If you are going to buy a good sewing machine, it is important to understand how they can differ from each other, except for the number of lines and operations.
The most "simple" inexpensive sewing machines are electromechanical models. The most expensive cars are usually computer-controlled, which is why they are called computerized cars. Such machines have almost unlimited possibilities for performing a variety of stitches, can sew eye loops and even embroider simple patterns.
Between these two extremes is another type of sewing machine, the electronic sewing machine. Of course, they are radically different from electromechanical models, but at the same time they cannot be called fully computerized, if only because they do not have the usual liquid crystal display with touch controls. Although programs are also used to electronically control these machines.
In this article, we will take a closer look at one of these machines. This is a Janome electronic sewing machine, model 6260. This review is not a detailed instruction manual, the performance of certain operations is considered only indirectly. The main emphasis is on the main differences between such machines from other types, their advantages and features.
1. Features of the electronic sewing machine
The first thing to start with when choosing a sewing machine is to determine the type of shuttle. In this Janome model, a horizontal shuttle is used, about the features of which several articles have been written on our website. But if in a nutshell, then this is a modern type of shuttle that allows you to sew any of the most "capricious" fabrics with high quality, such as stretch, knitwear, etc.
See Benefits of a horizontal shuttle.
In the photo, the shuttle is without the upper needle plate to warn you that sometimes the needle plate needs to be removed and cleaned of lint and other dirt that occurs after long use. Well, also to recall that the lower thread tension is regulated for such machines by a screw located on the side of the shuttle. Unfortunately, you can often get to it only after removing the needle plate. However, it is often not necessary to adjust the lower thread, it is enough to correctly adjust it once.
But in this photo you can already see the differences between such a machine and an electromechanical model. So the first button on the left controls the reverse motion of the machine, the second - automatic back-tacking, the third adjusts the position of the needle after sewing is completed (above the fabric or inside the fabric).
The lever that follows controls the speed of the sewing machine. No, of course she has a pedal and, by the way, is very good. It's just an additional function that limits the speed of the engine, often indispensable for a novice seamstress in other cases.
2. Types of stitches and operations
No more turning the lever to adjust the stitch width and length. All this is done automatically with the help of long keys located just below this electronic scoreboard.
Well, here we come to the most interesting place, the number of lines performed by an electronic computerized machine. There will be something to brag to your friends, 60 lines is an impressive figure. However, this is a joke. Of course, there are a lot of lines and we can say for sure that many of them will remain unused.
But, as for their switching, four round buttons are intended for this. By clicking on one of them, you will see on the screen the number of the line you have selected. Well, how it will look on the product, you will see below.
Pay attention to operations numbered 16-22. These are the types of buttonholes that the sewing machine sews. Among them there is one ocellar loop (19).
3. Electronic sewing machine control
There are no special external differences in such machines. As well as others, there is a presser foot lifter, a flywheel, a pedal, a device for winding thread on a bobbin, etc. But when you turn on the machine on the network, you will immediately notice that some kind of automatic settings are taking place. This indicates that almost all the main processes of the machine are under the control of the "program": the position of the needle, shuttle, rack, etc. This is what allows you to achieve high quality stitching, but at the same time complicates the design of the machine, which affects its price. and makes her treat her with respect.
In this photo, on the left is the presser foot pressure regulator on the fabric, on the right is the lever for adjusting the tension of the upper thread.
In this photo you can see it better, at the same time it shows how the spool of thread is located. By the way, a very correct position, since the thread is removed from above, and not from the side. This, in turn, affects the uniform tension of the upper thread, the absence of jerks, which ensures high-quality tightening of the stitch in the line. It is from such trifles that the overall quality of any sewing machine is formed.
This is the node for connecting the machine to the network, where the connector for connecting the power cord and the electric pedal is located. Notice the white cord, pedal cord. The pedal of such a machine is like a separate accessory, not only does it have a special plug for connection, it also has only one wire. This again is an inconspicuous difference from other pedal designs of great convenience. Just remember how many times you had to unravel the wiring of the pedal, always getting in the way under your feet.
