Sewing machines are essential tools for anyone looking to piece together a garment or textile with greater control and precision than hand sewing. While machines come in different models and sizes, they all tend to be of a standard right-handed, or orthodox, design. This presents an issue for left-handed sewers, who require a differently designed machine to allow them to cut and sew textiles with the same dexterous ease as right-handed users.
Traditionally, machines are made with right-handed design features with the placement of the fabric onto the machine and the path to be followed while cutting or stitching. When a left-hander uses a standard sewing machine, he needs to accommodate the design which can interfere with the handling of the fabric and the sewers’ natural motion of the needle. For seasoned left-handed sewers, this can result in inaccuracies and a challenging stitch experience which can take longer to master.
Due to a lack of suitable left-handed sewing machines on the market, many left-handed sewers have resorted to modifying the models available to better fit their needs. For instance, sewers may adjust the pressure of the presser foot, change the needle threading, turn the machine upside down, or alter the sewing area and the needles’ position.
When it comes to available models, there are some left-handed machines sold under certain brands, such as Janome. However, the number of available left-handed machines is still fewer than those produced with a right-handed design.
For those who are handy, some models lend themselves better to left-handed modification due to the layout of its parts. Among these are the flat-bed-style machines, which have the most accessible upper-level parts and can be more quickly manipulated by left-handers than other designs.
If available, a left-handed sewing machine model tends to be more expensive than a right-handed one. This is due to the more complex design of the machine’s parts and the manual assembly needed in the construction of a left-handed model, factors that make the production of such machines less efficient.
Misconceptions about Adapting Machines to Left-handers
Much of the discussion surrounding left-handed sewing machines revolves around the perceived difficulty in adapting a standard sewing machine design to the left-handed user. But the truth is that it’s actually easier than most might think.
By swapping a few parts, turning the machine upside down and making a few adjustments to the tension, any right-handed model can be tailored to the left-hander’s needs.
Switching the direction of the machine is certainly not an easy process, but with patience, the right tools and the right instruction manual, it can be done relatively quickly.
However, while making this switch is the route some may choose to go, it’s not a considered strategy for all left-handers. This kind of adaptation may be too time-consuming for some.
Left Handed vs Right Handed?
Interestingly, research suggests that the abilities of a left-handed and right-handed sewer are equal when it comes to difficult sewing tasks.
Therefore, in terms of the quality of workproduced, there’s no clear advantage of one side over the other when it comes to sewing.
However, it is possible for a left-hander to achieve higher sewing speeds with a left-hand machine, allowing them to compete with right-handed sewers when it comes to output quantity.
In addition, any left-handed sewer looking to make the switch doesn’t need to worry about ruining their stitching if they misthread the needle or damage the threadscatchers- as arepair on a left-handedsewing machine is the same as that of a right-hander.
What the Experts say
According to experts, the right machine is a key requirement for sewing with accuracy and consistency.
Findings from an extensive study conducted by the American Sewing Guild highlighted that, as with any craft, the correct tools are key for producing professional results.
Therefore, both novice and experienced left-handed sewers are encouraged to seek out sewing machines specifically designed for the left-hander if they’re looking to maximize their skill level and make the most of their craft.
Advantages
Some advantages of using a left-handed sewing machine are that it enables the user to thread the needle easily, control the fabric movement and make the transition from one side of the fabric to the other seamlessly.
Another advantage found among the left-handed community is the enhanced control that comes with seamlessly coordinating hand and feet motions on their machines. This provides the user with improved accuracy when maneuvering around curves and intricate pieces in garments.
Furthermore, a left-handed machine allows the user to benefit from the own dexterity skills, which have been refined and developed over time.
Why it Matters
The specialty of a left-handed sewing machine is that it allows the user to coordinate their motions with the machine’s natural direction of seam formation.
That is to say, when a left-hander is using a left-handed machine they can ensure that their motions match up with the direction of the machine’s needle with their direction of movement. This makes it easier for the sewer to move fabric quickly, result in a lesser chance of mistakes, and an increased precision when it comes to stitching.
Say Goodbye to Uncomfortable Position
For many, using a machine that’s not tailored to their preferred side can make for a challenging experience due to the awkwardness of having to adjust the fabric on the machine and the flipping from side to side.
Therefore, having the option of a left-handed machine is beneficial for progressing one’s skills as it drastically reduces the number of adjustments made for comfort.
Furthermore, it also encourages the left-handers to switch on their creativity as there are hardly any limitations to what they can create. This means that sewers of all denominations, regardless of their preferred hand, can all make the same shapes, plush, and quilts with great accuracy, making the process effortless and innovative.
Conclusion
It comes as no surprise then why some are so eager to become the proud owners of a left-handed sewing machine.
That being said, it’s still important to do one’s due research to ensure the purchase of the right machine, and seeking professional advice may be necessary in some cases.
Overall, sewing machines tailored to left-handers present a unique opportunity to increase efficiency and skills, with results that will be appreciated by both manufacturers and customers alike.
