So the other day, a friend came over with a torn shirt and a small mending machine tucked under her arm, looking a bit puzzled. She asked me, “Is this the same as a regular sewing machine? How can I differentiate between a mending machine vs sewing machine?”
And that got me thinking, while both machines stitch fabric together, their purpose and capabilities are actually quite different.
Mending Vs Sewing Machine
A mending machine is designed for quick repairs and patching, while a sewing machine handles a wide range of sewing projects, from garments to quilts.
Basically, one builds, the other restores, but both save your favorite fabrics in their own way. But people are still confused about those two machines. So I decided to break it down.
Table of Contents
Is Mending The Same As Sewing?
Not exactly. Mending is a type of sewing. However, it focuses specifically on repairing or reinforcing existing fabric, such as fixing a tear, patching a hole, or reinforcing a worn seam.
Regular sewing, on the other hand, is broader: it includes making new garments, creating decorative items, quilting, or any stitching project from scratch.
Basically, all mending is sewing, but not all sewing is mending. It’s like baking: all cupcakes are baked goods, but not all baked goods are cupcakes. 😜
What Is The Difference Between A Sewing Machine And A Mending Machine?
A sewing machine is versatile, designed for making new garments, decorative stitching, quilting, and general sewing tasks. A mending machine is specialized for repairs, like patching holes, fixing seams, or reinforcing worn areas, often with simpler stitch options.
| Sewing Machine | Mending Machine |
| General sewing, creating new items | Repairing and reinforcing existing fabric |
| Multiple stitches (straight, zigzag, decorative) | Limited to basic stitches (mostly straight or zigzag) |
| Medium to high | Low to medium |
| Adjustable, often faster | Usually slower for precision |
| All kinds, light to heavy | Mainly medium to heavy fabrics |
| Decorative stitching, buttonholes, quilting | Focus on the repair fabric efficiency |
Can You Use A Mending Machine To Sew?
Yes, but with some limits. A mending machine is designed primarily for repairs, such as patching holes, reinforcing seams, or fixing tears.
So it usually handles straight stitches or simple zigzags. You can sew with it. But it’s not ideal for creating full garments, intricate patterns, or decorative stitching like a standard sewing machine.
In short, perfect for quick fixes, but not a replacement for a regular sewing machine.
Mending Machine Vs Sewing Machine, Which Is Stronger?
The sewing machine stitches is the stronger one.
A regular sewing machine is built for durability and precision, using a two-thread lockstitch system that holds fabric layers together firmly.
A mending machine, on the other hand, is more of a quick-fix tool. It uses a single-thread chain stitch. It is fine for small repairs but not strong enough for heavy seams or thick fabrics.
So if you’re looking for long-lasting stitches and cleaner finishing, go for the sewing machine. The mending machine is great for convenience but not for power.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a mending machine for full sewing projects?
Not really. Mending machines are best suited for temporary fixes, such as hemming or patching, while sewing machines are designed for long-term garment construction and handling heavier fabrics.
Which one is better for beginners?
A mending machine is easier to start with if you just want to fix clothes fast. But if you plan to learn sewing properly, a standard sewing machine gives you more control and options.
Does a mending machine need threading like a sewing machine?
Yes, but it’s much simpler most mending machines only use one thread, so setup is quick and less technical.
Can a sewing machine do mending work too?
Absolutely! In fact, a regular sewing machine can do everything a mending machine does, plus much more.
Which One Should You Pick?
If you’re after strength, versatility, and lasting results, the sewing machine is your best friend. It’s perfect for stitching garments, home décor, and craft projects.
But if you just want to fix a torn seam or hem pants in minutes, a mending machine will save you time.
Think of it this way—
The mending machine is your “on-the-go repair kit,” while the sewing machine is your “creative powerhouse.”
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