If my sewing machine has been shelved for 3 years..

[Wugmama]

... inside the house in a closet, do I need to get it tuned up or oiled or something or can I just start using it (as if I know how to sew anyways)?

TIA,
Tracy

[grniys]

I would dust the machine and clean and oil it myself and then see how it sews.

[courtenay_e]

Yup. If you know how to oil it yourself, I would definately do that before you use it. If you don't I would get it looked at, and pay the $40 for the clean/oil before you use it. I didn't with my serger once...and it cost me $100, for the diagnosis and THEN the clean and oil! Worth the effort either in doing it yourself or taking it to get done, in the long run!

[texmati]

I've used my mom's old machine intermittantly for years without an issue. No oiling or anything. That being said, maybe I'm not experience enough to tell when there is an issue?

[Wugmama]

Thanks mamas. My grandma, who is an avid sewer, was the one who told me I had to do that, and I was hoping someone here would tell me I didn't have to. I've got two here that say to do it (which would be bringing it in - I have no idea how to do that) and one who says not necessary. So I guess I better bring it in.



Tracy

[sewchris2642]

Before taking the machine in, do you have the manual for it? That will tell you how to clean and oil the machine. Just follow the arrows in the pictures/drawings. Or if you do decide to take the machine in, ask them to show you how to do that. Because it needs to be done regularly as lint builds up in the machine and that can cause expensive repairs. And while you are cleaning the machine, check the needle as well. You probably will have to replace that as well.

Chris