In general, machines that are classed as “Competent” have lots of great basic beginner features, as well as a few more advanced features for competent sewers who want to experiment with more specialised effects. For example, some of the sewing machines that we have classed as competent may also have some automated functions to help you to sew more quickly such as automated thread trimming, automated back tack control or automated control over the needle up / down position.
Some of these machines also allow you to fine-tune your stitches more easily, with some models having more precise control over the needle position to allow you to align your needle when sewing tricky areas such as when inserting zips. When manufacturers create machines for more competent sewers they also normally expand the range of stitch types that can be created with the machine and add extra options for buttonholes.
It’s good to know that just because a machine is classed as a machine suitable for a “Competent” sewer it doesn’t mean that it can’t be used by a sewing beginner. If anything, the more advanced and more expensive a machine is, the more likely it is that the basic features will work smoothly. In general, as machines become more expensive this will often mean that they have been manufactured to a higher quality standard. This will mean that machines marked as “Competent” will sometimes be harder wearing and will withstand more hours of sewing than machines built for sewers who are only learning and who only require a less expensive model of sewing machine to test out their new hobby. As a beginner, buying a machine classed as “Competent” may mean that the machine will last you longer since you will have more features to experiment with as your sewing improves.
