When learning to sew, one of the most important rules to remember is: Always turn the hand wheel of your sewing machine toward you, never away.
It might seem like a small detail, but turning the hand wheel in the wrong direction can cause significant issues for your machine and your sewing project. In this article, we'll explain why direction matters, what can go wrong if you don't follow this rule, and how to safely use your hand wheel for better sewing results.

What Is the Hand Wheel?
The hand wheel is the round knob located on the right side of your sewing machine. It manually raises and lowers the needle, allowing you to precisely control the machine when not using the foot pedal.
It's especially helpful when:
- Starting or finishing a stitch
- Turning corners (pivoting)
- Sewing over thick seams
- Manually adjusting the needle position
Why You Should Turn It Toward You (Counterclockwise)
1. Keeps the Machine in Sync
Your sewing machine is engineered so that turning the hand wheel counterclockwise moves the needle and hook timing mechanisms in harmony. This synchronization enables your machine to form a proper stitch. Turning it the wrong way can throw off this timing and create mechanical issues.
2. Prevents Jams and Tangles
Turning the wheel away from you (clockwise) can cause:
- The upper and lower threads to tangle
- The needle to get stuck in the bobbin case
- The bobbin thread pulls incorrectly, leading to bird's nests or broken thread
These problems not only disrupt your sewing but can damage your machine in the long term.
3. Avoids Damage to Internal Parts
Incorrect wheel rotation puts strain on the gears and internal parts of the machine. Over time, this can:
- Wear down key components
- Affect the timing mechanism
- Cause costly repairs or misalignment
For older or vintage machines, which often rely on mechanical linkages rather than electronics, this damage can be even more severe.
4. Provides Better Control for Precision Sewing
When you need to lower the needle into a specific spot carefully — for example, when starting a seam or sewing over bulky fabric — using the hand wheel offers more control and accuracy. Turning it in the correct direction ensures a smooth, reliable needle drop.
Bonus Tip: Stop With the Needle Down When Pivoting
When sewing corners or changing direction, stop with the needle down in the fabric. Then, lift the presser foot and pivot your fabric. If the needle isn't down, turn the hand wheel toward you to lower it — never use the reverse direction to "quickly adjust" the needle position.
Final Thoughts
Although it may seem like a minor habit, turning the hand wheel in the correct direction is crucial for maintaining your machine and producing high-quality stitches. Always turn the hand wheel toward you (counterclockwise) to keep everything running smoothly.
LEARN TO SEW OR IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS
Do you want to start sewing but need a helping hand with the basics? Our Sewing 101 course has everything you need to start sewing confidently and improve your skills. Be sure to join our free private Facebook group. Want more beginner sewing tips like this? Check out our Beginner's Guide to Sewing Machine Basics, or watch our free video tutorials on YouTube!
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