Sewing machine how to choose the right one. Choosing a sewing machine: what they will never tell you about in a store. The difference between sewing machines by class

The question of purchasing a sewing machine can arise in every family. When planning to purchase a device, everyone asks the question: which sewing machine to choose for beginners? Someone cannot pick up an outfit according to the figure, someone is a zealous housewife or just wanted to do this business as a hobby. Or maybe frequent trips to the studio prompted such a decision to save the budget?

If the motives for buying each housewife are clear, then it’s not so easy to decide on a wide variety of offered machines. But still possible. Below we will figure out what kind of cars there are, how to choose the right one for a beginner, and give some good models.

There are many not only models, but also types of sewing machines. We will not consider production ones, we will focus on modern household ones:

1. Electromechanical. These are the most common and easy to use machines. The indisputable advantages of this type are low price, reliability, durability, low cost of repairs in case of breakdown. This type is great for beginners and those who want to have an assistant in the house for minor repairs and occasional use. On it you can sew curtains and a dress, sew up a hole and so on. The price category of these devices is usually from 3 to 10 thousand rubles.
2. On computer control. This device has more programs and its own software. The skills of the model directly depend on the memory and the number of programs. At first glance, this "sewing computer" is a great multifunctional thing. But if you look closely, in everyday life it is not very necessary. Most of the numerous lines you will try only after purchase, but you will not use it. Overlock, straight stitches and zigzags, sewing loops will be useful. One of the advantages is the speed and accuracy of work. Such a unit is suitable for seamstresses who do this professionally, sew to order. But of the minuses - the price of the machine itself and possible repairs. The cost of such machines is 2-3 times higher than the previous ones.
3. Sewing and embroidery and embroidery. This is a device that will cope not only with the usual line, but also with embroidery of various patterns. But unfortunately, everything is not as rosy as we would like. There are very few programmed embroideries, and in order to have more of them and to be able to create your own patterns, you will have to buy other software, which is quite expensive. Also, do not think that having bought such a device, you will immediately begin to create magical patterns. Machine embroidery is an art that needs to be learned. It's not easy to communicate your desires to a computer. Such a machine is suitable for those who decide to do embroidery and spend time learning, but they are not going to forget about sewing (sew / hem).
4. Overlocks. It can come in handy for regular sewing. The machine processes the edge of the product, while cutting off the excess allowance. This saves a lot of time for large volumes of work. But if you rarely sew, then on a conventional machine you can use the overlock function. The difference is in the neatness of the seam and the lack of automatic trimming. The price is usually from 6 thousand rubles and above.
5. Covering. They are flats. The purpose of this device in the processing of sections of knitwear. Only they and coverlocks can handle such a job. It is very difficult to process knitwear with a regular seam, and there will be no sense in it. But on such a machine, an elastic stitch will be obtained, which will not allow the fabric to bloom and the seam threads to burst when stretched. The cost of the unit is within 15,000 rubles. If you are going to sew T-shirts, swimwear and stretch dresses - this is for you.
6. Coverlocks. This is a symbiosis of the two previous types - overlock and sewing machine. Designed for knitwear. The models cost the same as the two devices separately, so there is more of a question of convenience. Sometimes it's easier to work on two different machines than constantly reconfiguring one.

So which sewing machine should you choose? For a beginner, of course, it is better to buy a conventional electromechanical model. Or buy a computer, if you plan to earn money by craft.

Now let's take a closer look at what to look for when choosing a model, and what is just a marketing ploy.

What to look for when choosing

After you clearly understand what exactly you will do on a typewriter, you should pay attention to a number of criteria.

1. Body material. For occasional sewing, plastic is fine. If you are going to spend eight hours a day on the device, it is better to take a model with metal elements.
2. Power. On expensive models, the function of adjusting the puncture force is installed, so this indicator is important for budget ones. Some, due to weak power, are “not able” to pierce even jeans, and even more so in several additions.
3. sewing speed. As in the previous paragraph, this is for budget models, in which the speed is controlled by the force of pressing the pedal.
4. Presser foot pressure and height. Not all machines are equipped with a regulator of this indicator. As a rule, most of them have only one. If you are going to sew dense fabrics in several additions, pay attention to the height of the presser foot lift - with a small fabric it simply does not fit.
5. Shuttle type. Vertical is suitable for periodic hemming and repair of products. Horizontal will suit both a beginner and an experienced craftswoman with a large amount of work. The latter will cost more. This is relevant only for models with a zigzag width of 6 mm or more.
6. Line types. There is no need to look at the quantity here. In machines with 100+ stitches, even professionals use no more than 20. The main types of stitches that a beginner should have for comfortable work are straight, zigzag, overlock and buttonhole. The rest can be completely dispensed with.
7. Equipment. Be sure to check what comes with the machine. Paws and needles must be present, except for the cord, of course. If not all the paws you need are included in this list, find out in advance where you can buy them, and preferably not from the words of the seller of the device.

