Is a sewing machine needed in the house? What is a sewing machine for? Choosing the type of sewing machine
At first glance, it may seem that choosing a sewing machine is quite simple and the main task here is to determine the level of reliability of the manufacturer. However, there are much more nuances that can make sewing work easier.
Before planning a trip to the store, you should determine the purpose of such a purchase. If the device is selected for professional work and will be operated by a knowledgeable and experienced person, then in this case it is especially important to pay attention to the full range of capabilities of a particular model.
The wider the range of different functions offered by the manufacturer, the better for the owner of such a machine who is a professional sewer. For a beginner, a sewing machine with a more limited set of functions is suitable for home use.
Separation of sewing machines by type
There are several types: electromechanical models, computer and electronic.
- Electromechanical sewing machines are divided into two types, depending on how the shuttle is located. When positioned horizontally, the device requires much less attention than when positioned vertically, since in this case you do not have to adjust the thread tension. Frequent lubrication of the mechanism is no longer required, as is constant maintenance of such a machine. Next, you should take into account the motor power in a model with a horizontal shuttle. With a sufficiently strong motor, the following indicators noticeably improve: the sewing speed increases noticeably, the running of the machine is not loud, the stitch width increases to 7 centimeters, and working with thin thread becomes easier. Among the disadvantages of such models, it is worth noting their fragility during long-term work with fairly dense fabric and expensive repairs. Machines with a horizontal shuttle, despite all their advantages, cannot withstand prolonged work loads. As for models with a vertical shuttle, there are not many disadvantages, but there are also noticeably fewer advantages. Servicing these models is not financially burdensome, and their ability to work under heavy loads is also high. However, the sound of the motor is louder and the stitch width is only 5 centimeters.
- Computer sewing machines Most are intended for professional work. This is explained by the complexity of controlling the sewing process using such models, since they have the ability to connect to a computer. And through it, perform the necessary sewing operations. It is also worth noting the wide range of their capabilities and a fairly large variety of stitch types. The combination of these properties explains the high price of such sewing machines. The principle of controlling them is somewhat similar to the control of electronic models, however, it has a much more complex electronic function control system.
- Electronic cars. Of course, the capabilities of such sewing mechanisms are much wider than those of their mechanical “brothers”. The explanation for this is quite simple: actions are controlled using an electronic unit. Considering that the vast majority of sewing machines are equipped with special pedals, thanks to which sewing actions are performed, electronic machines look much more advantageous compared to other models. The reason for this is the ability to select a device without a pedal. In this case, the sewing machine is equipped with a button responsible for starting and ending sewing. Don't worry about speed either. The slider located on the front panel is responsible for this. An additional advantage of electronically controlled machines is the type of DC motor. Unlike electromechanical sewing machines, which are equipped with an AC motor, electronic models have much greater needle piercing power at any operating speed. In electromechanical machines this is possible only at the maximum permissible speed.
Price category
The cost of the upcoming purchase will also depend on what type of sewing machine is preferred. Do not assume that the price category has boundaries. Not at all, the cost of the device can reach several hundred thousand rubles. The initial cost of economy options is around 3-4 thousand rubles.
However, it is not recommended to purchase the most inexpensive copies, because the manufacturer, in an effort to reduce the cost of manufacturing such models, often uses low-quality materials. As a result, there is no guarantee that the running of such a machine will be smooth and the threads will not break during operation. The average cost of a truly high-quality product most often ranges from 7 to 15 thousand rubles.
Working nuances
So, when you are already in the store and choosing a sewing machine, you should pay attention to how this or that model works when it is turned on. It’s not worth buying a “pig in a poke” for a fairly large sum of money. This means that, having the buyer’s right to check the product before the purchase is made, it is necessary to ask the seller to include the sewing machine model he likes.
There should be no extraneous sounds emitted by the sewing mechanism, but only the smooth running of the motor. To fully sew a product, only a few types of stitches are often required: straight stitch, zigzag, and semi-automatic buttonhole.
You can perform these operations as a test and form your own opinion of a person who has previously dealt with similar functions of the machine. If a beginner is selecting a sewing machine model, then all that remains is to rely only on the opinion of the seller.
