Tips for choosing a sewing machine for all types of fabrics for home use

Which sewing machine is better to buy for a beginner and a professional?

The pandemic period has made adjustments to the clothing business. Instead of men's suits and prom dresses, the studio is now sewing reusable masks. Handicraft workers, many of whom found themselves locked at home for a long time, are not far behind them.

As a result, by the fall of 2021, the demand for sewing equipment increased by 46%, causing its price to rise, TASS reports. Now craftswomen will have to approach the choice of a machine even more carefully.

Modern sewing machines can be electromechanical, electronic or computerized.

For beginners and home craftswomen, electromechanics with 10-20 basic types of stitches, a pedal and manual function switching controls will be enough.

Experienced seamstresses who want to make the process more convenient and are willing to spend money on expensive equipment can recommend electronic equipment with push-button start and switches. A screen displaying the selected sewing parameters will not be amiss.

Professionals , along with complete electronics, should consider computerized options. Their difference is convenient touch control and a built-in microprocessor. Some models offer Wi-Fi connectivity. Such machines know hundreds of operations, including those suitable for embroidery and circular sewing.

For those who often work with knitwear, “slippery” or fraying fabrics, we advise you to pay attention to the cover-stitching technique, overlock or carpet locker.

For dense fabrics, you will need a powerful and heavy machine with metal equipment, special needles, pressing and fabric moving elements.

Which manufacturer is better?

• Janome is a world leader in the number of sewing equipment produced. The company's product range includes more than 50 machine models.
• Brother is a Japanese company that produces budget sewing machines. The cost of the cheapest ones starts from 5,000 rubles. The functionality of the devices is small, but their quality is better than their Chinese counterparts.
• Singer is an American company. Produces both inexpensive and computer-controlled options.
• Juki is a famous company for its overlockers. The range is small, the price is high.
• Leader is a Russian company that assembles sewing equipment in Chinese and Taiwanese factories. They produce overlockers, household sewing machines and knitting equipment for factories.

When compiling the rating of sewing machines, all the criteria described above were taken into account. Moreover, only those that earned high ratings on review sites and received only positive reviews were shaved.

The best computer controlled sewing machines

Computerized sewing machines have the widest functionality and belong to the premium class. Many of them can not only sew, but also embroider, so they are ideal for applying complex designs and designs to fabric.

1

Elna eXperience 570

With expansion table and built-in memory

A compact automated model can completely replace a professional machine in a studio. At the same time, even a beginner or a master accustomed to electronic-mechanical units can understand the settings.

Find out the price

Reasons to buy:

• 200 operations;
• Easy setup;
• LCD screen with backlight;
• Built-in memory;
• Presser foot pressure regulator;
• Reinforced needle puncture;
• Comes with additional legs and an extension table.

The brand has released a new product with rich functionality and equipment. The master has two hundred sewing operations at his disposal: working, overlock, knitted and decorative stitches, 12 types of automatic buttonholes.

The stitch length is adjustable from 0 to 5 mm, the zigzag width is adjustable from 0 to 7 mm, which allows you to make neat seams on children's clothing or stitch a blanket in a hurry. It is also easy to adjust the sewing speed and presser foot pressure when working with thin and coarse fabrics.

The automatic needle threader makes the job easier—no need to strain your eyes to find the eye of the needle. A simple bobbin threading diagram with tips on the body adds convenience.

Reverse is provided (feeding fabric in the opposite direction) for strong and reliable stitching in one place. And also bright lighting, an extension table and 3 additional feet: overcasting, for sewing in a zipper and hem.

In addition to the standard set of seams, the menu includes decorative stitches for decorating products. They can be combined with each other and stored in this form in the machine’s memory.

2

Brother Innov-Is M270

Affordable choice for sewing and decorating products

Brother Innov-Is is suitable for home use, allowing you to decorate garments with patterns and sew-on designs. The model is affordable, and its advanced functionality makes quilting or sewing in the circle accessible (if you purchase the appropriate kit).

Find out the price

Reasons to buy:

• Extended rail for moving fabric;
• 8 feet for different types of work;
• Built-in alphabets;
• Needle threader;
• Upper and lower thread tension sensors;
• Compact size.

The computerized Innov-Is M270 is an improved version of one of the most popular models of past years, the Innov-is 950. With 181 built-in sewing lines, the machine offers 80 embroidery designs and 10 fonts. There is also a unique opportunity to save your own drawings or those taken from the Internet.