Which manufacturer to choose

Like any home appliance, there are leaders and laggards. So which company to choose?

Home, Bernina, Family, Brother, Singer, Husqvarna produce many budget (and not only) high quality models. The main thing you should pay attention to is the guarantee and the availability of a service center in your city. Over time, this issue will become especially relevant.

It is also worth finding out if there are original or suitable accessories for the typewriter of the selected company on sale.

Five common mistakes when choosing a sewing machine

It is these mistakes that make buyers overpay or purchase something completely different from what they would like. So here are the most common ones:

1. An expensive and functional machine is useless to me, since I am not a seamstress. Of course, an expensive “fancy” machine is not required for domestic needs. But you should not choose the cheapest model, because, most likely, it will be of poor quality. Devices with a wide range of features and a low price are highly suspicious. Reliable equipment cannot cost 1-2 thousand rubles.
2. It is better to overpay for a horizontal shuttle. This statement is true only for machines with a zigzag width of 6 mm or more. On devices with a smaller width, there is no difference.
3. Chinese assembly is bad. This statement is fundamentally wrong! The production of world brands is transferred to China so that the goods have more affordable prices. Apple also assembles its products in China, the quality does not suffer from this. The price speaks first of all about quality. But still, not all cheap sewing machines are bad, just as not all expensive ones are of high quality. The quality of the manufactured products is monitored by the company itself, wherever the production is located.
4. I choose a technique based on reviews on the Internet. Reviews are a good thing and forums too. But there is one significant "but" - there is no guarantee that the information is reliable. So, for example, what prevents an employee of the company under discussion (the seller) from writing a flattering review of the product? On reviews like Yandex Market, reviews are usually left by real buyers. But are they valuable enough to rely on? Few people indicate the types of fabric they worked with, how often they sewed, and many other important factors. Usually these reviews boil down to like / dislike, nothing more.
5. The more expensive the better. This is also incorrect. Firstly, the brand also affects the rise in price, and many other factors, from the place of production to the markup of the store. Also, how even the line will be does not depend on the price. It can be perfect on a machine for 5,000 rubles, or it can be bad on a device for 15,000. The quality of the stitch depends not only on the sewing machine itself, but also on the settings that you set yourself.

A few examples

So we got to good examples of cars for beginners.

Janome JB 1108 - electromechanical model with the ability to perform nine operations. Copes with fabrics of various densities, the main thing is not to forget about the settings. In addition to the main lines, it will cope with the application, monogram and darning.

Includes three paws - for lightning, loops and hem. This is a good sewing machine for beginners.

The cost of the model is about 11,000 rubles.

Brother LS-3125 is perfect for a beginner. Convenient to work, easy to manage. There are 14 operations, including elastic and blind seams. Sews both tarpaulin and silk with equal ease and excellent quality.

The kit includes paws for sewing in zippers and sewing on buttons. In general, a good, easy-to-use and maintain model is suitable for a beginner.

You can buy such a sewing machine for 8-9 thousand rubles.

We hope that the information provided has helped you understand how to choose a sewing machine.

Smooth lines and strong seams!

Types of sewing machines and their technical characteristics are studied in detail by future specialists in the sewing industry. For the household level, knowledge of the features, purpose and differences of various types of sewing machines, especially industrial machines, is not needed, except for general erudition. However, knowing the differences and purpose of the main types of sewing machines can be useful to you when buying it in a store. Knowing the characteristics of household sewing machines and their purpose will save you from the wrong step and help you buy exactly the model of the sewing machine that you need based on your financial capabilities and production needs.

