Smart Machines for Embroidery for You Now
To choose the right sewing machine, it is important to take into account your creative desires and the time you wish to devote to it: occasional or regular, repeats, clothing, decoration, patchwork, embroidery or the type of fabric that the ‘we want to work. Your projects will guide you in the choice of your sewing machine.
Entry level machine
It is suitable for people who are just starting out or who only want to do very occasional sewing work. Generally mechanical because less expensive, its price does not exceed 200 €. For beginners, it is an easy threading machine (with a route for the spool thread well marked on the machine, even numbered in stages). It is equipped with a dozen stitches and basic presser feet (see below). Not very scalable, it cannot however always be supplemented later by accessories. With the best embroidery machine for monogramming you can get the best results now.
Mid-range machine
More robust, it is suitable for seamstresses who want to progress and lends itself better to furnishing work which often requires working with thick fabrics. It can be electronic for more comfort and has functions which, without being essential, improve comfort in use: integrated thread cutter, automatic needle threader, speed variator, needle position at low stop or high (practical if you want to turn the item to continue sewing, for example). It offers additional stitches which are often decorative and whose use remains occasional. Finally, it can be completed with different presser feet.
High end machine
It is intended for experienced dressmakers. It offers a wide choice of presser feet and other accessories as well as many different points. The machine must be comfortable to use (think in particular of the ergonomics of the buttons: a button “sew back” located just above the button “sew without pedal” is not necessarily practical). It is ideally equipped with a large touch screen, efficient lighting and a large and easily retractable workspace. The most advanced machines can be used to perform patchwork techniques, including quilting using free motion, or to program patterns.
The Essential Sewing Stitches
Whatever the budget you want to invest or the use you expect from your sewing machine, it must offer the basic sewing stitches, straight stitch, zigzag stitch and buttonhole, preferably automatic in 1 step , failing that in 4 steps. Please note, the mention “buttonhole in 4 steps” means that you have to change your sewing parameters 4 times in order to sew the 4 sides of the buttonhole. On a shirt, it can be tedious.
The stitch for stretch (or elastic) stitching is useful for working with stretch fabrics such as jersey for example. Finally, the overlock stitch (also called overlock stitch) allows for good hems, although a tight zigzag stitch near the edge can also do the trick.