Interesting innovations: a needle threader with instant threading, a 3.7-inch touch screen, the ability to edit the design directly on the display. The machine itself is still simple and convenient to operate. The only thing that might seem like a drawback to some is the small embroidery field measuring 100x100 mm.

Pressing the “scissors” button provides automatic thread cutting, and the universal “J” foot will help when working with complex and combined fabrics. For this purpose, a 7-segment rack is provided, which grips and pushes the blade.

Jaguar A-317

An inexpensive model from the world leader in the production of sewing machines made it into my TOP of the best. The only brand that produces products in Japanese factories, and not in third-party production. Cheap for a high-quality device - 5,500 rubles. Performs all basic sewing and clothing repair operations.

Pros:

• vertical swinging shuttle, the lines are beautiful and neat. The direct competitor Brother CX5 has a horizontal rotary shuttle;
• 9 sewing operations;
• there is a mechanism for shutting off the fabric supply, which is not available in the brand’s more expensive model, the Jaguar Voyage;
• making loops is semi-automatic, not manual, as in Comfort 2;
• Comes with a soft case;
• Like the Brother CX5, there is a compartment for storing accessories.

Minuses:

• the needle is shifted to the left and confuses the threads;
• small working area;
• shakes when working, moves.

Jaguar A-317 is ideal for sewing and darning small items made from light and medium-thick fabrics. It is inconvenient to sew bulky items due to the small working area. You will have to adjust to the needle being unusually shifted to the left, rather than located in the center, as in the Janome 2015 or Comfort 2.

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The best electronic sewing machines

Electronic cars are often equated to computerized ones, but they are rather advanced electromechanical models. They are not equipped with a touch monitor, and control here is carried out using the buttons of the electronic unit. This way you can adjust the needle position, fabric puncture and sewing speed.

1

Singer Confidence 7470

For sewing thick and bulky items

The optimal weight of the machine, high power and metal equipment make it ideal for working with dense fabrics. The large work area is well suited for bulky materials and patchwork.

Find out the price

Reasons to buy:

• Increased work area.
• High power.
• Reverse button and needle threader.
• Stabilization of tissue puncture.
• Drop&Sew system for fast bobbin threading.
• A large number of sewing operations.
• Internal metal frame.

After transferring machine assembly from Brazil to Vietnam, the Singer Corporation significantly improved the quality indicators of the finished equipment. The Confidence model with electronic control, a convenient and clear display, and a button block turned out to be an excellent option for hand-made and tailoring.

The machine performs decorative stitches well (85 types), sews in zippers, and sews buttonholes in automatic and semi-automatic modes. Built-in designs and fonts allow you to decorate clothes, embroider names, initials and entire phrases. All settings are made using buttons on the case, and information is displayed on a black and white display.

The functionality of the machine is not limited to this. Singer knows how to mirror stitches, repeat and continuously sew single elements. The positioning of the needle allows you to sew in zippers without disturbing the stitch design. The model is started using a foot pedal.

2

Janome Excellent Stitch 300

Perfect stitch

A neat, beautifully designed sewing machine is distinguished by the highest quality of work. Among other models in its segment, Excellent Stitch stands out for its impressive range of operations - there are more than 300 of them.

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Advantages:

• Quiet operation;
• Built-in needle threader;
• Possibility of starting from a button and pedal;
• Increased needle bar accuracy;
• Automatic thread trimming;
• Works with different types of fabric.

Flaws:

• Low power;
• There is only one variant of the alphabet (Cyrillic).

It is worth noting the bright design of the model and the impressive lifting height of the presser foot – 14 mm. The sewing speed is close to 1000 stitches/min, which is enough for neat and reliable stitching of fabrics of different densities. There is a five-lane, 7-segment conveyor for feeding the fabric, as well as automatic thread trimming, which greatly simplifies the process and frees your hands from scissors.

The length and width of the stitch have also been increased to 6:7 mm, when in other models the maximum is 4:5 or 5:5 mm. The work area is equipped with LED lighting, and the platform is equipped with a “narrow” sleeve for working in a circle.

In addition to basic seams, Janome Excellent performs finishing and decorative stitches, embroiders the alphabet, makes automatic buttonholes and much more. The horizontal position of the shuttle allows you to more conveniently control the winding level and the feed of the lower thread.

The machine is easy to understand and teach for beginners, but it can also handle professional sewing or decorating tasks. A special additional foot successfully replaces the overlock function. A distinctive feature of the model is its moderate price for its segment.

