Types of Sewing Machines: Understand the Differences
Do you scratch your head in confusion when it comes buying a sewing machine? Do the different types of sewing machines available online make it difficult to choose one?
If the answer is yes to both of these questions, then you’ve arrived at the right place.
In this blog post, we’ll inform you about the different types of sewing machines and their functions. Also, we will review the most popular sewing machines in each of the categories to make it easier for you to pick the right one.
Table of Contents
Electronic Sewing Machines
Electronic sewing machines are in fact hybrid machines with mechanical and electronic components. The sewing machine consists of features such as memory function, built-in stitches, and others that save a lot of time for the user.
An electronic sewing machine makes more precise stitches. You don’t have to make any adjustment. Simply select a stitch type and the sewing machine will adjust automatically. A lot of modern sewing machines allow you to easily adjust the stitch speed as well, resulting in more precise stitching.
Electronic sewing machines come with a lot of automatic features. These features save time when stitching. One of the most useful features is the automatic needle threader that is a great time saver. Some other automatic features that are standard in electronic sewing machines include the following:
- Auto Lock
- Automatic thread cutter
- Auto bobbin winder
- Automatic tension adjustment
- Auto tying to secure ends
- Straight stitch function to reinforce the seam
If you tend to work on heavy projects such as embroidery and quilting, you should consider buying electronic sewing machines. An electronic machine has loads of advanced features that make it easy to handle different types of complex stitching projects.
Another great thing about electronic sewing machines is that they can print specific embroidery designs. You can purchase designs online and print them using the sewing machine.
The machines are expensive as compared to the mechanical sewing machine. However, there are loads of features that make the machines worth it. They are the best sewing machines for people who sew regularly such as fashion designers and professional tailors.
Here’s a review of the most popular electronic sewing machines that you can find in the market today.
1. Brother Designio DZ2400
Brother Designio DZ2400 sewing machines are packed with a lot of features. This electronic sewing machine boasts 185 built-in stitches. The sewing machine has a backlit LCD display and sports a variable speed control.
This computerized sewing machine also supports 55 alphanumeric stitches. It consists of a lot of accessories and features that will make it easy to complete sewing projects.
2. Janome DC2013
Error: Unknown Link TypeJanome DC 2013 is an electronic sewing machine that supports up to 50 stitches. The sewing machine can meet a wide variety of sewing needs. You can use the machine for stitching garments, home decor, quilts, and more.
The needle stop position can be memorized, thereby saving time. The superior feed system of this electronic sewing machine results in high-quality stitches.
3. Juki HZL-F600
- Box Feed Technology
- Light Weight Material
- Thick Weight Material
- Wide Sewing Space - Extended Sewing Table
- Free Motion Sewing
Juki HZL-F600 is a rather expensive model that provides great value for money. The electronic sewing machine comes with box-feed technology that prevents the fabric from shifting when stitching. Automatic needle threading option is also a great time saver.
The electronic sewing machine boasts over 250 different sewing patterns and four fonts. The large LCD display will allow you to select the recommended settings easily. It comes with a lot of accessories and supports free motion quilting. You can adjust the width of the stitch to up to 7mm.
4. Singer 7469Q
- Automatic needle threader and Drop & Sew bobbin system make for quick and easy set-up. Helpful Hint: To secure thread, pull both threads to the backside of the fabric and tie together.
- 98 built-in stitches with seven fully automatic one-step buttonholes provide endless project possibilities
- Programmable needle up/down and drop feed make quilting fun and easy
- Four bonus quilting feet and an extension table create the winning quilting combination
- Electronic twin needle control and adjustable stitch length and width allow you to customize your projects. 110 volt sewing machine designed for United States and Canadian use only. . Amps: 0. 62
- This sewing machine is warranted for use in the US and Canada at 110 volts only.
Singer 7469Q is another great electronic sewing machine. The sewing machine has 98 built-in stitches. Notable features of the sewing machine include programmable needle position, illuminating lights, automatic needle threader, and drop feed.
The sewing machine supports stitch locking and automatic reverse functions. Moreover, this versatile sewing machine boasts of automatic tension control, presser foot control, and bobbin winding clutch. You can use the machine to work on a lot of different stitching projects.
5. Brother HC1850
- 185 UNIQUE BUILT-IN STITCHES: The HC1850 includes 130 sewing stitches including 8 styles of auto-size buttonholes, plus 55 alphanumeric sewing stitches
- ADVANCED NEEDLE THREADER AND DROP-IN TOP BOBBIN: This sewing and quilting machine includes an advanced needle threading function that easily pushes thread through the needle with the press of a lever and a jam resistant drop-in top bobbin
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: The HC1850 quilting and sewing machine includes a wide table, 8 feet, instructional DVD, manual and more
- LCD SCREEN: Easily select your stitches with the touch of a button and view your selections on the LCD display
- AT YOUR SIDE SUPPORT: The HC1850 comes with Brother At Your Side support offering free technical support via online, live chat or phone for the life of your machine
Brother HC1850 supports 130 built-in stitches and 8 buttonhole styles. The built-in sewing font is ideal for basic monogramming. In addition, there are about 170 stitch functions for decorative sewing and quilting.