In such cases, it would be a good idea to take a familiar expert with you to the store who has some experience in using a sewing mechanism. You should also take into account the height of the foot lift. After all, with sufficient lifting, it will be possible to sew quite lush fabrics. Many modern models have the ability to adjust the pressure of the presser foot on the fabric. If such a function is important, then you definitely need to check its functionality.
Further, there are several minor points on which the operation of the sewing mechanism itself does not depend, however, the convenience of the one who uses this machine depends. For example, is there a so-called “working sleeve” in the design of the sewing machine, which allows you to sew a sleeve into a particular product without much difficulty. Direct access to the box for storing accessories also simplifies the work without additional effort.
A prerequisite must be the presence of a so-called “teether” for the thread. Its location is usually at the back or side, depending on the model of the device.
And finally, the bottom cover, which hides access to the internal mechanism, should preferably be made of transparent material. Thus, it will be possible to observe how the lower thread behaves and notice in time some problems that often arise in this section of the machine (the lower thread can break or slip off the shuttle and get tangled).
Of course, it is better to enlist the support of a professional in the field of sewing, who will express an objective opinion about which of the manufacturing countries produces the most reliable models of sewing machines. After all, it’s not always possible to rely on a store employee, who is primarily trying to sell the product.
Very often, when choosing a sewing machine, buyers are wary when they hear the names of countries such as Thailand, China or Vietnam. The reason for this is the widespread, but not always justified, opinion about the low quality and low reliability of such equipment. This means that it should be clarified that most of the manufacturing companies well-known in their field have workshops for the manufacture of products in particular in these countries too.
However, the reputation, earned over the years, makes us listen to many years of experience in producing quality products, regardless of the country in which the product was assembled. Thus, do not be alarmed if the car model you like says that the country of origin is, for example, China. You just have to pay attention to the name of the manufacturer.
By the way, it will be said that the Singer campaign, well known in the clothing business, has representative offices almost all over the world, also in China and Taiwan. However, the pitfall of such a machine may be some overpayment just for the sewing mechanism belonging to a well-known brand. It happens that as an additional bonus in this unpleasant circumstance, a warranty is provided for the product for up to several years.
Expert assessment highlights several of the most reliable brands of sewing machines. Among them: Bernina, AstraLux, Singer, Babylock. However, there are also economical options among well-known manufacturing companies. For example, Singer and Brother. Their price is quite affordable - around 3 thousand rubles. Moreover, such models are compact and quite powerful.
When choosing a machine brand, you should also take into account the delivery time for spare parts in the event of an unexpected breakdown. For Babylock sewing machine models, these times can sometimes be quite lengthy.
As for the energy intensity of various models, there is a certain equalizing principle at work here, since sewing machines intended for home use are almost all quite economical. The division according to price characteristics in combination with user accessory occurs according to the type of machine.
Thus, computer-controlled models are suitable for professionals working from home. For those who sew exclusively for themselves and in small quantities, machines with a much more modest number of built-in functions - electronic and electromechanical - are suitable.
In conclusion, it is worth saying that choosing a sewing machine for use at home is actually much more difficult than it might seem. Indeed, given the fairly high cost, all the nuances should be carefully considered, as this will ensure the continued operation of the sewing mechanism in the future.
Many people have probably seen advertisements about buying old sewing machines. Such goods are now considered valuable, although some sell them at fairly low prices. Where to sell an old sewing machine is described in the article.
Functions of old sewing machines
Old equipment produces high-quality stitches, although they do not have the variety of functions as in new devices. On some you can do a zigzag. It is impossible to process the edges of fabric, as with an overlocker, with an old machine.
Many people value devices for their build quality and performance, as this is rarely seen among new devices. The equipment is perfect for sewing thick fabrics, as well as light materials. All seams will be strong, so the clothes will last much longer than any store bought ones.
The myth of "The Seagull"
More than 10 years ago there was a massive purchase of old Chaika sewing machines. At that time, some people disseminated information about the high value of the product, allegedly containing precious metals in the parts of the mechanism. Because of this, many people damaged the item in order to find value.
