Introduction
Sewing machines have come a long way since their invention in 1790. The tools used to aid in hand stitching garments remain in use today and are essential to the fashion industry. It is estimated that more than 50 million sewing machines are sold world-wide each year with Americans buying an estimated 10-15% of this figure. Sewing machines are an important tool for any hobbyist or professional fashion designer and the industry remains highly profitable, thanks to these popular machines.
History
The invention of the sewing machine dates back to 1790 when Thomas Saint, a British engineer, patented a machine that used a single thread looped stitch. Over the next several decades, a number of inventors improved upon Saint’s original design, including Elias Howe and Isaac Singer, who made their mark in the history of machine-sewing with the production of their respective versions of the sewing machine. Of course, in the modern era, computer-controlled sewing machines have become the most common type of sewing machine.
Current Market
The modern sewing machine market is a very large one, with machines ranging in price from just a few dollars to thousands of dollars. With such a broad range of consumers and machines, it stands to reason that many sewing machines are sold each year. Although it is difficult to pinpoint exact figures, it is believed that around 50 million sewing machines are purchased each year on a global scale. This figure is not evenly spread across the world – America is thought to account for a significant 10-15% of this figure.
Types of Machines
Sewing machines come in many shapes and sizes. There are basic, manual machines for sewers just getting into the craft, highly intricate computerized machines for professionals and those who wish to take their crafting further. The more sophisticated machines will usually have a wide range of functions, such as speed control, the ability to control stitch length and width, automated features such as zig zag and various built-in stitches. Other machines may also feature a horizontal scanning feature, allowing the user to easily see their work as it is being produced.
Factors that Influence Market Growth
There are a number of factors that influence the market of sewing machines, both positively and negatively. One of the most influential is pricing: machines range in price from the most basic budget models, up to the most luxurious machines that can cost thousands of dollars. The cost of materials and labour used to create the machines can also affect the market as these costs commonly increase with inflation. Other influencing factors include popularity of fashion trends and the advancement in technology, with new and exciting machines being developed every day.
Impact of Sewing Machines
The impacts of sewing machines on society are tremendous, from creating more efficient clothes manufacturing, to allowing people to express their creativity through fashion. Sewing machines have made the production of clothes faster and easier than ever before, enabling people to create more garments in less time. For those who have a passion for clothing, a sewing machine can open the door to a whole new world of possibilities, allowing them to create unique pieces of clothing or to alter existing clothes with ease.
Analysis of Sales Figures
Analyzing sales figures can be a great insight into the trends and patterns of the sewing machine market. Generally, the sales of sewing machines show a steady growth each year, thanks to the introduction of new technologies and new trends in fashion. Sewing machines are also becoming more affordable, allowing more people to buy them and enter the fashion market. However, it is important to note that the number of machines sold each year is still subject to the rise and fall of the global economy, so periods of recession can often result in a dip in sales figures.
Innovations in Technology
In recent years, innovations in technology have allowed for greater efficiency and faster production for sewing machines. Computerized machines can now be programmed to perform a huge variety of different tasks, such as embroidery, monogramming and appliqué. The introduction of the “smart machine” has also raised the bar for Sewing Machine manufacturers, with machines that are more user-friendly and have advanced features such as voice control and the ability to control stitches on your smartphone.
Outlook
Given the current developments in sewing machine technology, it is expected that the market will continue to grow in the years ahead. New technologies such as the smart machine are becoming increasingly popular and are sure to help drive the market forward. With an increase in economic growth in different parts of the world, it is also likely that there will be an increased demand for sewing machines in those areas. Ultimately, the future of the sewing machine market is looking bright, and it is expected that more and more people will acquire their own machine in the years to come.
Educating the Sewing Machine Buyer
Buying a sewing machine can be a daunting task for some, as there are so many different models and features to consider. Therefore, it is important for potential buyers to do their research before buying a machine. It is also important to understand the different types of machines, as well as the features that are most suited to the buyer’s needs and skill level. A good starting place is to read reviews from experienced sewers on the various models and brands, as well as talking to friends and family who have a sewing machine. This will help to ensure that the buyer buys the machine that is best for them and will last them a long time.
Preventing Sewing Machine as a Fad
As sewers become more experienced, they may come to realize that, while the initial excitement of having a new machine can be great, the novelty may wear off over time. To prevent sewing from becoming a passing fad, sewers should take the time to develop their skills and learn something new each time they use the machine. There are a huge variety of techniques and projects that can be done on a sewing machine, from basic application such as hemming a pair of pants to more complex tasks such as creating a quilt or sewing a wedding dress. By learning something new and continually challenging themselves, sewers can ensure that the machine will remain an important part of their life.
Final Thoughts
It is clear that the sewing machine industry is a major player in the world economy, as evidenced by the estimated 50 million sewing machines sold each year. With the introduction of new technologies and the advances in modern sewing, it is also likely that this number will continue to grow in the years ahead. Sewing machines are an invaluable tool for anyone who is interested in fashion or who has a passion for sewing, and it is important for people to educate themselves about the different types of machines and the features available so that they can make an informed decision before buying.