Computerized Sewing Machines
Computerized sewing machines support more advanced features as compared to their electronic counterparts. These machines have a USB port so that users can download design prints on the machine.
Users can create designs using computer software and upload the design to the machine for printing. Some of the more advanced computerized machines directly connect online and download the desired designs. The machine can also remember previous design patterns thereby saving time in stitching.
These machines are costlier as compared to electronic sewing machines. Here are some of the most popular computerized sewing machines you can buy online.
1. Brother PE800
- 138 BUILT-IN DESIGNS: Featuring 138 built-in embroidery designs including scrollwork, florals and quilt patterns, the PE800 has numerous options to allow your creativity to flourish
- 11 BUILT-IN FONTS: 7 English, 3 Japanese, and 1 Cyrillic font styles are perfect for monogramming and lettering
- USB PORT: The PE800s USB port allows you to import your embroidery designs into your machines built-in memory
- LARGE COLOR TOUCHSCREEN: The large 3.2 inch LCD color touchscreen allows you to preview your designs before embroidering
- 5 X 7 EMBROIDERY FIELD: This embroidery-only machine comes with an embroidery foot and a 5 x 7 inch embroidery hoop perfect for stitching larger designs
Brother embroidery machine features a color touch screen and USB port. The built-in memory and port allow you to store a large number of designs. You can preview the design on the large LCD color touchscreen.
The embroidery machine consists of 138 built-in designs including 11 lettering fonts and 14 border styles. It also features design editing allowing you to mirror, rotate, and adjust the size of images.
2. Singer EM200
Singer EM200 is another superb computerized sewing machine. The sewing machine supports over 200 embroidery designs. Moreover, the USB embroidery stick allows you to use custom-made or online designs.
The sewing machine has an upper thread sensor, snap-on presser foot, automatic thread tension, and bobbin winding. The large LCD touch screen allows you to easily change the settings.
Mechanical Sewing Machines
Mechanical sewing machines don’t have electronic components. These sewing machines have simple parts that don’t require a lot of maintenance. The machines can sew just about any type of cloth.
The machines are suitable for beginners since they don’t contain a lot of complex features. They cost much less than electronic sewing machines.
Some of the features that you should look for in mechanical sewing machines include built-in presser feet, bottom loading bobbin, adjustable stitch length, and tension, and reverse stitch.
Older model sewing machines were hand operated. However, the latest sewing machines operate using an electric motor. Moreover, some modern mechanical sewing machines come with advanced features like built-in stitch patterns.
Keep in mind that mechanical sewing machines are not suitable for sewing heavy fabrics like leather and denim. With this in mind, here’s a review of the best mechanical sewing machines that you can find online.
1. Janome HD3000
- Automatic Needle Threader - No More Straining Your Eyes! Simply Use the Built-In Automatic Needle Threader and Throw Your Frustrations to the Side! / Jam Proof Top-Loading Bobbin System - Its Easy To Change Your Bobbin and There is No Need to Worry About Running Off the Edge of Your Project Because the Bobbin System is Jam-Proof
- Easy Stitch Selection - Simply Turn the Stitch Selection Dial to the Desired Stitch and the Chosen Stitch Will Appear in Red / Flip-Up Stitch Panel - Take a Look at All 18 Built-In Stitches at a Glance with the Flip-Up Stitch Panel
- Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure - A Simple Turn of the Dial will Adjust the Presser Foot Pressure Allowing you to Sew a Wide Variety of Fabric Thicknesses / Free Arm Capability - Sew Pants Legs and Shirt Sleeves with Ease Using the Free-Arm
- Comes With an Incredible Amount of Accessories - A Hard Case/Cover, Ultra Glide Foot, 2 Packs of Leather Needles, a Pack of Universal Needles, a Pack of Bobbins, Blind Hem G Foot, Overedge C Foot, Rolled Hem D Foot, Zipper E Foot, Buttonhole B Foot
- Also Comes With - Automatic Buttonhole R Foot, a Pack of Needles, Screwdriver, Small Screwdriver, Spool Holder (Large), Spool Holder (Small), Lint Brush, Seam Ripper, Additional Spool Pin, Bobbin, Quilter Bar, Felt, Foot Control/Power Cord, Warranty Card and Instructional Manual
Janome HD3000 sewing machine has a strong motor that allows it to run smoothly. The sewing machine features auto bobbin winding. In addition, the sewing machine has 18 built-in stitches and one step buttonhole.