There were often cases of fraud when people bought seemingly valuable parts. It was necessary to take metal samples from a certain part of the mechanism. The shavings were sent by mail with a certain amount attached to organize the examination. As a result, the buyer embezzled the money and did not get in touch. Such fraud has become widespread with the development of the Internet.
A foot-operated Seagull sewing machine costs between $100-$1000 and more. The price may vary, it all depends on the condition of the equipment, appearance, year of production and model. There are several options for where to sell your old sewing machine.
Why do people buy old cars?
In fact, Chaika equipment does not contain precious metals. Today, the product is in demand due to the high quality of work. Since such devices are not currently produced, sewing masters buy them for personal use at a higher cost.
Where to sell an old Podolsk sewing machine if it doesn’t work? In this case, you can contact a repair shop for such equipment. Craftsmen can use parts that are not currently available. Another reason for purchasing equipment is considered to be high-quality stitching of dense and rough materials, which not all modern devices can handle. The devices are purchased as vintage decoration for design studios producing clothing, theater props, and museum exhibits.
Sale
If you have such equipment at home, do not rush to throw it away. Rare goods can be sold for a fairly decent amount. Before you find out where to sell your old sewing machine, it is important to learn how to do it correctly. First you need to find out the brand name and year of manufacture of the equipment. The machine should be cleaned and defects eliminated. Need to freshen up the look.
Where to sell an old sewing machine if it is ready? It is necessary to go to or to private antique dealers to find out about the demand and prices for these goods. Then you need to find a machine repair and cleaning specialist so that he can determine the condition. The device must be photographed from different sides, after which you can sell it at an online auction. A product can be placed on several resources. Implementation occurs through online forums and newspaper advertisements. If you use all the popular methods, you will very soon be able to sell the equipment.
Singer cars
Unique equipment designed for household needs was once in demand throughout the world. In the last century, a unique design began to be used to decorate it: lines, decorations, unusual shapes. Today, collectors are interested in such items. This increases the cost Even ordinary parts are in demand. These include covers and boxes for needles. Where can I sell my old Singer sewing machine? You can contact a pawnshop, as many companies accept such goods at a high price. They are often bought for 5,000-15,000 rubles.
"Veritas"
The old equipment is considered to be the Veritas sewing machine, which was produced in different versions. Among them there are devices with foot drive. A special feature of the devices is the presence of a shuttle rotating in a circle, and not swinging, as can be found in the “Seagull”.
Cars are different from other devices. The main advantage is considered to be reliability and quality, stable and soft operation. Many people use them in the studio, where the load is much higher than at home. The downside is the lack of spare parts. This should be taken into account when purchasing equipment, because if any parts are missing, they will not be found later. The company produces modern cars that compete with global brands.
"Tula"
This machine is considered unique. This equipment was created by Soviet engineers. In the domestic version, structural parts of industrial machines were used. The presence of an internal electric drive and a comfortable pedal made the device popular at that time. In addition, the kit includes a manual drive. This machine makes a full zigzag, its needle moves away from the center and there are other possibilities. There is a high-quality upper thread tensioner. But the equipment did not receive further development, because it is difficult to repair, and spare parts are difficult to find.
Other valuable cars
Antique products include the following brands:
- Pfaff.
- Naumann.
- Kaizer.
- Original Express.
Each equipment has its own characteristics, but all devices are valued for their quality. That is why sewing masters purchase such devices, because they cannot be bought in stores.
Those devices that have never been repaired are highly valued. The perfect condition of an item increases its value. You can get about $5,000 for it. Products with hand fitting and high-quality assembly are of particular value. Where can I sell my old Kostroma sewing machine? You can sell equipment through pawn shops or buying stores.
ads
To sell sewing equipment, you can place advertisements in newspapers and the Internet. It is necessary to place correct text and photos of the car from different sides. Phone number is usually indicated as contact information. To sell a product more profitably, you need to know as much information as possible about it. You should ask for information about the company, assembly, year of production. The more valuable the equipment, the higher the price will be.
Why should you go to a pawnshop?
Where to sell an old sewing machine? It is advisable to conclude a deal with professional buyers. The advantages of a pawnshop include:
- Great service.
- Consulting.
- Signing the contract.
- Confidentiality.
- Legality.
- Proper management of the product.
