Do you need an industrial sewing machine? Take a good look in your basement and perhaps you already know the answer. Down there under the dusty covers and dark shadows, there are the many wounded soldiers of your exploits and garage sales. Unless you are an antique dealer or a collector, why would you want to clutter your home with any more unused machinery? Some women buy sewing machines like they buy jeans. Don't believe me?
Run to your nail salon and ask around. You will find that the average women have 6 pairs of jeans, some will have more. I am guilty of this, at one point of my life, I had 12 pairs of jeans and 6 sewing machines (1 Singer, 1 Toyota, 1 Juki, 1 Janome, and 2 sergers..). I'm not sure if you know, but Toyota actually does make sewing machines –as well as cars, trucks and just about everything else. Then I started to ask myself –what possessed me to accumulate so many pairs of jeans and this amount of sewing machines?
The answer was quite simple, I was not entirely satisfied with the product. I kept looking for a pair of jeans that would look good and are comfortable, and I kept buying cheap ones in the hope that one day I will find the one. I did find a couple, but they never lasted more than a year, and I was left once again hunting for the perfect pair. Until one day I had to move to a tropical place. My needs changed and with it the need for 12 pairs of jeans. If I take 40 dollars and multiply it by 12, I have enough to buy a pair that is made with the best design and shaping capabilities.
Like the need for a better pair of jeans, our need for a reliable sewing machine arrives in the shape of the mountains of projects forgotten and put aside because we were not happy with the look of the buttonhole or the zigzag doesn't work anymore or the machine is skipping stitches when sewing bulky items, etc. etc. Notice how after a marathon of sewing, your domestic sewing machine is never quite the same? This is because home sewing machines are not meant to be used for an extended period of time. Do you want a sewing machine that can do everything? Everything? Really..? What does that even mean? Can it attach lining on its own while playing Bach in the background? There is no such thing as a perfect sewing machine that does everything. With time I have learned that 95 percent of the stitches I will never use and that professional-looking buttonhole is everything.
So now, do you need to buy an industrial sewing machine?
Like with many things, the answer is “It depends.” You could certainly argue that an industrial sewing machine is what separates the amateurs from the professionals. Here are a few other considerations:
- Do you want to declutter your home by getting rid of mediocre machinery?
- Do you want to supplement your income with your sewing and need a reliable machine with a professional-looking stitch?
- Do you want to combine different types of material together for accessories?
- Do you work with canvas, jeans, leather or sequined fabrics?
- Do you sew every day for more than 4 hours a day?
- Do you own an embroidery machine and are thinking of making quilts and handbags?
Then the answer is yes!
As with my sewing machines, I traded my jeans for a nice pair of well-fitted dark color 7 for all mankind jeans slimming illusion –I like the illusion part the best– and, Yes, I have only one pair now. Expensive for sure, but worth every penny.
How many sewing machines then? I think of machines as the brush of a painter. You can use your hands or have just one, but the true and full answer is 3. One serger, one domestic machine that makes flawless buttonholes, and my workhorse –an old Pfaff 563 that is reliable and noisy like a tractor, but it sews many layers of fabric together, thick leather and finishes the job efficiently and quickly.
How many sewing machines do you have? Would you consider an industrial one? Do you have the perfect sewing machine for your needs? Leave a comment on the box below. We'd love to hear your opinion.
I just discovered that you can even find industrial sewing machines on Amazon! Below are some options.
If you're thinking about a new sewing machine, you can find lots of great reviews over on Sewing Machine Reviews. If you find one of your existing machines in their list, go ahead and leave a review so you can help other readers with their decision.
My mom bought me my first machine, a heavy reliable old Brother. It was hard to give up when it had past its prime. I have a second-hand Bernina now, which has far too many whistles but it works so much better than my two previous “plastic” machines which never worked predictably. I used a $25 thrift store Singer while I travelled about the US in an RV, ( I bought it on the trip because I had to sew!) my husband bought me an overhauled serger and I bought a Value Village beauty for $60.