If you are going to buy a sewing machine for your home or sewing equipment for a small studio, then this article will help you make your choice.
See also Master's reviews of sewing machines, Types of sewing machines, How to choose a sewing machine and other articles on the site.

Outdated types of sewing machines

Almost all models of modern sewing machines belong to sewing machines that perform not only one straight line, but also a zigzag line. Full zigzag machines are the second most important type of sewing machine, a striking example of which is the Seagull sewing machine.
It cannot be said that Seagull-type sewing machines are very outdated, but nevertheless they are much inferior in terms of comfort, stitch quality and even appearance to modern models of sewing machines. Nevertheless, many use such machines and sometimes it is justified. Firstly, they almost never break (but they constantly require adjustment). Secondly, spare parts for it can be found inexpensively at the flea market or through ads.

But still, if you have to get a sewing machine, and you don’t know which type to choose, opt for an ordinary sewing machine with any name, anyway, they are almost all assembled in China. For example, the Chinese sewing machine Dragonfly 218. The main thing that you should pay attention to is the way the buttonhole is sewn and the presence of additional sewing feet. Both you can appreciate only over time, not immediately. And if additional paws can be bought, then the method of processing the buttonhole cannot be changed.

By the way, inexpensive economy-class sewing machines are usually equipped with a swinging vertical hook, but sometimes there are models with a horizontal rotating hook, and very rarely with a double-fitting vertical hook.
See Vertical rotary sewing hook, Types of sewing hook, etc.

Electronically controlled sewing machines

What is the main feature of expensive types of sewing machines that scare away the buyer with the price? The fact that it is crammed with electronics for exactly 2/3 of the cost of this machine, and, of course, the level of assembly technology and production of parts is somewhat higher. Otherwise, this is an ordinary full zigzag sewing machine, on the basis of which, and with the help of electronics, more than one hundred different types of stitches are performed.
So, electronically controlled sewing machines probably do not need to be classified as another type of sewing machine, unlike, for example, an overlock or a coverlock.
See Key Benefits of an Electronic Typewriter.
Brother computerized sewing machine.

By the way, the shuttle device for electronic sewing machines, as a rule, is of a horizontal type, very convenient and quiet in operation, but requiring careful handling. Often there are also vertical shuttles of a rotating type used in industrial lockstitch machines.

Here is a carpet lock, this is really a completely new type of sewing machine, capable of simultaneously overcasting fabrics and even grinding. However, the carpet lock will surprise you not only with its capabilities, but also with the price, so not everyone can buy it. Well, who can and does not know which carpet to choose, read the article Which carpet to buy. It describes the operation of this technique, its features and some comparative characteristics.

Comparative characteristics of sewing machines

Comparative characteristics of sewing machines can only be done within the same type (class) of machines. And the description of their characteristics and features can take several hundred pages. Therefore, it is better to briefly and clearly explain that the type of shuttle is considered the most important feature of sewing machines.

The second most important factor is the method of making the loop (manual, semi-automatic, automatic) as well as the ability to sweep eye loops.

For those who sew a lot and often an important factor when choosing a sewing machine will be the presence of a large number of paws and accessories in the kit. They are quite expensive, and not all are suitable for this model.
See Purpose of the Janome sewing feet .

Well, only at the end you can study all types of stitches in this model of a sewing machine and pay attention to the design and appearance.

How much does an old used machine manufactured back in the USSR cost. At what price can you buy or sell it. What brands they are and how they differ from each other and from modern cars.

An original outfit, bed linen, sofa cushions or a carnival costume for a child - all this can be sewn by yourself. Together we will consider which sewing machine for beginners has more advantages and how to choose it correctly.

Which sewing machine to choose for beginners?

Sewing devices are of the following types:

• mechanical;
• electrical;
• with computer control.

In order to find out which sewing machine is better, consider their main differences.

A sewing machine for beginners doesn't have to be difficult to operate.

Mechanical sewing machines are no longer manufactured. But if your grandmother has such a historical unit, you can test your skills on it. But it is worth noting that the mechanical assistant has only a straight line.

For beginner seamstresses, an electromechanical machine would be a suitable option. She has an electric drive that starts immediately after pressing the pedal. These sewing machines allow you to perform various types of seams. You can even embroider on them.

If you have an unlimited budget, you can look at computer-controlled sewing machines. These devices are equipped with a microprocessor and a display. They have many different functions. Such a machine can create embroidery that cannot be repeated by hand.

