CATEGORY HUB · 6 ARTICLES
Sewing Machines
Industrial and home sewing machines
Lockstitch, overlock, coverstitch, embroidery - the machines that turn fabric into garments. Selection, maintenance, and the right machine for each application.
01
Essential reading
Start here. The most important articles that explain the category to a textile engineer in one sitting.
Sewing Machines
Sewing Machines: Complete Guide to Types and Selection
A lockstitch sewing machine produces 1,000 to 5,000 stitches per minute with a standard stitch...
Read article →
Sewing Machines
Industrial vs Home Sewing Machines
A lockstitch sewing machine produces 1,000 to 5,000 stitches per minute with a standard stitch...
Read article →
Sewing Machines
Coverstitch Machine: How It Works and When to Use
A lockstitch sewing machine produces 1,000 to 5,000 stitches per minute with a standard stitch...
Read article →
Sewing Machines
Embroidery Machines for Garment Decoration
A lockstitch sewing machine produces 1,000 to 5,000 stitches per minute with a standard stitch...
Read article →
02
More from this category
More specific processes, techniques, and topic deep-dives.
Sewing Machines
Serger (Overlock): Differences from Regular Sewing
A lockstitch sewing machine produces 1,000 to 5,000 stitches per minute with a standard stitch...
Read article →
Sewing Machines
Sewing Machine Maintenance and Troubleshooting
A lockstitch sewing machine produces 1,000 to 5,000 stitches per minute with a standard stitch...
Read article →No recent articles.
04
Frequently asked questions
What is the best home sewing machine?
Depends on use. For general sewing, a lockstitch (Brother CS7000X, Janome HD3000). For knits, an overlock (Brother 1034D, Babylock Imagine). For hemming knits, a coverstitch (Brother 2340CV).
What is an industrial sewing machine?
A high-speed, single-purpose machine built for production. Common types: lockstitch (3000+ spm), overlock (7000+ spm), coverstitch (4000+ spm), buttonhole, bar tack, zigzag. Brands: Juki, Brother, Pegasus, Yamato.
What is the difference between lockstitch and chainstitch?
Lockstitch (301) uses two threads interlocked in the middle of the fabric. Strong, fast, not stretchy. Chainstitch (401) uses one thread forming a chain. More elastic, used in denim waistband hemming.
What is SPM in sewing?
Stitches Per Minute. Industrial lockstitch machines run 3000-5000 spm; overlock 6000-9000 spm; coverstitch 3000-4500 spm. Home machines: 800-1500 spm.
How do I maintain my sewing machine?
Daily: brush out lint, oil the hook and race. Weekly: change needle if used heavily. Monthly: deep clean, replace bobbin case if needed. Annual: professional service. Use the right needle for the fabric.
Can't find what you're looking for?
The team replies to every email. Send us your question or a sample spec and we'll route it to the right specialist.