Textiles - Mass Production Systems and Techniques - VEA

Sewing machines
Textiles - Mass Production - Systems and Techniques
Single needle sewing machine
Definition
A single needle over lock has three threads. It sews one line along a cut edge that is trimmed and
secured by the machine.
Use
It is used for close knit or woven fabrics and for edging single pieces as opposed to joining fabrics
together.
Twin needle sewing machine
Definition
A twin needle machine has a second needle so that two rows are
sewn in parallel.
Use
Because it creates a stronger seam it is necessary for more loosely
constructed fabrics where there is likely to be pressure along on the
joined seam when worn
Overlocker
Definition
An overlock machine has no bobbin; instead cones of thread are
used and threaded from the top. It creates a line (or lines) of
stitching along the edge of one or more fabrics to edge or join. It
incorporates a blade that trims the fabric close to the sewing. Top
and bottom threads are looped together ‘over’ the cut edge and
‘locked’ by the thread(s) in the sewn line(s).
Use
Particularly useful on knitted fabrics.
Electronic or computer-controlled sewing machines
They produce a vast range of decorative stitches, text as well as the basic stitches. The programme
shows them being used to embroider the sweatshirts. They are also used to embroider the base ball
caps. Information can be programmed in by the user and held in the memory which is supported by a
battery for when the machine is not connected to the mains. The machine will set the stitch length and
its width. Models vary with some allowing the user to design their own stitches and some supplying
computer disks or cartridges to extend the range of stitching
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