Where to sell an old sewing machine in St. Petersburg or another large city? Nowadays, thrift stores and trading companies operate for this purpose, where you can sell a valuable item. If you contact qualified craftsmen, the product can be sold at a decent price.
Equipment on metal supports is often scrapped for recycling. This recyclable material is called “business scrap.” This includes most of the components. Old equipment is used for interior decoration. Coffee tables and flower stands are made from it. Thus, the sale of old sewing machines is carried out in different ways. Before you sell a product, you should familiarize yourself with several profitable ways. It will probably be possible to conclude a deal with a high payment.
Long gone are the days when women sewed clothes for the whole family themselves. Gone are the days when it was impossible to buy a fashion item in a store; you had to sew it or order it from a studio. Nowadays it is easy to purchase any of the most modern models. Surprisingly, sewing machines are still in great demand!
Who needs a sewing machine and why?
Modern models of sewing machines are complex, but surprisingly effective and functional tools for creativity. Modeling and making clothes, various arts and crafts techniques - the field for using this miracle of technology is the widest!
People of different categories and for different tasks buy a sewing machine:
- Tailoring. For professional craftsmen and those who like to create unique clothing models, a sewing machine is the most necessary tool. The ability to sew helps to significantly save the family budget;
- Rework and adaptation of finished models. There are many people with a non-standard figure or special needs for whom it is almost impossible to buy beautiful ready-made clothes. A sewing machine comes to the rescue in this case too;
- Creation. No matter how craftsmen talk about the value of hand-stitching in such forms as patchwork, quilting, fur and leather trim, creating paintings from fabrics, ribbons and other materials, a sewing machine can work wonders here too. In capable hands, naturally. It’s no secret that modern household machines perform many types of different seams and “know how” to work with different materials. Smooth, high-quality seams and quick implementation of a creative idea are the undoubted advantages of machine processing. And working with hand tools with dense materials, leather, for example, is also fraught with injuries to the hands.
Types of sewing machines
The modern market offers different types of sewing machines:
- Electromechanical. The most popular class of sewing equipment due to its low price, reliability and optimal set of sewing operations. There are simple sewing machines for beginners and more complex ones - for working with knitted fabric, processing loops;
- Electronic. They are similar in design to electromechanical ones, but have an electronic unit that makes it possible to control the speed on the sewing machine panel and select the needle position. This allows you to work with thick and dense fabrics, perform decorative stitches, borders on fabric, and blind hems. Some models allow you to do simple embroidery;
- Computer. This is a whole complex with automatic adjustment of thread tension, an embroidery unit, capable of performing up to five hundred types of various operations. Special software allows you to connect the machine to a computer and download embroidery patterns and programs from the Internet.
It is not difficult to buy any model; you can choose sewing machines in Kyiv or in another city in the MOYO retail chain.
Which sewing machine to choose
Complex multifunctional models are the choice of those for whom tailoring has long become a profession, as well as those who have found themselves in decorative creativity. Simple and inexpensive machines are chosen by practical women who have no difficulty sewing curtains or hemming a sheet, adjusting clothes to fit, or sewing a comfortable onesie for a child.
If a friend made a beautiful quilted skirt with her own hands and you wanted one, then this is not a reason to rush to the store and buy an expensive, complex machine. It is not so easy to master all its functions; it is likely that this miracle of technology will soon end up in a far corner on the mezzanine or a photo of your sewing machine will appear on a special website in the “For Sale” section.
Sewing machine as a way to earn money
Professional seamstresses have earned their living using a sewing machine since the century before last. And now they continue. But you won’t earn much by simply sewing on pockets.
It’s a completely different matter if you have artistic taste, the ability to select materials by color and texture, creating original clothes, paintings or beautiful utilities. Mastering all the functions of a sewing machine and using different modes and types of seams in your work is not so easy. But what amazing things come out of it!
Patchwork bedspreads and quilted pillows, panels made of lace and ribbons, and book covers and picture frames made of old worn leather - all this is sold and bought on many handmade sites. Both ours and foreign ones. These works are usually chosen as an original gift. And such products cost a lot.
Open up your possibilities and choose a sewing machine to help you!