How to choose a sewing machine for beginners: what to look for

When choosing a sewing machine, pay attention to the following:

• the material from which the body and main parts are made - it is better to purchase a machine with metal elements;
• power - the higher it is, the thicker fabrics can be sewn;
• speed - depends on the force of pressing the pedal, at first you should not sew too fast;
• for sewing dense fabrics, it is recommended to choose a device with a high-rising foot and automatic adjustment;
• shuttle type - vertical or horizontal. It is better to purchase a machine with a horizontal shuttle;
• types of seams - even professional seamstresses do not use all the lines, the main thing is that there is a zigzag seam and it is possible to sew loops;
• equipment - in addition to the machine itself, it should include a cord, as well as replaceable needles and paws.

In fact, any, even the simplest sewing machine can help you create a masterpiece. In the end, the era of the great couturiers fell in the second half of the 19th - early 20th centuries, when sewing machines only came into use and were quite simple. Neither computer control nor electric drive was out of the question, but it was in those days 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 properly selected sewing machine saves time, effort and nerves of the master. How to make the right choice, not get lost in a huge number of companies and models, choose from the list of functions what you need, and not pay too much?

Let's try to figure it out. To get started, decide exactly what you need a machine for. You just want to have it on hand so that you can shorten too long trousers on your own, without running to the atelier every time, sew up a jacket torn by a child and hem a new curtain, and you are unlikely to aim for something more? Maybe you have a desire to sew carnival costumes for children - or are you determined to take care of your wardrobe? If you are going to sew, then what? Summer dresses made of light fabrics, or coats and harsh jeans? Or maybe mostly tuned to knitwear? Having decided, you can begin to choose the model that is optimal for your purposes.

Let's define the points on which to make a choice. 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 area, there are market leaders and little-known firms.

The most famous are Minerva, Bernina, Janome, Pfaff, Brother, Singer, Husqvarna. The choice among the leading manufacturers is largely determined by personal preferences, the presence in the store of a choice 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 large "mileage" of the machine, this factor begins to play a significant role.

With less well-known firms, things are not so clear. Often, with the same set of functions, a machine of an unknown company costs significantly less. But, in addition to the obvious risk of getting worse quality, here you can stumble upon another pitfall: difficulties in acquiring additional paws and accessories. Little-known firms often have very exotic presser foot attachments 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 be able 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. 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,
• overlocks,
• cover,
• coverlocks.

What does it all mean, and which category to 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. Electric is only the engine that sets it all in motion.

• 32 stitches
• loop semi-automatic
• vertical shuttle
• stitch length 4 mm
• stitch width 5 mm

Of the undoubted advantages of this type - reliability, low price, inexpensive repairs in the event of a breakdown. Conventional electromechanical machines are inferior to computer ones in terms of speed and number of functions, since the technological features of the design do not allow sewing complex shapes, but they are perfect for beginner seamstresses, or those who want to have a reliable assistant for small household needs. However, a coat, and jeans, and a ball gown are quite capable of a good and properly adjusted electromechanical typewriter. The approximate price category of such machines is 3-5 thousand rubles. Simple, accessible, reliable.

2. Computer sewing machines are distinguished by the presence of a computer board that carries out the 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 tissue in them 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
• loop machine
• horizontal shuttle
• stitch length 4.5 mm
• stitch width 7 mm

Their starting price is about two to three times the price of electromechanical ones. At first glance, a huge number of types of stitching seems to be an undoubted advantage. These are 15 types of different loops, and chains of different flower-leaves, and a dozen overlock lines, and knitted seams. But take a closer look at this list and think about which ones you personally will actually use? It turns out that you don’t need a part at all, and another part is numerous duplicates of the same thing with minor digressions.

Personally, I regularly use six to seven of the 56 stitches that I have in my car, and use two more from time to time. However, it is impossible not to notice that this already greatly expands my capabilities, in comparison with working on an electromechanical sewing machine. So do not be tempted by an excess of functions - it is not at all a fact that you will need all of them. Or rather, the fact that you are unlikely to even ever try many of them.

Several types of overlock stitches, a knit stitch, a triple reinforced stitch, a knit buttonhole and a buttonhole with an eye will be useful in work - in addition to the usual buttonhole, of course. The rest of the features are up to you, just don't let this variety go to your head. It's a shame to pay extra money for something that you will never use.