Choosing a sewing machine: expert recommendations

Today, there are so many different sewing machines available in stores that it is easy for anyone to get confused: not only for someone inexperienced in this matter, but also for seamstresses. Let's figure out what needs to be taken into account when choosing such a device.

Sewing machine structure

To better understand what to look for when choosing, it’s worth knowing how a sewing machine generally works. Let's look at some parts of this device.

The structure of a sewing machine
In addition, the shuttle is also important - we will talk about its features below.

Types of sewing machines

There are three types of sewing machines: electric (electromechanical), electronic, and computer. Let's consider all types in order.

Electric sewing machines

Electric, or electromechanical, sewing machines do not have an electronic unit, but they do have an electric motor - with its help the mechanisms are set in motion. They have engines of different power, perform different numbers of operations, etc.

Electromechanical options were known several decades ago, but today they remain popular and of high quality

Budget models of electromechanical sewing machines usually have a vertical shuttle, a “weak” motor, and can perform a small number of operations (usually up to 15). The stitch length is smoothly adjustable. This option is not suitable for experienced seamstresses, but it is quite suitable for training.

Average-cost electric sewing machines can perform more than 15 sewing operations, as well as automatically perform buttonholes. They have a more powerful motor, and sometimes a threader. A good option for occasional home use.

There are also semi-professional sewing machines, the cost of which is your average . They have many different functions: they can automatically make a buttonhole, have an automatic threader, buttonhole balancing, and you can adjust the presser foot pressure. Like this, they are ways to do about 40 lines. Their shuttle is usually horizontal. It’s also convenient that on such machines you can adjust the presser foot pressure.

Cost affects how many features a sewing machine will have

If you want to learn to sew on such a device or plan to use it rarely, then there is no point in spending a lot: you can buy a budget or medium-cost model. Also, sewing machines in the mid-price segment are suitable for those who periodically sew things for themselves and family members. But if you plan to sew things for sale and use the machine every day, it is better to take a closer look at the semi-professional model. Subsequently, it will definitely pay for itself.

Electronic sewing machines

Electronic devices are considered more modern and advanced: they are in many ways similar to electromechanical ones, but they have an electronic unit. This allows you to control the sewing speed, stabilize the puncture, and also select the needle position. This gives much more possibilities when sewing - for example, it is much more convenient to work with dense fabrics on electronic models. By the way, the control is very convenient and simple - as a rule, it is carried out using buttons on the body.

Electronic models are considered more advanced than electromechanical ones

As for the selection criteria for electronic sewing machines, they are exactly the same as in the case of electromechanical ones. It is only important to take into account that electronic models are very sensitive to voltage surges - most options do not have a protection mechanism. If you often have power outages, this can simply “kill” the machine, so it is better to choose either another type of device, or an electronic one, but with a protective unit.

Computer sewing machines

Computer and electronic sewing machines are often confused, but this is completely wrong. All computer models are equipped with a microprocessor and a touch screen. In addition, they can be connected to a computer. Such devices have many times more possibilities - it is more convenient to sew on them, and, in addition, you can do embroidery.

Of course, computer sewing machines are more suitable for experienced seamstresses who constantly use the device and are engaged not only in sewing, but also in embroidery, creating paintings, and panels on fabric. All operations are automated - you just need to select the desired function on the touch panel and control the process. However, think in advance whether the game is worth the candle: will you use all the functions that such a machine has? After all, the cost of such models is quite high, as is the price of their maintenance.

Computer sewing machines are the most “modern” option. They cost more, but they can do more

Not all computer models are the same: they may differ in the number of functions. For example, if you like to both sew and embroider, choose devices with a number of lines of about 70. You won’t need more: they are quite enough to form various patterns.

If you are constantly engaged in sewing - for example, creating products for sale - it is better to invest in a model that can perform about 300 operations. Then you will definitely not be limited by anything: sewing, embroidery, and the formation of patterns and fonts on fabric will be available to you. In addition, such models are very “hardy” - they can easily cope with heavy regular loads.

You might be interested in knowing which sterilizer is best for manicure tools.

Shuttle type

One of the most popular questions asked when choosing a sewing machine. First of all, let's figure out what types of shuttle there are.

There are three types of shuttle, and each of them is good in its own way
. As a rule, those who know at least a little how a sewing machine works, or those who have studied information on the Internet, claim that a horizontal shuttle is better than a vertical one. But this is a myth.

