Sewing isn’t just a convenient skill to have, but it can also be a lot of fun. If you’ve already mastered basic hand stitching, learning how to use a machine will allow you to tackle larger projects. It’s not suited for all types of work, however. Here’s what you should know to help you decide when you should sew by hand or machine.

Hand Sewing

Hand stitching is ideal for reattaching buttons, fixing tears, and repairing small holes—projects that require focused attention to only a limited surface area. It’s also well-suited to adding embellishments, such as appliques, as well as any form of embroidery. You have the opportunity to place each stitch exactly right.

When it comes to larger projects, however, hand sewing is far from ideal. A machine gets the job done faster. Stitching by hand is also difficult when it comes to thicker fabrics like twill; you will find yourself tiring quickly when pushing a needle through hefty materials over and over.

Machine Sewing

Machine sewing allows for faster work, allowing you to quickly complete larger projects. Whether you’re planning your own prom dress or creating the perfect pencil skirt, a machine will create clean, even lines, quickly and conveniently. These stitches also tend to be more secure than what you can accomplish by hand.

A sewing machine is less useful for fine needle-work like hand embroidery, however. This is where hand stitching prevails. Most seamstresses thus prefer a combination of both hand and machine work; when sewing a garment, the longer seams can be done with a machine and embellishments and buttons added by hand.  However, there are sewing machines that also have hoop embroidery capabilities.  These machines make it easy to add embroidery to any project and with the thousands of digitized designs available, you can feel confident that you will find a design that will fit your needs!  Both Pfaff and Husqvarna Viking have these combination sewing and embroidery machines available in their machine line-up!

If you’re ready to widen your repertoire of sewing projects by investing in a top-quality machine, turn to The Sewing Center in Kalispell, MT. These professionals have been helping customers find their perfect machine since 1950. They are knowledgeable about their product lines and will help you find the right technology to suit your plans. They also offer sewing machine repairs and how-to classes. Get a peek at their course schedule online, or call (406) 752-7058 to speak with a professional about their products.