The undoubted advantage of a well-functioning computer machine is the speed and accuracy of 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. The eyelet buttonhole is a small thing, of course, but this little thing affects the whole look of the coat.

Of the minuses - the high price, capriciousness in setting up, and repairs, in which case, are more expensive.

3. Sewing and embroidery and embroidery machines. Everything is simple here, unlike industrial embroidery machines, which, in fact, can only embroider, such combines often combine two functions.

In my personal opinion, budget versions of sewing and embroidery machines combine these functions very badly. They are too capricious compared to ordinary sewing ones, and compared to full-fledged embroidery ones, they are too limited in embroidery capabilities. And more expensive models also scare the price. Therefore, I recommend considering this class of machines exclusively as embroidery machines and purchasing them based on these goals.

Also, do not think that having bought 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, from books or online lessons. In general, working on it is somewhat reminiscent of working in Photoshop. You can go to a specialized site, type in motifs drawn by someone, quickly read the instructions and glue them together as 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 it, and to be honest, in most cases it is much easier and incomparably cheaper to order embroidery in a workshop that already has serious equipment and a good master. Outsourcing is everything. Personally, that's how I usually do it.

4. Cover sewing machines. They are - cover stitch machines.

Designed to make an elastic flat seam used to close the hem section of the edge of a knitted product. All this complex verbal construction refers to the seam that you can see on the hem and sleeves of almost any T-shirt.

Among household machines, two types of flat seams can be performed: flat seams and coverlocks. A regular seam looks the same from the right side and from the wrong side, as the upper thread is looped around the bottom (bobbin) and tightened. A flat or chain stitch looks different. It is obtained by the simultaneous operation of two or more needles and loopers.

This type of sewing machine is designed to work with elastic "stretch" fabrics. If T-shirts, swimwear and tracksuits are your main goal, 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 the edges of a wide variety of garments. When choosing an overlocker, first of all, you should focus on convenience when refueling and sewing. We should also not forget about the possibility of overcasting with a different number of threads. Most overlockers perform 3- and 4-thread overcasting, suitable for most fabrics, and rolled overcasting. On higher-end overlocks, there is a 2-thread overlock designed for the finest fabrics such as silk or chiffon, as well as for decorative trimming.

In principle, there are overlock functions in computer sewing machines. But a seam made on a real overlocker is much more accurate and reliable. In addition, the overlock is equipped with knives that cut off the excess allowance themselves, aligning the edge, which saves time. In general, if you sew regularly, and 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 the sewing machine, but only complements it. It is not intended for the assembly of product parts. The price of overlocks starts from 6 - 7 thousand, for 10 you can buy a quite decent model.

6. Coverlock- a relatively new invention with which many are not particularly familiar. This name was invented by Pfaff marketers for their range of such machines and patented, after which it became firmly established in everyday life. 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 a straight chain stitch, that is, it combines an overlock and a cover stitch machine. The price of carpet locks is quite high and starts from 25-30 thousand.

Like the cover stitching machine, the coverlock is designed to work with knitwear. The design also implies the presence of several (from 2 to 10) upper threads and loopers, with which you can create various, sometimes very complex seams that are indistinguishable from industrial ones.

What to choose for working with knitwear - a carpet or a pair of overlock plus a sewing machine? On the one hand, the coverlock has a larger number of loopers, which allows you to perform more complex seams, it alone takes up much less space, and its high price is quite comparable to the total cost of the cover and overlock. On the other hand, when processing a garment, it may first be necessary to overlock, then a flat seam, overlock again, 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 overlock or stitch-overlock and vice versa. And this is a rather long and painstaking process, which, even with skill, takes several minutes. Decide which is more convenient for you.

⇡ Model Capabilities

This issue is most acute when choosing a specific model of a computer sewing machine. It is in this type of machine that the number of lines often exceeds two hundred and causes ripples in the eyes and dizziness. You need to start your choice not at all with the number of lines. There are more important parameters that you should decide on first.