I’ve always been stumped by seams and I still dream of sewing leather. Perhaps an industrial machine will join me and my grandkids in the years to come. If I’m lucky.
I was given a Kenmore sewing machine on my first wedding anniversary. That was in 1979. It’s still going strong. I use it daily now I’ve retired. I also have a server. I’m exploring different things to sew. Quilts, bags, aprons. I’m always looking for new patterns. An industrial machine would be fabulous.
I have one all-purpose machine, a Husqvarna Viking Epic sewing/embroidery machine. But what I would really like to do—and I need a tough machine that can handle it—is to repair horse blankets. They are generally heavy and often made of heavy materials. I have made minor repairs for people, but to sew on, for instance, webbing to a heavy fabric is next to impossible on most home machines. I read the local paper to see whether any neighborhood dry cleaners are going out of business. I always hoped that if I found one, I’d ask if I could purchase their sewing machine. But none have gone out of business and, instead, appear to pass their businesses on to other family members. So here’s hoping that the opportunity to do some real horse blanket sewing is coming my way in the near future!?? Thank you for the contest!
Yes, please, I would love to. It would be another bridge crossing in my sewing hobby 🙂
Sure, definitely! sewing on Janome Combo is fine, but with challenges. Though managed to get quite a very good results. However, a Juki would be ideal and dream come true for furnishing, cushion’s cover or covers.
Oh yes! I definitely need an industrial Juki. I used to have an old one, but it was well worn when I got it and completely broke down too soon. I only had it long enough to be convinced that an industrial machine is great for anyone like me who has to sew a lot!
I make dolls, their clothing, and accessories such as patchwork bedding from recycled textiles. A few years ago I fell in love with patchwork and quilting too. My machines I regularly use are two vintage Bernina’s. I love them, but they are old and have issues. I also have a treadle, and it’s lovely too.
But, none of my current machines can keep up with my sewing workload. Home sewing is how I supplement our income, but even with a bit extra coming in my life is always about repair and make do.
A new industrial machine would speed things up and be so helpful. I’d be in shock if I won. But you can always dream ;-))
Thanks for a chance to be in the draw. I’m grateful for that
Yes, definitely. I have been sewing on a Janome Combo for various project from swim wears to lingerie and furnishing. It works fine, but Juki would be a dream come true, especially for furnishings.
I definitely need an industrial sewing machine. I work a lot with leather and heavy canvas type fabrics making bags. My home sewing machines can’t take sewing heavier fabrics. It is definitely a struggle. An industrial machine would simplify and make things easier.
This machine would change the difficulty I have making bags and other thick layers of fabric in projects. I would make a dress with that fabric!!
I have a Janome sewing machine and it doesn’t work as well as my old Singer.But they both are showing their age,I do Craft markets with hooded towels,reading pillows,oven mitts and bags,so an Industrial machine would be a blessing.
Yes an industrial machine would be very handy to sew through the thick layers of some of the bags I make.
Yes! I do need an industrial machine! Making louts of nags and getting into luggage! Want to also start making bedding soon. Would be a dream to own a Juki for those speedy seams!!!
I would love to have one basic industrial machine. I do alterations but also making bags, as gift items. I try to recycle/ upcycle a lot of fabric as I feel environmentally conscious of not wasting anything, so an industrial machine can help me achieve more in my budget.
I currently have 3 machines, a Sears Kenmore I got in 1976, still humming; a Janome purchased in 2015 with computerized stitching selections; and my pride and joy – a 1949 Singer Featherweight that makes the most perfect stitches. Years ago I worked in several Sewing factories on industrial machines. There is nothing like the speed of a straight stitch industrial running full bore! To have one of my own, to sew what I wanted instead of what I was assigned would be heavenly! Here’s to the future winner – may you sew the best seams ever!
I so badly need one. I make bags, quilts and many things using heavy weight fabrics. I somehow manage to get them done with my brother machine. But having a hard time but can’t afford one. Would love to have one.
To win a machine like this is a dream come true, i will be happy
I would love an industrial machine. I love to explore and create new things — quilts, fiber arts and more. An industrial machine would open up new possibilities.
