
The sewing machine must offer a minimum of presser feet ( or presser feet ), 4 ideally, a classic, one for the zippers, one for the buttonholes and possibly a button pose (to frame the buttons ). The presser feet to buy in addition are not universal, so you have to buy some that are compatible with the machine.
The pressure exerted by the presser foot must be able to be adjusted according to whether one sews a light, heavy or thick fabric. The ideal being that the machine has an automatic adjustment of the pressure of the foot. It is essential that the foot is able to exert sufficient pressure on the tissue. To verify this, during the purchase do not hesitate to bring it down with a sharp gesture to hear the noise of the impact. It will give a clue to the pressure exerted. A big noise is therefore a pretty good sign. Now you can go for the best embroidery machine for monogramming as well.
Sewing Stitch Settings
Manually (mechanical machines) or on the basis of predefined settings (electronic machines), it is important to be able to adjust the various parameters of sewing stitches, otherwise you will be quickly limited in your works.
The stitch length selector adjusts the stitch length. Being able to vary is very practical, even essential.
The stitch width selector controls the distance over which the needle moves to one side or the other to make the zigzag and decorative stitches.
Finally, for more experienced dressmakers, it is a bonus to be able to change the lateral position of the needle in both directions, right and left.
The Feed Dogs
The more there are, the better because it is they who will drive the fabric and allow it to move forward. To facilitate this advancement of the fabric, there are also specific feet called transport feet or double drive feet. Finally, some machines of the Pfaff brand offer an exclusive integrated drive system (IDT) which allows the different thicknesses of fabric to be fed on a regular basis.
Thread
The top-loading bobbins, with clear plastic covers, have the advantage of seeing when the bobbin is about to be finished. For the installation of the coil, prefer horizontal systems because the wire will unwind better and smoothly.
The Speed Variator
The variable speed drive can be an additional point for delicate works. It allows you to slow down the pace to make difficult passages. When the sewing speed is blocked, you can even press the pedal fully down, the machine will not exceed the speed set by the variator. Ideal for learning to master your machine.
Engine
A good sewing machine also has a motor that is powerful enough to be able to pass through the thicknesses of the fabric and drag them along smoothly. This power is reflected in the ability to sew large thicknesses of fabric (jeans hems, etc.). In addition, very good high-end machines offer a sewing speed of at least 1,000 stitches per minute and more.
The Weight
Also take into account the weight and size of the machine. The weight varies on average from 5 to 10 kg depending on the model, the lightest being generally mechanical. If you have to transport it frequently, avoid machines around 10 kg.
Electronic Or Mechanical?
More expensive, electronic sewing machines offer predefined settings for the different parameters of the sewing stitches which facilitate their use. The adjustment of the width and the length of the stitches is finer. Another advantage is that they are often quieter.