Types of Sewing Machines and What They're For

An ingenious mechanical sewing machine was designed by Isaac Singer and Edward Clark in 1851. it has caused a real revolution in the textile industry. Since then, the sewing machine is constantly being improved, so that the modern devices have different types of decorative points, a large number of footsteps for easier execution of complex sewing operations, as well as the possibility of automatic production of a buttonhole, and electronics with embroidery programs.

In the last century and a half, since it was discovered, the sewing machine has found a place in many homes. As manufacturers nowadays offer various types of this highly useful fashion ally, the question that most often arises is which type and brand to choose.

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There are many sewing machines for beginners, but nevertheless, you must choose wisely. Whether you are new to the sewing industry or doing occasional sewing, consider buying a sewing machine as a long-term investment and never buy extremely cheap no-name machines.

Unsafe mode, frequent breakdowns and inability to service will quickly convince you that you have thrown away money. Reputable manufacturers, with guaranteed quality and reliable service, always have to offer cheaper basic models. Their stores usually also offer brochures describing the products on offer, quality needles, threads, tailoring scissors, and most importantly, you can try the machine on site.

When sewing, the thread is threaded through the material with a needle and then tied with the other thread, resulting in the joining, reinforcement or decoration of the material. All sewing machines have three basic parts: the working part, (the head of the machine), the drive part, that drives the machine and other operating mechanisms, and the auxiliary part.

When buying a new sewing machine, the question often arises as to which model to choose, and what kind of operations it should have. When choosing a sewing machine (s), the amount of budget we can set aside has a big impact.

Classic mechanical sewing machines, for example, do not have an electrical connection at all, and some mechanical machines have an electrical connector for lighting only. Usually, they are with a straight bar only, most often they have a so-called “knife drive”. New mechanical machines are no longer available on the market, but there are very many used ones.

There are many types of Singer machines, and many people buy them more as decoration and less often as a utility machine. It is not recommended for beginners either, as it is quite difficult to match the work of the feet with the arms and the piece of fabric that is on the machine. Maintenance of the mechanical machine is very simple, it all comes down to occasional lubrication, the foot mechanism usually requires no maintenance.

The next group is electro-mechanical sewing machines, it is still the largest group of sewing machines today, they are in fact mechanical machines, with their drive being connected with a smaller electric motor. Electric motors on home sewing machines are less powerful, usually 60-100 W. By the number of operations there are different ones, in very old models it is just a flat-pole and in newer ones it is from a couple of programs up to some 20-25.

The number of programs in electro-mechanical machines is not affected by the date of manufacture, there are many old ones with over 25 programs and the latest ones with barely a dozen. There are a lot of machines of very high quality in this segment, and usually, the customers are attracted by the exterior design, the sleek lines, the beautiful color and it is essentially made of two semi-ordinary plastics.

Computer-controlled sewing machines have an operating system installed, something like “windows” on home computers, they usually have a smaller color screen and most commands are done right through the touch screen or with the included pen. it can also sew ties. The embroidery allowance is special and can be fitted as needed.

Computer machines can also be upgraded by software, adding new embroidery motifs, decorative and decorative poles of all gardens, these are very expensive and complex machines, intended for those who want a sewing machine for a lot of things, and who enjoy new technology. One of the most popular ones from this category is certainly “Singer 7258 Stylist Sewing Machine”.

In addition to its ease of use and reliability, the model you choose should have some elastic or leash points in addition to basic points, such as straight and zigzag points. Elastic stitch is used for sewing stretch fabrics, jerseys, and knits, for sewing lace and scallops. Cotton stretch fabric models are extremely wearable, quick and easy to sew, so the machine you choose should have at least one elastic bodice. Keep in mind that a simple zigzag point, with some thread tension adjustments, can mimic elastic points. Overlock points are used to simultaneously assemble and process the edges of stretchable materials. They can also play a decorative role on visible edges.

The choice of the machine model, in addition to quality and price, is certainly influenced by how often you sew. If you are a beginner or intend to use the machine from time to time (for minor alterations, sewing curtains, and patches), opt for a quality basic model (6-10 points, making a hole for a 4-step button, zipper foot,).

If you want creativity in sewing without borders, and regularly pursue this interest, consider buying a more expensive model with more advanced operations (in addition to the basic points, one that possesses a large number of elastic and decorative points, the automatic production of a buttonhole, a large number of additional feet for more complicated operations).

In addition to the factors listed so far that can help you choose the right sewing machine, there are some more subtle details that mostly depend on the price of the model (such as whether the speed is controlled solely by pressing the electric pedal or there is an additional speed controller, whether the needle stays in the upper or lower position, etc.).