This sewing machine supports a maximum stitch width of 6.5 mm. The sewing machine comes with extra high presser foot and a free arm for working on cuffs, collar, and trousers. This machine has manual thread tension adjustment and needle threading system.
2. Singer 4423
- SINGER HEAVY DUTY SEWING MACHINE: The 23 built-in stitches including basic, stretch, decorative, and buttonhole stitches allow you to sew a variety of projects, such as fashions, home décor, quilts, crafts, and more
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER SEWING MACHINE: After following the threading path printed right on the machine, this built-in feature helps you to effortlessly thread the eye of the needle without eye strain or frustration
- HIGH-SPEED SEWING MACHINE:The Singer 4423 Sewing Machine has a maximum sewing speed of 1, 100 stitches-per-minute, so projects can be sewn quickly. The 60% Stronger Motor provides greater piercing power for thick seams
- HEAVY DUTY METAL FRAME: The Singer 4423 heavy duty sewing machine is a true workhorse. With a heavy-duty metal interior frame, stainless steel bedframe, extra-high sewing speed and powerful motor, this sewing machine can sew through a variety of heavy weight fabrics and provides long lasting stability
- SEWING MACHINE ACCESSORIES: A variety of accessories are included with All-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, seam ripper/lint brush, quilting guide, needles, bobbins, screwdriver, auxiliary spool pin, spool pin felt are all conveniently located and stored in the accessory tray. A soft-sided dust cover is also included in the packaging
- WARRANTY: SINGER 4423 Heavy Duty Portable Sewing Machine has 25 Year Limited Warranty. Note : Refer to the Videos and also the PDF attached below in Technical Specification for Manuals.
Singer 4423 is another great manual sewing machine. The sewing machine comes with 23 built-in stitches. The motor of the heavy-duty mechanical sewing machine has a strong motor with a sewing speed of 1,100 stitches per minutes.
The sewing machine boasts of an automatic needle threader system. The machine will automatically thread the needle without any problem. Another great thing about the sewing machine is that it has adjustable foot pressure. The top drop-in bobbin of the sewing machine makes it easier to view the thread supply.
The automatic reverse feature of the machine allows you to reinforce stitches without manually adjusting the cloth. Moreover, the sewing machine has a free arm and it supports stitch length of up to 6mm.
3. Brother XM1010
- 10 UNIQUE BUILT-IN STITCHES: The Brother XM1010 features 10 built-in stitches including utility stitches, decorative stitches, and an auto-size buttonhole
- AUTOMATIC NEEDLE THREADER AND DROP-IN TOP BOBBIN: This sewing machine includes an automatic needle threader that perfectly pushes thread through the needle and a convenient, jam resistant drop-in top bobbin
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: The XM1010 comes with a complete set of accessories, including 4 sewing feet, 3 needles, 4 bobbins, an instructional DVD, manual and more
- VERSATILE FREE ARM: This free arm sewing machine is perfect for a wide range of everyday sewing projects, and users from beginners to advanced
- AT YOUR SIDE SUPPORT: The XM1010 comes with Brother At Your Side support offering free technical support via online, live chat or phone for the life of your machine
Brother XM1010 is an award-winning manual sewing machine. The sewing machine had won the 2012 Women’s Choice Award in 2018 with 9 out of 10 customers recommending this product.
This mechanical sewing machine has 10 built-in stitches including zigzag, blind hem, and stretch stitches. In addition, the sewing machine supports four-step auto-size buttonhole. The easy stitch selector allows you to select from decorative, stretch, and utility stitches.
The sewing machine also has a convertible free arm that allows you to stitch around difficult to reach places like the collar, cuffs, and sleeves. The adjustable thread tension and drop-in top bobbin make sewing convenient.
Serger Sewing Machines
The serger sewing machines are used for sewing the edge of the cloth. These sewing machines have limited functions and are used for hemming, edging, and seaming. The sewing machines can automatically cut the edges. These machines are also known as overlocking sewing machines in some countries.
Most serger machines come with cutters. These machines run at a high-speed ranging from 1000 to 9000 rpm. Here is a review of the best overlocking machines available in the market today.
1. Brother 1034DX
- METAL FRAME SERGER: The Brother 1034DX is a durable serger made with a metal frame
- HIGH PERFORMANCE: A high performance 3 or 4 thread serger that can handle multiple layers of denim and other thick materials
- 1, 300 STITCHES PER MINUTE: Serge more in less time by sewing up to 1, 300 stitches per minute. Control speed with the included foot pedal
- EASY TO THREAD: Easy-to-learn with the included instructional videos, color-coded thread guides and numbered upper and lower thread loopers
- INCLUDED ACCESSORY FEET: Standard, blind stitch and gather feet are included with the 1034DX along with a soft, protective machine cover
Brother 1034DX is a four-threaded serger machine. The serger sewing machines can make about 1,500 stitches in a minute. The knife system of the drive mechanism is valuable as it cuts extra fabric from the cloth. The machine comes with 22 in-built stitches with specialty stitch functions for home decor, heirloom, formal and bridal wear, and reinforced tapes. It is great for beginner and intermediate sewing enthusiasts.
