How does the needle go in the sewing machine and which way do I thread the needle?
 

It seems like there is always someone having a problem with figuring out which way the needle goes in the machine and which way the thread goes in the needle.

Let's examine a NEEDLE BAR. Do you see a groove? [ATTACH=CONFIG]483974[/ATTACH]


The flat side of the needle always hugs the needle bar so it can be securely held in place.
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Then when you thread the needle feel the groove on the needle - the thread goes in the groovy side. Some Singers have an arrow on the throat plate to show you which way to thread the needle. You will still have to get the needle in the right direction.
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Look at your needle. You will see a flat side and a rounded side at the top. Flat side toward the needle bar. At the bottom of the needle you will see a hole or eye. On one side of the hole most likely you will see a curve. On the other you will see a groove going from the eye of the needle to the rounded part at the top of the needle. Thread goes in the groovy side.

There are machines that take needles that do not have a flat side at the top or a curve at the eye. You will need to learn more if that is what you are using.

Where's the like button again? Thanks Miriam, I'm sure many of us thought this would be a good idea, but you did it.
Y'know, I've seen those arrows but never thought about them. I think a link to this from the vintage machine resources might be in order. Just give me a minute.

The light went on, I've always seen that arrow now I know what its for. (Like the the little gas pump in my car that shows me which side the fill door is on.)Thank you M

I never knew exactly what those arrows were for. Thank for the info.

Always love refresher courses. Thanks!

Thank you for the groovy tute!