Types of sewing machines

Manufacturers present a huge range of sewing mechanisms. Knowing their distinctive features and functional features will help you choose the right machine for specific purposes and tasks.

Types of sewing machines by type of control

There are three types of sewing machine control. Read more about each below.

Mechanical

Almost all outdated models of cars can be classified as mechanical. However, high-quality and fashionable things are also made using such devices. They work thanks to manual or foot action on the elements of the mechanism. Such models only sew straight stitches, which significantly limits their functionality. In addition, they require frequent changes in settings to suit a specific fabric structure.

REFERENCE! Prominent representatives of manually operated machines are the Podolsk, Singer and Chaika models.

Electro-mechanical

These models are modern and most popular mechanisms that operate by pressing the electric drive pedal. The machines are capable of performing various functions, including sewing on buttons. The variety of seams will please tailors of various skill levels.The best-selling brands include devices from the following companies: Bernina, Juki, Janome and others. A high-quality machine of this type in a budget price category can be purchased from 6 thousand rubles.

Computerized

This category includes more expensive cars, and they often scare off potential buyers with their price (from 20 thousand rubles). However, they have undeniable advantages:

• High level of quality and reliability of assembly.
• Management is carried out using software. Each model is equipped with a miniature computer and has a convenient screen.
• Ease of operation. Simply select the desired function on the control panel.
• Variety of stitch types (more than one hundred types).
• The risk of making a mistake is minimal, because The program gives recommendations on sewing and choosing settings.
• The shuttle in most models is located horizontally, which ensures silent and comfortable operation.
• Embroidery function available.

Other classification parameters

In addition to different types of control, of course, sewing machines have other distinctive features.

By type of weaving threads

The machine must be universal and work with different types of fabrics. Therefore, the stitch must be suitable for the material used in the sewing process. Otherwise, the threads can easily break and the machine will stop. Based on the type of weaving of threads, the mechanisms are of the following types:

• Shuttle. They work with lockstitch stitches. According to statistics, up to 76% of all work is carried out on these devices.
• Chain. Accordingly, up to 24% of the work is performed on chain weave threads.

By number of needles

Based on the number of needles, the following types of devices are distinguished: with one, two, three needles or polygonal. The main parameter of needles is their point.The most common is the pointed form. She picks up most materials with ease. The rounded tip is used for knitted and knitted fabrics. This needle pushes the fibers apart rather than piercing them. Also on sale you can find needles for materials such as jeans, leather, microfiber, velvet and stretch.

By speed of work

The operating speed is an adjustable parameter. In simple models, it can be controlled by the force of pressing the pedal. There are models where the operating speed is set by pressing a special button. In professional machines, and when experienced craftsmen work on them, the speed reaches up to 1300 stitches per minute. In normal cases, a speed of about 800-850 stitches per minute is sufficient.

By degree of automation

According to this criterion, machines can be either fully automated or non-automated. There are also automatic and semi-automatic ones. The choice of machine depends on the personal wishes of the master and the degree of ease of use. Therefore, before purchasing, it is recommended to test this or that type of machine in the store.

By purpose

Sewing machines are capable of performing not only the role of simple and clear stitching of clothing parts, but also overcasting and embroidering.

Sewing

Of course, the sewing machine is the most in demand and popular among sewing craftsmen. Its main function is to sew a straight stitch. It is on it that most operations can be performed. This device is the main one. If there are free financial resources, auxiliary devices such as an overlocker, a stitcher and many others can be purchased for it.

Overlock

This device is used to stitch the edge of a product. It may have one or two needles.Most units have 3- and 4-thread stitching. Many craftswomen consider it unnecessary to have such a machine for their home, because... Most modern sewing mechanisms can perform a similar operation. However, in quality they are significantly inferior to overlock. When sewing products to order, the presence of such a machine is mandatory.

ATTENTION! Beginners are advised to take a closer look at the 3-thread overlocker. They are simpler and easier to configure.

Knitting

These mechanisms are designed for knitting high quality products. These can be socks, mittens, scarves, hats, sweaters and many other things. Their main feature is that when knitting products, the time for their production is significantly reduced. It has many types of settings and allows you to choose a suitable knitting and an interesting pattern. Such a machine will allow you to make products in large quantities intended for sale.

Embroidery

Embroidery machines are among the most complex sewing equipment. With their help you can make real masterpieces of embroidery. Built-in programs allow you to embroider with satin stitch and cross stitch, as well as perform more complex techniques such as patchwork and quilling.

IMPORTANT! With the help of an embroidery machine, you can even transfer your own photograph to fabric and make spectacular clothes or interior items.

Before you go to the store to buy a sewing machine, you need to clearly understand its further purpose. A correctly chosen mechanism will significantly save both money and save the nerves of its owner in the future.