Archive for the ‘sewing machine’ Category
Jan
Some of the Best Sewing Machine Possible: A 1915 Singer in Action
From ron989.
This sewing machine is almost 100 years old but look at it go! The stitching seems tight, I bet it it still has a good solid bobbin, and it runs well. Many people believe that Singer makes the best sewing machine possible, and it’s hard to argue they are quality built.
Ever since the first sewing machine was made in the 19th century the design has been improving but the fundamentals have stayed the same. Sure, you can get computer controlled models, and stronger actions, but at it’s heart the sewing machine is still the same. I find it interesting. If you were to compare the end result from this antique sewing machine to the result of the best sewing machine today, most people couldn’t tell the difference. That’s a testament to the strength of this craft, and also shows how when you’re buying new sewing machines you’re buying features to make the act of sewing easier on you!
Jan
What’s the Best Sewing Machine to Sew Leather?
Leather can be interesting to work with - many patterns call for it, but if you’ve never used it before some problems can arise.
To determine the best sewing machine for this use, it depends on what kind of leather you’ll be using.
For thin or medium leather, the best sewing machine is probably what you have 
So long as you keep in mind the points below you should be okay. Modern machines are powerful for simple leather projects.
For thick or tough leather, things get a little more complicated. At this class of fabric it can be like sewing 4 or more layers of denim!
The best sewing machine will be one that can:
- Take the heavy thread you’ll need. Many experts recommend against cotton thread, and prefer polyester thread.
- Use the heaviest needle size possible. A 11, 14, or 16 would be good.
- Make as wide a stitch as possible. 5 to 5-1/2 is a good idea. If your machine can’t go above 3-1/2, don’t use it - it might rip the leather.
- Take a teflon or walker foot.
The most important consideration is using the best sewing machine needles for leather. Because leather will rip if the stitches are not wide enough apart you can get special needles. These are called knife edged needles made just for sewing leather, or a double needle.
For specific examples, many experts believe the best sewing machine for leather to be a Singer 20-U, Bernina 950, or an industrial class Pfaff or Brother. These are all good sewing machines for leather. If funds are tight, don’t overlook what you already have.
Happy Sewing - I’m sure it will turn out great!
Dec
Could a Used Sewing Machine Be Best For You?
In some cased, buying a used sewing machine is a good idea. You can usually get “more bang for your buck” this way. I’ve seen used sewing machines go for a a third (or a few hundred dollars) less than the comparable new one. In some cases though, either a used machine is not available, or the savings are not enough to warrant buying it.
It helps if you have an idea of what type of work you will be doing. If this is just for home use, buying a used industrial sewing machine doesn’t make sense for example.
Consider showing the seller some of what patterns you will be using, and ask for some references.
Watch out though: make sure you trust who you are buying from. Ask to see maintenance records or usage patterns for the sewing machine before you buy it. What kind of warranty will you be getting on the machine, and what is the return policy?
Dec
A Couple of Sewing Animations
From jenniewebs.
Wow, I have never seen anything like this before! A textile animation - done by hand! Such skill, I love it. The parts where the clouds and waves come in very well done. Bravo!
And for a little bit of humor watch this video: the best sewing machine animation I could find 
Aug
How to Use a Sewing Machine : Selecting a Stitch Pattern on a Sewing Machine
How to select the stitch pattern on your sewing machine; learn about this and more in this free sewing video taught by an expert tailor.
Duration : 0:2:37
