Industrial Sewing Fast Pass Test

Introduction

Before using the industrial sewing machines at TinkerMill, members are required to take the Industrial Sewing Machine Certification Training. The purpose of the training is to teach the proper usage of the equipment is order to ensure the safety of the user and to help prevent damage to the equipment. Members who have extensive prior experience with industrial sewing machines may consult the shop captain to request a "Fast Pass" certification test in order to get certified without taking the class. This page describes what the "Fast Pass" certification entails and can help a member determine if they believe they qualify to take the test.

“Fast Pass” certification is available to only to members, must be approved by the shop captain, and costs $25, which is a non-refundable fee. If the member is unable to pass the test, then the certification fee will be credited towards the cost to take the certification class at a future date.

The member must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills described below in order to be certified to use the industrial sewing machines. The member may select either the Kingmax or the Juki and may adjust the speed to their comfort level. Materials such as fabric, thread, needles, and poly webbing are provided.

Working Knowledge

• Identify parts of the machine. Parts to include: thread tree, thread path, tension discs, needle, foot, reverse lever, throat plate, bobbin case, bobbin, foot lift lever, knee bump, and bobbin winder. (Instructor can prompt the member to aid with identification of parts.)
• Explain the difference between a walking foot and a presser foot. Name at least one advantage of a walking foot over a presser foot.
• Name at least one fabric or application that would not be appropriate to sew with the industrial sewing machine.
• Explain how to select a thread weight and how to match the needle size to the thread.
• Discuss needle selection (system, type, and size) and when to change a needle.
• Discuss machine maintenance, such as oiling.
• Identify possible sources of injury when using the machine.

Skills Demonstration

• Show how to remove and install a needle.
• Show how to remove and re-install the foot.
• Show how to remove and replace the bobbin.
• Show how to set up the machine to wind a bobbin. A “cheat sheet” may be consulted, and winding a full bobbin is not necessary.
• Thread the machine and adjust the tension. A “cheat sheet” for the thread path may be used.
• Sew manually using the wheel.
• Examine stitch quality and adjust stitch length and tension as necessary.
• Sew with the foot pedal.
• Maintain control of thread while starting a stitch and pull slack thread after sewing.
• Show how to pivot when sewing corners.
• Demonstrate reversing the direction while sewing.
• Attach poly or cotton webbing using an “X” configuration.
• Work safely while demonstrating the above skills.