What Is Free Arm Sewing Machine?
If you want to sew clothes for yourself or others, consider investing in a free arm sewing machine. It is an affordable option that can save you lots of money and time.
A free arm sewing machine is a device that allows you to create custom clothing using only a standard sewing machine without having to buy expensive fabric.
The free arm sewing machine matching is a type of sewing machine that has a detachable sewing arm or called portable sewing machine.
The sewing arm is made of metal and is attached to the machine via a special hinge. The benefit is that the arm can be moved out of the way when working with larger items, such as sheets.
In addition, the free arm is a heavy duty sewing machine has a larger sewing space, as the free arm can move off the main part of the machine.
In this article, I am going to explain what a free arm sewing machine is and how it works, so you can create custom clothing today.
Different types of free arm sewing machines
There are two different free arm sewing machines: manual and automatic. They differ primarily by their ability to operate automatically.
1. Manual free arm sewing machines
Manual free arm sewing machines require manual operation from the user during all stages of garment creation. This means that the machine must first be set up before any work can begin.
Once setup, the operator uses hand controls on the side of the machine to guide the needle through the material being sewn.
2. Automatic free arm sewing machines
Automatic free arm sewing machines have been designed specifically to eliminate much of the complexity involved in setting them up.
Once they’re ready to go, these machines will do most of the hard work for you. You just need to press the button and let your machine take care of everything else!
Note: Free arm sewing machines come in various sizes and shapes depending on whether you plan to use them for home-based projects or commercial ones.
For example, some models include large arms, while others feature smaller versions. Many also offer essential sewing features like built-in lights, LED displays, memory function, etc.
With the right free arm sewing machine, there is no longer anything stopping you from making custom sewing clothing at home.
How to use your free arm sewing machine?
To get started with a free arm sewing machine, follow these steps:
Step 1: Set up your free arm sewing machine.
Before making garments, ensure that your machine is properly set up. To do this, simply read the instructions included with your model and follow each step carefully.
As mentioned above, many free arm sewing machines allow you to configure settings manually. You can choose which functions you would like the machine to perform.
These options vary between devices but may include things like stitch length, thread tension, overlocker, light, memory, etc.
Some manufacturers even provide detailed instruction manuals that help users understand exactly how to best use their equipment.
Step 2: Choose the right material.
When using a free arm sewing machine, you don’t want to sew tube of fabric directly onto another piece of fabric because then you won’t achieve a clean finish. Instead, you should always attach both layers together prior to stitching.
This ensures that seams remain smooth and flat throughout the entire process.
You should also avoid attaching sewing fabric too tightly, since doing so could cause wrinkles later down the line.
Step 3: Adjust stitch length & width.
The size of stitches used when operating a free arm sewing machine varies depending on the type of device you own. Some models produce very narrow stitches, whereas others create thicker lines.
Besides creating differences in appearance, it’s important to consider the quality of the finished product as well.
If you want to make sure that every seam remains strong and durable, opt for thinner threads. On the flip side, if you prefer softer results, try going with thick threads instead.
Step 4: Select the correct feed dogs.
Free arm sewing machines are equipped with different feeding mechanisms. These usually comprise two small metal plates known as “feed dogs”.
Your first job is to select one that matches the thickness of the fabric being sewn. For instance, if you intend to sew denim jeans, you’ll probably want to stick with an 8mm plate.
Step 5: Insert needle into the top layer.
Next, insert the needle through the uppermost part of the fabric. This way, you’ll be able to see where the next hole needs to be created.
Step 6: Position bottom dog.
Once you have done this, position the second feed dog just below the first one. You need to align them correctly by placing the lower sewing portion of the second plate against the edge of the fabric.
Step 7 : Lower presser foot.
Finally, lift the presser sewing foot slightly off the bedplate to reveal a gap underneath. Using the tip of your finger or a pair of tweezers, gently push the fabric towards the floor until you feel resistance.
Step 8: Remove needle.
Now take out the needle and replace it back into its holder. If needed, adjust the height of the needle bar accordingly.
Step 9: Repeat steps 1-8 for all remaining holes.
After completing each step, repeat these same actions once more before moving on to the next section.
Step 10: Check alignment.
Before starting any new project, check to ensure everything looks perfect. Make sure there aren’t any gaps left behind from previous work.
Step 11: Start sewing!
To stitch, simply pull up the presser foot while simultaneously pressing down on the pedal. As soon as the motor spins, slowly let go of the pedal and release the button.
Advantages of free arm sewing machines
There are plenty of advantages associated with owning a free arm sewing machine. Here are some other benefits that come along with purchasing such devices:
1) They provide a great alternative to traditional cylindrical sewing methods. Most people enjoy working with their hands, but they can sometimes get tired after long periods of time spent focusing solely on physical labor.
That’s why many individuals look for ways to reduce stress levels.
2) It saves you money. When compared to conventional devices, free arm sewing projects cost less than half of what those alternatives do.
In fact, most companies offer discounts on products that use this method.
3) The quality of the final product is unbeatable. Some models even feature built in stitch counters so you know exactly how much stitching has been completed.
4) Since they don’t require electricity, you won’t ever run out of battery power. Since they operate without motors, they also consume very little energy when used properly.
5) One benefit not mentioned above is that advanced sewing machine enable users to create patterns easily.
With a few simple adjustments, you could end up creating complex designs that look like something straight out of a professional fashion designer’s studio.
6) There are no limits to the fabrics that you could sew using this type of device. Not only will you be capable of making garments made of cotton, linen and silk, but you could actually produce leather goods too.
Disadvantages of free arm sewing machine
While free arm basic sewing machine may seem extremely convenient, they also carry certain disadvantages that should never be ignored. These include:
1) You cannot control them manually
It would certainly be nice if we could move our arms around freely during the whole process instead of being restricted by mechanical parts.
However, because free arm budget sewing machine lack human touch, you must rely entirely on the movements created by the machine itself.
This means that your results will ultimately depend on performing said tool.
2) They often break down
When considering the price tag attached to such equipment, one might assume that manufacturers build high performing units.
If you’re planning on getting one yourself, ensure that you note its warranty period before spending any cash. Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to pay shipping charges whenever you send back the defective item.
3) Their function isn’t perfect
Some models jam frequently. As soon as you try to operate the machine again, you might notice that it’s still stuck somewhere inside the fabric.
While some people find this annoying, others love it for their ability to cut through thick materials with ease.
The Bottom Line
Free arm sewing machines are undoubtedly great options.
For starters, they allow you to save a lot of money while simultaneously enabling you to craft items that are superior in terms of both design and functionality.
