Comparison Janome MC 500E vs BERNINA Aurora 450

The general type of sewing machine, which determines its functionality and specific application.

— Electromechanical. The classic, simplest type of sewing machines: they do not have computer control, all operating parameters are adjusted mechanically, and their use is limited to the simplest types of seams.

- Computerized. Sewing machines equipped with built-in computers that control the sewing process. Thanks to this, they have a more extensive set of functions and are more precise in setting than electromechanical ones, although they cost accordingly. Note that in this case we mean exclusively computerized sewing machines; embroidery and sewing-embroidery machines are divided into separate categories (see the corresponding paragraphs).

— Embroidery. Such machines were initially intended only for embroidering patterns, and are practically not suitable for work outside this specialization (regular sewing, hemming). They have appropriate design features, are equipped with a hoop and embroidery feet, and are often equipped with both a set of built-in presets (for example, embroidering letters of the alphabet) and the ability to connect to a PC and download patterns.

— Sewing and embroidery. Machines that can be used for both sewing and embroidery. The design and sewing capabilities are similar to computerized...models (see the corresponding paragraph), but are complemented by an embroidery unit, hoop and other embroidery equipment. And the built-in capabilities usually include both basic embroidery elements (crosses, stars, satin stitch, etc.) and the ability to embroider using patterns downloaded from a computer. Such machines are very versatile, but in terms of specific capabilities they may be inferior to more specialized models.

— Overlock. A special type of sewing machine designed primarily for seaming and trimming the edges of materials. An overlocker covers the edge of the fabric with a special seam, which prevents fraying, fraying and deformation. One of the design features of such devices is the presence of several working threads, from 2 to 10 (most often 3 or 4).

— Coverstitching machine. Devices designed to create the so-called. cover stitch - a flat elastic seam that is most often used to hem the folded edge in knitwear, as well as in some types of joints. Such machines are not used for other purposes.

— Coverlock. Devices that combine an overlocker and a cover stitching machine in one housing. For more information about each of these varieties, see the corresponding paragraph. Here we note that a carpet lock is actually a universal tool for processing edges: it is capable of overcasting them, cutting off excess fabric and hemming the folded edge with a cover stitch. In addition, many modern carpet stitchers are also capable of stitching materials (mainly with a two-thread chain stitch).

A method of forming slotted loops supported by a machine.

— Automatic. Fully automatic buttonhole sewing mode; the user only needs to set the length, after which the machine will independently process the edges of the future loop, without the need to switch modes manually. The most convenient and advanced option; It is the automatic method that is recommended if you plan to sew a large number of loops.

— Semi-automatic. When forming a loop in this way, the work is done in 2 or 4 steps. For example, in the first case, the machine makes one short bartack and one long longitudinal stitch in one pass, then the mode switches and a second bartack and a second long stitch are performed; in the second case, accordingly, you have to switch between 4 stages. Such work takes more time than automatic loop formation, but such machines are cheaper.

The number of stitches that a sewing machine can sew. The larger this number, the more extensive the capabilities of this model, the wider the choice the user has; however, it wouldn’t hurt to clarify the specific range of supported stitches separately.

The fewest options - mostly up to 25 - are provided in electromechanical machines, as well as specialized devices such as overlockers and carpet lockers (see “Type”). In computer-controlled devices, the number of lines can be in the dozens, and some also allow you to download additional options from the computer.

The number of welt stitches that a sewing machine can make. Different types of loops are used for different types of fabrics and clothing. The larger this number, the wider the choice the user has and the less likely it is that the machine’s arsenal will not have the required type of loop.

The maximum stitch length that the sewing machine can sew. This parameter is important for working with dense thick fabrics: the stronger the fabric, the longer the seam used for it. Accordingly, the longer the stitch ( 5 mm or more), the better the machine is suitable for working with similar fabrics.

The maximum stitch width provided by a sewing machine.

Most modern sewing machines are capable of working not only with the simplest longitudinal seam (when punctures with a needle occur strictly one after another), but also with seams that cover a certain width - for example, zigzag and various decorative ones. And in overlockers, such opportunities are generally available by definition.

The larger the maximum stitch width, the correspondingly wider the machine’s ability to work with specific types of seams (all other things being equal). An indicator of up to 5 mm is typical mainly for entry-level devices, 5 - 7 mm - average, 7 mm and more - advanced.

Distance from the working surface to the foot in the uppermost position. Must be taken into account when working with thick fabrics.

The maximum sewing speed provided by the sewing machine. In the vast majority of models, this parameter can be adjusted, so if necessary, you can sew at a lower speed.

The more stitches a machine makes per minute, the higher its productivity, the better suited it is for large volumes of work. At the same time, it is worth considering that high speed has a corresponding impact on price and energy consumption, and it is not always required. Detailed recommendations on choosing the optimal speed for certain types of work can be found in special sources.

— Embroidering the letters of the alphabet. The ability to embroider letters of the alphabet using a typewriter. This function is found in computer-controlled models, it is carried out due to a set of letters entered in the memory of the machine. Many models with this feature have several built-in fonts, and some even allow you to upload your own fonts from your computer.

— Differential conveyor. The fabric conveyor, consisting of two gear racks — in front of and behind the needle. Depending on the set mode, such a conveyor can additionally stretch or, conversely, collect fabric during sewing; the first is useful when working with dense fabrics, the second — for knitwear, stretch and other easily stretching materials.

— Reverse. A function that allows you to switch the direction of movement of the fabric under the needle and, accordingly, the direction of the seam. Mainly used for stitching. Reverse is practically obligatory for sewing machines in the classical sense of the word — electromechanical, computerized and sewing-embroidery (see "Type"), but practically does not occur in other types.

— Sleeve platform. A device for working with sleeves, trousers and other similar parts of clothing. This function is most often implemented due to the removable part of the desktop — when it is removed, the table turns into a narrow platform. The specific widt...h of such a device may be different, it should be specified separately.

— Needle threader. A special device designed to facilitate the process of threading a needle. The presence of a needle threader is especially useful when changing threads frequently (for example, sewing alternately with different colours).

— Thread cutter. Mechanism for cutting the threads after sewing, eliminating the need to use scissors: to cut the thread, just press the button. Note that we are talking about an automatic thread cutter; hand tools mounted on the bodies of some machines are not considered thread cutters in this case.

— Sewing without a pedal. The ability to use the machine without connecting the pedal. To start and stop the process in such models, usually, a special button is provided. Such an opportunity can be useful for long sewing, when it would be tiring to keep the pedal constantly depressed, and for occasional use, when the machine starts “for a couple of stitches” and there is no need to fiddle with connecting the pedal.

— Sewing with a double needle. The possibility of using a machine for sewing with a double needle — a pair of needles fixed in one holder. There are different types of such needles and different methods of working with them, and some work is done only with a double needle. Anyway, the use of such devices requires that the machine be initially compatible with them.

— Positioning of the needle (top / bottom). A switch that allows the user to select whether the needle will be in the up or down position after the motor stops. In the absence of such a switch, the needle, usually, stops only in the upper position, and this is not always convenient