These are parts common to many sewing machines. However, since there are so many sewing machine models
out there, these parts may or may not be on your particular machine.
Sewing machine parts glossary:
Bobbin
The spool that sits in the lower part of the machine. It holds the thread that makes the underside of a
stitch.
Bobbin Case
The part of the machine that houses the bobbin.
Feed/Feed Dogs
The metal teeth that stick up above the needle plate. They move the fabric forward as it’s being
stitched.
Hand Wheel
The wheel on the side of the machine that can be turned manually to adjust the height of the needle.
Needle Bar/Needle Clamp
The part that holds the needle.
Needle Plate
The flat surface below the needle that the needle goes down through when making a stitch. It can be
changed for different stitching jobs. Also called a throat plate.
Presser Foot
The piece that sits below the needle and holds the fabric down as it’s being stitched. It can be
changed for different stitching jobs.
Slide Plate
The cover that opens to allow access to the bobbin.
Spool Holder
The spindle that holds the top spool of thread.
Stitch Length Regulator/Selector
The mechanism that allows you to adjust the length of your stitches.
Stitch Width Regulator/Selector
The mechanism that allows you to adjust the width of a wide stitch, such as a zigzag stitch.
Take-up Lever
Part of the upper threading sequence, it helps control the flow of thread. It’s the part that goes “up
and down” as you sew.
Tension Disks
Disks that the upper thread is placed between that regulate thread tension.
Tension Regulator/Adjuster/Dial
The mechanism that allows you to adjust the tension of your upper, and sometimes bobbin, thread.
Thread Guides
Part of the upper threading sequence, they direct the flow of thread.
Throat Plate
See Needle Plate.