Elias Howe, born on July 9, 1819 in Spencer, Massachusetts, was one of the most significant inventors of the industrial age. Howe was best known for his invention of the sewing machine. He is believed to have developed the first practical needle with an eye that let a thread be inserted and locked into place, which allowed for automated stitch formation and was aprogressive advancement over hand sewing.
In 1845, Howe took out a patent for a machine “For Making Eye-Pointed Needles.” His first working sewing machine was completed in 1846. With the help of his wife, he created a second improved version of the machine in 1847. It featured a needle with the point being at the large end of the eye with the grooves on the shank, together with the shuttle, the feed, and the tensioners.
The idea of automating the needle to run seam work revolutionized the industry. Howe developed the world’s first sewing machine and patented it in 1846. In his patent, titled “Improvement in Sewing Machines,” Howe wrote: “My invention relates to certain new and useful improvements on that class of machines for sewing or stitching leather, cloth, furs and other substances and cloths.” The patent became the foundation of all subsequent sewing machine designs.
Howe’s invention was initially met with little enthusiasm from the public until the tailor and manufacturer Isaac Singer recognized its potential. With Singer’s help, Howe popularized the machine and in 1851 the two formed the Howe Sewing Machine Company. The device was a success and Howe became famous worldwide for his invention.
At the start of the age of industrialization, Elias Howe’s innovative invention had a pivotal impact on the sewing industry. The sewing machine provided mass production and economy of scale, fully mechanized assembly lines and significantly lower costs for the production of garments. This advancement made it possible for mass production of garments in a short amount of time, revolutionizing the fashion industry.
The sewing machines made by the Howe Machine Company spread rapidly throughout Europe and beyond. In 1857, Howe achieved a major success when he was granted a patent in France. Soon afterward the inventor’s machines were sold in most European countries. Production increased drastically and Howe was able to collect royalties from Singer.
In modern times, the sewing machine has greatly evolved. The first mechanical models could only make straight stitches. Today, industrial models of higher quality can sew thick material, such as upholstery, as well as delicate fabrics like those used in lingerie. Dependent upon the desired type of stitch, many computer-controlled sewing machines can be programmed to make apparel, stuffed animals and quilts, as well as all types of crafts.
Industrial Applications
The sewing machine has revolutionized industrial production, as it permits a much faster production rate than previously possible with manual sewing. It has been used in major commercial applications, wherein large quantities of products must be made in a short time. Industrial sewing machines are extensively used to produce things like heavy sails, tents, and parachutes with much tougher seams than those produced by domestic machines.
Though they are known for working with fabrics and other textiles, industrial machines are also utilized for tailoring, quilting, and embroidery. Industrial strength machines can even sew pieces of stiff leather, metals, and upholstery. They are also used for creating and repairing rainwear, shoes, pillows, covers, and bags.
The most popular industrial machines are zigzag machines, which use an oscillating arm lever that moves the needle from side to side rather than up and down. There are also straight stitch machines, which use fewer moving parts and have fewer problems with tension. Many other specialized models of industrial machines exist, specifically designed for tasks such as embroidery, making buttons, and heavy duty seam binding.
Modern Usage
Today, the sewing machine continues to be a vital tool for fashion designers and garment makers in the clothing industry worldwide. Mass production of clothing using a high-speed automatic sewing machine is both cost effective and efficient. Computers can now control a chaining machine, which can accurately sew a full seam in one quick action, as opposed to an overlock machine which requires an operator to guide it.
The modern sewing machine has also become more advanced in terms of its accessories. Available for both domestic and industrial machines, these can add a wide range of stitched effects, including decorative stitches, appliques, and specialty seams.
Historically, sewing machines were much more primitive and less productive than their modern counterparts. Elias Howe’s invention inadvertently sparked a revolution in the global fashion industry and enabled a faster and more efficient production of garments.
Legacy
In honor of Elias Howe’s revolutionary invention, a sewing machine was dedicated to him in the lobby of the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 1988. Howe’s legacy as an inventor is also commemorated at the Sewing Machine Museum in Hoboken, New Jersey. Additionally, in 2020, the Elias Howe Sewing Machine Monument was erected in Spencer, commemorating his significant work.
Conclusion
Elias Howe’s invention of the sewing machine undoubtedly changed the course of the global fashion industry. His invention revolutionized the process of garment production, enabling mass production of clothing on a much larger scale. The sewing machine is an example of the power of invention, and Howe’s legacy continues to this day.
