This week I was asked what the best zigzag sewing machine was.
As with most questions, it's not as easy as just spouting out an answer, so here are some guidelines on choosing the best Zigzag machine for you.
Zigzag machines (as opposed to straight stitch machines) come in three styles.
We'll name these categories by their bobbin designations: Class 15, Class 15 Front Load, and Drop-In.
Class 15
As with most questions, it's not as easy as just spouting out an answer, so here are some guidelines on choosing the best Zigzag machine for you.
Zigzag machines (as opposed to straight stitch machines) come in three styles.
We'll name these categories by their bobbin designations: Class 15, Class 15 Front Load, and Drop-In.
Class 15
 | Originally, most zigzag sewing machines were in the Class 15 style. The Class 15 bobbin case is located at the end of the sewing machine.  |
This style functions very well, due to the the timing being pinned (rather than screwed) in place.
In 27 years I have never had to reset the timing on a Class 15 machine.
In addition, the entire bobbin case moves with the needle as it zigzags, making sure each stitch is consistent.
In 27 years I have never had to reset the timing on a Class 15 machine.
In addition, the entire bobbin case moves with the needle as it zigzags, making sure each stitch is consistent.
The difficulty with this style, however, is removing and replacing the bobbin through the small opening.
Class 15 Front Load
 | To fix this problem, Class 15 Front Load machines were created.  Using a snap-in bobbin case at the front of the machine, is easier to load. |
Unlike the Class 15, the bobbin case is static, meaning that the stitch is more likely to lose timing.
Drop-In
 | Drop-In sewing machines are the most commonly made today. Quick and easy to load, the bobbin is placed horizontal in the bobbin case.  Just like Class 15 Front Loads however, the bobbin case remains static during zigzaging. This may result in skipped stitches where only one side --Left or Right -- is actually sewn. |
The final decision comes down to how much effort you want to spend replacing the bobbin:
- Class 15s are the most precise, stitch-wise, but are also the most difficult to load.
- Class 15 Front Loads and Drop-Ins easier to load, but will also occasionally lose timing during a project.
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