Needle Up Or Down

[1894leverguy]

When sewing with a machine such as the CB 3500, is it better to make sharp turns with the needle up or down?

Thanks in advance

[dirtclod]

I don't have a Cowboy machine but on mine if i have to stop and turn i try to have the needle stuck just enough to turn or down all the way and started back up turn and then start again. To me it seems if the needle is stopped on the down stroke the thread get twisted or pulled to the side when you turn and you will skip a stitch.

[KAYAK45]

I have the 4500. I have no problem turning "needle down" and from what I've read on this site, its the only way to assure alignment. I have not had my cowboy skip a stitch, no matter the operator error! LOL

Kevin

[Rayban]

I believe the correct answer is needle down...no matter which machine it is....mine happens to be the CB3500 too:blahblahblah:

I'll ask Bob tomorrow to get his take on it.....going over there for some supplies and a "show me something, will ya??" lesson.

[leathercrafter]

  On 4/5/2011 at 2:32 PM, 1894leverguy said:

When sewing with a machine such as the CB 3500, is it better to make sharp turns with the needle up or down?

Thanks in advance

hello i always make all my turns with the needle down that way it holds your material from slipping hope that helps john

[Wizcrafts]

I make sharp turns, like at belt tips, with the needle down and just beginning to rise. This ensures that the loop is caught by the pickup point. Sometimes, if my own personal timing is off and I twist the strap with the needle at BDC, it may skip that stitch. Allowing the timing to advance a few degrees eliminates that problem. e.g.: 5 to 10 degrees past BDC. Also, I raise the pressor foot just enough to clear the leather as I make the turn.