I love Bernina machines having been given a top of the range Bernina when I was 15 years of age. After using that machine for about 23 years I upgraded to another Bernina (1530) which I still use regularly. I have since bought a Bernette overlocker, a second hand Bernina 1130 and a 750 QE with an embroidery module. I also have a small light-weight Brother as something easy to load into my car when I go to workshops, but I prefer using my Berninas.
As a high school Fashion Design class teacher, I’ve often thought it would be so wonderful to teach my students more about the industry by giving them an opportunity to sew on an industrial machine! The cost of the machines makes them cost prohibitive. I’m doing good to get a few school Berninas to replace some cheap home Brother machines that were bought 15 years ago.
I have had a Singer since 1965. In 2007 My Singer retired and I bought a Husqvarna which has served me well when we lived in the Philippines. After returning to the US in 2013, we spend 6 months in Florida and 6 in NC. After carrying my Husqvarna back and forth for 4 years, I bought a cheap Singer at a yard sale last year to eliminate the continual moving of my machine. I have had it serviced, and am still learning its intricacies.Another machine would excite and encourage me to continue hand-smocking and sewing children’s clothing.
I could really use one for my nonprofit organization. We make weight collars for alleviating anxiety often seen in people with Autism. We are now trying make them for detainees in the county jail who are Autistic or anxious. The collars for that environment need to be made from a heavy vinyl material so they can be wiped down and then placed in a softer cover that can be washed. At present we don’t have a heavy duty machine suitable for this type of material. We are a 501c3 nonprofit called Autism FYI Org. I hope we are eligible.
I use industrial machines where I work and there is no comparison with my 2 Brothers, 2 Singers, 1 Janome and 1 Babylock serger at home.
I started sewing at age 10…redesigning hand-me-downs from a family friend. I started designing hip-hugger bells bottoms (now that dates me) At 13 we couldn’t afford to buy all the latest styles that I wanted to wear and so I started sewing them instead. As time went on I made drapes, re-upholstered furniture, made dolls and stuffed animals and then my interpretation of “Gunne Sax” dresses for my friends weddings. I have made quilts, but lately have been enjoying recycling jeans into stuffed animals…the only problem is I got rid of my old singer thinking I would be able to sew better with a newer machine, but found in a short period of time that was the biggest mistake I ever made…the new machine is not heavy enough and hops all over the table when I use heavy weight fabric like jeans or certain kinds of upholstery fabrics and so I became very discouraged and quite sewing like I used to. I even tried to buy my old machine back at one point! I am now having grandkids join our family and so would really like to sew things for them and could use a dependable heavy duty machine.
I have a Brother Luminaire for embroidery but a single stitch machine for a workhorse machine would be great for all the crafty sewing/quilting I do and not needing to disable the embroidery machine. I have taken classes with gals that swear by their Juki for free motion quilting as well as regular sewing.
I’d love to have a Juki industrial machine. I presently have a Husqvarna Viking Designer 1, just bought back to life following an extended retirement. I have 2 Janome machines, a “Sew Crafty” sewing machine from Aldi, and an overlocker that I hate because I can never thread it.
I have two domestic machines and a serger. I make bags so an industrial machine would come in handy.
yes i need a replacement. my machine was destroyed during a flood and i have missed it so. This would be a wonderful new time for me to win something as wonderful as this. 64 years old and hoping…
Yes and yes! I know that I could easily contribute the success of my business to it !!!
My mom taught me to sew when I was a child. Then I had a fabulous home-ec class in HS. I have been sewing ever since 40+ yrs. I have tried many machines. Expensive. Cheap. Many stitches. Few stitches. Still waiting to find that machine that just sews effortlessly so I can concentrate on getting the project right instead of the machine. I would love to win one of these.
Yes I need an industrial machine. About 30 years ago I bought a Kenmore sewing machine. Just started doing repairs and alterations out of my home as a business couple of months ago, that Kenmore still works but one of these days….. and then I will have nothing….
