Choosing an embroidery machine and making no mistakes! Detailed instructions for a successful purchase

In order to properly process all the edges when sewing knitwear, dividing fabrics, it is crucial to select a high-quality embroidery machine. This machine can be utilized to expertly finish the edges of different parts of the item, sew them together, attach elastic bands or lace.

To ensure that such a machine excels in its task, it is essential to be knowledgeable about certain guidelines for selecting the finest embroidery machine.

Principle of operation and use of embroidery machines

These types of machines have a simplistic and user-friendly design, making them easy to operate. They are capable of efficiently handling fabrics of varying thickness, elasticity, and density, allowing for the creation of flat elastic seams.

Their applications include:

• Sewing the hems of knit shirts and T-shirts;
• Attaching elastic bands, trims, braids, and lace;
• Joining together bed linens, towels, tablecloths, curtains, and other home textiles;
• Adding collars, sleeves, gathering, or cutting in knitted or stretch fabrics.

Design

Their unique design guarantees the consistency of even, straight stitches, achieved through the use of buttonholes and 2-4 needles. Each model is equipped with a distinct arrangement of needles in the upper row and a buttonhole mechanism at the bottom.

Additionally, in numerous variations of these devices, expanders (also known as thread stackers) can be found at the upper part of their structures.

The needles located in the top row penetrate the fabric, creating a buttonhole. As they retract, they pull the thread with them, reaching the furthest position. When the needles re-penetrate the fabric, they extract the thread from the buttonhole and return to their original position. These type of stitches can only be achieved by flat stitching machines, as they have the capability to stretch without tearing, just like rubber, matching the elasticity of the fabric.

Types of embroidery machines

These flat-seam devices are specifically designed for use in industrial settings, allowing for efficient and high-quality sewing of various items such as shirts, T-shirts, bed linens, and curtains. They are especially useful when it comes to edging, providing a neat and precise bending of knitted or scatter fabrics.

These devices can be further categorized into two types:

1. Embroidery machines for domestic use are becoming increasingly popular. These machines are often modified specifically for use in homes. For individuals involved in sewing businesses, especially those working with knitwear or stretch fabrics, these machines are essential. As a result, small private sewing studios often include household flat-sewing machines alongside their main sewing machines. These machines are compact in size and typically use 1 to 3 needles. They commonly employ a single-needle stitching stitch for basic sewing and joining knitwear pieces. Additionally, they utilize a chain double-needle stitch for more intricate decorative stitching and three-needle connections.

A machine for domestic use

A model designed for industrial purposes

Basic selection criteria

Prior to selecting a flat stitch embroidery machine, it is recommended to acquaint oneself with all its primary and supplementary features. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the specific tasks you require it to perform. The most ideal approach to making a choice is to be guided by the subsequent criteria, which establish the attributes of the embroidery machine.

The power of the machine

In addition to its performance, the weight of these devices can range from 5 to 15 kg, depending on the presence of different accessories and auxiliary tools. The working power of these machines can vary from 70 to 250 watts, depending on the electric motor that is installed. The productivity of the device is higher when it has a greater power, which is measured by the sewing speed over a specific time period, such as 1000 stitches per minute.

Platform

And the separating conveyor, which is included with the sewing machine for processing individual components. The conveyor prevents the distortion of stitches during sewing by stretching and pulling the fabric based on the selected mode. The presence of platforms helps achieve high-quality stitching for the lower parts of sleeves, collars, and lapels.

These platforms can be of different types:

• Removable, flat platforms for processing lower closed and open cuts, as well as edging with a slash.
• Platforms with a recess under the edger to achieve a quality edging for soft products with a slash.
• Cylindrical platforms, either solid or with a special recess, are used for hemming long or narrow parts, as well as for sewing children’s garments.

• A hard, frame type cover provides excellent protection for the device’s body, guarding against mechanical damage.
• A soft cover, made of natural fabric, acts as a cape to shield the mechanism from moisture and dust.
• When it comes to the completion of an embroidery machine, a standard set of tools is typically included to ensure its normal operation. This set usually consists of:

• Brushes for cleaning.
• Screwdrivers of various sizes.
• A needle set.
• Tweezers.
• A net for the thread spools.
• A buttonhole attachment.
• A bobbin holder.