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Sewing Fundamentals

This Library Guide will support your learning experience with the Alkek One Making with Fabric Course.

Getting to Know Your Machine

Other Sewing Machine Options

Mechanical Sewing Machine

Mechanical Sewing Machine: Mechanical sewing machines are named after the manual, mechanical actions the sewer must perform when sewing. Equipped with a pedal that controls sewing speed and knobs that control stitch design, stitch width, and stitch length, these devices are entirely controlled by their users. Mechanical models are some of the more basic sewing machines available, and these affordable devices are perfect for beginner sewers looking to improve their sewing know-how. 

Electronic Sewing Machine

This machine is also called a computerized sewing machine. Electronic sewing machines automatically perform many sewing tasks you would otherwise have to perform manually. these devices are often equipped with user-friendly control pads and LCD displays, have speed-controlled settings, and can come with hundreds of pre-programmed stitch patterns. Many models import sewing patterns, stitches, and embroidery designs from a computer to the sewing machine. Computerized sewing machines allow you to sew intricate designs with ease - all you have to do is guide the fabric and the needle will do all the work. If you are an avid sewer who loves to take on a versatile range of projects, a computerized sewing machine is the one for you. 

Embroidery Sewing Machine

While sewing typically describes the joining of fabrics or the creation of a garment's structure, embroidery describes the embellishment of fabric with decorative designs or patterns. Historically, embroidery was a craft done meticulously by hand. Now, embroidery sewing machines do all the work. These machines are entirely computerized, so all you have to do is program in your pattern and colors and press start. The machine's embroidery field will move automatically under the needle according to the pattern you've chosen. Embroidery sewing machines can come with preprogrammed designs, and many allow you to import your own designs. Some of the most complex embroidery
sewing machines even allow you to design your own patterns directly on the LCD display. Many electronic sewing machines can double as embroidery machines.

Serger Sewing Machine

Where a traditional sewing machine has only one bobbin holding thread from one single spool, a serger sewing machine, also called an overlock sewing machine, has several bobbins that hold threads from several spools – often three to five but sometimes up to eight – at a time. Because of these extra threads, serger sewing machines are excellent at creating durable hems and attractive stitches that don't fray. They're also incredibly efficient, as they can sew far more stitches per minute than the average mechanical sewing machine. These machines can't do all the tasks of a more basic sewing machine, but if you're interested in mass-producing professional-looking garments, consider adding a serger to your sewing arsenal.