Industrial Sewing Machine (Complete Buying, Pros And Cons Guide)

Looking for the right guidance selecting the industrial sewing machine?

You’re in the right place!

This article will explain or discuss:

  • What to look for while buying an industrial sewing machine?
  • Advantages And Disadvantages of industrial sewing machine?
  • And much more !

Ready? Let’s get started!

 Industrial Sewing Machine buying guide

What Is An Industrial Sewing Machine?

Professional and commercial sewing machines are other terms for industrial sewing machines. It’s all the same. We are essentially discussing a sewing machine designed for professional usage. Other sorts of models are solely intended for usage at home. They are more costly and frequently larger and more durable.

What To Look For In A Good Industrial Sewing Machine?

Before we get into that, let’s first discuss whether you need a professional machine or if a decent high-end one would suffice for home use.  

Do You Need A Professional Sewing Machine?

Some of the best models for residential usage are excellent. It appeals to me much. As a result, the answer is dependent on how frequently you use the equipment. If you are primarily interested in aesthetic characteristics such as stitch counts, a home sewing machine is a way to go.

Some of today’s finest models are jam-packed with features, and there are hundreds of unique stitches to select from. It’s, so if you don’t sew a lot every day, a professional sewing machine won’t be for you. 

If you intend to utilize it daily (as your day job), you should invest in a professional machine. Let’s look at some of the distinctions between an industrial and a domestic sewing machine.

What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Industrial Sewing Machine?

Lets look at the advantages and disadvantages of industrial sewing machine following:

Advantages Of Industrial Sewing Machines

Long-lasting

It will last much longer if you sell for several hours each day. Sewing machines designed for domestic usage will not endure for many years if used regularly.

In the long term, this will save you money. Not only will they endure longer, but they will also break less frequently.

Customizable

Industrial sewing machines are frequently configured to do only one or a very limited number of operations. This is useful if you are sewing the same sort of item again and over. This is also one of the key reasons why you should not use an industrial sewing machine at home. We want our system to be able to perform as many different functions as feasible at home.

Speed 

Industrial sewing machines feature significantly powerful engines that allow them to operate at a higher speed. As previously said, these machines can be modified in every aspect, so having the option to speed up is fantastic. This is especially true if you’re working with really long pieces of cloth. Some industrial machines can stitch at speeds of up to 5,000 rpm (or more!).

Permanent Installation

Because industrial sewing machines are incorporated into the table, you will have a larger workspace. This is convenient if you deal with it daily because you won’t have to drag it in and out of a cabinet. You simply sit down and turn it on, and you’re ready to go!

Greater Length Of Free Arm 

The industrial versions frequently feature a lengthy free arm. This allows more cloth to pass past on the right side of the needle. When the free arm is combined with a large extension table, you have a very excellent configuration.

Simple To Use

They are also incredibly simple to operate due to their modest setup. There aren’t a lot of features or stitches to select from, so you can’t go wrong.

Automatic Features

If you’re used to sewing with mechanical machines, you’ll probably like the automated functions on industrial versions. They frequently cut the thread automatically, as well as do automated backtaking, and so forth. These characteristics may also be found in most computerized models nowadays. As a result, you should not pick an industrial model for this reason. 

Powerful Motors

The ability to start and stop instantaneously is the final feature we’ll highlight here. This is made possible by the powerful and one-of-a-kind motors found on these fantastic devices.

 Disadvantages Of Industrial Sewing Machines

Limited Set Of Features

You will have a very restricted selection of options. Many industrial models, for example, will only be able to sew a straight stitch. This is because industrial models are designed to do repetitive tasks over and over again. You won’t be able to insert a large range of various needles either.

This is the primary reason that most amateur and hobby seamstresses should avoid industrial equipment.

Very Hefty And Difficult To Transport

As previously stated, industrial machinery may frequently weigh up to 100 pounds (50 kilograms). As a result, you won’t be able to relocate them or store them in the cabinet when you have visitors around for dinner. Many types will have the motor placed independently, implying that it will not be located inside the machine. They are intended to remain in the same location for an extended period.

Noisy

These machines have a larger engine since they are designed to be more sturdy and last longer. This implies faster stitching, but it also means greater noise from the machine. Some folks will have their industrial equipment soundproofed, however, this will not eliminate the low-frequency buzz produced by the engine. Placing it on a rubber pad might sometimes help to lessen noise.

No Free Arm

The sewing machine is frequently level with the table it is installed on. This also implies that you will not have a free arm. As a result, you won’t be able to stitch a tube of cloth, as you would when hemming a pair of pants.

