sewing machine

Apparatus for the mechanical sewing of cloth, leather, and other materials by a needle, powered by hand, treadle, or electric motor. The lockstitch machine, in common use, which uses a double thread, was invented independently in the USA by both Walter Hunt (in 1834) and Elias Howe, who patented his machine in 1846. Howe's machine was the basis of the machine patented in 1851 by US inventor Isaac Singer. His first machine was developed for factory use, but he went on to produce sewing machines for the domestic market. His name became readily associated with the sewing machine.

Many modern sewing machines contain microprocessors, which enable the selection of a wide range of different stitching patterns. Computer-controlled machines are now also available, with programmes which allow the user to create their own embroidery patterns on screen. The machine will automatically reproduce these designs. Another type of machine in wide use, particularly in industry, is the overlocker. This was first developed in the late 19th century and is able to cut, sew, and neaten seams in one operation.