Comparison Janome 630DC vs BERNINA 870D

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).

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.

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.