These types of shuttle are simply different, but good in their own way. If you need a stitch of more than 5 mm, then you should choose a horizontal shuttle. It will also help you if you often work with thin fabrics - you won’t have to constantly lubricate it, you will sew quickly, and the device will not make noise. True, models with horizontal shuttles “don’t like” heavy loads, they cost a little more, and they are difficult to repair.

The vertical shuttle is considered the most common, “classic” option, which is easy to maintain. He knows how to work well with elastic thread. True, unfortunately, it is impossible to make a stitch width more than 5 mm, and such machines are also very noisy.

It is a myth that sewing machines with a horizontal hook are better than those with a vertical hook: each type has its own advantages

Let's talk about models with overlock. They are considered a better option. True, there are no models that will combine the functions of a regular machine and an overlock stitch - there are only models that have a mode for creating an overlock stitch, but there is no need to talk about its high quality. Therefore, if you need an overlocker, it is better to purchase a separate machine specifically for this purpose.

Which sewing machine would you choose or recommend?

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The best electromechanical sewing machines

Budget electromechanics today remains the most popular and convenient for beginners and home use. Semi-professional equipment is more expensive and more functional, therefore it is more often used in small industries and private businesses. But in both segments, such machines perform well, since electromechanical units fail less often and are cheaper to repair and maintain.

1

Jaguar June 12

Powerful home model

The compact and functional machine can handle fabrics of different types and densities. It has an ergonomic shape and convenient control with a foot pedal. It can perform 15 operations, which is enough for sewing at home.

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Reasons to buy

• Powerful;
• Works with different types of fabrics;
• Stable design;
• Classic vertical swing shuttle;
• Adjustment of stitch length, stitch width and presser foot pressure;
• Illumination of the work area.

Setting up and choosing the appropriate type of stitch is easier here than in electronic and computerized models - you just need to turn the mechanical regulator on which stitch patterns are applied. The loop is performed semi-automatically.

The maximum sewing speed is 600 sti/min, but you can set a slow mode for processing difficult areas of the product. For knitwear and thin fabrics, the upper thread tension can be adjusted. The stitch pitch varies from 0 to 5 mm, the zigzag width is up to 5 mm, the foot rises by 8 mm.

The work area is equipped with bright lighting, a collapsible arm platform and a reverse for sewing in the opposite direction. The machine comes with spare feet for sewing on buttons and sewing in zippers, as well as 3 bobbins, a soft storage case and other accessories.

2

Brother Artcity 250a

For repairing and sewing clothes

An economical and powerful machine for sewing and repairing things, equipped with all the necessary accessories and useful functions - no frills.

Find out the price

Advantages:

• Removable sleeve console;
• Sewing with a double needle;
• Darning plate;
• Elastic stitching for knitwear;
• Smooth setup.

Flaws:

• Lack of beautiful decorative stitches;
• Inconvenient needle threader.

For lovers of machines with horizontal shuttles, we recommend this model with a set of 27 operations, characterized by a neat design and design. Brother Artcity sews fabrics of different textures and densities, making it suitable for both home use and small businesses. The equipment received a reliable steel frame, an economical high-power engine and bright LED lighting.

The sewing speed is adjustable with a foot pedal up to a maximum of 750 stitches per minute. This is the average figure among electromechanical type machines. There is also a modern horizontal shuttle installed here, which does not tangle the threads and makes perfect stitches. However, it is designed to use only standard threads - when you try to experiment, the shuttle breaks down.

For reverse and piercing in one place, a reverse with a 4-segment rack is provided. The machine can also sew buttons, zippers, make blind seams and zigzag stitches.

Expensive segment (from 7,000 rubles)

Singer Tradition 2282

pros

• number of operations performed;
• not noisy;
• high-quality lighting;
• reliable.

Minuses

• flimsy pedal.

From 7880 ₽

This model sews smoothly, without vibrations or jerks. The shuttle mechanism is quite reliable. The sewing machine performs 34 types of sewing operations. The shuttle is made of metal. The device makes very little noise and does not heat up during long-term operation. There is a function for automatic threading of the upper thread. It stitches well both knitwear and thick types of fabric.

Chayka New wave 760

pros

• rich equipment;
• high power;
• built-in thread cutter.

Minuses

• heavy weight.

