- The classic sewing machine is primarily used to join two pieces of fabric with even and tidy seams. Basic sewing machines can produce a straight stitch and zig-zag; however, many can also produce a variety of pattern stitches. These machines can be mechanical or computerized and may be able to produce simple monograms or embroidery designs.
- A serger sewing machine can be used to sew and finish a seam in one step or overlock seams to provide a finish that will not ravel. With simple adjustments to a serger, you can produce a rolled narrow hem that can be used on woven or knit fabrics. Sergers produce a seam with some stretch, making them an ideal sewing machine for knit fabrics; however, you still need and want access to a traditional zig-zag sewing machine.
- Embroidery machines are computerized sewing machines that produce embroidered pictures on fabric. The fabric is placed within a hoop and a card is inserted into the embroidery machine or the machine is connected to a separate computer. The machine stitches the design in multiple threads and colors. You can embroider on fabric and sew it into garments or hoop an already produced garment or item to embroider.
- A coverstitcher is used to produce a professional hem on knit fabrics and garments, like T-shirts, knit dresses or knit pants. On the right side of the fabric, you see two neat rows of stitching. The wrong side of the fabric shows an evenly overlocked hem allowance. While a coverstitcher is not essential in the sewing room, it can allow you to improve your sewing skills and the quality of your hand-crafted garments.
- Several machines on the market can perform as more than one sewing machine design. There are computerized zig-zag sewing machines with full embroidery capability. Some sergers are capable of coverstitching. Hybrid machine designs require that you set up your sewing machine differently in some cases, and in the case of embroidery, they may keep your machine working for some time.