Well, she's a "beauty" herself. Metallic, heavy, thin and elegant. It is not by chance that I focus on it, since this is a very important unit of any sewing machine. It’s just that we never notice that it’s not the hands, but the leg that is most involved when working on a sewing machine. And your mood, and sometimes the quality of work, depends on how comfortable it is for her.
I even removed the cover so you can see how well made this pedal is. Unlike other models, a modern rheostat design is used here, without any electronics, but it is reliable and durable.
4. Electronic sewing machine repair
Sewing machines of this class are made quite reliably and are able to work for years without breaking. But technology is technology, especially since its owner herself can often be involved in a breakdown. Therefore, try to strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations, do not sew on fabrics for which it is not intended, do not use low-quality threads and needles, and in no case try to sew leather and other rough materials. There are special machines for this or use the services of an atelier.
Although the electronic machine does not provide for self-repair or adjustment, nevertheless, sometimes it is necessary to remove the needle plate and clean this compartment from dust and lint. A special screwdriver should be included with the machine to unscrew the screws securing the plate. Do not try to unscrew them with another one, the slots of the screw heads can be easily damaged and the resulting burrs will cause puffs on the fabric.
5. Which sewing machine to buy?
If you are reading this article, then most likely you are interested in the question of how to choose a sewing machine. If my opinion is important to you, then of course such a machine is just super. Even its appearance, heavy weight, dimensions inspire absolute trust and confidence in its reliability and quality. And not necessarily this particular Janome model. Sewing machines of this class are produced by almost all well-known manufacturers: Janome, Brother, Singer, Juki, etc.
There can be no doubt, of course, the machine is worth the money for which it is sold (from 20 thousand rubles). This is about the same as the Soviet black-and-white TV "Record" and a modern plasma panel with a diagonal of more than a meter. What can be the doubt, respectively, and the price does not surprise anyone.
But there are always circumstances that force buyers to think carefully. And first of all financial opportunities. And if a non-poor person buys such a machine rather for a hobby, then many need a machine as a tool for repairing the clothes of their household, with the sole purpose of saving on buying new things. Of course, in this case it would be wiser to buy an economy class sewing machine, for 4-5 thousand rubles, without losing hope when you buy such a miracle of technology - an electronic sewing machine.
And get answers to them from experts on the choice of sewing equipment - sewing, knitting and embroidery machines, overlockers, steam generators, etc.
I will immediately say thank you to the readers who responded to my proposal to ask their questions about how to choose sewing equipment.
This means that my project can also be useful to you in this area, for me it is important!
Today, I publish the first part of the answers to questions about how to choose a sewing technique. I confess that I myself was very interested in reading the comments of experts.
This part of the questions consists of questions from you, dear readers, and my questions. I have combined the most frequently asked questions.
The next part will consist entirely of your questions on specific topics that are not included in this part (don't forget to subscribe to blog updates if you haven't already)
Questions are answered by specialists of an online store selling sewing equipment - - a specialized online store selling sewing, embroidery, knitting equipment and sewing accessories of well-known brands Brother, Bernina, Janome, Juki, Aurora, etc.
1. What should you pay attention to, first of all, when choosing a sewing machine?
2. Is it necessary to give preference to well-known brands, or in many ways is it just an overpayment for the brand?
Answer to questions 1 and 2:
When choosing, you need to understand how the sewing machines on the market today differ. For understanding, sewing machines can be divided into two types: these are electromechanical machines and electronic ones. At the same time, 3 different types of shuttle design should be noted: vertical swinging (classic), horizontal and vertical rotating (industrial).
Electromechanical machines- easier to repair and maintain, equipped with a vertical swing or horizontal shuttle, the horizontal shuttle is a more modern development, does not require lubrication.
