Comparison Necchi Q132A vs Janome ArtDecor 724A

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 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.

Types of presser feet supplied with the sewing machine.

— Universal foot. A foot is used for standard sewing, mainly straight stitches and zigzags.

— Overlock foot. A foot designed for overlocking. By definition, it is found in devices with an overlock function (see “Type”). However, it can also be provided in traditional sewing machines. In the latter case, such a foot, of course, will not replace a full-fledged overlocker, but in some situations it allows you to work without it.

— Top feed or walking foot. An additional top-mounted feed dog in place of the stock foot, in addition to the standard bottom feed dog. Such a device makes it easier to work with thin, delicate and sliding fabrics, as well as sewing together several layers of fabric: the material moves as evenly as possible, without distortions and displacements.

— Zipper foot. The foot for sewing in a zipper can have a different size and design — in particular, there are special devices for sewing in a hidden zipper. The specific features of this device should be clarified separately.

— Decorative stitch foot. Feet designed for various types of decorative stitching. Such a line may not have a functional role. Its main task is to emphasize a certain element of clothing (edges, pockets, individual seams, etc.). Anyway, the stit...ch line should usually strictly follow the contour along which it is applied — and this contour can consist of both straight lines and curved lines. Special feet for decorative stitching simplify the task: they are equipped with rulers or other devices that allow you to control the parallelism of the stitches.

— Satin stitch foot. This foot will be suitable for appliqué and other work where zigzag stitches are often used.

— Blind hem foot. Foot designed for blind seams used when hemming the edge of the fabric. It is equipped with a device that provides a hem of the fabric and in this position feeds it under the needle.

— Quilting foot. Special feet for quilting — patchwork. In such works, it is necessary to sew the fabric in several layers, as well as to perform figured seams. In extreme cases, you can use the usual universal foot for quilting, but using a special device is still much more convenient.

— Monogramming foot. The foot for embroidery of monograms will allow you to make embroidery on any object, thereby decorating it with your signature or the emblem of any institution, company, or sports club.

— Buttonhole foot. Buttonhole foot. It eliminates the need for manual work. The sewing machine will do everything for you, which will reduce your time and please you with quality.

— Button sewing foot. A foot is designed to hold the button on the fabric while sewing on. It has a special protrusion pointing down: when the main part of the foot is pressed against the button, this protrusion presses the fabric and prevents it from slipping.

In addition to the above, other types of feet may be included in the delivery kit.

The power consumed by the machine during operation. Usually, the maximum power value is indicated in the characteristics.

Most of the electricity supplied to the machine is consumed by the engine, so this indicator primarily describes the power of the engine. The higher this power, the faster the machine can work and the better it is suitable for working with dense fabrics. However, there is no strict dependence here, much also depends on the general specialization of the unit.

Additional side table, expanding the working space of the machine. Such equipment is useful when working with large fabrics, in quilting and some varieties of embroidery.

The type of cover supplied with the sewing machine.

- Soft. A soft fabric cover protects the machine mainly from dust and dirt and provides almost no protection from bumps and collisions. At the same time, having removed such a cover for the duration of work, it can be folded compactly.

- Hard. A cover in the form of a hard cover put on from above or a case in which the machine fits. Such a cover is rather bulky, it cannot be folded like a soft one; on the other hand, it protects the machine well both from dirt and from collisions and contact with solid objects.