For this reason, you cannot use an industrial sewing machine for all of your sewing jobs. You will also require a home model.

Difficult Threading

If it isn’t too old, your normal home sewing machine will include an automated threading system. This is not true of your industrial model. It’s more difficult to thread, and if you can’t locate the handbook, you’ll probably have to learn from an expert.

Different Types Of Industrial Machines

We have a vast range of different sorts of industrial machines, just like we do with household sewing machines. There are additional industrial machines for quilting and embroidery, as well as sergers and lockstitch machines. They are also the distinctions between various industrial machinery.

Heavy Duty Vs. Thin Fabric 

The machine may be configured to work with either heavy or thin cloth. As previously said, industrial equipment is virtually typically configured for extremely specialized functions. So, before you start sewing, make sure it’s correctly set up for the sort of cloth you’re going to work with.

Servo Motor Vs. Clutch Motors 

A clutch motor is always included in older industrial versions. It will be noisy and will sound similar to your home sewing machine, only louder.

Newer variants are designed around far quieter servo motors. They can be as quiet as, or perhaps quieter than, your home sewing machine. You can also opt to replace the clutch motor in older industrial sewing machines with a servo motor. Remember that the motor is placed outside the machine, thus replacing it is rather simple.

However, getting a model for the servo motor from the start is far less expensive. Purchasing a low-cost industrial model and upgrading the motor is unlikely to save you money. The servo motors are fantastic since they are both powerful and energy-efficient.

The reason they are frequently more energy-efficient may be discovered in the way they are constructed. The clutch motor must be turned on at all times, but the servo motor may be turned on and off as you stitch. As a result, as you can expect, the servo motor will provide a considerably quieter working environment. Not only is it quieter, but it also does not run continuously.

With the servo motor, you will also be able to stitch at a much slower speed. That’s perfect for finer details or working with apparent seams.

Long Arm

To deal with big quantities of cloth, certain versions will have exceptionally long arms. When working with quilting and embroidery stitches on your home sewing machine, this is usually ideal. You want that additional room around the throat to be able to shift the cloth around freely. The same is true of your industrial model.

These are especially useful for working with extra-heavy fabrics such as canvas, vinyl, leather, and other coated materials. When stitching numerous pieces of thick fabric together, it’s difficult to bend or move the cloth, so you’ll need that extra room.

Differences Between Industrial And Domestic Sewing Machines

The Size And Weight

Most industrial sewing machines are significantly heavier than the ordinary residential model. They can weigh up to 100 pounds (50 kilograms), however, there are other portable devices for industrial usage that are significantly lighter.

There are several reasons why industrial sewing machines are so large. They are not intended to be transported. They are intended to be permanently fixed on a table and remain there for many years. So this isn’t the usual computer that you’ll carry to class or take to your neighbors’ house now and then.

They are also significantly larger. They can be double the size of your average home sewing machine. This is usually due to the free arm being longer to work on larger projects and having more room (fabric) to the opposite side of the needle. So, unless you choose one of the more lightweight and portable machines, you’ll have to dedicate a whole room to the sewing machine. 

Parts Of An Industrial Sewing Machine

An Industrial sewing machine consists of three main parts: the head, the motor, and the table. This is essential to understand before going out to buy an industrial sewing machine. Make certain that the price quotation you get includes all three components. 

The beautiful thing about this is that you can adjust each component individually. Perhaps you want to convert your old clutch motor to a servo motor (as discussed below), or perhaps you want a larger table. Then you just detach that portion of the machine and replace it.

The industrial variants also have a separate foot pedal. You can accomplish more with your foot, and it was designed this way to save you time. You can do the following operations with your feet:

  • Trimming the thread
  • Lifting the foot 
  • Starting the machine 
  • Threading

When you receive the machine, it is usually threaded. If you’re purchasing a used model, just request that the seller thread the machine before shipping it to you.

The configuration of the thread’s many channels varies greatly, so consult the instructions here.

The bobbin, on the other hand, is normally threaded in the same manner as a home sewing machine. However, it is sometimes positioned outside the machine. This is dependent on the sort of computer you’re using. However, threading the bobbin on your industrial machine should be a breeze. Here are two more minor changes in the needle area:

In most industrial versions, you will input the thread (into the eye of the needle) from left to right.

You always stitch from the front to the back on your home sewing machine.

You’ll also note that the needles aren’t the same.

The needle on your home sewing machine will be flat on one side of the shaft (the top of the needle). The needles in industrial versions, on the other hand, are fully spherical.