The disadvantage of electromechanical machines is the difficulty of reconfiguring, and in some cases, the inability to sew complex materials due to the lack of such functions as an electronic needle puncture stabilizer, an improved fabric advance mechanism available in electronic sewing machines.
Electronic sewing machines these are modern high-tech devices capable of providing high quality and facilitating.
They are completed more often with horizontal, less often with vertical swinging and vertical rotating shuttle devices.
Speaking about the vertical rotating shuttle, one can note its long working life and high quality of the line being performed, which is also noted in the embroidery function in sewing and embroidery models.
When choosing a sewing machine, it is also necessary to pay attention to the reputation of the manufacturer and the specific model in particular. Manufacturers interested in their reputation in the Russian market have authorized service centers and carry out a company warranty, this is evidenced by a company warranty card that comes with all the equipment of this manufacturer.
3. In your opinion, which of the functions of a modern sewing machine are really necessary, and which can be easily dispensed with (for example, the upper feed dog, needle threader, decorative stitches, etc.)?
This question cannot be answered objectively, each seamstress decides for herself what functions she needs when sewing. It is worth listing the features and explaining them so that you can decide for yourself whether they are necessary for you or you can do without them.
Electronic needle puncture stabilizer- only available on electronic sewing machines. A function that allows you to adjust the needle piercing force regardless of engine speed, convenient when sewing heavy fabrics.
Presser foot pressure regulator- the function allows you to get the same quality line on fabrics with different characteristics.
Loop balance- Adjustment allows you to sew neat buttonholes on various fabrics
Sewing speed adjustment- available only in electronic sewing machines and allows you to adjust the sewing speed regardless of how hard you press the pedal.
Needle threader- Many sewing machines are equipped with a semi-automatic needle threader that makes it easier to thread the needle. A fully automatic needle threader that does not require human intervention is available only on the top models of Brother sewing machines.
Top conveyor- carries out uniform promotion of the material. With the help of the top conveyor sewing of slippery and multilayered fabrics is carried out. In some "expensive" models of sewing machines p is a built-in device or included in the kit. The function of the upper conveyor is also implemented in the walking foot, which is an optional accessory and must be purchased separately.
Stitches- the number of lines in sewing machines is directly proportional to the class and price of the machine. The basis of all lines on electromechanical machines are combinations of a straight line and a zigzag. Electronic sewing machines have great possibilities for creating a line pattern. Overlock stitches, which are perceived by many as overlock stitches, are just their imitation (in all models of sewing machines).
Sewing without a pedal- available only in electronic sewing machines and allows you to start the sewing process with a button. This is convenient when you want to do a large amount of typical work at a given sewing speed.
The list of functions is far from complete, but summarizing the above, we can unequivocally conclude that all the functions implemented in sewing machines are aimed at achieving the best quality and simplifying the sewing process.
4. Is it possible to independently determine whether this sewing technique is good or not? Maybe there is some trick - for example, by the sound of an engine or a needle puncture, or do you still need to evaluate the parameters and functions of equipment without relying on your feelings?
Your feelings, as well as the analysis of technical characteristics, are important when choosing a sewing machine, so before buying, you need to go through a “test drive”, try the technique in action.
5. Can you name the models of sewing machines and overlockers that are truly a “people's brand” - have been on the market for many years and are still popular and in demand?
Among the popular models of sewing equipment are:
Sewing machines
Brother LS2125
Brother Comfort 15
Brother NV10
Bernina Bernette 2056
Janome 1221
Overlocks
Brother 1034D
Janome 205
Juki 654
6. How do you rate the reliability of buying sewing equipment through online stores? Is it possible to check the reliability of an online store and by what parameters?
Sewing machines are complex high-tech devices, especially electronic models, so buying them without prior verification and clear guarantees from the seller and manufacturer is very risky.
In this regard, I would like to advise you to deal only with those Internet sellers who can give you the opportunity to check the equipment upon purchase, have a service for setting up equipment, and can conduct training in case of pickup.
