A lot of people would assume that visually impaired people cannot sew. This is not the case. The blind have to adjust and learn how to sew cloth. Everything is different for a person who is blind, such as the threading of needles, finding a point in the fabric, and tying knots on the wrong side of the fabric so you can continue sewing from one line to another. You just have to get used to it.
Blindness doesn’t prevent you from being talented at something. Blind people can use the other senses in conjunction with a vision to help them with sewing and other tasks that require fine motor skills.
A lot of blind people have confidence in sewing. A female that has sight is different from one who is blind. Some women struggle with sewing because they rely on their sight and if they don’t have it, they cannot sew.
Although this is a fact, a woman who can’t see will feel depressed and insecure. She doesn’t know what she’s doing, she just wants to do it but she doesn’t dare to do it by herself without help from others. in this article, I will discuss how blind people can learn to sew.
Can Blind People Sew?
Blind people can be great teachers when it comes to sewing, because there are no visual patterns on pattern pieces, although they must memorize the general shape of those pieces. Blind people can learn to sew by experiencing different fabrics and have the skill to feel which fabric is what type and how it will look when sewn.
The blind have to learn how to choose fabric for the clothing that they love to make. The best way for a blind person is to handle the cloth and buttons or zippers. They will have the ability to feel and recognize where the buttonholes are, buttonholes, and even the zippers of jeans.
Blind people can’t use patterns, but sometimes they can use them. If you want a concrete pattern, you may be able to find one used by people who sew for others – such as for children’s clothing – or a pattern book with shapes drawn on it in black which has been printed in large letters so that people can trace these shapes onto their paper with thick pencils or pens.
How do Blind People Thread a Needle?
Blind people can learn to thread a needle. It’s kind of like sewing, but you use a special needle with a very long eye. You simply put the point through the eye of the needle and then slide it through the fabric. When you’re done, you pull on the thread near where it is coming out of the needle – this pulls the thread through so that it’s not too loose and hangs nicely in place. When I was little, I used to get a real kick out of helping my mom thread her needles.
Threading a needle might be one of the most difficult things for a person who is blind, but it can be done. You can ask someone to help you thread it or you could try using a grooved needle threader. For your safety, however, be sure to avoid sewing machines that automatically require needles.
What Tools Can Blind People Use?
Blind people can use a variety of tools. It is vital to have a sewing basket on hand so you always know where everything is. Items that make sewing easier for the blind are:
- Needle Threader
A needle threader is helpful to those who cannot see well. A needle threader allows you to pull the thread through the eye of the needle without having to touch it. This way, it is much easier for the blind person to use it. Grooveless needles are helpful because they do not need a hole punched in them before using them. This allows people with impaired vision or sight to easily utilize this type of needle without difficulty. The machine has push button power on/off and can be operated in a sitting position with ease.
Blind people can also use a sewing machine for sewing. A computerized sewing machine has a built-in needle and does not require tools to be used. This makes shopping for supplies much easier because you do not need to buy the items separately to use the sewing machine. Some sewing machines are equipped with accessory attachments, such as free-motion quilting, embroidery, and serger machines. Blind people who sew can select from a variety of options.
- Measuring Tape
To measure a garment, you need to know the length of the garment. This can be done by using a tape measure or ruler. A person who is blind cannot use a measuring tape or ruler to get this measurement, but they can do it in other ways.
The blind have to use their imagination, so if you need to know how long your sleeves are, for example, imagine what that space would look like and measure it with your hands. Another option is to cut out the pattern or fabric first and then take that piece of fabric and use it to measure, by holding it against yourself.
- Automatic Thread Cutter
A person who is blind can have a difficult time cutting the thread from a finished garment. A lot of sewing patterns will say to cut the thread in a specific place, but if you’re blind, you cannot do this unless you have some help or use an automatic thread cutter.
An automatic thread cutter is simply a machine that the heavily threaded needle goes through or under and cuts it. Then continue sewing and don’t worry about having to cut it off later.
- Buttonhole Cutter
A buttonhole cutter is something that comes with most machines. It makes a long narrow slit in the fabric where you can put it in the buttonhole.
There are not many places where you can get machines that are small enough for a blind person, but they do exist that might fit your needs. A sewing machine is not necessary if you have a pattern designed for children or adults who are less than five feet tall.
Can Blind People Do Embroidery?
Embroidery is a complex task that requires many different skills. Generally, the blind use machines to do embroidery so they can see what they are doing. Making things by hand is much more intricate, however.
There are a few different ways that blind people can do embroidery.
