History of the White Sewing Machine
The White Sewing Machine Corporation, founded by Thomas H. White (1836-1914), pioneered the portable sewing machine that featured a full rotary mechanism and electric motor. In 1857, White created his first single-thread machines in a Massachusetts machine shop, according to the Encyclopedia of Cleveland History.
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Early Invention
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In 1866, White’s New England model featured a palm-sized portable sewing machine. In 1888, White’s machine received the Silver medal for "Best Machine for Family" at Cincinnati’s Great Centennial Exhibition.
Pioneers
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In the 1920s White machines included an electric motor, a numbered tension dial and sewing cabinet. In the 1930s, the portable Featherweight model, made of magnesium alloy, included a sewing light. The open arm zigzag model gained popularity.
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Variety of Stitches
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In the 1970s, the company intruduced the White Flip Top model that featured a Spin-A-Dial stitch selector. The company’s first computer sewing machine was the White ESP 4000. The Jeans Machine offered ease of sewing heavy fabrics.
Sergers for Home Sewing Market
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In the 1980s, home sewers quickly adapted to the first overlock or serger. The Superlock Model 534 efficiently seamed, trimmed and overcast fabric edges in one process.
White machines could sew fabrics ranging from chiffon to canvas, upholstery and leather. The White 1088 featured a coded dial for monograms, blind hems and buttonholes.
Electronic and Computerized Models
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In the 1990s, the White Computers were a series of electronic sewing machines. Available in 2010, the White Embroidery Machine, Model W4400, connects to a computer to install software. This model features 100 built-in designs and an auto digitizer that lets the home sewer use clip art or original artwork.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit mechanical sewing machine isolated on white image by Gleb Semenjuk from Fotolia.com
