So, you’re thinking about upgrading to an industrial sewing machine, but you’re scared that you might get too far into unfamiliar territory. Worry not; buying the best industrial sewing machine isn’t as hard as it looks. No matter how much experience you have, we’ve got the tips you need to get the right tool for your trade.
Different types of industrial sewing machines
If you’re used to using a standard home sewing machine, you might not know there are different categories of professional sewing machines. We felt it was most appropriate to break them down here for you before we dive too far in.
Electronic sewing machine
The electronic sewing machine is a hybrid of domestic machines and computerized ones. They offer a few more features than your standard mechanical sewing machine. These are free arm, motorized, and relatively easy to use.
As a result, many people turn to this type of machine for expert sewing because this is the equivalent of what a professional tailor would use.
Computerized sewing machine
Also known as automated sewing machines, these come with a built-in computer. This gives more control of moving parts, better handling of different fabrics and accurate tension control. These machines comprise the best technology available and they’re built for large-scale projects.
Computerized machines use multiple needles, spinners, and a variety of built-in features. This allows them to maintain high speeds of productivity for long periods and you’ll most frequently find these in an industrial setting.
Embroidery machine
People commonly use this machine when creating unique or intricate patterns on a certain fabric. Embroidery machines are almost like an electronic sewing machine with an embroidery foot on it. They do require a bit of skill and knowledge to use, so beginners are recommended to try a zigzag machine first before diving into more advanced patterns.
Overlock sewing machine
An overlock machine is also known as a “Serger.” These get used for seaming fabric in question by joining or stitching edges of fabric together. Professional tailors use these machines to take old or unfinished garments and turn them into works of art.
The pattern provided by overlock machines depends on the threads being used and the number of overlocking stitches.
Features to look for
When shopping for a professional sewing machine, it’s highly important that you know the anatomy of your machine and what to look for. In this section, we’re breaking down some of the most useful and deciding factors that may guide you towards a purchase.
Automated threader
Instead of threading your machine manually, you could get one that comes with an automated threader. This feature helps you save a lot of time so you can spend more time sewing and creating.
Free arm
Sewing round and small garments is always a challenge, so having a free arm not only makes sense for people sewing for business, but it’s a great choice when sewing at home for enjoyment as well.
Knee lifter
This feature simplifies the embroidery process. The knee lifter raises and lowers your presser foot, so you don’t have to take your hand off the garment. Some people have gone their whole lives without it while others can’t imagine not having one.
Adjustable presser feet
Having total control over your garments is a must, and based on the type of fabric you’re sewing, you might not want the machine to grip a gentle fabric too much. The adjustable presser will allow you to choose how much pressure you put on the more delicate garments.
Stitch selector
Flexibility to choose your stitch is not only sensible, but it’s fun. Many hobbyists and professional tailors will only choose a sewing machine that allows them to pick a stitch from an assortment of options.
Speed control
Whether you’re a novice or a veteran, you’ll want a machine with speed control. Some people prefer to sew slower while others need to handle a lot of projects and can take the faster speeds.
Frequency of usage
You also want to think about how often you plan on using the machine in addition to standard features. If you’re only using it once in a while, you’ll want to go with a lightweight machine that you can put away and take out as you need it.
Affordability
The cost associated with the best industrial sewing machines varies dramatically, so you’ll want to have a set budget in mind before diving in. Take a look at your needs paired with some of the features above and decide on what you can pass on and what you can’t live without.
Overall experience
Your experience as a sewing machine operator matters here as well. If you’re a beginner, you don’t need a lot of fancy features, and you don’t need to pour a lot of money into your first machine. If you have a few years of experience and you’re seeking an upgrade, then you’ll want to reward yourself with some high-end features.
Our reviews of the best industrial sewing machines
Now it’s time for us to take a look at some of our favorite picks for industrial sewing machines. These come with many of the features we’ve discussed previously.
DDL-8700 Juki Industrial Lockstitch
Our first pick is a high-speed lockstitch sewing machine designed for apparel material. The machine comes equipped with a table, electronic DC servo motor that runs up to 3300 RPM. The sewing machine comes with everything you need, including the drawer, belt, tools, lamp, and instruction manual.
This machine has a maximum sewing speed of 5,500 stitches per minute, a maximum stitch length of five millimeters, and a needle bar stroke of 30.7 millimeters.
It’s also auto lubricating with full-rotary hook lubrication using the Juki New Defrix Oil No. 1. Assembly is required for this machine, but they include all the tools and hardware you need with the purchase.
Pros:
- Considered the Cadillac of sewing machines
- Large, solid machine
- Many potential features
- 5,500 stitches per minute
Cons:
- Does not come with a needle position synchronizer
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
Our second choice
Our opinion
The manufacturer refers to this machine as the “industry favorite machine and the number one choice by professionals.” It comes with a walking foot compound feet with triple feed capacity. The machine features extra-long maximum stitch lengths at 10 millimeters, a high foot lift, large bobbin, and adjustable walking motion height.