From 7465 ₽

Sewing machine with electromechanical control. It works almost silently, the lines are perfectly straight. It comes with presser feet, a darning plate, four bobbins, a cover and a set of needles. There is an additional lift for the presser foot, so you can slide very thick fabrics under it. Performs three dozen operations, suitable even for an experienced seamstress.

Janome 1225S

pros

• many settings;
• high performance;
• presence of a sleeve platform.

Minuses

• case missing.

From 7780 ₽

The plastic case is durable, excellent molding of parts. The operating speed is adjusted by pressing the pedal. The machine performs 25 types of operations. LED lighting allows you to work even in the dark. The device weighs 6 kg and consumes only 60 watts. The manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty on the product.

The best special sewing machines

Special sewing equipment is more necessary for professional activities. Such machines include overlock, coverlock, cover-stitch (flat-stitch) and sewing-embroidery models.

1

Juki MCS-1500

High-speed stitcher for professionals

For hemming the edges of products and working with knitwear, you won’t find a better machine. It has 3 needles and is capable of 3- and 4-thread cover stitches, covered stitches, and chain stitch.

Find out the price

Reasons to buy

• High sewing speed;
• 3.4 thread stitch;
• Compact size;
• Adjustment of stitch length and width;
• Works with fabrics of any density;
• Suitable for knitwear.

Although this is a cover stitch machine, it is equipped with an overlock foot that can lift up to 10mm. There is an adjustment of stitch parameters, as well as a differential conveyor for working with knitwear. Here you can achieve interesting effects (like gathers or a light wave) due to two combs installed in front and behind the needle.

The powerful device works with light, medium and heavy fabrics. Makes 3 types of cover stitch, 3 chain stitches (left, center or right needle). The thread tension is also adjustable and loosened when the presser foot is raised. The coils are provided with 4 holders with silicone tips for tight fixation.

During operation, the machine does not make noise, does not vibrate, sews quickly (1300 stitches/min) and successfully competes with more expensive professional models. At the same time, it is easy to maintain and configure. The cover on the housing can be easily removed for cleaning and replacing parts. The set includes a soft case.

2

Jaguar 935d

High speed overlock

The new product for sewing parts, trimming and finishing edges is quickly conquering the sewing business. Even the price of the machine is not a disadvantage, since the overlocker is distinguished by the highest quality of all operations and ease of maintenance.

Find out the price

Reasons to buy:

• 12 types of overlock seams;
• Anti-twist thread system;
• Speed ​​1300 stitches per minute;
• Works even with complex types of fabrics;
• No vibration or noise.

Jaguar is ideal for professionals, but beginners will not have any difficulties mastering this device. The improved differential movement of the fabric, complemented by modern LockSystem loopers, allows you to get the most even, loose stitches. The folding panel makes it easy and convenient to thread and care for your overlocker.

The model makes 2, 3 and 4-thread seams, but it cannot work with cover stitches, although this does not make it any less functional. There is a differential conveyor for stretching or shrinking knitwear. The presser foot pressure on the fabric is set individually, the stitch parameters are also adjustable: length up to 4 mm, width up to 7 mm.

The machine comes complete with 2 presser feet (for blind stitching, as well as sewing in beads and beads), accessories for maintenance, repair and replacement of spare parts - the only thing missing is a tongue for narrow seams. There is a separate bag for storing the entire set, and the overlocker itself is hidden under a soft cover.

3

Pfaff Creative Icon

New generation embroidery machine

It makes sense to buy such equipment only for running your own sewing business, although it will take time to learn all the intricacies of how the equipment works. In professional activities, such a machine will be very useful.

Find out the price

Reasons to buy:

• Increased tissue puncture force;
• Expanded work area with bright LED backlighting;
• Minimum level of vibration and noise;
• Built-in sewing guide;
• Large hoop included.

The main feature of this serious model is the enlarged touch monitor with a diagonal of 257 mm. The machine has several hundred embroidery patterns built-in, and thanks to the Internet connection via Wi-Fi and the MySewNet function, it is possible to download and store an unlimited number of additional embroideries in the cloud memory.

It is easy to operate the device due to the Russian language interface. On the touch screen you can move windows, enlarge, copy and rotate designs, and save new designs. The machine synchronizes with smartphones and sends notifications about the embroidery process. The program update comes automatically when you connect to the Internet.

More than 800 embroideries, decorative stitches and seams allow both masters and beginners to design products. Lace, wavy and openwork stitches, ornaments and patterns are built into the edges. To obtain perfect stitches, the developers have equipped the equipment with improved technology for bottom and top feed of fabric.