1. The type of fabric the machine is designed to work with. There are machines for working with any kind of fabrics, there are models designed for light and medium, or vice versa, for medium and heavy fabrics. If you definitely know that the main field of your 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 coats and jeans, consider models for medium and heavy fabrics. Usually they have more clearance between the presser 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. The maximum stitch length (sometimes up to 5 mm) and the maximum zigzag width (up to 7 mm). The more these parameters, the better: it expands the field of possibilities.

3. Type of shuttle: the shuttle is vertical, with a removable bobbin case, and also 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 and semi-automatic. "Full" automatic machine allows you to perform up to 7 different types of loops, in one operation sweep the loop exactly to the size of the button, remember the size and repeat the loop of the same size as many times as you need.

Automatic buttonhole foot

The semi-automatic loop is usually performed by simpler models. Here you determine the size, guided by the markings on the foot, the loop is overcast in 4 consecutive operations. It’s not difficult and not that very long, but if you multiply by 10, 20, 30 buttons per suit, the difference is decent.

Buttonhole foot

5. Optional but very handy features are the built-in needle threader, twin needle sewing capability, needle position button and spot bartack button. If you are going to sew a lot, you should pay attention to the possibility of working without a pedal and external speed control, this saves your foot a lot, which after four to five hours of continuous pressing the pedal starts to complain, besides, the pedals fail faster than the machines themselves, And they do it, as a rule, at the most inopportune moment.

⇡ Additional accessories

The possibilities of the machine you purchased in the basic configuration are far from the limit. Accessories play a huge role in the quality of the result and the speed of its achievement. The fact is that for a quality result it is very important to choose the right foot, needle and thread for each fabric and operation. A table of the ratio of the thickness of needles and threads is in the instructions for the sewing machine - and here you are unlikely to be mistaken.

But in addition, there are special needles for difficult fabrics - for example, they will be needed to work with leather, jeans, 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 skipping stitches or another seam marriage, and the point is just 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 here the initial choice of the machine begins to play a role - your possibilities in the end may rest on how easy it is for you to purchase additional paws.

5. Foot for sewing, beads and sequins.

And hundreds more types of paws, attachments and devices designed to take on what was previously only possible to do by hand. Make your work easier and turn sewing into an exciting 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 the most suitable, or vice versa, unacceptable, for you personally. The convenience of threading, the location of the buttons and control levers, the sound during operation, the look of the light bulb and more, and more, and more.

Ideally, you should go to the showroom of a large store and sit at different models, thread, sew a test line, trying how it will be and whether it will be convenient for you. If this is not possible, or you have a catastrophic lack of time for this, wait for the next releases. I will do it for you and share my impressions in as much detail as I can.

The sewing machine market is quite well developed, but choosing the perfect machine is difficult. On the shelves of stores, the assortment is wide: from cheap, simple models to expensive computer-controlled devices that bring joy to functions and appearance.

To help you understand the question of which sewing machine to choose for your home, how to choose a model according to the parameters, below is a list of models with a description of important characteristics and functions.

Mechanical or electronic?

When choosing a sewing machine, you should first figure out which model is needed - mechanical or electronic? Consider the main characteristics and comparison of these two types.

Mechanical and electromechanical models

The mechanical washer is the most popular household appliance on the market. Most consumers use mechanical sewing machines. This is due to the following reasons:

From the old models of the last century, electric cars differ in the use of an electric motor. Often the speed of mechanical machines is controlled by a pedal (foot starter). The remaining operations are selected using mechanical dials, buttons.

Among mechanical devices, 2 types are distinguished:

1. with smooth adjustment of density, line width;
2. with stepwise adjustment of the specified parameters.

Smooth adjustment gives more versatility, functionality.

Electronic machines - distinctive features

This is a good sewing machine for professional seamstress and hobbyist who spends a lot of time on sewing, experimenting with hobby.

Computerized model with microprocessor

Working with a computerized machine is faster, more fun, less hassle. These devices are equipped with a microprocessor, have advanced functionality:

Machines with computer control are modern, recommended for users with some experience. The cost of these machines is usually high.

Overlock

The device is designed for processing the edge of materials. The name "overlock" is taken from the name of the stitch used to finish the edge of the fabric.

Overlocking is the main function of these devices, but over time they have gained the ability to stitch together elastic elements of the fabric, simultaneously with the processing of the seam. It is widely believed that for advanced masters of home tailoring, it is worth choosing a machine with an overlock. This is a little different. These devices are relatively expensive and their usefulness is limited. therefore, they will only be needed by professionals who do a lot of sewing.

