Best Sewing Machine Dealers Perambur - VS Sewing Machines
Sewing machines enter a new age with many choices
Sewing machines have changed dramatically in the past 10 years for
two reasons: advancements in computerization and technology, and
requests by quilters for specific features.
The sewing machine manufacturing industry has eagerly embraced
computer technology to create precision machines that now incorporate
computerized artistic design features, a tablet-size screen for
programming and robotic quilting machines. Just as drones and
self-driving tractors seemed like science fiction a few years ago, the
capabilities of today’s electronic sewing machines are amazing.
The second reason for changes in the sewing machine industry has been
the sewing consumer, specifically quilters. The quilting-specific
features have created sewing machines that the garment maker, crafter
and home decor sewer also appreciate. Just a few of the enhanced
features include increased sewing area to the right of the needle, up to
12 inches on the top models; larger extension tables; thread cutters;
up or down needle stop position and better lighting.
Sewing is a creative hobby that is currently experiencing resurgence.
There is a vibrant and active online sewing community where bloggers,
Instagram users, Facebook groups, and Youtube videos offer information
and designs, answer questions and share how-to information.
When considering whether to purchase a sewing machine, it’s important
to keep in mind the needs, interests and skills of the individuals who
will be using it. What is the primary reason for buying the sewing
machine? Is it to construct or mend garments, make home decor or craft
items, quilt, embroider or a combination of some or all of these areas?
The sewing skills, and in the case of the electronic machines, the
computer skills of those using the machine, are important
considerations.
There are two basic types of sewing machines: mechanical and
electronic. On a mechanical sewing machine, dials are manually turned to
set stitch length and width and to select decorative stitches. These
machines can be used to sew, quilt, and do some pre-set embroidery and
decorative stitches. Generally, they are better for hemming jeans and
mending heavy materials. People with limited computer knowledge may be
more comfortable with this type of machine.
On an electronic or computerized sewing machine, patterns and designs
are included in the sewing machine or can be added from a computer or
the internet.
Some manufacturers have apps that allow for personal designs to be
created and scanned into the machine. Stitches and decorative patterns
are selected on screen from a multitude of options, and the design size
and shape can be easily altered.
Often-used stitches can be preset and designs can be saved for later
use. The stitches are precise and the machines are finely tuned. To
avoid throwing off this alignment, sewing heavy and bulky materials
should be avoided. Some basic computer knowledge is essential. To take
full advantage of all the options on the electronic machines, retailer
training is recommended.
The electronic machines will do basic sewing, buttonholes, quilting
and decorative stitches well, but added features offer many creative
possibilities.
An example is the addition of an embroidery hoop and table that
attaches to the sewing machine. The table can be used alone to provide a
large flat work surface on the front, back and left side of the
machine. When the embroidery hoop is engaged, it moves the fabric so a
quilting pattern or motif can be stitched or embroidery or monogramming
stitches can be selected. Once the design is selected, sized and thread
colours chosen, the sewing machine will automatically stitch the pattern
and signal when the design is done or a colour change is needed. Some
machines have multiple heads to accommodate up to seven different thread
colours.
Piecing quilts and straight stitch quilting can be done on any sewing
machine. To do free motion or embroidered motif quilting, a quilting
foot is needed. Large quilts are difficult to do on a traditional sewing
machine because the material must be moved over the machine to create
the design. In response to this issue, quilting frames and long-arm
quilting machines have been developed. The quilt is fastened into a
quilt frame, a pattern is selected on the sewing machine screen, and the
quilter moves the machine over the width of the quilt. Robotics can be
added to these quilting machines so the machine will automatically
stitch the selected quilting pattern over the width of the quilt.
Other features that are found on some machines are an automatic
presser foot lift; precision buttonholes; start-stop sewing without the
foot control; top and bobbin thread sensors that give an alert when
bobbin or needle thread is low; and thread snips that automatically cut
top and bobbin threads and pulls thread ends to the back side of fabric.
Features that are now standard on most machines are drop-in bobbins,
open-arm capability and a needle threader.
All sewing machines will come with a selection of accessories such as
bobbins, a variety of presser feet and tools needed for basic
maintenance. These are usually stored in a compartment in the machine.
Additional accessories that are available are carrying cases, extension
tables and specialized feet. A walking foot will feed the fabric through
from the top and bottom so the top layer does not push through too
quickly and get out of alignment. There are feet for precise
quarter-inch seams, stitching in the ditch and for free-motion sewing.
For the garment maker, crafter and home decor sewer, a serger is a
perfect companion to their sewing machine. A serger will cut, sew and
finish a seam in one step, producing a professional durable finish. The
seams are perfect for stretchy and woven fabrics. On light fabrics, a
serger can do a fine-rolled hem. With a few changes to the differential
feed, a serger can gather or sew flat, even seams and hems. Some sergers
will do a cover stitch, which is like a ready-made T-shirt hemstitch. A
variety of seams can be created with 4/3/2 thread sergers.
Threading has always been an issue but now all sergers have some form
of assisted threading and a needle threader. Although some projects can
be done entirely on a serger, a serger cannot replace a regular sewing
machine to do facings, zippers, topstitching and buttonholes. For this
reason, it is better to put more money into the features on a sewing
machine and then add a basic serger for about $600 to $800. Top end
machines are in the $2,300 range.
Sewing machine manufacturers’ websites offer a great starting place
to see what sewing machines are available, features and price ranges.
Then check out the models you are interested in by going to a sewing
machine specialty store and try the machines yourself. Consider ease of
use and what features you may wish to use in the future.
Sewing machines are available online or from general merchandise
retailers for as little as $99. What you pay is what you get. These less
expensive machines are not serviceable and will be frustrating to use
because most are poorly made.
A better quality serviceable basic sewing machine can be bought for
about $200 from a specialty sewing machine retailer that will provide
training and service.
For sewing machines and sergers, the after-purchase service, support
and training are essential to achieve the maximum benefit of all the
features on the machine and to ensure you can confidently use, care for
and enjoy the machine.
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