Problem with finishing raw edges

[Think of Winter]

I'm zig zagging them, and I'm having a couple of issues.

One is at the beginning and end of a row. When I try to back stitch, my fabric gets sucked into the machine. Do I not need to back stitch this?

The other is that when I get close to the edge, the edge of the fabric gets distorted and ripply. I guess I need to move in from the edge a bit, but then won't it ravel? Can I adjust something, like the presser foot tension, to help?

Thanks ladies.

[sabrinat]

Originally Posted by Think of Winter

I'm zig zagging them, and I'm having a couple of issues.

One is at the beginning and end of a row. When I try to back stitch, my fabric gets sucked into the machine. Do I not need to back stitch this?

The other is that when I get close to the edge, the edge of the fabric gets distorted and ripply. I guess I need to move in from the edge a bit, but then won't it ravel? Can I adjust something, like the presser foot tension, to help?

Thanks ladies.

I think I understand what's happening to you. You could try starting you stitching a tiny bit further up and make sure you're holding onto the threads when you begin stitching. As far as your seams unraveling you could either pink the edges of your fabric prior to stitching or use a serger if you have one.

[E.V. Lowi]

Loosen up on the top thread tension a bit. Check your needle size and condition. A dull needle or to large of a needle will push the fabric into the throat plate. Also be sure you have the correct type of needle, ie: not a ball point on wovens.

[littlemizflava]

what are you making?

my trick when making wipes. i use a wide zigzag stich and short spacing. i have the loose threads to hold when i start to go down one side, at the end of the fabric pull out dont cut holding that end (ends up like a loop) sew side 2 and do the same for all the sides. this has worked well and they get washed 2-3 times a week i have the same ones for 2 years :

[sapphire_chan]

As for the problem with reversing, if you're going to be going over the corner again (e.g. going along all 4 sides of a wipe) that'll be enough.

[Think of Winter]

I forgot to come back and look for replies! I've been sewing med wt cotton wovens. I have been experimenting with loosening the presser foot tension, and I think it does help. That's a really good idea to hold on to the threads when I start. Thanks everybody. I've just started sewing a lot again, and there are so many little things to learn (and relearn.)