Cool Facts About The First Sewing Machine
Although Charles Fredrick Weisenthal received the first British patent for a sewing machine, the first sewing machine was built in 1790 by Thomas Saint, a British inventor.
It was a mechanical device that used a series of levers and gears to move a needle up and down to create a series of stitches.
Saint’s sewing machine was not able to create a lock stitch, and it was not very practical or efficient.
It was a significant invention that laid the groundwork for the development of more advanced sewing machines in the future.
One interesting fact about Saint’s sewing machine is that it was not originally intended for use in sewing.
Saint actually designed it as a way to automate the process of making shoes, which was a time-consuming and labor-intensive task at the time.
The machine was not very successful in this regard, and it was eventually adapted for use in sewing.
Another interesting fact about Saint’s sewing machine is that it was not widely used or well-known during his lifetime.
In fact, it was only after his death that his invention was rediscovered and further developed by other inventors, leading to the creation of the modern sewing machine.
Saint’s sewing machine was an important step in the development of sewing technology, and it continues to be remembered as a fascinating and significant invention in the history of sewing.
Serger machines make sewing faster (and easier)
After becoming proficient with a traditional home sewing machine, it’s common to want to upgrade your machine for something faster and easier.
A serger home machine is the most common upgrade.
A serger sewing machine can handle seam sewing, edge finishing and trim away excess fabric all at once, making it faster and, with some experience, easier.
Avoid sewing over pins in your fabric (injury risk)
Sure, sewing over pins in your fabric is faster and more secure than removing them first, but, it’s dangerous.
Sewing over pins in your fabric is not recommended because your sewing machine needle could jam against them causing damage and, possibly, injury.
Stay safe by removing pins before they pass under the needle.
Sewing is a great marketable skill (and rewarding!)
Sewing is a great marketable skill to have. You can use it to repair your clothes, make new clothes, or just enjoy it as a fun hobby.
You never know when sewing skills might come in handy.
Become proficient at sewing can also inspire you to learn other new skills by giving you the confidence to give them a try.
Saving money isn’t the only reason to consider learning to sew.
The most reliable brand of sewing machine is…
When used as directed by the manufacturer, most new sewing machines are reliable.
Current research of Amazon reviews suggests the most reliable machines are the Juki MO654DE portable thread serger, the Brother 1034D serger, the Brother 2340CV coverstitch serger, the Singer Quantum Stylist 9960 computerized portable and the Singer Stylist 7258 100-Stitch computerized sewing machine.
What a lockstitch machine is used for
A lockstitch sewing machine is designed for use in top-stitching, seaming, cover stitching and general use with knits and woven materials that stretch.
Just like the name implies, a ‘lock’ stitch keeps the stitching consistent and secure when the fabric is less rigid and more prone to breakage by stretching.
Fun facts about sewing that are worth knowing
Cotton lasts for 100 years. Women’s buttons are not on the right side. Zippers were invented in 1893.
The print Calico comes from the word Calcutta. Buttons on sleeves were Napoleon Bonaparte’s idea.
Early sewing needles were not made of metal, they were made of wood and/or bone.
The first sewing machine ever made
The first sewing machine ever described in old literature is found in a scientific book written by Taqi al-Din Muhammad circe 1551 in Ottoman, Egypt.
He described an old steam powered jack driven sewing machine design.
Historians, however, believe the first actual practical sewing machine ever made (and patented) was built in 1755 by Thomas Saint.
How long computerized sewing machines can last
Typically, a sewing machine can last 25 years or longer.
However, care and sewing conditions can drastically shorten the life of any sewing machine, not just a computerized sewing machine.
After some years it’s likely that vibration, humidity, heat and other environmental factors affect the chips and wires in a computerized sewing machine more than a mechanical one, but, these can be replaced fairly cheaply.
Janome is a well known brand of sewing machine
Janome and Brother are likely the most widely known brands of home sewing machine.
Yes, Janome is a good brand, but to determine if it’s the best brand for your needs consider your budget, your experience and what you plan to do with your Janome machine.
Each and every sewing machine model has its own slight benefits and drawbacks, choose accordingly.
