel purchased industrial sewing machines from the sewing shop that formerly occupied Noisebridge's 2169 space with member donations and held its first Sewing Workshop at 2169.
  • 2015: Grand reopening event of the rebooted Sewing Station.
  • 2019: Sewing station moved over near the fire escape. Also, we did a Sewing Machine Fix-a-Thon and started holding training classes.

Grand Reopening Poster

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Machines not currently available (location unknown or else)

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Brother XR1355

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Status: Location unknown as of 2023-04-20 130-Stitch Computerized Sewing and Quilting (Brother XR1355) Works as of 2021-12-28 This machine is on the home sewing machine table (Table 3). Overview This machine does 130 different stitches including lots of cool decorative flowers and patterns. Bobbin: Clear plastic, class 15 (Brother SA156). Please use bobbins in Table 3 toolbox.

Singer Ultralock 14U64A serger

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Status: Broken as of 2023/02. Ready for discard Type: Domestic serger Year: probably 1990s Notes:dropped when being carried by handle. On/off switch broken, possible replacement part found, just needs to be wired on. side plastic casing broken, could possibly be repaired with plastic molding material. Part not necessary to functioning, but nice to have to protect machine from dust This is a four-thread overlock machine. It's evidently meant for knitted fabrics, as a silkscreened note on the upper-left of the front of the machine notes that it requires a Singer 2045 needle, which is a ball point. The thread guides above the machine are on a pole that telescopes out. Make sure to raise it before using the machine; it works better that way.

Brother Exedra E-40

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We've gotten rid of this machine (when we moved the sewing station over to the fire escape) but we still have the digitized manual: https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/File:Brother_E-40_Operation_Panel_Instruction_Manual.pdf

Kenmore Overlock 3/4D

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Manual: In Manuals Collection, also https://www.noisebridge.net/wiki/File:Overlock_34d_38516631.compressed.pdf

Brother SE400 Embroidery Machine

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currently missing as of 2021-07-14 This machine is awesome, and can do many different stitches as well as CNC embroidery. It's usually stored on the wall of the sewing area. It looks like a home sewing machine but is as expensive as an industrial one and is many people's favorite machine.

Pfaff Creative 1471 sewing machine

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Location unknown as of 2021-7-14 This machine has a bobbin case, so it requires a little bit more knowledge to change out the bobbin than newer machines that have a top drop-in bobbin.

Singer CG-590-C

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Manual: In Manuals Collection

White YM-43-8

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Manual: Unknown

Singer 621-B

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Manual: Unknown

Singer Heavy Duty 4423 sewing machine

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Broken as of 2019-11-04: Shuttle pops up out of bobbin race, resulting in failure to make stitches and internal pressure upon the bobbin race door. Has a top drop-in bobbin. Likely to become our workhorse, as the Heavy Duty is a sturdy mechanical machine. Has a one-step buttonhole feature with a plastic buttonhole foot. Tricky to use but handy if you know how. A knob on the top of the machine, near the slot where the take-up lever pops up, enables adjusting the presser foot pressure. Like top thread tension, this should generally not be messed with and should be put back after a job that does require adjusting it, but changing the presser foot pressure makes sense in certain circumstances:

  • For thick works such as three or more layers of denim (e.g., when hemming denim garments), reduce the presser foot pressure in order to be able to drive over the inseam and outseam.
  • For light works made of thin or sheer fabrics, or slippery fabrics, you may need to increase the pressure to ensure the feed dogs can properly feed (all layers of) the work.

Always put the presser foot pressure back how it was when you're done!!! Setting up future machine-users for difficulty/failure is un-excellent.

Singer 57817

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Works as of 2020-01-06. Missing the reverse button, though. This machine can only do straight and zigzag stitches. No overcast or anything else.

Brother XL-2300i

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Currently on the top of one of the sewing area shelves. Overview

Manual + quick set-up guide

Automatic Snap Setting Machines

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In November 2020 we received a generous donation of two Automatic Snap Machines worth over $4000 from Craig Spring http://www.brotus.com !

One pair (one female, one male) of fully automatic, electric powered, 20 line, snap setting machines. These are older model machines manufactured by the Ho Hung Ming company in Taiwan (https://www.hohm.com).

They have a US location at: Ho Hung Ming USA Enterprise, 13525 Alma Ave, Gardena, CA 90249, Phone: 3103274847.

One of the advantages of these older machines is that they are simple mechanical machines built to last. Like an old car, they are easier to repair than newer ones. In 22 years, he never needed to repair these machines. They still run like a beast.

As there exists no manual for these machines, Craig and DK gave a servicing and use demonstration on Nov 15, 2020 via Jitsi and X uploaded it to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dc2ozToy38Q

Photos are at https://discuss.noisebridge.info/t/automatic-snap-setting-machines-donation-instructions/2132

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