Sewing Machines
October 19, 2021 by Sophia Ofer
I have been sewing for the majority of my life and one thing I have experienced is a wide array of different types of sewing machines. The main types of machines are mechanical, digital, and computerized machines, as well as more specialized machines (i.e. serger, embroidery). For the most part, at-home sewing and DIY projects are done with mechanical and digital machines. The main differences include that mechanical machines are most likely older, and they require the use of knobs or switches to change any settings. Digital machines often have pre-set settings with different built-in stitches, and often a small screen displaying the settings.
How do these basic machines work?
The machines are powered by a motor, which has many jobs. First, the motor moves the needle, which moves the thread to form stitches. The needle of a sewing machine has a tiny hole at the end in which the thread goes through, and as the needle moves, the thread is pulled through each layer. There are two spools of thread, the second is the bobbin and goes directly under where you would put the fabric. The needle pulls down the top thread, looping the top thread around the bobbin. This reinforces both threads, with the threads intertwined it can not move. If there was only one thread, the stitch would fall out. The fabric is stabilized by the presser foot, a small lever that clamps the fabric, as well as the feed dogs, which are little teeth that sit on top of the bobbin case and move the fabric through the machine.
There have also been strides in using renewable energy in sewing machines, particularly in India, where due to Covid-19 there can be a lack of reliable energy at times. India has begun using solar-powered sewing machines, which require 90% less power than a typical machine. These machines will be helpful in reducing the polluting effects of coal and expanding the workforce. The increased efficiency of sewing machines can also lead to increased salaries due to savings on electricity. These machines can help tailors make better lives for themselves and enable them to use their abilities to aid those around them.