Comparison Janome MC 350 vs Janome MC 5200

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

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

— Computerized. Sewing machines are equipped with built-in computers that control the sewing process. Because of this, they have a more extensive feature set and are more accurate in settings than electromechanical ones, although they cost accordingly. Note that only computerized sewing machines are meant; embroidery and sewing-embroidery machines are separated into separate categories (see relevant paragraphs).

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

— Sewing and embroidery. Machines that can be used for both sewing and embroidery. In terms of design and sewing capabilities, they are similar to computerized models (see t...he relevant paragraph) but are supplemented with an embroidery unit, hoops and other embroidery equipment. And the built-in features usually include basic embroidery elements (crosses, stars, satin stitch, etc.), as well as the ability to embroider according to patterns downloaded from a computer. Such machines are very versatile, but in terms of specific capabilities, they may be inferior to more specialized models.

— Overlocker. A special type of sewing machine designed primarily for seaming and trimming the edges of materials. Overlocker overcasts the edge of the fabric with a special seam, which prevents fraying, shedding 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).

— Coverstitch. Devices designed to create cover stitch — a flat, stretchy seam that is most commonly used for hemming a folded edge in knitwear, as well as in some types of joins. For other purposes, such machines are not used.

— Coverlock. Devices that combine an overlocker and a coverstitch machine in one case. For more information about each of these varieties, see the relevant paragraph. Here we note that the coverlock is a universal tool for processing edges: it can overcast them, cut off the excess fabric and hem the folded edge with a cover stitch. In addition, many modern coverlock are also capable of seaming materials (mainly with a double chain stitch).

The method of loop formation supported by the machine.

- Automatic. Fully automatic loop formation; 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; is the automatic method that is recommended if it is planned to overcast numerous loops.

- Semi-automatic. When forming a loop in this way, work is done in 2 or 4 steps. For example, in the first case, the machine makes one short bartack and one long longitudinal line in one pass, then the mode switches and the second bartack and the second long line are performed; in the second case, respectively, you have to switch between 4 stages. Such work takes more time than the automatic formation of loops, 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 loops that the sewing machine can sew. Different types of loops are used for different types of fabrics and clothing. The larger this number, the wider the choice of the user and the less likely it is that the loop of the desired type will not be in the arsenal of the machine.

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.

It is the distance from the work surface to the presser foot in the highest position. It 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 that, if necessary, you can sew at a lower speed.

The more stitches per minute the machine makes, the higher its productivity, and the better it is suitable for large volumes of work. At the same time, note that high speed has a corresponding effect on price and power 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.

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

— Differential bottom feed. The fabric feed consists of two gear racks — in front of and behind the needle. Depending on the set mode, such a feed 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 stitching. 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. The 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.

— Free arm. 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 width of such a device ma...y 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. A 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.

— Pedal free sewing. 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.

— Twin needle sewing. The possibility of using a machine for sewing with a twin 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.

— Needle stop switch (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