The maximum embroidery size is 360x260 mm, the kit includes hoops of three sizes. In addition to this, the car has a lot of useful functions.

4

Bernina Bernette Funlock B48

Professional carpet locker

An ideal tandem of an overlocker and a cover stitcher, performing 23 types of seams. The equipment is distinguished by high motor power and sewing speed, while it operates quietly and does not vibrate.

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Advantages:

• Wide seams up to 7 mm.
• 7 presser foot pressure modes.
• Good lighting.
• Reliable metal case.
• High-quality material conveyor.
• Automatic thread tensioner.

Flaws:

• Difficulty in reconfiguring and threading.

The Bernina carpet handles even the most complex and capricious fabrics. The master has at his disposal a table, a tray for scraps, spare parts and accessories. During operation, the machine does not make noise, does not vibrate, and moves smoothly.

Threading is complicated, but there are detailed instructions and a diagram with bright markings. There is an LED light above the needle.

The device makes 2, 3, 4, 5-thread seams and easily copes with rough materials. Stitch sizes and thread tension are manually adjusted to suit the specific type of fabric, resulting in neat and even stitches.

At first, the coverlock will take time to understand its functionality, so for beginners it will seem difficult to set up and manage. Also, due to the high cost, Bernette Funlock is more suitable for work in the studio or for home use by a professional seamstress with a good flow of orders.

Brother CX5

A machine from a Japanese brand with a minimum number of operations and semi-automatic sewing of loops. Copes well with light and medium weight fabrics.

Pros:

• soft stroke of the horizontal shuttle;
• a wide range of processed fabrics - from silk to artificial leather;
• simple selection of options with a switch;
• needle threader;
• for rounded elements there is a sleeve platform, as in Comfort 2;
• beautiful design of the case with original decor;
• 12 types of stitches, including elastic for sewing on elastic bands.

Minuses:

• graphite lubricant sometimes leaks out and stains the fabric, especially the first few times;
• manual thread cutting;
• there is no ruler on the body, as in Comfort 2;
• heavy (7 kg) for carrying.

Brother CX5 is suitable for sewing clothes, darning, hemming. Performs a knitted seam with a zigzag and sews on the elastic with an elastic stitch. There are not enough options for a model for 5,300 rubles - almost like in Comfort 2 for 3,350 rubles. The machine is recommended for beginner seamstresses, for sewing and cutting courses, as a basic technique for practicing the automaticity of basic sewing operations.

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How to choose a sewing machine

The first thing that is important to consider when buying a sewing machine is for what purpose it is purchased and the level of professionalism of the master. Simple electromechanical models are suitable for beginners; pros can count on serious units with computer and electronic control.

In addition to this, there are a number of other criteria, which we will consider in more detail below:

• Power;
• Number of programs and types of lines;
• Shuttle design – horizontal or vertical;
• Adjusting stitches, presser foot pressure on fabric, thread tension;
• Loop execution – automatic, semi-automatic;
• Threading;
• Additional functions: embroidery, built-in memory, Internet connection, PC, etc.

Each model is unique in its own way. All parameters need to be considered and compared - they affect the productivity and functionality of the device. They also need to be correlated with the cost of the car.

Features of sewing machines

Basic requirements for sewing machines

Setting up machines should be simple and intuitive, regardless of type - be it mechanical or electronic. Threading is quick and affordable, an automatic needle threader is highly desirable.

The needle should also be adjusted: left, center, right. This will help expand the zigzag stitch or any decorative stitch. On standard machines, the maximum amount of such adjustment is 5-7 mm.

The pressure of the presser foot is responsible for the tight fit of the material to the conveyor - then the fabric does not move to the side, and the seams come out smooth and neat. This is a necessary feature when working with light, thin fabrics.

Power indicates sewing speed and needle piercing force. There are different indicators for different types of machines:

The type of shuttle also affects the speed of operation. Modern machines are equipped with three types of shuttles:

• Rocking is the simplest, as in the old manual models. Its disadvantage is vibration and low sewing speed.
• Horizontal - works quietly, without hesitation, creates a neat stitch and does not tangle the threads.
• Vertical - found on expensive industrial units.

There are certain requirements for the weight of devices. Ultralight ones (up to 5 kg) should be avoided, as they are unstable and move from their place with the slightest push. It is better to choose standard models weighing from 5 to 12 kg - heavier ones will be inconvenient to carry from place to place.