I have to work on items for our sail boat. I have some cushions and all of the curtains to make replacements for.
But the real chore is repairing sails. You would not believe how thick parts of a sail are. In the past, my husband has had to use an awl to make holes to hand sew parts that the machine could not handle.
I could really use an industrial machine.
I currently have six machines – 1972 Viking that I purchased new in 1972, my mother’s 1959 Singer, a Brother portable, a Brother Quattro, and a Baby Lock Luminaire and a Baby Lock Triumph server. Don’t know how many machines I have had over the years, it there were many. I love my embroidery Luminaire, but an industrial machine would finish my collection.
I’m 74 years old and have been using my mother’s Singer 500 slant needle machine for the last 50 years. It has finally decided it wanted to retire. can’t find anyone who works on singers anymore so I’ve cleaned and oiled it myself but it still runs slow. My neighbor gave me her old singer 404 which runs okay but it’s hard to get my quilts under the needle. I really need a new machine and don’t know which to consider. there are no dealers around where I live. I do so need a new machine so I can finish all these unfinished quilts I make for children’s hospital. Sewing is how I relax!
I would love an industrial machine. I currently have three machines that I use all the time, but thick bag seams are still a challenge.
I would love to have an industrial machine for purse and bag making. I have several domestic machines but they just don’t have the moxie to sew thru several layers of vinyl or leather! I do love what I have for quilt making tho.
I would LOVE an industrial machine to join the 8 machines (new and vintage) that I already have. I sew every day, mostly clothes for underpriviledged kids ; the industrial would be great for jeans and handbags which I like to send along with the other clothing items.
I have three machines one of which is on it’s last legs. One of them is a Husqvarna machine with embroidery unit that’s great and an inexpensive Singer bought to use as a back up as my older long-term Husqvarna has decided to die. I have a girlfriend with a Juki and heard great things about it. I have been wanting an industrial machine to do some heavier duty projects.
I found the article and the comments very fascinating and they made me smile because I realize I am not the only one hoarding sewing machine. Last month I decided to take my first sewing machine a Singer 771 out of the cabinet(the one that dropped down with storage underneath) I needed to make space. 9 functional machines, occupy my space,4 of which are industrial, straight stitch, serger,purl stitch, and a hemmer. I have a mini factory.,maybe a leather machine…I wish someone win the industrial,good luck.
I have the Janome 7700 which I use most of the time making quilts. I also have the Toyota Jean machine which I use for those jobs such as altering heavy fabric items. I could use a machine which would do both.
I have found you need the machine to match the job you want to do and the ability you have to do the job. I purchased my first Kenmore sewing machine to do hems and repairs. As my skills increased I upgraded to a Janome to take to quilting class. When this machine had timing issues I upgraded to a Baby Lock with a small embroidery hoop. As i increased my skills i upgraded to a Janome embroidery only machine with larger hoops. As my quilting skills increased i wanted to quilt my own quilts so again upgraded to a Huskavarna Viking which stitches beautifully. However i now want to work on heavier upholstery fabric and vinyl. To win a workhorse like a Juki would be wonderful.
to win a machine like this sounds a dream come true. I have been sewing for about 50 years and always on a Janome as I have never had access to any different brands where I live unless i buy sight unseen.. I now try to sew every day as it is a great relaxation pass time for me. It would be great to own a Juki as it sounds liike the type of machine that would cover all my needs, from clothing to bag making. one can only hope the dream comes true
I have 3 machines I consistently use :a Brother sewing machine, Juki serger, Janome coverstitch. I have an old machine with the belt on the wheel that doesn’t work and an old Singer from a 70s high school home ec class (that was my heavy duty workhorse) , but they have both sadly passed… An industrial machine would be lovely, but I am blessed with what I have. I learned on my grandmother’s 1908 treadle singer many years ago. Sewing is a hobby my daughter and I share even though we live in different states. Good luck to all in the drawing!
I do need one. I make purses, totes and luggage. I make a lot of stuff with suede, leather, cork and vinyl.