Speed

The motor is another distinction between household sewing machines and industrial versions. Because the motor is larger and more powerful, you can sew quicker. This is because the industrial model is intended to endure (every day). If you sit in front of the sewing machine every day, you will become a sewing expert and will be able to stitch more quickly. If the machine has a clutch motor, it will not be able to operate as slowly as a home sewing machine. You’ll need a model with a servomotor to perform this. 

If you wish to preserve the old clutch motor, a reducer can be installed. This will substantially slow down your stitching pace and ensure that you get the exact stitch every time. You might need to get a new belt.

Dangers Of Industrial Sewing Machines

You want to keep your industrial machine out of the reach of youngsters.

If you don’t know what you’re doing since the motor is located outside the machine, you might be harmed.

It’s also worth noting that the engine is substantially more powerful. It may move quicker and exert more pull on the cloth. So be cautious when you feed the cloth into the machine and keep a close eye on the needle the first few times you use it.

Here Are Some Industrial Sewing Machine Safety Tips:

When you’re finished, make sure to turn it off. Remove the cord when not in use for an extended length of time.

It is critical to maintaining your workspace tidy and clear of fabric scraps and other things. We don’t want anything lying around that may harm our machine.

It’s also a good idea to avoid wearing any loose clothing or neckties near the sewing machine. We don’t want the needle to get a hold of your garments.

Keep children and other persons away from the machine at all times while it is in use.

Remember to always read the handbook before using your machine. It may have particular settings that you must be aware of to use it correctly.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Just like a domestic sewing machine, you should clean the sewing machine regularly.

Make sure to remove any lint and thread and inspect the bobbin case regularly. Remove the bobbin from the bobbin casing and clean it with the supplied brush.

Make certain that the fat is not eliminated for any reason. Simply remove the dirt and lint.

Another item to consider is how frequently the equipment should be lubricated.

This frequently differs between industrial and residential versions. Many household types don’t even need to be oiled (as you may have discovered the hard way!). This is not always the case with industrial models.

You will most likely need to lubricate your industrial machine twice a week, or far more regularly than you would your home sewing machine. Because it is constantly running, it requires extra attention and maintenance.

Before you begin putting oil anyplace, make sure to consult your owner’s handbook. If you are unable to locate it, you should contact a repair company that specializes in your specific brand. It’s critical because if you over-oil it or start pouring oil in the incorrect places, you may quickly damage your machine.

Remember to always finish by putting your dustcover over the machine. By doing so, we ensure that all of the microscopic dust particles in the air do not access the machine’s important sections.

Professional Sewing Machine Brands

Here are some of the reliable brands for industrial sewing machines:

  • Consew
  • Econosew
  • Highlead
  • Juki
  • Reliable
  • Seiko
  • Brother
  • Singer
  • Pegasus
  • Siruba

Alternatives To Buying An Industrial Sewing Machine

Industrial models were once prohibitively costly. It would frequently have to pay up to $5,000. Today’s prices have plummeted dramatically. Because the market for these equipment has grown much more competitive, prices have dropped down.

You can purchase a pretty decent model from Juki for roughly $1,300, and there are likely cheaper variants available. Having said that, you typically have to spend a bit extra for all of the equipment that comes with it. A table, for example, is required for a proper setting.

Many times, it is sensible to look into other methods of obtaining a professional sewing machine.

Should I Get A Used Model?

If you’re looking at antique models, you should be mindful of the drawbacks of purchasing an overly old industrial model.

When working professionally with your equipment, always use a computerized model. If this seems intimidating to you and you aren’t tech-savvy enough, you just have to get over it. Everyone may learn to use a computerized model, and if you intend to utilize the equipment professionally, you must.

So you should avoid really old industrial sewing machines simply because they must be digitized to some level. Having said that, there are many nice secondhand industrial machinery available at significantly lower prices.

Buying models that are only a few years old is usually a smart choice. Just like buying a vehicle, you don’t want to buy it right off the production line, but you also don’t want to get a model that is too old. Choose a model that is one or two years old, and you will almost certainly receive the greatest value.

This way, if you choose to trade it in for another model, you’ll have an excellent resell price. If you acquire a computer that is only one or two years old and retain it for a year or two, it will not degrade much. You should be able to obtain the same amount of money for it as you spent on it.

Conclusion

If you’re in the market for a new industrial sewing machine, there are many things to consider. Whether it’s intended as an office or commercial use-grade product will dictate what features come standard on your purchase and how much they cost.

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