Sewing machines of today are a thing of beauty and are over and above anything anyone would have dreamed up years ago. With technology advancing and machines becoming ever more sophisticated, it may come as no surprise that they can now embroider too.
The technology used to create embroidery on a sewing machine is, in fact a combination of several different steps. One of the first steps involves a computer program, known as an embroidery software, this program is used to design the patterns and images, on the fabric, that will be sewn by the sewing machine.
The design is then loaded into the sewing machine, and the sewing machine is able to take over from there. Through the help of either an in-built memory, disk drive, or USB connection, the design is transferred from the computer to the sewing machine.
Once the machine is loaded with the design, the process can begin. The sewing machine will start to very slowly move, stitching the fabric that has been marked with the embroidery design. It will use a combination of motion along with the machine’s thread, to create a perfect and precise pattern, thus adding the design to the fabric.
Embroidery stitches, for a sewing machine, vary in size, but all are still the same basic stitch, which is similar to the basic running stitch that a user might do by hand. What makes the machine’s process so much better than hand-stitching is that the exact placement and size of each stitch is completely uniform.
For most sewing machines, this sort of embroidery stitching requires an additional accessory, as the majority of machines are not specifically designed for embroidery. Instead, an embroidery hoop, or multiple hoops depending on the size of the design, are often used. These attach to the fabric, holding it firmly in place as the machine moves across it, embroidering the design.
Once the embroidery process is complete, the fabric is then finished as it usually would be. This can involve either removing the hoop, if applicable, or simply just trimming any loose threads that may be around the outside of the embroidered design.
Embroidered Garments
A major part of the use of embroidery in sewing is to create formal clothing and other garments, the likes of which can be found everywhere from the workplace to special occasion wear. Modern embroidery enhances clothing and makes it look elegant, stylish and fashionable.
Most of the top fashion brands today make use of intricate, computer-assisted machines to quickly complete the embroidery of their fabrics and garments, as it ensures that each piece of clothing looks perfect and professional.
Having said that, you can also find embroidered clothing from small businesses and independent designers, who either use a dedicated embroidery machine or do the work manually.
The most popular fabrics to be embroidered are those that are durable and usually quite thick. This could include denim or leather jackets, but it is also extremely popular with thinner fabrics such as cotton or silk.
Embroidery can completely transform a garment, from an everyday item to something more formal and eye-catching.
Embroidered Accessories
Sewing machines can also be used to embroider a variety of accessories, including hats, bags, and even shoes.
The process for these would largely stay the same but what could change depending on the item, would be the type of fabric used. For example, embroidery on shoes may use materials such as leather or suede. On the other hand, hats could be done on lighter fabrics, such as cotton or polyester.
Customers love personalized items, and this type of embroidery allows them to add a personal touch to virtually any item. Whether it be their initials, a phrase or even a logo, it can be achieved perfectly with an embroidered sewing machine.
The range of possibilities when it comes to accessories is vast and virtually endless. It is an ideal way to add a unique and custom look to items that you already own, or items that are bought as gifts.
This form of embroidery is especially popular for companies who wish to promote themselves by offering branded items. With the help of a sewing machine, the graphics, logos and slogans can be expertly embroidered onto hats, bags and other items, creating high-quality promotional items.
Embroidered Home Decor & Furnishings
Embroidered sewing machines can also be used to create beautiful and intricate designs on a range of home decorations and furnishings. Anything from curtains, tablecloths, pillows, blankets and even upholstery can be given an added touch with the help of an embroidered sewing machine.
This type of sewing machine can create an incredibly detailed and intricate image, meaning that anything can be turned into a work of art. The possibilities are virtually endless, and you can even create designs from scratch, adding your own touch to any item that you choose to work on.
For more experienced sewers, there are a wealth of patterns and designs that can be purchased, or even customized, to make the perfect embroidered piece.
Home decor and furnishings that have been professionally embroidered can bring texture and colour to any space. It is an ideal way to make a home look beautiful and give it a unique touch.
Whether it be a simple design or something more intricate, a sewing machine can create a beautiful piece of embroidery, which with a little extra work, can turn into a piece of art.
Embroidered Quilts and Blankets
Sewing machines that are capable of stitching intricate patterns, can also be used for a much more personal and sentimental craft – quilting. Quilting has been a popular craft for centuries, and with the help of a sewing machine, it has become much easier to do.
Quilts are a piece of art made from layers of fabric, batting and an embroidered design which are all sewn together. Quilting has been traditionally used to make quilts, blankets, wall hangings and clothing, and with the use of a sewing machine, these items can be made much more quickly, and with much more intricate patterns.
The embroidery process in quilting often involves stitching complex patterns onto the fabric, while carefully sewing small pieces of fabric together. Sewing machines that can handle embroidery can also be used for quilting.
The patterns that can be used on quilts are almost endless, and the materials used can range from the traditional cotton to fabrics such as velvet or satin.
For those more experienced in this craft, there is also the option of creating completely custom quilts by piecing together fabrics of their own choice.
Regardless of the skill level of the quilter, a sewing machine that can embroider can create a stunning end result. Each quilt will be unique, with added texture and interest that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Machine Maintenance and Care
In order to keep your sewing machine in good working condition, it is important to take proper care of the machine. It is recommended that you give the machine a deep clean at least once a month, during which the bobbin case, needle and presser foot should be cleaned.
You should also give the machine a light dusting every week, and oil the moving parts every three months, in order to ensure that everything is in good working order.
It is also important to check your machine before you start using it, checking if the bobbin thread is in place and ensuring that the machine is properly threaded.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your machine is in good condition and capable of creating flawless embroidered designs.
Important Safety Issues to Consider
When embroidering with a sewing machine, there are some key safety measures that should be taken in order to protect yourself, and the machine.
It is recommended that you use the appropriate protection before beginning to embroider, such as safety goggles and protective gloves. Additionally, you should pay attention to the power supply and electrical cords, making sure that they are not damaged or faulty.
It is also recommended that you not leave the room while the machine is running, as an unexpected malfunction could cause injury or damage to the machine.
You should also pay attention when threading the needle, and when using the machine, in order to prevent the needle from breaking or becoming jammed in the fabric.
By adhering to these guidelines, you can protect yourself and your machine while you are embroidering.
