Comparison Jaguar LW-600 vs Janome MC 5200

The type of shuttle provided in the design of the sewing machine.

The shuttle is a device for feeding the lower thread; This is where the bobbin and thread is inserted. The following types of shuttles are found in modern machines:

- Rocking. Swinging shuttles have only a vertical layout. This is a simple, inexpensive and at the same time reliable mechanism, which also makes the device almost “omnivorous”: many models with swinging shuttles are able to cope with thick, coarse fabrics that are “too tough” for other types of machines. In addition, in such a shuttle it is very easy to adjust the method of thread tension. Among the disadvantages of this option, it is worth noting the increased level of vibration and noise, relatively low speed, as well as a more complex threading procedure than in horizontal shuttles.

— Vertical rotational. In a number of features, such shuttles are similar to swinging shuttles (see the corresponding paragraph): in particular, they are relatively simple to adjust the thread tension, but to thread the bobbin you must every time reach into the mechanism and remove the bobbin case from the shuttle. The key difference is that the shuttle does not swing during operation, but rotates. Because of this, such mechanisms are somewhat more complex and more expensive than swinging ones, but they provide higher sewing speeds with lower levels of vibration and noise....This option is used in professional and semi-professional machines, as well as industrial equipment.

— Horizontal rotational. Shuttles of this type are easy to use: to thread the bobbin thread, you do not need to remove the bobbin case; just open the cover and install the bobbin directly into the shuttle. In addition, the top cover is often made transparent, which allows you to monitor the remainder of the lower thread. Moreover, due to the rotational principle of operation, such a shuttle provides good speed and a minimum level of vibration and noise. Among the disadvantages of this option, one can note the difficulty in adjusting the thread tension: to do this, as a rule, you have to unscrew several bolts and remove the entire shuttle (whereas in vertical mechanisms the regulator is located on a quickly removable bobbin head). In addition, horizontal shuttles are not suitable for constant sewing with coarse threads - such a thread can rub a groove in the body, after which the mechanism will have to be changed.

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.

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.

Types of feet supplied with the sewing machine.

— Universal. A foot 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 overlock, but in some situations it allows you to do without it.

— Upper fabric conveyor. 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.

— Foot for sewing in a zipper. 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.

— Foot for decorative stitching. 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 stitch line sh...ould usually strictly follow the contour along which it is applied — and this contour can consist of both straight lines and curved lines. Special foots 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 stitch 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, 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.

— Foot for sewing on buttons. A foot 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 package — for example, for satin stitching, for processing sections, etc.

Possibility to create your own stitch types and store them in the sewing machine memory. The specific method of creation may be different: in some models, for this you need to use a computer and load the ready-made settings into the machine, others allow you to do everything on the machine itself, without additional equipment. Anyway, this function gives the user additional creative freedom; it is especially useful for those who plan to often use a non-standard line.

Built-in help system that displays various tips on the display. Some sewing advisers are capable of providing very detailed information, step-by-step instructions with pictures and control of settings (if the settings are incorrectly set, the device issues a warning). This feature is especially useful when learning to sew for the first time, but it can also be useful for an experienced sewer who is faced with an unusual task.