Understanding how an embroidery machine works is easy. The more advanced the model, the less operator intervention is required. Modern devices can independently change the threads, cut them, scale the pattern. A description of the principle of operation, as well as the main selection criteria, is presented in this material.
The content of the article
- Device and main functions
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Main selection criteria
- hoop size
- Fabric fastening method
- Frame rigidity
- Command transmission methods
- Additional options
Device and main functions
Unlike a conventional sewing machine, an embroidery machine has advanced functionality, as it is capable of performing work of any complexity. So, if you do embroidery in the traditional way (manually), it can take weeks and even months to work. Moreover, its quality directly depends on the level of skill of a particular person.
But the embroidery machine copes with it in a few days or even hours, since it works in automatic mode. Considering how to choose an embroidery machine, first of all, you should familiarize yourself with its device.
It holds the fabric with hoops of various shapes and sizes. In this regard, embroidery is exactly the same as when working manually. The hoop moves automatically, without human intervention. The needles make punctures in the appropriate places, dragging the thread of the corresponding color with them.
The machine is equipped with a programming device and a display, all functions are controlled by a computer:
- hoop movement speed;
- amplitude;
- angle and direction;
- thread color.
When analyzing which embroidery machine to buy to start a business, you should pay attention to more expensive models. The fact is that budget devices can only work with a thread of one color. When a certain part of the drawing is over, the device itself will give a signal on the screen - you will need to insert another reel and continue working.
But if there are several such bobbins, they change automatically. We can say about the embroidery unit for sewing machines that it is a convenient device that works completely offline. Professional models are even able to cut the threads on their own. The operator only needs to set the desired program, load the pattern and insert the threads of all colors on the spools.
Main selection criteria
As a rule, such devices are purchased in order to engage in the relevant business. In this case, professional models with advanced features should be considered. When it comes to choosing an embroidery machine for your business, there are a few criteria to consider.
hoop size
The hoop is a very important element of the device, since it is in them that the stretched fabric is located. They can have different options:
- from 100*100 mm (for home use);
- up to 400*260 mm and even more (professional models).
Performance depends on the specific dimensions - the larger the dimensions, the larger the area per cycle. To do this, you need to pay attention to the area of \u200b\u200btravel of the carriage, that is, how many centimeters it can make in one direction or another.
It is clear what the name of the sewing machine that embroiders patterns is. But it is more important to pay attention to its parameters. For example, if the pattern is larger than the carriage travel, then the fabric on the hoop will need to be moved independently, and this requires very great care. Even the slightest inaccuracy will lead to the fact that the drawing will turn out to be with a noticeable defect (“rows will move out”).
Although this problem is solved thanks to the software. Large images are divided into several parts, and the machine works with each of them separately. Therefore, it should be clarified whether it has such a function.
Fabric fastening method
The quality of the finished embroidery also depends on how fast the hoop is. In inexpensive devices, a small backlash is provided, that is, an error, due to which individual stitches may move during the process.
Moreover, most often this phenomenon is observed in those nodes that are located at the maximum distance from the attachment zone. This is not always noticeable, but when it comes to business, such deviations are unacceptable.
Thus, the rating of sewing-embroidery machines with double fastenings (one on each side) should be considered. Although most devices attach the hoop at one point, it is better not to choose such models.
Frame rigidity
The choice of an embroidery machine is also related to how stable the construction with a stretched fabric is. That is, not only the type of fastening is important, but also its intensity. Ideally, the fabric should be pulled as tight as possible. Even a slight sag in the center leads to deformations and reduces the quality of the picture.
On the one hand, round hoops give the best tension, but on the other hand, they have a small area. Therefore, if you study which embroidery machine to buy, it is better to choose models with elongated frames, which at the same time have rounded, oval (but not sharp) corners.
In addition, the frame itself must be sufficiently rigid. It is necessary to inspect it and make sure that there are additional reinforcements in the corners - thanks to this, the fastening will be as reliable as possible.
Command transmission methods
The rating of embroidery machines for the home includes different models, so there is no shortage of choices. But in order to purchase a really good device, you need to pay attention to such a parameter as the way the team is loaded. Most often, a digital file with a pattern is transferred to the machine's computer using USB.
But there are other methods of communication:
- Compact Flash;
- over a Wi-Fi network;
- through CD loading;
- PCMCIA.
There are other devices that can download a file only after connecting to a computer. This is not quite convenient - it's easier to do the boot via USB.
Additional options
The review of embroidery machines for home use also includes an analysis of additional options, each of which is important. The more advanced functionality, the more convenient it is to work with the device and the less operator intervention is required. Below are a few options to help you understand how to choose an embroidery machine:
- automatic thread trimming after the end of the cycle;
- self-installation of threads;
- a sensor that monitors the end of threads;
- changing the speed of the needle;
- the ability to scale the picture;
- the device's own memory.
The best sewing and embroidery machines are equipped with all these features, so they can be used for even the most complex jobs. But if the device is required purely for home use, you can purchase a less expensive model with limited functionality, which will be quite enough for simple drawings.