When making a purchase with delivery, it is important to know about the guarantees provided by the seller and the manufacturer for the equipment being sold, whether there are authorized service centers of this manufacturer in your city and region.
7. In your opinion, is it possible to consciously increase the purchase budget by overpaying for certain functions, if so, what functions can these be, for example, in a sewing machine or overlock machine?
See answer to question 3
8. Can you name the advantages and disadvantages of mechanical and electronic sewing machines?
Advantages of electromechanical sewing machines :
Inexpensive (unlike electronic)
High reliability with quality build
Unpretentious to voltage drops in the network
Disadvantages of electromechanical sewing machines:
Sophisticated setting to work with different types of fabric
· Limited options for buttonholes
Impossibility of sewing heavy fabrics at low speeds (needle puncture force depends on machine speed)
Rheostatic pedal (with prolonged use it heats up and becomes less receptive
Advantages of electronic sewing machines:
· Electronic needle puncture stabilizer allows you to sew heavy fabrics at low speeds
Ability to perform several types of loops, including with an eye
Sewing speed adjustment (regardless of pedal)
Possibility of sewing without a pedal (button start/stop)
The electronic pedal does not heat up and, as they say, does not interfere with the TV)))
Protection against wrong actions, hints
A variety of decorative stitches, the presence of the alphabet and embroidery functions (on some models)
Disadvantages of electronic sewing machines:
· High price
Demanding to stabilize the power supply
9. Is it necessary to look at the additional equipment of sewing equipment - the more, the better, or most importantly, pay attention to the basic functions of the equipment?
Of course, it’s nice to buy a set of feet and accessories along with a sewing machine, but let’s not hide the fact that, indeed, expensive models of sewing and sewing-embroidery machines have rich equipment, where the presence of additional accessories is not decisive when buying them.
Different stores use and mix the concepts of electronic, computer, mechanical, electronic-mechanical, electric and other sewing machines. As a result, when people come home after consultations, they still cannot understand what kind of animal they saw in the window, whether it was an electronic machine, or some other.
In essence, modern household sewing machines are divided into only 2 types. And there is nothing more to invent)
The first type is mechanical sewing machines. These are machines in which either there is no electronic board, or there is a simple control unit. But copiers are responsible for switching lines. And they, as it is easy to imagine, cannot be crammed into the car in unlimited quantities. Hence the set of lines - up to 24.
Do not confuse lines and operations. And then many manufacturers write that there are 40 operations in their machine ... but in fact there are 24 copiers, and everything else is regulated simply by changing the stitch width and stitch length.
Janome 1221, Janome My Excel W23U, Janome SE 518, Janome 7518, Janome 7524A, Janome 7524E are examples of classic, "iron-resistant" sewing machines. Many people think that because of the needle positioning and smooth speed control functions, machines like the W23U or Janome 7524E have become electronic, but this is not entirely true. They just shoved the simplest electronic functions into them)
Mechanical sewing machines are further divided by power (this is very important for such machines). There are "weaker" machines, for example, Janome MS 100, Janome MT 2216, Janome DC 2030, and there are machines with good power, which allows you to work with dense fabrics effortlessly. Such machines have already been called "iron-resistant" a little higher)
The second type is electronic sewing machines. These are machines in which an electronic board is responsible for a set of lines and their switching. Therefore, these machines can have almost unlimited functionality. It all depends on what programs the manufacturer has included in the board.
The main thing, in my opinion, the difference between electronic sewing machines and mechanical ones is that you "have to bother less" with them. Turned on the operation - she sews. Because some average parameters for the width and length of the line are already stored in the memory of the machine. There is no need to look in the instructions for what length, width to put ... God forbid, you also touch the foot with a needle.
Electronic machines are "simpler", for example, Janome DC 50, Janome QC 2325, Janome 4030, ELNA 6200, New Home 8330. These have an excellent set of basic working lines, several types of loops, they have a sufficient number of decorative lines.
