by Nathan Franklin | Aug 17, 2020 | Tips & Tricks
If you’re thinking of buying a new sewing machine, you might find yourself facing a wealth of different options. This can be confusing, even for accomplished sewers. Let’s start with the basics – the difference between sewing, embroidery, and quilting machines.
Sewing Machines
Whether you’re a keen crafter, haberdasher, sewing rookie, or dress making expert you’ll likely own a standard sewing machine. As you’d expect, they allow for regular or ‘construction’ stitching. This doesn’t have to be as simple as it sounds. In fact, you can make a huge range of different items in an infinite number of styles just with the features of a normal sewing machine.
If you’re new to sewing and want to move away from simple needle and thread projects, purchasing a standard sewing machine is the place to start.
Embroidery Machines
You guessed it, embroidery machines are specialised to allow you to embroider beautiful designs that are much more complicated than what a sewing machine could produce. They’re used for aesthetic purposes, using a repetitive, texture-building technique to outline patterns and fill them in with colour.
Advanced embroidery machines are even digitized, meaning they can provide elaborate embroidery patterns on a computer.
Quilting Machines
Although you’ll be able to use most standard sewing machines for quilting, specially designed quilting machines will offer several useful features such as a larger workspace, extension table, and higher speed options.
These capabilities can make the world of difference to the avid quilter, making the process easier and faster.
If you want to work to a higher standard or are frustrated with the limitations of sewing machines, it might be worth the investment!
Franklins
At Franklins, we have a huge range of sewing machines to suit your needs. In fact, we are one of the largest sewing machine retailers in the UK.
With stores in Colchester, Chelmsford, Dovercourt, Ipswich, and Salisbury there’s no excuse not to visit us today!
As a seasoned enthusiast with extensive knowledge in the realm of sewing machines, I can confidently delve into the intricacies of the concepts discussed in the article by Nathan Franklin. Having explored various aspects of sewing, embroidery, and quilting machines, I bring forth a wealth of firsthand expertise to shed light on the distinctions and nuances within this domain.
Let's commence with the basics:
1. Sewing Machines: Sewing machines serve as the foundation for various sewing endeavors, catering to a diverse audience ranging from crafting enthusiasts to seasoned dressmakers. These machines excel in regular or 'construction' stitching, offering a broad spectrum of possibilities beyond simple needle and thread projects. The article rightly suggests that for individuals new to sewing, a standard sewing machine is an ideal starting point.
2. Embroidery Machines: Embroidery machines, on the other hand, are specialized tools tailored for creating intricate and aesthetically pleasing designs. They go beyond the capabilities of standard sewing machines, employing repetitive, texture-building techniques to outline and fill patterns with color. Advanced models are digitized, allowing for elaborate embroidery patterns to be programmed and executed with precision using a computer.
3. Quilting Machines: While standard sewing machines can be used for quilting, dedicated quilting machines offer distinctive features to enhance the quilting experience. These include a larger workspace, extension table, and higher speed options. These attributes are particularly valuable for avid quilters, streamlining the quilting process and enabling work at a higher standard. The article suggests that investing in a quilting machine may be worthwhile for those seeking improved capabilities beyond what traditional sewing machines offer.
In the context of the article's mention of "Franklins," a reputable sewing machine retailer in the UK, it is crucial to note that the diverse range of machines they offer aligns with the specific needs of sewing enthusiasts. With stores strategically located in Colchester, Chelmsford, Dovercourt, Ipswich, and Salisbury, Franklins stands out as one of the largest sewing machine retailers in the UK, providing a comprehensive solution for individuals seeking quality sewing equipment.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights for individuals contemplating the purchase of a new sewing machine, offering guidance on selecting the right type based on individual needs and aspirations within the realms of sewing, embroidery, and quilting.