Feature overview

When the buyer has already chosen the type of device of the machine, then its main functions should be studied:

• number of lines;
• foot selection;
• shuttle device;
• adjusting the pressure of the foot on the fabric;
• reverse function;
• sewing speed;
• the presence of a needle threader;
• and others.

Number of lines

The main characteristic of a sewing machine is the number of lines. In most cases, the lines are identical for each manufacturer, however, their number varies. The range of the number of lines is quite large:

• a simple machine has 510 lines;
• an expensive model has up to 250 lines;
• the memory function of your own settings makes the number of lines practically unlimited.

The main basic lines are as follows:

• straight stitch (designed for stitching fabric, embroidering characters, quilting);
• zigzag (designed for sewing in elastic bands, hooks);
• invisible hem;
• reinforced straight stitch;
• triple straight stitch;
• reinforced zigzag, three-step zigzag;
• overlock;
• elastic line.

Is the number of lines that important?

Before buying, you should find out if the machine will be used for novice users, for simple repair of clothes, linen, or for decorative sewing, home decor. Of course, when using the main lines, you can get the desired aesthetic effect.

An important argument is the frequency of use of the device, the frequency of use and the need for additional lines. It is recommended not to look at the number of lines - for a non-professional, this advanced functionality is not important. It is advisable for a more professional seamstress to choose a model with an extended number of lines.

What are the paws - photo

Other functionality

To choose the right model, it is worth analyzing what functionality exists.

• Power motor affects the penetrating power of the needle. In computerized machines, the power can be less while maintaining the necessary functions, due to the high efficiency.
• Reverse- allows you to sew in reverse. This basic function is present in all good sewing machines. Reverse is used to start and end seams. You can select the reverse function manual and automatic, where when you press the button, the machine completes the end of the seam.
  
• Mirroring each line This is a useful feature that saves a lot of time. Good models are mirrored vertically and horizontally.
• Presser foot pressure adjustment. The adjustable foot is a frequently used feature that allows you to press the foot with the required force, depending on the material.
• Sewing speed adjustment- used when precision is needed or when embroidering at a minimum speed is required.
• - almost all machines are equipped with it. The function reduces the time required for threading.
• Auto thread trimming function used in new models, allows thread trimming with a starter.
• - obtained by removing the side part from the main platform. The platform becomes narrow, allowing you to sew cuffs, sleeves, hemming tight trousers.
• - a convenient function, it can be present in semi-automatic and automatic mode, when, at the touch of a button, the machine processes loops.
  
• - an important option, present on almost any model. You can select devices equipped with a standard lamp or LEDs, halogen.
  
• allows you to sew quilts, bedspreads, jackets.
  
• - a function that allows you to quickly embroider words.
  
• Changing the needle position allows you to move the needle in a mechanical machine smoothly from the center of the foot to the left. In the electronic version, the computer adjusts the position of the needle to the left, to the right.

Review - rating of some manufacturers

A fairly well-known brand Singer produces cars with a good reputation, one of the most popular in this price segment. The machines are made qualitatively in terms of the materials used and technological solutions.

As for the place of production, opinions are divided. Some say that the models produced by SVP Worldwide are made in Germany, others believe that the product is made in China. The brand owner does not comment on the topic of the country of production.

The Husqvarna brand is owned by the same owner as the SVP Worldwide holding company that produces Singer cars. A slightly different technology is used here, no less interesting. Qualitatively, it is a good product with a long tradition.

One of the major players present on the market is the Japanese company Janome. The brand is known and highly acclaimed by consumers all over the world.

The choice must be well thought out

When choosing household appliances, it is useful to collect reviews, advice from dressmakers, and compare specific models. It is better to do it offline, among friends who are fond of sewing, well versed in the functions and capabilities of the device. However, you can also read online reviews, carefully filtering advertising messages.

The main aspects that need to be analyzed - how much time and what we will sew - is it a small home repair, hemming of trousers, rare sewing, or we will sew every day, having an exciting hobby, the profession of a seamstress. Then you need to determine the price range and the amount of the budget that you are willing to spend. Choosing a good machine is not easy. There are cheaper and more expensive brands, better quality or a little worse. This purchase is not cheap, so it should be well thought out.