Anyone who has ever expressed a desire to purchase a sewing machine probably remembers the abundance of models, which often confuses and forces you to choose equipment recklessly. Let's look at the most global mistakes that many of us make when purchasing a sewing machine.
Is a high-quality sewing machine always expensive? Choosing a sewing machine
Here you should start from the meaning that “expensive” means to you. Of course, budget models can certainly be of high quality, but it is important to distinguish an inexpensive sewing machine from a low-quality one. And the first suspicion should be caused by the combination of a huge number of functions, a low price and, for the most part, an unknown brand emblazoned on the body of the machine.
High-quality equipment should be distinguished by a powerful motor, a metal frame and a set of operations that corresponds to the type of machine. Before you buy a sewing machine, look at the online store and compare prices using a search limiter by type, brand and functionality. This way you will know the approximate cost of the model you are interested in.
Is a horizontal shuttle better than a vertical shuttle?
It’s worth making a reservation right away and saying that all the advantages of the horizontal shuttle are visible only in models with a zigzag stitch width of 6 mm or more. Namely:
Possibility to adjust the width of all types of stitches without distorting them.
- Making a wide and narrow laundry loop, and in the case of electronic control - eyelet, elastic, with rounded edges, etc.
- The transparent shuttle cover allows you to monitor the remaining thread on the bobbin.
- There is no need to adjust the tension of the lower thread; it is enough to adjust the tension of the upper thread only.
- It is much easier to refuel and care for such a shuttle.
- But, as in all other cases, the horizontal shuttle has its drawbacks.
- Quite expensive repairs.
- Rapid wear during intensive work.
As already mentioned at the very beginning, the advantages of a horizontal shuttle are justified only when working on machines with only mechanical and electronic controls and a stitch width of more than 6 mm.
Are Chinese-made sewing machines of poor quality?
Skepticism towards Chinese-assembled equipment can long ago be left in the past. Now this opinion is nothing more than a banal stereotype. To refute it, one can imagine several well-known manufacturers of sewing equipment from China, whose machines are not inferior in quality to their famous European counterparts.
JAGUAR;
- JUKI;
- AURORA;
- DRAGONFLY.
In addition, other popular manufacturers prefer to assemble their products in China. And given the conditions of fierce competition in the sewing equipment market, most product assembly plants are under strict quality control of the manufacturer itself.
The more expensive the sewing machine, the better the quality of the stitching?
In answering this question, it is necessary to understand what really affects the quality of the stitch.
The width of the lower conveyor and the number of teeth on it, which allow you to move the fabric under the foot. The larger and wider, the better, respectively.
- Adjusting the pressure of the presser foot allows you to move the fabric evenly;
- Please note that the type of overlock and decorative stitching, as well as the width and length of the stitch, should be chosen depending on the type of fabric and the level of complexity of textile processing.
- A horizontal shuttle can cope better with thin materials, but a vertical shuttle can easily work with dense fabrics.
- Despite the fact that household machines are considered universal, it is always worth remembering that they differ from industrial machines and are not intended for commercial (intensive) work.
To summarize, we can say that the quality of the stitch depends less on the model itself and more on how you set up the sewing machine.
And general advice: don’t read reviews on forums. If you are guided by someone else’s opinion, then let it be professional.
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In fact, any, even the simplest sewing machine can help you create a masterpiece. After all, the era of the great couturiers occurred in the second half of the 19th - early 20th centuries, when sewing machines had just come into use and were quite simple. There was no talk of computer control or electric drive, but it was in those times that such great masters as Charles Worth, Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel lived and worked.
At the same time, it is foolish to deny that a good and correctly selected sewing machine significantly saves the time, effort and nerves of the master. How can you make the right choice, not get lost in the huge number of companies and models, choose from the list of functions what you need, and not pay extra?
Let's try to figure it out. First, decide exactly what you need the machine for. Do you just want to have it at hand so that you can shorten too long trousers yourself without having to run to the tailor every time, sew up a jacket torn by a child and cut a new curtain, and you are unlikely to aim for anything more? Maybe you have a desire to sew carnival costumes for children - or are you ready to take a closer look at your wardrobe? If you are going to sew, then what? Summer dresses made of light fabrics, or coats and harsh jeans? Or maybe you are mainly focused on knitwear? Once you have decided, you can begin to choose the model that is optimal for your purposes.
