A computerized home
sewing machine is just a machine that has a pre-programmed and
sometimes updateable computer panel into which various stitches are
stored. A standard machine has only mechanical parts. Stitches are
formed by a variety of stitch cams that are in the machine. The
number of stitch cams and the combination of stitches they can form
will determine the number and types of stitches that can be sewn on a
mechanical sewing machine.
However, I am
getting ahead of myself here. A stitch cam is a disc that has
indentations around the edge which guide the needle bar and form the
selected stitch. Simply turn a dial to a picture or number of a
desired stitch on a mechanical sewing machine. Don't forget to pay
attention to the length of the stitch and the width of the stitch -
most of the time, depending on your sewing fabric, this requires
changing. For this to work properly, you may have to consult your
owner's manual.
To be fair,
mechanical sewing machines satisfy most home sewing needs, but a
computerized machine takes the guesswork out of stitch selection and
makes sewing easier and much more fun. When sewing by computer,
stitches are selected at the touch of a button, and the length and
tension are pre-programmed. You can still adjust if you so desire to
create a new look. At a touch of a button, the stitch may be
reversed, elongated, or even mirror-imaged.
When sewing with
decorative threads, such as rayon and metallic, the tension on a
computerized home sewing machine will be automatically adjusted to
ensure perfect stitching. On a mechanical sewing machine, the tension
must be adjusted and a sample of the stitch sewn.
Also, some forms of
basic utility sewing can be done more simply on a computerized sewing
machine. Buttonholes and blind hems can be selected or adjusted at
the touch of a button on a computerized machine. Mechanical machines
require selecting the stitch length and width, and sewing several
samples to be sure buttonholes look perfect.
When you are
monogramming, a computerized machine requires you only to select the
proper stitch and with a mechanical machine you must draw the
monogram on your sewing fabric and sew freehand. (I have never been
able to master the freehand part - my lines usually end up crocked!)
Mirror-imaging is
not available on a mechanical machine. (Mirror-imaging is making two
images on your sewing fabric side by side that are the same - the
computerized machines have the capabilities to do this.)
Low bobbin
indicators are only available on computerized sewing machines - never
on the mechanical sewing machines. I used to run out of thread on my
mechanical machine and not notice it until I thought I was done a
seam - now, with my computerized machine, I save time and frustration
when I hear a beep that tells me that my bobbin has run out of
thread!
However, how do you
determine whether 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
members of your family?
2. Do you require
decorative as well as utility stitches for your sewing projects?
3. Would you like a
sewing machine that can be updated with new stitches and motifs?
4. Does the
convenience of a computerized machine appeal to you?
Some years ago, I
purchased a computerized home sewing machine for myself and I would
never go back to the mechanical home sewing machines - let's just say
that I spoiled myself at that time.
