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Delicate fabrics often have a mind of their own, sliding or shifting during sewing. Fabric weights and pins become essential tools in this scenario. Weights can hold larger fabric pieces in place when cutting or sewing, ensuring accuracy. Pins, on the other hand, can anchor fabrics together, especially at seams or hems. Magnetic seam guides can also be positioned on the machine’s throat plate to guide fabric straight. Another tip is to handle the fabric gently, ensuring there’s no unnecessary pulling or tugging, which can distort its natural lay.

Many basic home or beginner sewing machines have plastic gears and relatively weak motors, which can easily wear out over time if you are consistently sewing heavy-duty materials and projects. This is not something you want to happen. There is nothing worse than the smell of burning plastic if you are in the middle of a project – a sure sign that your machine is not strong enough for the job.