Let's define the points on which a choice has to be made. Firstly, this is the manufacturer, secondly, the type of sewing machine, and thirdly, the necessary set of functions that will determine the specific model. Let's start with the first one.
⇡ Manufacturer
Here, as in any other field, there are market leaders and little-known companies.
The most famous are Minerva, Bernina, Janome, Pfaff, Brother, Singer, Husqvarna. The choice among leading manufacturers is largely determined by personal preferences, the availability in the store of a selection of the machines themselves and additional accessories for them. You should also take into account the availability of service centers in your place of residence - with a high mileage of the machine, this factor begins to play a significant role.
With less well-known companies, everything is not so clear. Often, with the same set of functions, a machine from an unknown company costs significantly less. But, in addition to the obvious risk of getting worse quality, here you may stumble upon another pitfall: difficulties in purchasing additional legs and components. Little-known companies often have very exotic foot mounts or bobbin sizes. Therefore, if you still decide to save money, be sure to find out which accessories are suitable for this model, and whether you will have the opportunity to purchase them without unnecessary hassle and overpayments.
⇡ Types of sewing machines
All sewing machines are divided into industrial and household. Usually a household one can do a lot of things at once, and an industrial one can do one thing - but it can do this one thing very well and for days, years, kilometers - without breaking down. At least that's the idea.
However, industrial machines are unlikely to interest you, unless you intend to open a small sewing enterprise - they are very expensive, bulky and noisy in operation - so in this material we will concentrate on household ones. Household machines are divided into:
- electromechanical,
- computer,
- sewing and embroidery
- embroidery,
- overlockers,
- cover,
- carpetlocks.
What does this all mean, and which category should you choose?
1. Electromechanical sewing machines- the simplest of all. The entire internal filling of such a machine is mechanics, that is, levers, shafts and gears. Only the motor that drives it all is electric.
- 32 types of stitches
- semi-automatic loop
- vertical shuttle
- stitch length 4 mm
- stitch width 5 mm
The undoubted advantages of this type are reliability, low price, and inexpensive repairs in case of breakdown. Conventional electromechanical machines are inferior to computer machines in the speed of operation and number of functions, since the technological design features do not allow for stitching of complex shapes, but are perfect for beginning seamstresses, or those who want to have a reliable assistant for small household needs. However, a coat, jeans, and a ball gown are quite capable of a good and properly adjusted electromechanical machine. The approximate price category of such machines is 3-5 thousand rubles. Simple, affordable, reliable.
2. Computer sewing machines They are distinguished by the presence of a computer board, which provides general management of the process, which allows this type of machine to carry out rather intricate stitch programs. The movement of the needle relative to the fabric is controlled by a microprocessor. What a particular model can do depends on the amount of memory and the number of programs of this machine “brain”.
- 197 types of operations
- automatic loop
- horizontal shuttle
- stitch length 4.5 mm
- stitch width 7 mm
Their starting price is approximately two to three times higher than the price of electromechanical ones. At first glance, the huge number of stitch types seems to be an undoubted advantage. These include 15 types of different loops, and chains of different flowers and leaves, and a dozen overlock stitches, and knitted seams. But take a closer look at this list and think about which ones will you personally actually use? It turns out that you don’t need some of it at all, and some of it is just numerous duplicates of the same thing with minor deviations.
Personally, I regularly use six or seven of the 56 stitches that my machine has, and use two more from time to time. However, one cannot help but notice that this already greatly expands my capabilities in comparison with working on an electromechanical sewing machine. So don’t be tempted by the excess of functions - it’s not at all a fact that you will need all of them. Or rather, the fact is that you are unlikely to ever try many of them.
Several types of overlock stitches, a knitted stitch, a triple reinforced stitch, a knitted loop and a loop with an eye will be useful in your work - in addition to the regular loop, of course. The rest of the features are up to you, just don’t let the variety go to your head. It's a shame to pay extra money for something you will never use.
The undoubted advantage of a well-functioning computer machine is the speed and accuracy of its work. If your plans include kilometers of frills and sewing to order for 8 hours a day, a computer machine will significantly save you time and give you additional opportunities for creativity. A buttonhole with an eye is, of course, a small thing, but this little thing affects the entire look of the coat.