"More complicated" - such machines as Janome DC 3600, MC 5200. On the boards of these machines, in addition to the basic work operations, various alphabets and many decorative lines are programmed. Such machines are suitable for those who like not only to repair, but to decorate clothes, do patchwork and quilting. Decorate handkerchiefs, napkins ...
"Fancy" - these are machines that have not only an excellent set of lines, but also all kinds of electronic gadgets that simplify sewing. For example, "select the density of the fabric" ... better put such and such needles "..." and I will set the presser foot pressure automatically". Such machines are most often made by European manufacturers such as Elna 7300 PRO, Elna 740 eXcellence. Very nice, but also expensive.
"Embroidery" - these are machines that, let it not be a surprise for you, not only sew, but also embroider. You transfer designs to them on a flash drive, which then end up on the fabric. All that is required of you is to change the threads. This is, for example, a Janome 350e, Elna 820, Elna 9900 (embroidery) or Elna 8600 (sewing and embroidery) machine. There are many more. I just like these.
In electronic machines, you should not pay attention to power. They have an electronic needle puncture amplifier. Therefore, if anything, it will help to process dense fabric.
And the choice should be made according to your needs. But do not forget that they can change over the 5-10 years that you will use the purchased machine. It probably makes sense to slightly go beyond the planned costs for a thing that has a little more functionality and the potential to satisfy your ideas (even if they arise only in the future).
Electronic sewing machines, unlike electromechanical ones, have a microprocessor and, accordingly, an electronic type of control, that is, the actions of the machine can be controlled using buttons. They also have other functional differences.
Types of electronic machines
Electronic machines of any complexity are able to make several types of loops, including the popular "eye". All electronic machines have the function of an electronic puncture force stabilizer, which allows the needle to pierce fabric of any density at any sewing speed. However, the number of automated functions in machines varies. Depending on this, they can be divided into three types - machines with electronic elements, simple and advanced electronic machines. Separately, we will talk about electronic sewing machines with unique features.
Machines with electronic elements
These are sewing machines with electromechanical control, in which the electronics control only three functions, they vary depending on the model:
- pedalless sewing (to start sewing or stop the machine, just press the button).
- smooth adjustment of the sewing speed (the sewing speed does not depend on the pressure on the pedal and can be fixed in any range from minimum to maximum)
- vertical positioning of the needle (you can pre-set the position of the needle after the end of sewing - extreme lower or upper)
start/stop button, needle position button, sewing speed controller
There are few sewing machines of this subspecies, they include Bernette Milan 7 and Moscow 7 (the machines are similar in all characteristics except for the body color and equipment), as well as Janome DecorExel Pro 5124 (this model does not have a pedalless sewing function).
Simple electronic machines
These are sewing machines with full electronic control, but also with a minimum number of functions. In addition to the above, there are other possibilities:
- information display (depending on the machine model, it can provide both minimal information, such as stitch number and stitch length, and more detailed information, including recommended presser feet and active functions for operation)
- settings specified for each operation, recommended by the manufacturer (when you select any operation, the parameters of the stitch length and stitch width will be automatically set)
Advanced electronic machines
These machines provide ample opportunities for comfortable sewing and creativity, since the number of automated functions in them is much greater:
- alphabet (allows you to create inscriptions and monograms on the fabric)
- memory (allows you to program and save the sequential execution of decorative stitches, alphabet characters and actions, such as automatic bar-tacking or thread trimming)
- mirror image of decorative stitches (horizontal and/or vertical)
- automatic bartack (you do not need to use the reverse function, just one press of the button)
- automatic thread trimming (by pressing the button, the machine cuts the upper and lower threads by itself)
- horizontal needle positioning (allows you to set the needle to the left or right of the center position)
Advanced electronic machines that have all of the above features - Brother Innov-is (NV) 450 and above, as well as Bernette Milan and Moscow 8.
