The Sewing Machine Belt Shifter - what it does
by Kelsi Watts: A sewing machine belt shifter, also known as a belt tensioner, is a device used to adjust the tension on the drive belt of a sewing machine. The drive belt is a loop of flexible material that connects the sewing machine's motor to the handwheel, which drives the needle and other sewing components.
The belt tensioner is used to adjust the tightness of the drive belt, which in turn affects the speed and smoothness of the machine's stitching.
Adjusting the belt tensioner is typically a simple process that involves turning a knob or lever to loosen or tighten the belt.Some sewing machines have an automatic belt tensioner that adjusts the tension automatically, while others require manual adjustment.
A sewing machine is an appliance (here's why)
A sewing machine is an appliance, it meets the technical definition applied to all home appliances. An appliance is best defined as an instrument designed to perform a specific function. For home appliances a device simply needs to perform a useful function which a home sewing machine does well.
Bobbin case location on a sewing machine
Front loading bobbin cases are always located on the side of the sewing machine facing the user. Side loading bobbin cases are more rare on newer machines and are located below the needle plate.
Front loading bobbin cases can be used on side loading machines but side loading bobbin cases, whether removable or inset, cannot be used with front loading sewing machines.
The meaning of E1 on a Brother sewing machine
Psst, you likely forgot to lower the presser foot! According to documentation provided by the manufacturer, E1 is the error code you get when you press the foot controller while the reverse/reinforcement button is also pressed AND the presser foot is still raised. Solution: Lower the presser foot and the error should be cleared.

Sewing machines have improved over time
Sewing machines revolutionized the sewing industry when they first became commercially viable, and they continue to change. The two biggest changes to were the introduction of electric sewing machines and, more recently, the addition of electronic models capable of performing automated sewing tasks. Perhaps computers will be able to help sew entire pieces of clothing at home in the near future.
Sewing machines capable of industrial use
There are several brands of sewing machines that perform well for industrial sewing. These five sewing machine models currently provide top value for industrial sewing purposes as of 2021/22. They are the Juki DDL-8700, the Janome HD1000, the Singer 191D-30, the Juki DDL-5550N and the Consew 206RB-5.
Basic sewing machine parts to know (All 5)
There are five basic common components in every home sewing machine that you should know how to use. These five allow for user input while typical other parts, such as the motor and casing, do not. The five basic parts to learn about are the bobbin(incl bobbin housing), the presser foot(and foot dogs), the needle, the throat plat(sometimes called the needle plate) and the electronic controls(electrical switches on older models).
Cause of fabric movement in a sewing machine
The needle plate, a metal plate located under the needle, moves fabric forward during sewing. The needle plate works best with an optional presser foot engaged above the fabric while sewing because the needle plate and presser foot then work in tandem at the same speed.
Different types of home sewing machines
Overlocking or serger machines. Mechanical treadle sewing machines. Electronic mechanical sewing machines. Mini and portable machines. Computerized or automated machines. Embroidery machines. Quilting machines and overlocking Machines.
A presser foot holds the fabric while sewing
The presser foot is what holds your fabric while using you sew with your home sewing machine. It's important that you remember to lower the presser foot each time you start to sew of you'll find that the fabric doesn't move through your machine as easily as it should. When I first started sewing I forgot it ALL THE TIME!