The disadvantages are the high price, capriciousness in setting up, and repairs, if something happens, more expensive.
3. Sewing and embroidery machines. Everything is simple here, unlike industrial embroidery machines, which can, in fact, only embroider; such combines often combine two functions.
In my personal opinion, budget versions of sewing and embroidery machines combine these functions very poorly. They are too capricious compared to regular sewing machines, and compared to full-fledged embroidery machines, they are too limited in embroidery capabilities. And more expensive models are also scary in price. Therefore, I recommend considering this class of machines exclusively as embroidery machines and purchasing them based on these purposes.
Also, don’t think that if you buy an embroidery machine for 100-300 thousand, you will immediately create a masterpiece. Embroidery on a sewing machine is also an art that needs to be learned. In courses or independently, using books or online lessons. In general, working with it is somewhat reminiscent of working in Photoshop. You can go to a specialized website, type in motifs drawn by someone there, quickly read the instructions and glue them together as best you can, adding stars and hearts with a stamp. But if you look at the masterpieces created by professionals, it becomes clear that this is not even a third of the capabilities of this tool.
So, think carefully about whether you need this, and to be honest, in most cases it is much easier and incomparably cheaper to order embroidery from a workshop that already has serious equipment and a good craftsman. Outsourcing is everything to us. Personally, this is what I usually do.
4. Cover sewing machines. They are - flat stitch machines.
Designed to make an elastic flat seam used to close the hem edge of a knitted product. This whole complex verbal construction refers to that seam that you can see on the hem and sleeves of almost any T-shirt.
Among household machines, flat stitches can be made by two types: flat stitch machines and carpet lockers. A regular stitch looks the same on both the front and back sides, as the top thread is wrapped around the bottom thread (bobbin) and tightened. A flat or chain stitch looks different. It is obtained by simultaneous operation of two or more needles and loopers.
This type of sewing machine is designed to work with elastic “stretch” fabrics. If your main goal is T-shirts, swimsuits and tracksuits, this is your choice. Price category from 10-15 thousand.
5. Overlock is a machine with one or two needles, equipped with a trimming mechanism and designed for overcasting sections of a wide variety of sewing products. When choosing an overlocker, you should first of all focus on ease of threading and sewing. We should also not forget about the possibility of overcasting with different numbers of threads. Most overlockers perform 3- and 4-thread overcasting, suitable for most types of fabrics, and rolled edge overcasting. On higher-end overlockers there is a 2-thread overlock designed for the finest fabrics - such as silk or chiffon - as well as for decorative finishing.
In principle, overlocking functions are also available in computer sewing machines. But a seam made with a real overlocker is much more accurate and reliable. In addition, the overlocker is equipped with knives that themselves cut off excess allowance, leveling the edge, which significantly saves time. In general, if you sew regularly and the free space allows you to place two units, an overlocker will be a very useful acquisition, but if not, you can do without it. In any case, it does not replace a sewing machine, but only complements it. It is not intended for assembling product parts. The price for overlockers starts from 6 - 7 thousand, for 10 you can buy a quite decent model.
6. Coverlock is a relatively new invention that many are not particularly familiar with. Pfaff marketers came up with this name for their range of such machines and patented it, after which it firmly entered into everyday use. It combines the word “overlock” and the English term coverstitch, that is, “covering” or “closing” stitch. This machine can perform both overcasting of garments, and flat seams and straight chain stitch, that is, it combines an overlock and a flat stitch machine. The price for carpet locks is quite high and starts from 25-30 thousand.
Like a cover sewing machine, a carpet locker is designed to work with knitwear. The design also assumes the presence of several (from 2 to 10) upper threads and loopers, with the help of which you can create various, sometimes very complex seams, indistinguishable from industrial ones.
What to choose for working with knitwear - a carpet locker or a pair of overlockers plus a cover-stitching machine? On the one hand, a carpet locker has a larger number of loopers, which allows you to make more complex seams; it alone takes up much less space, and its high price is quite comparable to the total cost of a cover stitcher and an overlocker. On the other hand, when processing a garment, you may first need an overlock, then a flat seam, again an overlock, again a flat seam, and so on every five minutes.
