
How we pick our products
We know that nobody knows your tastes better than you, and that making your own clothes is an excellent option. That’s why this time we want to introduce you to the best sewing machines on the market.
Sewing machines, which have been used for many years to facilitate and optimize sewing works, offer more and more variety of functions and uses for every taste and need. The question is, which of all the models and brands is the best?
In ReviewBox we will show you the different types of sewing machines and their features, so you can choose the one that best suits your interests and budget. It is important that you take into account every detail to make the best purchase decision.
Contents
Summary
- Sewing machines are devices used to sew several pieces of fabric together. They are very versatile because they can do a wide variety of stitches (straight or patterned), backstitches and overlocking.
- There are industrial sewing machines (faster, bigger and more varied) and domestic sewing machines (generally used for a single task). The former are used for large productions, while the latter are used for simpler tasks.
- There are also mechanical machines (most of them are mounted on a cast iron and wood cabinet incorporating a large pulley and a foot pedal for operation) and electro-mechanical machines (made of metal or plastic; more modern and with multi-stitch capability).
The best Sewing Machine: Our Picks
Buying guide
To buy the sewing machine that will meet all your expectations, you need to know all the details about them. So that you have all the necessary information we have put together this buying guide, where we tell you about the advantages and disadvantages, the types, the budget and even the shops where you can get one.
nikolabelopitov / pixabay.com)
What are sewing machines and what are their advantages?
The sewing machine was invented in 1790 by the English manufacturer Thomas Saint, and during the first Industrial Revolution it was incorporated into textile factories to reduce the amount of sewing work; it then began to be used in homes to sew individual items.
Its main advantage is that it speeds up the sewing work and offers the possibility of making complex and varied stitches, optimising time, work and resources. Besides, its domestic use will help you to give a longer life to your garments.
Electronic and mechanical sewing machines – what should you look out for?
Electronic sewing machine. These work by using a motor that helps to move the needle system that makes the stitches. They are very advantageous because they can save time and produce larger quantities of garments with less human effort.
Mechanical sewing machine. This is the traditional machine, which was widely used before the advent of the electric machine. It works by driving the needle system manually, by means of levers that are pushed with the feet or hands.
Electronic | Mechanical | |
---|---|---|
Production | More effective | Requires greater attention to detail |
Sewing speed | High | Medium or slow |
Stitches | Precise | Depends partly on the talent of the sewer |
How much does a sewing machine cost?
The first sewing machines were heavy and rudimentary, but over the years they have been modernised to such an extent that they offer more and more functions, speeds and sewing optimisation.
Buying criteria: factors that allow you to compare and rate different models of sewing machines
Because there is such a wide range of sewing machines on the market, it can sometimes be difficult to decide which is the best one to buy. That is why it is important to take into account certain factors in order to buy the right sewing machine. We tell you about these factors, so that you have all the information you need.
- Types of sewing machines
- Brand
- Materials
- Number of stitches available
Types of sewing machines
As we mentioned in the comparison chart, the two most common types of sewing machines are mechanical and electronic; there are also the classic ones, which do not use an electric motor but human power and are sold more as a vintage piece than as a productive and functional product.
We recommend the mechanical machines for beginners or people with little knowledge of sewing, because they are easy to use. They are also much cheaper than the electronic ones and do not require such a big investment.
Electronic sewing machines are more modern and have better sewing quality due to their electronic system; they also have a great variety of functions (patterns, stitch types, buttonholes, etc.).
Brand
Although the brand name is often not a real guarantee, in the case of sewing machines it is important, and the Singer brand is the leader in this product. Alfa and Brother are also very well-known brands, although there are obviously other very good brands.
It is therefore essential that when buying a sewing machine we look for a recognised brand, which will be more expensive but will guarantee the quality, effectiveness and durability of the product.
Materials
Sewing machines that have a plastic-heavy casing and structure tend to be less durable and resistant. One of the ways to tell is by the weight, as metal machines are much heavier and also have more stability on the table when sewing.
You might think that the lighter the better, but we recommend that they weigh at least 4kg. This is an indication that the materials are strong and durable. However, they don’t need to weigh more than 8 kg either.
Number of stitches available
While the number and types of stitches available is an important factor to consider, you should also think about how you will use the sewing machine to choose the right one for your needs.
If you are looking for a correct sewing job, a straight stitch, a zig-zag, an elastic stitch and a blind stitch are enough; with only these four types of stitches you can make impeccable seams.
If you want to improve your sewing skills and do creative and original work, you may need a machine with more stitches and functions. If you are just starting to sew and you plan to use it for more basic sewing, with a simple machine, that makes the basic stitches, you will be fine.
(Featured image photo: belchonock / 123rf.com)