Computerized Sewing Machine or Mechanical Sewing Machine

A computerized home Consumer Reports sewing machine is just a machine with a preprogrammed and sometimes interchangeable computer field that stores multiple stitches. A standard machine has only mechanical parts. The stitches are made up of a large number of stitch cams that are located on the machine. The number of stitch cams and the combination of stitches that can form them determine the number and type of stitches that can be sewn with a mechanical sewing machine.

But here I am in front of me. A stitch cam is a disc with notches on the edge that guide the needle bar and form the selected stitch. Simply turn the face of a watch over a picture or number of a desired stitch on a mechanical sewing machine. Remember to pay attention to the length and width of the stitch. Depending on your sewing material, this usually needs to be changed. For this to work properly, you may need to refer to the instruction manual.

More Fun with Computerized Sewing Machine

To be fair, mechanical sewing machines cover most home sewing needs, but a computer controlled machine takes the guesswork out of stitch selection and makes sewing easier and a lot more fun. In computer sewing, stitches are selected at the touch of a button and the length and tension are preprogrammed. You can always adjust if you want to create a new look. The stitch can be reversed, lengthened or even mirrored at the push of a button.

When sewing with decorative threads such as rayon and metal, the tension of a computer-controlled home sewing machine is automatically adjusted to ensure a perfect seam. On a mechanical sewing machine, the tension should be adjusted and a sample of the stitch sewn.

Also, some basic utility sewing shapes can be more easily accomplished on a computerized sewing machine. Buttonholes and blind hems can be selected or configured at the touch of a button on a computer. Mechanical machines require selecting the stitch length and width and sewing various patterns to make sure the buttonholes are perfect.

When creating a monogram, a computer machine only asks you to choose the correct stitch. With a mechanical machine, you need to draw the monogram on your sewing fabric and sew it freehand. (I’ve never been able to master the freehand part, my lines usually end entirely!)

Mirror image is not available on a mechanical machine. (The mirror image creates two images next to each other on your sewing fabric that are identical. Computerized machines can do this).

Bobbin low level indicators are only available on computer controlled sewing machines, never on mechanical sewing machines. I used to run out of thread on my mechanical machine and didn’t realize it until I thought I had sewn a seam; now my computer controlled machine saves me time and frustration when I hear a beep telling me it is mine The bobbin has run out of thread!

Buying Hints

However, how do you determine if the purchase price of a computerized home sewing machine is justified?

1. Do you sew a variety of projects, from clothing to crafts for yourself and other family members?

2. How about the convenience of a computer controlled machine?

3. Would you like a sewing machine that can be updated with new stitches and patterns?

4. Do you need decorative stitches and utility stitches for your sewing projects?

A few years ago I bought a computer controlled sewing machine and would never use mechanical sewing machines at home again; Let’s say I screwed up back then.

I sew a lot at home and love the ease of sewing, the ability to be more creative, and the ability to sew at home with almost no maintenance. I’m the type who likes to stay up to date on sewing trends, so decorative sewing items save my life!