Certain qualities like longevity and design quality set different sewing machines apart. As regards these, it’s essential to get some clarification when choosing. Our buying guide aims to enlighten and influence you to make the right decision.
What is a sewing machine?
A sewing machine allows you to create complex projects using fabrics and several dynamic patterns. It also aids creativity and allows you to complete projects in less time.
Invented in the first Industrial Revolution, sewing machines were used to stitch pliable pieces together with threads. And unlike hand sewing, you can rest assured that you’d create accurately designed customized clothing with higher quality stitches using a sewing machine.
Types of sewing machines
A domestic sewing machine would guarantee good years of service. However, choosing the right machine that suits your needs is important.
There are several machines to choose from depending on your level of experience. For instance, beginner machines tailor to the needs of sewing newcomers and have an uncomplicated basic range of stitches, while intermediate machines feature a wider variety of stitch options and offer extra needle power for heavyweight fabrics.
Advanced machines, on the other hand, are ideal for professionals with computerized features.
Here’s a list of sewing machines to choose from:
Mechanical machine
A mechanical sewing machine uses a system of gears and levers to operate and can either be treadle or hand-operated.
The defining feature of mechanical sewing machines is that they neither have computerized displays nor run by computer systems. Rather, every function is manually generated using dials and switches.
They’re ideal for beginners as they contain the most basic operations that are simple to use and require low maintenance.
Computerized machine
Also known as Electronic sewing machines, computerized machines contain a digital display panel that controls the function of the machine and uses built-in software that obeys different commands to be embedded in your fabrics.
A computerized sewing machine has enormous features, ranging from automatic buttonholes to automatic responses and built-in embroidery designs. This, in turn, yields versatility and enables the execution of different projects ranging from garments to heavy-duty sewing.
Embroidery sewing machine
Embroidery sewing machines are solely for embroidering purposes. That is, they never substitute for regular sewing machines.
These sewing machines employ a hooping system that holds the needed fabric taut as the design is executed and use multiple needles that work together automatically to create a pattern.
Features to consider before purchasing your sewing machine
There are several things to look out for when choosing your sewing machine. For one, a sewing machine type includes several factors that influence your decisions greatly. It’s why we have put together certain features needed to curate the perfect sewing machine.
Controls
To determine the right sewing machine for your use, look out for machines with responsive controls. For example, mechanical machines should respond to pressure on foot pedals. While dials and touchpads should be easy to read and use on computerized machines.
Sewing machine weight
Identifying the size of your sewing machine before purchase is imperative to avoid hauls around your space. Choose sewing machines that comfortably fit your space, depending on your specificity. For example, a lightweight machine that’s easy to lift would be perfect if you have to move around constantly, while a sturdier machine copes better with heavier fabrics and in professional settings.
User-friendly LCD screen
Having a great LCD screen in your computerized sewing machine gives you the ability to view your design properties clearly and concisely. It also offers a variety of designs and stitches to be used. However, it doesn’t apply to mechanical sewing machines.
Bobbins
Bobbins are essential for making stitches on fabrics. Therefore, it’s important to understand your preference for bobbins and types. While bobbins can either be front load or top load, neither system is better than the other. Instead, the tiny spool of thread perfectly holds seams together.
Presser foot
The removable presser foot keeps the fabric in place as you sew and are available in different sizes. So you must first identify and consider the appropriate presser foot for your sewing machine before purchase.
Feed dogs
Feed dogs present in sewing machines are steel plates that gently grip your bottom fabric while sewing to pass it through the sewing machine to produce a high-quality stitch. Since it is an essential feature of a sewing machine that must be present to produce greatly designed pieces, you should opt for sewing machines with perfectly working feed dogs.
Needle threader
The needle threader acts as a guide to put a thread through the eye of a needle. However, computerized machines feature automated needle threaders to prevent eye strain and have you sewing faster than a mechanical needle threader.