- Hand Embroidery
When you look at your everyday items, especially those made of fabric, you will see “crib” stitches all over them. These are very common sewing stitches. For example, when you need to sew a hem, you will use a hem stitch. When you need to sew an appliqué on the front of your dress or shirt, you will use a satin stitch. These kinds of stitches are used to create the most common kinds of decorative details that people use every day on their belongings.
With hand embroidery, the blind person uses a needle and some thread to sew on decorative stitches. The stitches for embroidery can vary from two parallel lines or two rows of three parallel lines to outlines in random shapes or designs.
There are also many stitch variations available for all levels of skill. The handle is usually long and thin, with a bent tip that helps guide the needle through the fabric while making small stitches. This is what the blind person will use to make the embroidered designs on their clothes, pillowcases, head warmers, etc.
- Machine Embroidery
Blind people who want to do extensive embroidery will use a machine. When you look at a garment that has been embroidered, there are a lot of details on it. That is why the person doing the embroidery uses an embroidery machine.
Even if someone had the vision, they would have to use an embroidery machine because it is too difficult and time-consuming to do by hand. Embroidery machines have small spools of thread that they use and they automatically move the needle in and out of the fabric, back and forth, sometimes even making different patterns as they sew. They also come with large spools of thread that you can wind onto the small spool when it runs out.
The blind person can also do embroidery with a machine. This is more advanced than hand embroidery and requires some knowledge. There are many kinds of embroidery machines that can be used to create decorative stitching from intricately designed thread using many different techniques and designs. Blind people can use a sewing machine to make embroidered headbands or shawls for the winter.
Buying Guide For Visually Impaired People Sewing Machine
There is a list of features that you should consider while purchasing a sewing machine for blind people,
- Compact Size
- Adjustments
- Easy to Use
- Quality of Results
- Automatic Features
Compact Size
One important feature of a sewing machine for blind people is that it must be compact. A compact sewing machine will be able to fit into a small space.
Additionally, the manual of the machine must have easy-to-read instructions that can show you how to use it without needing sight. This is so that you can do professional and comprehensive craft work with ease when you are blind.
Adjustments
Adjustments are important since every person is different. The most important thing is to have needle settings and stitch length settings so you’re able to be more adaptable to various situations. A sewing machine for blind people needs to have all these features for the best results and optimal usability.
Easy to Use
This is an important feature of a sewing machine for blind people. It needs to be easy to use for a person that is completely blind. The reason this is a feature is that you need to be able to use the sewing machine in any situation. If it is not easy to use, you will not use it. Remember, the sewing machine must-have features that are easy to use and versatile.
Quality of Results
The quality of the results is also important. You need to be able to make high-quality craft work with ease when you are blind. Make sure that the sewing machine is of good quality to ensure that you can do high-quality work.
Automatic Features
Automatic features like an automatic needle threader, thread cutter, and thread tension are helpful features that can make your sewing machine easier to use. You should look for a sewing machine with automatic features that can make you more adaptable in a variety of situations. It is important to have automatic features when you are blind because they will help you attain optimal usability.
When buying any sewing machine for blind people, you must read the reviews for the products first. That way, you will know more about the product and decide whether to buy it or not.
Besides the reviews, you should also read customer feedback and look for reviews that have been written after using the product. This will help you know much more about the product and make a smarter choice when you decide to buy the product.
Sewing Machines For Visually Impaired People
It is important to choose the right sewing machine for blind people so that they can create craftwork by themselves. It is recommended that you choose what features you want before making your selection to have access to all the important functions of your sewing machine and make it easier on yourself when using it.
Brother GX37
Brother GX37 would be a good option for visually impaired people because this machine has a stitch selection and thread tension dial so that they can easily feel and tune with their desire.
Brother GX37 has 37 built-in stitches which makes it easy to place their first project, The drop-in bobbin is easier than changing a threading needle and the automatic needle threader makes stitching comfy. The free arm can be removed and there is LED lighting that helps users see the progress of the sewing job they are doing.
The complete design of Brother GX37 makes it easy to learn how to sew. If you have never gotten into sewing before, this could be a good choice for you to start with.
The only thing that you do not get with this machine is speed control and the bobbin tension system.
Features of Brother GX37
- Sewing Speed: 850 SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- Number Of Stitches: 37
- Max Stich Width: 7.0 Mm
- Max Stitch Length: 5.0 Mm
- Buttonhole Styles: 1
- Automatic Buttonhole: 1-Step
- Needle Threader: Automatic
- Thread Tension: Adjustable Dail
- Bobbin Winding: Manual
- LED Lightning
- Bobbin Loading: Drop-in Top
- Free-Arm: Available
- Stitch Selection: Dial
- Reverse Stitches: Lever
- Adjustable Stitches: Yes
- Warranty: 25 years
Singer 9960
Singer 9960 could be the best choice for visually impaired people because it allows you to customize the machine and use it as per your need. It also has computerized features which make it easier to use.
