Machine Speed
#1
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jan 2019
Location: Ontario
Posts: 309
Machine Speed
Just curious how many use their machines at anywhere near the top speed. I have been sewing for over 40 years but find the top speeds are too fast for me. I use an anti vibration mat but it still shakes my table. I stop frequently to remove pins and slow down when crossing seams for matching and it seems silly to race for a few inches just to slow down or stop over and over. Even when sewing on borders or sewing curtains I don’t use top speeds.
Am I in the minority on this one or do you feel the same way?
Am I in the minority on this one or do you feel the same way?
#2
Super Member
Join Date: Sep 2018
Location: Houston, AK
Posts: 2,126
The only time I turn my machine to high speed is to spin a bobbin. Sometimes I forget to slide the bar back and it will scare me a bit when I start sewing again! I don’t use top speeds because I don’t feel I have as much control but sometimes I wish I could. I have so many quilts that I want to make that it would be nice to get to them faster but I don’t want to sacrifice accuracy.
#4
Super Member
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Pacific NW
Posts: 9,557
I use the higher speeds when I'm sewing long seams like borders. If I need to pin, I use a dot of glue and go full steam ahead.
You will find that if you move your machine to the end of the table, so it sits directly on top of a table leg, it will lessen the vibration. If you're using something lightweight, like a card table, you'll get vibration no matter what. But if your table is solid and has good support underneath, such as a beam connecting the legs under the table's surface, it won't vibrate at all.
You will find that if you move your machine to the end of the table, so it sits directly on top of a table leg, it will lessen the vibration. If you're using something lightweight, like a card table, you'll get vibration no matter what. But if your table is solid and has good support underneath, such as a beam connecting the legs under the table's surface, it won't vibrate at all.
#9
Super Member
Join Date: Oct 2015
Location: Va.
Posts: 5,753
I only use the top speed to wind bobbins. For piecing I usually sew at about 1/2 speed- my seams are more accurate that way.
When FMQ I go faster for bigger areas and slower when doing dense fills. Same with ruler work. I usually have my Sweet Sixteen set somewhere between 25% and 60% of its top speed.
Rob
When FMQ I go faster for bigger areas and slower when doing dense fills. Same with ruler work. I usually have my Sweet Sixteen set somewhere between 25% and 60% of its top speed.
Rob
#10
Super Member
Join Date: May 2017
Location: Sunny Florida
Posts: 4,431
It depends on the item being sewn. There is a rhythm with stitching and if I sew too slow or fast I mess up. Generally, my machine is at 3/4 speed. Bulky seams like binding are stitched slower.
I have a pivot function so can lift up with the foot pedal and set it to stop with either needle down/up. I like needle down so I can pivot or hold the fabric in place.
The embroidery machine is set for top speed as the machine is made for it.
I have a pivot function so can lift up with the foot pedal and set it to stop with either needle down/up. I like needle down so I can pivot or hold the fabric in place.
The embroidery machine is set for top speed as the machine is made for it.