Number and types of stitches

Beginners do not need a large set of operations - classic stitches and a couple of decorative stitches are enough. But a professional seamstress will need all the functionality of the machine.

In any case, the following seams are required:

• Straight;
• Overlock;
• "Zigzag";
• Elastic;
• Secret;
• Overcast.

Electromechanical machines typically offer a set of 5-12 stitches. Electronic and computerized ones additionally make decorative seams: curly, openwork ornaments, scalloped hems, satin stitching, etc.

Additional features

This includes built-in designs, embroidery, the ability to combine stitches and save them in the machine’s memory.

The display will add comfort. Depending on the level of the model, it can be color, black and white, or even touch-sensitive. Expensive units can connect to a network via Wi-Fi, to a PC, update programs, replenish the database of drawings, and much more.

A convenient function is “thread trimming”. Most often it is indicated by a scissors icon.

Sewing a zipper or button directly on a machine is not difficult if the kit includes special feet.

LED lamps provide illumination of the work area - convenient if you have to sew in the evenings or in a dark room.

⇡#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.

I would like to draw attention to the most frequently used ones that are usually not included in the basic package.

1. Teflon, with this foot you will not have problems when sewing items from difficult-to-transport materials, such as leather, plastic, suede, faux fur, etc.

2. The roller hem foot allows you to subtly roll and hem the edge. They are available for hemming in widths of 2, 4 and 6 mm.

3. Feet for gathering and sewing on ruffles.

4. Foot for sewing bias tape.

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.

Prices and brands

Regardless of your skill level, it’s best not to skimp on the quality of your equipment. Choose trusted brands:

• Janome;
• Bernina;
• Brother;
• Pfaff;

And don’t worry if the machine is produced under a well-known brand, but assembled in China. Most market leaders, in order to save money, often launch production in the Middle Kingdom, but continue to monitor the quality of goods.

As for the price, don’t rush to overpay for functions and lines that are not useful to you. At the same time, the low price tag for a machine filled to the brim with operations should put one on guard.

And the price gap can be colossal:

• A simple model without bells and whistles, intended for beginners, costs about 7-15 thousand rubles.
• Computer and electronic models for medium-sized businesses - already from 20 to 40 thousand.
• Special vehicles cost up to 65,000 rubles.
• Sewing and embroidery units are the most expensive. They are valued at up to half a million rubles. They are used for industrial purposes for mass production.
• You can also find a “simple” embroidery machine for 50,000 rubles: for sewing and decorating T-shirts, skirts, dresses and home textiles yourself.

FAQ

Is it possible to put sewing needles on an overlocker?

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For most special machines, ordinary sewing needles are used, but some brands recommend using needles of a certain thickness with characteristic marks: “for overlock”, “knitted”, “for stretch”, etc. They have numbers and are usually included with the device. The instructions should contain similar information about each type of needle and their purpose.

What is the average lifespan of a sewing machine?

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If you follow the operating rules and carry out timely maintenance, the machine will last up to 25 years. Frequency of use and build quality also affect the lifespan.

Aurora STYLE 3

A machine from a Russian manufacturer with simple controls and operation. Performs a full range of stitches and 10 sewing operations, including semi-automatic buttonholes, zigzag, scallop stitch. There is double needle sewing.

Pros:

• corresponds to the price of 5,700 rubles in terms of build quality and functionality;
• special engine protection reduces noise to a minimum;
• the shape of the case is patented in the European Bureau;
• A pleasant tactile sensation when operating is created by a special Soft touch coating. It is applied to the option selector, stitch length dial and handwheel;
• metal reel seat and foot adapter;
• all metal shuttle;
• The lifting height of the foot is 1 mm higher than in the Jaguar A-317;
• There is a foot for sewing in zippers and buttons;
• Stepped speed control, not smooth, like in the Singer Fashion Mate 2290.

Minuses:

• there is no fabric feed shut-off mechanism, as in the Jaguar A-317;
• There is no overlock stitch like in Janome 2015.

Aurora STYLE 3 is suitable for both beginners and experienced craftsmen. Functional, performs many operations: semi-automatic buttonhole, straight stitch, zigzag, blind stitch for hem, scallop stitch for decoration. Well equipped with accessories. Quiet, you can work at home at any time. If you need a stitched model, then you should consider the Brother M-14 or Janome 2015.

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