Top Tips from Eagle Digitizing for Choosing A Sewing Machine

If you are going to buy your first sewing machine, it can be a bit overwhelming with hundreds of options. Here are some handy hints to help you choose the right one. Use these guidelines from Eagle Digitizing to find the best machine for your needs.

The needle

One of the key things to consider when purchasing a sewing machine is the number of stitches available. Standard stitches include straight stitches, serrated stitches, buttonholes, and blind stitches. However, these are very basic stitches and may not be enough to meet the needs of all stitches. You may decide to start with a basic machine and upgrade after determining what you want to sew.

Another decision is to consider what you might sew and whether that will change in the future. If you already know the project you will be working on, or have a general idea of the stitches you want and need, then this may be an easy starting point for choosing a machine. If you're not sure what to buy, it's usually recommended that you look at a sewing machine, which can meet your needs later as your skills and experience expand and develop - you'll thank yourself for that later!

Mechanical or computerized

While both types of machines perform the basic task of making a uniform stitch, factors such as skill level, demand, and budget will affect which machine is better for you. With computerized models, you can gain additional features and add-ons that can save you time and enhance your sewing experience.

Some of the features we like about computerized sewing machines include:

Automatic thread

Stop/start button

Automatic buttonhole

Automatic tensioning

Multiple stitch lengths and widths to choose from

Press foot up/down selection

Accessories and support feet

Attachments and feet will be specific to what you plan to sew. Quilts require walking feet, free movement feet, and 1/4 inch feet. Garment stitches may look for zipper feet, understitch feet, buttonhole feet, and button-connecting feet. Many machines may come with all of these legs, however, they are also available as optional accessories in the Janome original Parts and accessories range.

Additional Features

Many machines have some great features that once you have them, you can't go back. Some of our favorites include...

• Automatic wire cutters: Press a button to cut threads. Once you start using it, it becomes a "must have" feature.

• Foot press: allows you to adjust the pressure applied to the fabric as you move under the sewing foot.

• Knee lifters: Allow you to lift the press foot while both hands hold the fabric in place. Perfect for curves and sharp corners.

• Janome Needle ™ Feeding System: Top and bottom feeding dog systems make sewing multiple layers and heavy fabric a snap. Highly recommended for quilts or for handling multiple layers.

• Wi-Fi capability: You can easily send embroidery designs directly from your iPad or computer to the machine.