Topic
Computerised machines
Computerised machines select stitches on a screen, set length and width for you and add a needle stop, speed control and often a start and stop button. Heavy duty models add stronger motors for denim and furnishings.
- Typical stitch count
- 60 to 200+
- Top speed
- Up to about 850 to 1,100 stitches per minute
A needle up and down setting lets you pivot at corners with the needle in the fabric, and a speed slider keeps the pace steady for curves and topstitching.
Heavy duty machines quote a stronger motor and higher stitches per minute. They cope better with several layers of denim and canvas, but the right needle still matters more than the motor.
Check the number of feet included, whether there is a knee lifter or free arm for cuffs, and whether the extension table comes in the box.
Guides on this topic
- One-step vs four-step buttonholes explainedHow one-step and four-step buttonholes work, which sewing machines have each, and why one-step buttonholes come out the same size every time.Guide
- How to sew stretch fabric on a sewing machineSewing machine settings for stretchy fabric: ballpoint and stretch needles, stretch and lightning stitches, walking feet and overlocker differential feed.How-to
- How to hem jeans with a sewing machineHem jeans at home with a denim needle and topstitch thread, get over the thick side seams, or shorten them while keeping the original hem.How-to
Buying guides on this topic
- Best computerised sewing machinesSix computerised sewing machines compared by stitch count, buttonhole styles, speed control and needle up or down, from listing facts only.Buying guide
- Best heavy duty sewing machines for denim and canvasSeven heavy duty sewing machines compared by frame, stitch count, buttonhole, top speed and weight, with the limits of home machines on leather.Buying guide
- Best sewing machines for dressmakingSix step up machines for garment sewing compared by feed system, stitch count, buttonholes, thread cutter and weight, using listing facts.Buying guide
- Best sewing machines with automatic thread cutterSix sewing machines that trim both threads at the touch of a button, compared by cutter type, stitches, sewing space, threader and weight.Buying guide