This sewing machine has an all gear driven hook mechanism with a safety clutch and push-button re-engagement. Adjustable reverse stitching is also possible, and you can make it the same length as your forward stitch.
It comes with a table, and a Servo motor and the machine itself is white. It’s considered a great option for beginners who are just starting and people who have been sewing for decades.
What we love
- The motor is much smaller than previous models
- Fast Delivery
- Large bobbin
- Centralized lubrication
- Extra-long stitch
- Changeable needle plate and feed dog
- High speed
Watch for
- Poor instructions
- Not an ideal choice for beginners
- Only one straight stitch
Our third choice
Our opinion
Here is a more portable sewing machine that you can use as a tabletop machine and you can also fit it to cabinets or quilting frames. It comes with a built-in carrying handle to make it easy to transport throughout the house or on the go.
It’s a machine that attracts a lot of new crafters because it comes with many features and is also highly user-friendly.The machine uses an automatic thread trimmer so you can trim, pin, and needle everything together with the push of one button. You can also engage it using the foot control.
The TL-2010Q also comes with speed control varying between 200 to 1500 stitches per minute. You have complete control over the speed, which is something else that makes it beginner-friendly.
Another great feature is the presser foot pressure adjustment. Juki allows you to adjust the pressure drop to cater to the type of fabric you’re working with. For example, if you’re working with something very delicate, you wouldn’t want the machine pulling on your fabric
What we love
- Automatic thread trimmer
- Maximum speed control
- Thread tension scale
- Speed control mechanism
- Needle up/down control
- Automatic needle threader
- Knee lifter lever
- Extension table
Watch for
- Price is a bit high for a tabletop machine
- The light isn’t very bright
CAMFive EMB HT1501 Single Head Commercial Embroidery Machine
If the DDL-8700 Juki was the Cadillac then this one is the Rolls Royce. The CAMFive sewing machine offers speeds of up to 1200 stitches per minute across 12 needles. It covers an area of 22 x 14 inches and connects via USB. The machine also boasts a five-year warranty covering most things you would encounter.
While few people would ever consider having one of these in their home, if you operate a small business that relies on an embroidery machine, then you’ll want to have this one. You have such versatility with this machine, which can work with towels, blankets, fabrics, and pieces of clothing. This machine even works with hats!
This industrial embroidery machine is loaded with technology, and one of the features that stands out the most is its preview feature. You can do a motion test before initiating a new design, so you don’t make a single stitch before ensuring that you’re in the correct location. Instead of having to ruin garments in the start-up process, you can do this instead.
Pros:
- Plenty of settings to choose from
- Design preview capabilities
- 100 million stitch memory
- 1200 stitches per minute
Cons:
- Expensive
- Large and not always a viable option for small businesses
Our fifth choice
Our opinion
Here is a top of the line serger or “overlock machine.” It offers 5-4-3-2 stitch configurations across many different stitch styles. It comes with many accessories and components that allow the user to configure it as much as possible to meet their needs.
The machine comes with 12 different stitch options producing a variety of different overlock stitches. These include a double chain stitch, 2-thread overedge stitch, 3-thread flatlock, and 5-thread safety stitches. At 1,300 stitches per minute, this machine is incredibly fast, so it’s a great option if you’re stitching professionally or semi-professionally.
The Singer comes with a self-adjusting tension system that allows you to select the stitch you want to use. The machine will then adjust the tension to the correct setting. All you need to do is turn the dial for the proper settings.
It also comes with coverstitch capability, which means you don’t need to switch between the sewing machine and serger when you’re working on different projects. You have the flexibility to choose narrow, wide, or triple coverstitch.
Finally, the Singer machine comes with a built-in free arm that acts as a removable piece that you can take off and transform into a free arm. This makes it super easy if you’re working with sleeves, trousers, or more unique projects. You won’t have to struggle to get even stitches on round corners or in tight places.
What we love
- Great user-friendliness
- Coverstitch capabilities
- Quiet operation
- Automatic tension control
- 5-4-3-2 thread capability
- Adjustable stitch length and width
- Versatile stitch types
Watch for
- Contains many advanced features which increase the cost
- Manual threading
- Fragile components overall
Final Thoughts
When you’re choosing the best industrial sewing machine, there are many features to look at, which can make it difficult to make a decision. After extensive research and plenty of consideration, we believe that the Juki TL-2010Q 1-Needle Lockstitch Portable Sewing Machine is the best choice for crafters working at home looking to upgrade their current sewing machine. This excellent machine has features not limited to:
- Automatic thread trimmer
- Maximum speed control
- Thread tension scale
- Speed control mechanism
- Needle up/down control
- Automatic needle threader
This is also a great option for beginners who are starting to dive into the craft. It checks a lot of the boxes for us and comes with many of the features you’ll desire, whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been doing it for years.