by jerrib 16 Jun 2015

Hi Cuties: Has anyone thought of or tried this:

It seems that the bolts on our hoops are the first to wear out. In the past I have bought extra bolts and nuts for my machines, but they are very expensive. This is my thought:
Just buy regular nuts and bolts in the size of the ones that come with your machine. Then make a knob out of Fimo (Modelling Clay) and put it over the end of the bolt. You would then have to bake them for the Fimo to harden.
I haven't tried it yet, but am planning on it, in the near future. I just wanted to know if anyone has tried this.
I don't see why it wouldn't work and would make our hoops last a lot longer.
I am going to take the set from my machine, next time I go to the hardware store, so I can look the same size.
What do you all think? Good idea or No?

Hugs Jerri

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by noah 01 Jul 2015

Way to go Jerri your on your way to success lol hugs

1 comment
jerrib by jerrib 01 Jul 2015

Thanks Carolyn, I am glad it worked.

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by jerrib 01 Jul 2015

Well Cuties, I was finally able to try this out and it did work. They are metric, but I was lucky to find the size I needed. I then just wrapped a little Fimo (modelling clay) around the end, formed the shape and baked it in my toaster over 275f for at least 30 mins. Let them cool. They work just fine. I wasn't able to find the thinner size, but do have some spares.
Hugs
Jerri

1 comment
crafter2243 by crafter2243 01 Jul 2015

Nice to know it worked.

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by cfidl 17 Jun 2015

I would try it if I needed to for sure. Thanks!

1 comment
jerrib by jerrib 17 Jun 2015

Will post the results when I get a chance to get the parts and the Fimo.
Your welcome.

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by rachap 17 Jun 2015

Sounds like a good idea. I am thinking that maybe since so many of the machines are made in other countries that you may need a metric screw. Maybe an auto parts store would be a good place to look if you don't have luck at the hardware. Be sure to let us know.

1 comment
jerrib by jerrib 17 Jun 2015

I don't think it would matter if it was metric or not, as I am going to buy both a nut and bolt, I just need the right size. My nut comes out easily, so hopefully my idea should work, time will tell..

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by brittanycooper 17 Jun 2015

Tried to find bolts to fit my first machine. Never got any, so had to buy them from a dealer. EXPENSIVE. I do believe your idea might work if you could find the right size.

1 comment
jerrib by jerrib 17 Jun 2015

I hope I can as well. The ones you buy from the dealers are very expensive for what they are.

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by marianb 17 Jun 2015

Hadn't thought about using these but will have to investigate the possibility.. thanks

1 comment
jerrib by jerrib 17 Jun 2015

I will post the outcome, once I get a chance to try it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained...

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by mops Moderator 17 Jun 2015

Never tried a Fimo knob, but have used bolts from the hardware store ( or rather from one of the many babyfood jars my husband keeps in the garage) and it worked on my Brother hoops. It fitted the existing nuts - it has metric thread, which might be a problem to come by in some countries where imperial thread is the standard. Never had to replace one on my Husqvarna ones so far.

1 comment
jerrib by jerrib 17 Jun 2015

I just thought a Fimo Knob would make it easier to turn.
I do have a Brother machine.

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by 02kar Moderator 16 Jun 2015

Now that is thinking outside the box. I would love to know how well it works. BTW, Allstitch.com sells hoops much cheaper than dealers and the hoops are identical. Check them out.

5 comments
jerrib by jerrib 16 Jun 2015

Thank you Karen. I will post a picture when I do get them done and let everyone know how it works. Allstitch is where I buy extra hoops and parts. I just don't think you have to replace the hoop if its just the bolt that doesn't work anymore.
Not sure if everyone knows it or not, but you can buy just replace bolts and nuts for most machines...If this doesn't work...

jrob by jrob 16 Jun 2015

I keep 2 back ups in my drawer at all times. Waiting to see your success. I've asked my DH about it and mine actually is recessed into a part of the hoop, so he said it wouldn't work on the Bernina hoops, but I think I'll look, too. He said he could have it re-machined where it is stripped, but it would cost more than a new one.

jerrib by jerrib 16 Jun 2015

Hi Jerrilyn: Both my bolts and nuts come right out of the hoop, so I am taking them to the hardware store. I won't be doing this until next week, but will post a picture once they are done. If you bolt comes out that should be the only part to replace. I find its the part that needs replacing. and not the nut. Just frustrates me how much they charge for these parts, so I always look for a cheaper, but just as good a solution. My idea's don't always work, but at least I give it a try...

jrob by jrob 17 Jun 2015

It's a great idea!

jerrib by jerrib 17 Jun 2015

I will keep you posted.

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by rescuer Moderator 16 Jun 2015

You are always thinking!
I do not know if it is a good idea for the machines...but it is a good idea to try it out! Much cheaper than buying a new hoop. Good luck!

1 comment
jerrib by jerrib 16 Jun 2015

Yes, I am always thinking...lol. I don't see why it wouldn't work. The bolts on the hoops aren't anything different than the store bought ones, just have a fancy knob on the end. The picture isn't the best, but it gives you an idea of what I am thinking.
Hugs

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