Types of Sewing Machine

Since the invention of sewing machines, they have gone through many changes. The number of machines and what they are capable of is amazing. The home sewer now has the ability to own a number of specialty machines. Many techniques are now automated with a home machine, eliminating the need to spend hours on a project.

When the first sewing machines came out, they were mechanical and powered by the user. A pedal was used to move all the parts; the faster you pedaled, the faster the parts moved. It was a slow process, but still much faster than hand sewing. Later, when electricity became more common, a small motor was added to turn the wheel and the user no longer needed to peddle. At first, only the rich and professional seamstresses could afford them.

Electronic machines, much like what people use now, came into popularity between 1960 and 1970. You only had to move a knob to change the stitch design and length. You can control tension with the turnoff a knob.

Today, new sewing machines are computerized, going as far as threading their own needles. A display will let you know when you bobbin is low on thread and a touch screen is available to choose your stitch preferences. Many new machines come with built in embroidery functions.

Sergers are available for the home dressmaker. If you make your clothing, sergers are wonderful for cleaning up the ends of seams and giving your garment a professional finished look.

There are many machines on the market and everyone has different needs.