Electronic sewing machines with unique features
Some electronic sewing machines have a number of special features or attachments that greatly simplify the sewing process or provide you with unique opportunities for implementing the most daring projects. These features include:
- knee lever for lifting the presser foot (this device does not depend on the capabilities of the machine provided by electronics, but only high-end electronic machines are equipped with it). It allows you to quickly raise and lower the presser foot and frees both hands for the most precise control of the product. This feature is available on the Brother Innov-is (NV) 1300.
- creating your own decorative stitches (available on the Brother Innov-is (NV) 650)
- the presence of an optical foot (feet with an optical sensor, thanks to which the machine calibrates when the foot is first installed, which significantly improves the quality of the stitching, for example, when sewing buttonholes). These presser feet can only be installed on Bernina 3, 5, 7 and 8 series machines, such as the Bernina B350.
- sewing in different directions (the lower conveyor can advance the fabric in 4 or 8 directions). An example of these features is the Brother Innov-is (NV) 650 and Bernina 550 models.
Newer generation electronic sewing machines have built-in operating systems and touch screens that allow you to not only sew, but also embroider, creating your own embroidery designs. Such machines are called
Modern sewing machines have long been no longer similar to their antique counterparts either in appearance or in times of increased functionality. We present the rating of the best popular in 2018-2019. sewing machines for the home - according to customer and expert reviews.
The assortment presented in stores is so wide that when buying it is advisable to imagine in advance by what criteria the proposed models differ.
Criteria for choosing a good sewing machine
Control type can be mechanical, electromechanical and computer, depending on the method of constructing the line. Electromechanical, as a rule, are not too expensive and are intended for occasional home use, while electronic counterparts are more suitable for those who sew frequently (for example, to order). For the pros, it is better to choose a computer-controlled sewing machine, which often has an embroidery module.
Shuttle type represented by a vertical or horizontal shuttle, while the latter option is most often characteristic of professional, complex models and creates much less noise.
Functionality sewing machine is determined by the number of possible operations, which includes a variety of types of stitches, and methods for making a buttonhole, and additional embroidery options.
Equipment each model directly depends on the previous criterion. Depending on the model, additional needles for fabrics of different weights, interchangeable presser feet, as well as tools for servicing the sewing machine may be attached. It is desirable that the machine has a special compartment for storing all sewing supplies.
Which brand of sewing machine is best?
The undoubted leaders in the production of sewing machines are deservedly considered as European manufacturers - Bernina, Pfaff, Husqvarna and Asian firms Janome, Brother, Juki, Jaguar. The products of the American brand are also appreciated. Singer. At the same time, each company regularly improves its models, not yielding to competitors in assembly quality.
The most popular inexpensive sewing machines now are still models from a Japanese company. Janome(production is located in Japan, Taiwan and Thailand). In the assortment of this company there are many models for both beginner craftswomen and for infrequent home use, as well as professionals. A large number of positive reviews about the machines of this company are captivating - both from craftswomen and from specialists and masters of service centers. On the heels of her popularity in Russia comes another Japanese company - Brother. For regular sewing, masters still recommend choosing from Janome - there are more metal parts in the design of these machines, they are more reliable.
Masters advise when buying to pay attention to the weight of the machine - the heavier, the more metal parts inside.
For home, for occasional use, you can choose between Janome and Brother - according to the principle - what you like and the availability of the necessary functions. Here, sometimes light weight can even be an advantage - it is easier to get it out and then return it to a storage place.
Concerning Singer- so in 1851 they put up for sale the first sewing machine in history (it cost $ 100), conquered the market and have been holding it for a century and a half. Time-tested quality. Deserves respect! (By the way, the Podolsk sewing machine, popular with our mothers and grandmothers, was produced at a factory that previously belonged to Singer).
But the Japanese are clearly leading the modern market (among household ones - Janome and Brother, among more professional models - Janome, Juki, Swiss Bernina). Among these manufacturers it is better to make a choice.
