You may be an expert sewing enthusiast by now – first, you have sewn stuff by hand, then used a manual sewing machine, and moved on to an electronic one. Perhaps it’s time to take your sewing to a different level and think of purchasing a computerized sewing machine.
A computerized sewing machine is the more high-tech iteration of the electronic sewing machine, opening a myriad of sewing options and possibilities for you. It is a one-time investment that provides various sewing and stitching options. It also allows you to stitch on almost every fabric, woven or non-woven. It means you can do embroidery, quilting, decorative stitching, and much more using just a single nifty machine.
A computerized sewing machine is a fully automated iteration of the prior sewing machines. The typical functions of a computerized sewing machine include:
- LCD screen (some have touchscreens)
- Automatic needle threading
- Tension adjustment
- Bobbin winder
- Automatic thread cutting
- Locking straight stitch
- Auto-tying
- Drop feed
- Some units even have embroidery capabilities
While some machines have built-in customization that may limit you, others allow you to incorporate your commands into the screen software.
Computerized sewing machines do more than just stitch. They are equipped and pre-programmed with proprietary designs, patterns, and stitches to make just about all kinds of stuff, from garments to embroidery. You can also upload your patterns via a USB port, memory card, or PC connection.
Why do you need a computerized sewing machine?
Probably the first thing you discover about a computerized sewing machine is that it is expensive. However, it has a host of useful features that make sewing faster, more efficient, and more convenient. It even makes sewing more fun, leading to more productive sewing sessions! A computerized sewing machine is also built to last. This is why it makes a handsome one-time investment and the best value for your money.
Explore the benefits of a computerized sewing machine below:
Convenience and time efficiency – One of the things you will love about the computerized sewing machine is that it takes off a lot of workload from your hands. Several tasks that you would have to do by hand or machine sewing are accomplished easily on a computerized sewing machine.
For instance, you don’t have to constantly feed your needle with a thread every time you’re going to sew by hand or on a manual sewing machine. Instead, a computerized sewing machine automatically threads the needle for you, thus saving you more time.
A computerized sewing machine has lots of other automated features, such as the speed of the needle or the stitching options that you only have to choose once. Then, let the machine work its magic.
Speed – You will definitely love the speed of this sewing machine. It takes on most of the workload and offers options to adjust task speed so that you can churn out quality clothes faster and more efficiently.
Easy buttonhole stitching – Having a computerized sewing machine enables you to stitch the most professional-looking buttonholes on your fabric. This advanced sewing machine includes several buttonhole stitching options ranging from rectangular buttonholes to slightly rounded variants and so much more.
One of this machine’s best features is the attachment that measures the consistent distance and size of the buttonholes. Hence, a computerized sewing machine can give a defined, clean, and finished look to your clothes.
Display screen – One of the typical features of a computerized sewing machine is its LCD screen, which allows you to view and adjust your desired settings. This eliminates the chances of errors and increases efficiency in stitching.
Some units even have touchscreen features that further enhance your sewing experience. The touchscreen feature allows you further control how perfect your fabric looks once it’s out of the sewing machine.
A wide variety of stitching options – Computerized sewing machines are equipped with pre-programmed stitching options. You will find all the basic stitching options that one typically needs, as well as new fancy and decorative ones that you never even knew existed or would ever need!
With such various stitching options available, you will find yourself hooked to the computerized sewing machine. You can have anywhere between 50 and 250 stitching options in a given computerized stitching machine. Some units even enable you to incorporate your own designs via a USB port, memory card, or PC connection.
Memorizing stitches and patterns – The computerized sewing machine comes with pre-programmed stitch options and proprietary patterns and designs as you purchase it. But there’s always room for more! You can also upload your own stitching options, patterns, and designs into the machine’s memory and use them later.
This feature is quite handy, especially when you wish to use a pattern on stitching form again. In that case, simply pull it up in the sewing machine’s memory, and it will stitch that pattern for you again.
Computer connection – You can connect your computerized sewing machine to your Windows or Mac computers, opening a new avenue of options and possibilities. When your sewing machine is connected to your computer or laptop, it reads as a hard drive, which means you can add, delete, and edit patterns and stitches from the machine.
Different software options allow you to customize your own designs into the machine. For instance, you can create your own designs and then incorporate them into the machine’s program.
Key differences between a computerized sewing machine and a mechanical sewing machine
Apart from the fundamental functions of sewing and stitching, a computerized sewing machine and a mechanical sewing machine are worlds apart.
Stitching options – A mechanical sewing machine has fewer number of stitches than a computerized sewing machine, leaving you with limited stitching options. It also has fewer buttonhole options.
On the other hand, a computerized sewing machine has 50 to 250 stitching options. Some units can go as high as 900 stitches! The more expensive a machine, the more stitches you can choose from.
Complexity – The mechanical sewing machine is easier to use than the computerized sewing machine. The mechanical sewing machine comes with simple instructions on how to use it. A computerized sewing machine, on the the other hand, can be complex to use and it will take time for you to figure out how to use it properly.
Precision and accuracy – The computerized sewing machine creates very precise and accurate stitching in contrast to the mechanical sewing machine, which can be inaccurate and faulty in making stitches.
Automation – The computerized sewing machine wins in this department hands-down. It has a plethora of automated tasks ranging from needle threading to thread cutting. For instance, the machine threads the needle for you, while in the mechanical sewing machine, you still have to thread the needle by hand.
Versatility – A computerized sewing machine can work on almost all fabrics due to its wide range of features and functions. On the other hand, a mechanical sewing machine works on certain fabrics but is not suitable for rigid and fragile materials.
Bonus features – The computerized sewing machine also wins on this one. It has unique features such as an LCD screen (some have touchscreens), clearly printed buttons, and connectivity to your PC, among others. On the other hand, a mechanical sewing machine only has basic features, which are still good if you’re a beginner in sewing.
Price – With its slew of different features and functions, the computerized sewing machine is obviously more expensive than the mechanical sewing machine. So, if you really want to buy a computerized sewing machine, you’ve got to have your budget ready!
Top computerized sewing machines brands
Computerized sewing machines are available at various price points and designed for different skill levels. However, these well-known brands guarantee good products worth your investment.
- Singer
- Janome
- Brother
- Juki
- Bernina
- Uten
- Bernette
Conclusion
Computerized sewing machines are a significant investment, especially considering that they are not exactly cheap sewing equipment. Hence, it is crucial to understand their features and how you will plan to use them. We hope this article will guide you to get the best computerized sewing machine that can enhance your sewing experience.