Saumauskeino

Saumauskeino, a Finnish term, translates roughly to "sewing machine" or more literally, "stitching machine." It refers to a mechanical device that stitches fabric and other materials together with thread. The invention of the sewing machine in the 19th century revolutionized the textile industry and domestic sewing practices, significantly increasing the speed and efficiency of garment production compared to hand sewing.

Early sewing machines were often powered by hand cranks or foot pedals. Modern sewing machines are typically electric and offer a wide range of stitch types, from basic straight stitches to more decorative and functional ones like zigzag, buttonhole, and overlock stitches. They are used in both industrial settings for mass production of clothing and other textile goods, as well as in homes for mending, alterations, and creating custom garments and crafts.

The basic principle of a sewing machine involves two threads: an upper thread and a bobbin thread. As the needle, guided by the upper thread, passes through the fabric, it creates a loop. The bobbin, located beneath the fabric, then catches this loop and interlaces it with the bobbin thread, forming a stitch. Different machine mechanisms exist, such as the lockstitch and the chainstitch, each creating a distinct type of seam.