In the case of two machines, this will not present any difficulty, and each time the carpet lock will have to be reconfigured from a flat seam to an overcast or overcast stitch and back. And this is a rather long and painstaking process, which even with skill takes several minutes. It’s up to you to decide what’s more convenient.
⇡ Model capabilities
This question is most acute when choosing a specific model of computer sewing machine. It is with this type of machine that the number of lines often exceeds two hundred and causes ripples in the eyes and dizziness. You don’t need to start your choice with the number of lines. There are more important parameters that you should decide on first.
1. The type of fabrics the machine is designed to work with. There are machines for working with all types of fabrics; there are models designed for light and medium, or vice versa, for medium and heavy fabrics. If you definitely know that your main area of activity will be, for example, dance dresses made of silk and chiffon, take a machine for light fabrics, it will work with them better than a universal one. If your choice is a coat and jeans, consider models for medium and heavy fabrics. Usually they have a larger gap between the foot and the needle plate, which allows you to put a thicker layer of fabric under the foot, and a more powerful motor that can sew this layer.
2. Maximum stitch length (up to 5 mm) and maximum zigzag width (up to 7 mm). The larger these parameters are, the better: it expands the field of possibilities.
3. Shuttle type: the shuttle can be vertical, with a removable bobbin case, as well as horizontal, where there is no bobbin case. The second option is more modern and reliable - it has fewer parts that can break.
4. The loop can be automatic or semi-automatic. The “full” machine allows you to make up to 7 different types of buttonholes, in one operation you can sew a buttonhole exactly to the size of the button, remember the size and repeat a buttonhole of the same size the number of times you need.
Automatic buttonhole foot
Semi-automatic buttonholes are usually performed by simpler models. Here you determine the size, guided by the markings on the foot, the loop is sewn in 4 consecutive operations. It’s not difficult and it’s not that long, but if you multiply it by 10, 20, 30 buttons per suit, the difference is quite significant.
Foot for semi-automatic buttonhole
5. Optional, but very convenient features are a built-in needle threader, the ability to sew with a double needle, a needle positioning button and a spot fastening button. If you are going to sew a lot, you should pay attention to the possibility of working without a pedal and external speed adjustment; this greatly saves your leg, which after four to five hours of continuous pressing the pedal begins to complain, and besides, the pedals fail faster than the machines themselves, and they do this, as a rule, at the most inopportune moment.
⇡ Additional accessories
The capabilities of the basic machine you purchased are far from the limit. Accessories play a huge role in the quality of the result and the speed of achieving it. The fact is that for a high-quality result it is very important to choose the right foot, needle and thread for each fabric and operation. The table for the ratio of the thickness of needles and threads is in the instructions for the sewing machine - and here you are unlikely to go wrong.
But in addition, there are special needles for difficult fabrics - for example, they will be needed for working with leather, denim, stretch fabrics and jersey. Different sharpening of the tip allows them to work most accurately with the material for which they are intended. Very often, situations arise when a novice seamstress scolds the machine for missing stitches or other seam defects, but the problem is simply the wrong choice of needle.
There is also a huge variety of paws. On one of the largest Russian-language forums dedicated to needlework, the topic about various paws occupies more than 200 pages and is regularly updated. At the same time, only the bare minimum is included in the basic package. And this is where the initial choice of the machine begins to play a role - your capabilities may ultimately be limited by how easily you can purchase additional legs.
5. Foot for sewing, beads and sequins.
And hundreds more types of paws, attachments and devices designed to do what previously could only be done by hand. Make your work easier and turn sewing into a fun process.
⇡ Total
Of course, this is not all that can be said about sewing machines. Despite the apparent similarity, each model may have nuances and subtleties that will make it most suitable, or, conversely, unacceptable, for you personally. Convenience of threading, location of buttons and control levers, sound during operation, appearance of the light bulb and more, and more, and more.
Ideally, you should go to the showroom of a large store and sit in front of different models, thread the threads, sew a test stitch, trying out how it will be and whether it is comfortable for you. If this is not possible, or you are sorely short of time for this, wait for the next releases. I will do this for you and share my impressions in as much detail as I can.