2. Singer 14CG754
- SINGER SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER ProFinish 14CG754 Serger has 2-3-4 thread capability providing a wide selection of stitch options for all types of projects with professional results every time
- ADJUSTABLE STITCH LENGTH SEWING MACHINE: Adjustable stitch length and width, differential feed and color-coded lay-in threading provide ease of use
- PORTABLE SEWING MACHINE: Carry handle makes it easy to transport your serger
- FREE ARM SEWING MACHINE: The optional free arm lets you easily sew sleeves and cuffs. At 1, 300 stitches-per-minute with automatic fabric trimming, this machine will have you zipping through projects from day one
- 4 BUILT-IN ROLLED HEMS: Converting to the Rolled Hem sewing mode is effortless. An easy access lever moves the stitch finger in position for rolled hemming
- SEWING MACHINE ACCESSORIES: A variety of accessories are included with all-purpose foot, needle set, tweezers, spreader (for 2 thread stitches), small screwdriver, foot control, power cord, instruction manual with included stitch guide
- : Limited 90-DAY for Adjustments, Belts, Rings, Bulbs, Attachments; Limited 2-Year for Motors, Light assembly, Wiring, Switches, Speed control and Electronic Components; Limited 25-Year for Sewing Machine Head
This is another great serger sewing machine that supports 1,300 stitches per minute. The portable machine supports adjustable stitch length and width. It comes with a differential feed that allows smooth stitching and perfect seams without puckering or breaking. The sewing machine comes with 6 different stitch types including flat locking, rolled hems, and blind hems. The movable upper knife prevents trimming of cloth while sewing.
3. Juki Pearl Line MO-654DE
- The Pearl line sergers are ideal for use with todays latest fabrics as well as decorative threads
- Color-Coded Threading Guides: Threading the MO-654DE is a breeze. The thread paths are color-coded and clearly marked.
- BONUS ITEM! Juki Serger Electronic Workbook CD: This workbook is a great resource - no matter what type of serger you own. Its filled with useful information, from basic overlock terminology to fun projects to create. Select and view a specific techniques or instructions with a click of the mouse. You can also print the entire workbook or individual techniques or subject areas. Just place the CD into your computers disk drive to get started.
- BONUS ITEM! Juki Serger Instructional DVD Video: This Instructional DVD Video is perfect for users of Juki Series Sergers. It contains useful tips, hints, and explanations to make even complicated serger ideas and projects a breeze.
- Easy Tension Adjustment: 1-Rotation Thread Tension Dials with normal tensions highlighted for simple, consistent tension adjustment. Specially designed guides keep thread in place and ensure proper sewing tension at any speed.
Juke Pearl Line is a top of the line premium model that supports advanced serging. You can use the machine to create perfect seams in a variety of items. The integrated sewing gauge allows you to take precise measurements. It is a great machine for both home use and commercial projects.
Lock Stitch Sewing Machines
Lock stitch sewing machines consist of two threads passing through one another and locking into the fabric. The machines are used when a lot of clothing projects are involved. These machines are powerful with a high stitch speed.
Some of the best lock stitch sewing machines include the Juki TL-2010Q and Juki DDL-8700. Of these, the Juki DDL-8700 is a power horse that supports stitching speed of up to 5,500 stitches per minute.
Flat Bed Sewing Machines
Flat bed sewing machines look like a traditional sewing machine. However, the needle and arm of the sewing machines extend to the flat base of the machine. These machines are generally used for sewing flat fabric pieces.
Examples of good flat bed sewing machine include the Brother CS-8800 and Janome 2222 sewing machines. Both the sewing machines have earned rave reviews online due to robust and reliable performance.
Industrial vs Domestic Sewing Machines
All the sewing machines can be categorized into industrial and domestic sewing machines.
Industrial sewing machines are more expensive, but they are also more durable. These machines are generally used by textile firms to make cloths. The machines are made using high-quality parts. You can use the machines for a long period of time. The machines are heavy duty and can last for years without breaking down.
Domestic sewing machines are less costly, but they are less durable compared to industrial sewing machines. These machines are typically used by beginners and professionals at home. The sewing machines are designed to be used for a few hours a day.
Our Final Thoughts
Make sure that you research properly before buying a sewing machine. Read about the online reviews of different types of sewing machines before you buy one for yourself.
