How to Choose Commercial Sewing Machines
If you have been using a domestic sewing machine for a few years and now intend to take up more challenging sewing work, a variety of commercial sewing machines are available. These are capable of dealing with thicker fabrics, such as leather, and multiple layers of fabric. They are also more powerful and hence faster than domestic machines. Commercial sewing machines differ in size, power and cost; knowing your exact requirements is the key to choosing the model that is perfect for your sewing projects.
Instructions
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Determine your requirements. Look at the type of sewing you have to do. If it involves making articles like tents, belts, upholstery or horse saddles from thick fabrics, select a commercial sewing machine. Choose commercial machines if you need to sew fabrics in multiple layers or make cushions and slipcovers. If, on the other hand, you just require a machine for practicing your sewing skills or making some small repairs to thin fabrics, a domestic sewing machine will suffice.
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Select features that are important. Decide the qualities of the machine that are critical to your field of work. If you require accurate and speedy sewing and greater power machines, choose commercial sewing machines that have a bigger motor. To sew fabric in multiple layers, you will require a machine that is equipped with a system that can automatically adjust thread tension. Consider working surface area if you have to sew fabrics of large dimensions, such as sails or tents.
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Consider cost. Commercial sewing machines cost more than domestic ones; they are also more expensive to maintain and repair. The cost varies across models, depending on the specific features offered. Consider how many of the features you are going to require in your work --- there is no point in splurging on a machine that has features you are not likely to use.
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Check vibration and noise. Powerful commercial sewing machines have a large motor; this leads to greater noise and vibrations. Consider this factor while choosing the model and brand. Compare these two features across brands and select one that strikes a balance between power, noise and vibrations. Find out if purchasing a stand is required to increase the power of the machine.
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Try out models. Visit the sewing machine shops or appliance stores that stock commercial sewing machines. Find out about the features of different models and try out the ones that seem suitable to your purpose. Get a hands-on experience of how operating the machine feels like before making your decision. Ask questions about operating, cleaning and maintaining the sewing machine.
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Tips & Warnings
Buying a used commercial sewing machine can help save on money, but maintenance or repair costs can offset these savings. Moreover, used machines come without operating manuals; you will need to procure them separately from the manufacturer or dealer.
References
- Photo Credit sewing machine image by pavel siamionov from Fotolia.com
