Does It Matter What Kind of Sewing Machine You Use?

Like many art forms, sewing can be a rewarding activity with endless creative possibilities. In sewing, the canvas of your masterpieces is your pattern or design, your palette is the thread and fabric and instead of brushes, you use a sewing machine.

One common question among many sewing enthusiasts is: does it matter what kind of sewing machine you use? The short answer is yes! In fact, there are many different types of sewing machines both domestic and industrial that are used for tailoring garments, quilting, embroidery and more.

Before deciding on a type of sewing machine, it’s important to note a few factors to consider that will help guide your choice: your level of skill, your sewing specialty or need, and your budget. The good news is that many excellent sewing machines on the market today are under $300.

In this article, we will cover the various types of sewing machines, their features and how to choose the right sewing machine for you!

Different Types of Sewing Machines

Here we’ll help you understand the five basic types of sewing machine models and what to expect from each:

• Domestic model sewing machines
• Industrial model sewing machines
  
• Embroidery only sewing machines
  
• Hand-operated and treadle sewing machines
• Long-arm quilting sewing machines

Domestic Model Sewing Machines

Machines for domestic or home use are generally used for hobby sewing such as making clothing, home décor items like tapestries, and some embroidery. These sewing machines are available in manual or computerized models that range widely in price. Both manual and computerized domestic machines offer standard features such as buttonhole stitching, built-in stiches (including adjustable zigzag stitches), a drop-in bobbin, a needle threader and an automatic thread cutter.

Industrial Model Sewing Machines

While domestic sewing machines have limited ability to sew multiple layers of fabric together and may overheat if overused, industrial model sewing machines are built to handle thicker fabrics and higher output. If you plan on making a “go” of a sewing business, then an industrial model sewing machine might be the right choice for you.

Embroidery Only Sewing Machines

Sewing machines are designed to join fabric together. Embroidery sewing machines take it a step further with additional features such as built-in designs and fonts for intricate embroidery pattern designs and logos.

Hand-Operated and Treadle Sewing Machines

You may have recognized these early forms of sewing machines in your grandmother’s attic or in museums. Many of these machines have stood the test of time and are quite functional though they are powered by humans, not electricity. Unfortunately, these types of machines are not currently being manufactured.

The hand crank turns the thread and sets the needle in motion, producing even stitches in a straight line. The treadle sewing machine works the same but requires right foot rhythm and is operated by your feet on a wide, flat grate below the machine.

Long Arm Quilting Sewing Machines

If you are a serious quilter, then this machine is the best option for you. Quilting sewing machines are large, providing the space needed to spread out your quilting projects and a long arm to sew individual swathes of fabric across the quilt. One word of warning: these machines cost considerably more than a domestic sewing machine and can cause a bit of sticker shock.

Choosing the Right Sewing Machine

Now that we’ve covered the main types of sewing machines, it’s important to note that both mechanical and computerized domestic sewing machines offer many functions for a variety of different sewing projects.

Choosing the right machine comes down to deciding what functions and features you will use the most. Some basic features that you likely will need include:

• An easy-to-access bobbin, which allows the sewing machine to form a straight seam on the top and bottom of your fabrics and which you’ll want to be able to change out easily
• An automatic needle threader, which will save you hours of frustration and eyestrain
• Built-in lighting so you can keep a close eye on your project without straining your eyes

These functions are available on both mechanical and computerized sewing machines and can help you produce the most polished pieces of clothing, quilts, tapestries or embroidery.

Choosing the right kind of sewing machine comes down to knowing what you want to accomplish and then deciding on the best basic features to perfect your sewing project. In addition to cost, the manufacturer and the warranty they provide should be top considerations no matter which type of sewing machine you use.

Find the Machine You Need for a Price You'll Love at Premier Stitching!

Premier Stitching carries all the different types of sewing machines available from a variety of manufacturers. Once you know the kind you want, you can compare models by features or price bracket. Explore our hundreds of in-stock machines to find what you're looking for today!