Singer 9960 is also equipped with automatic tension. With a single touch of a button, you can easily adjust the tension of the machine to ensure that stitches are uniform at all times.
You can move the needle to any position you like, with this you can use your favorite foot for quilting and hemming.
Singer also has a large range of accessories which includes several feet, bobbins, needles, extension tables,s, etc. You can choose what you need according to your project. The machine comes with 25 years of warranty which is quite long in comparison to other brands.
This kind of machine is perfect for people who have impaired vision but have a passion for sewing. It allows them to accomplish their dreams more efficiently than ever before.
It is easy to load the bobbin and thread the machine. it also has an automatic needle threader which makes your work easy.
Even with the automated needle threader, you do need to detach the bobbin cover and pull the thread through the hole to use it. S[peed control and start/stop button make it more compatible with visually impaired people.
Features of Singer 9960
- Sewing Speed: 850SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- Number of Stitches: 1,172
- Max Stich Width: 7mm
- Max Stitch Length: mm
- Buttonhole Styles: 13
- Automatic Buttonhole: 1-Step
- Built-In Lettering: 5 Alphabets
- Needle Threader: Automatic
- Thread Cutter: Button
- Thread Tension: Automatic
- Bobbin Loading: Top drop-in
- LED Lightning: Yes
- Extension Table: Yes
- Free-Arm: Yes
- Sewing Speed Controller: Yes
- LCD Display: Yes
- LCD Display: Touchable
- Stitch Size Selection: Yes
- Stitch Style Selection: Yes
- Start/Stop Button: Yes
- Reverse Stitches: Yes
- Warranty: 25years
Singer 1304
Singer 1304 is light weighted and easy-to-use sewing machine and these features make it beneficial for the visually impaired person. this sewing machine has a lot of features that the visually impaired can use. This can be useful in making crafts of any kind from sewing clothing to making home decor. It is easy to operate and does not require a lot of adjustments compared to other machines. It has an automatic bobbin winding system which makes it desirable.
This machine comes with 57 different stitches, with a dial selection you can use to sew your project even if it is the first time you use this machine. this machine has a free arm, you can use it to sew cuffs and collars easily as well as pant hems.
The automatic needle threader will make it easier for visually impaired persons to thread the needle. The free arm is good for sewing cuffs and collars easily as well as pant hems. The removable table is good for when you need to sew multiple layers of bulky fabrics.
This machine comes with several accessories including bobbins, needles, seam ripper, spool pin felts, and a screwdriver which makes it easy to get started sewing right away. It is also very lightweight which means you can easily carry it from one place to another. You can also set up your machine on any table or in your room anywhere. Singer 1304 allows you to set up your machine on any table or countertop
Overall this sewing machine is easy to use and gives a lot of features that can be used by visually impaired persons.
Features of Singer 1304
- Sewing Speed: 850 SPM (Stitches Per Minute)
- Number Of Stitches: 57
- Max Stich Width: 7.0 Mm
- Max Stitch Length: 5.0 Mm
- Buttonhole Styles: 1
- Automatic Buttonhole: 4-Step
- Needle Threader: Automatic
- Thread Tension: Adjustable Dail
- Bobbin Winding: Automatic
- LED Lightning
- Bobbin Loading: Front Type
- Free-Arm: Available
- Stitch Selection: Dial
- Reverse Stitches: Lever
- Adjustable Stitches: Yes
- Weight : 11.5pound
FAQ about Can Blind People Do Sewing
Are blind people capable of using a sewing machine?
Yes, they are. Many blind people use sewing machines to create multiple products. They will have someone guide them through the pattern and make sure that they are doing it right. The only way a blind person can use a sewing machine to complete a project is by memorizing the pattern or having their friends or family guide them through it step by step.
Do blind people need help to do embroidery?
Yes, they do. Some blind people can do embroidery with a machine just fine, but others require help. This is to ensure that they do not make mistakes or overwork the embroidery.
Can blind people sew on machines?
Yes, they can use a sewing machine to create multiple products. They will have someone guide them through the pattern and make sure that they are doing it right. The only way a blind person can use a sewing machine to complete a project is by memorizing the pattern or having their friends or family guide them through it step by step.
How to select the right sewing machine for blind people?
There are numerous factors to consider when purchasing a sewing machine for yourself or someone else. Things like size, power, and features are important and will impact your choice significantly.
The best sewing machine for blind people depends on their personal preference and what they want it to do. Whether they need it for light-duty or heavy-duty sewing, there is a product that will be perfect for them out there. You just have to find it and purchase it.
What kinds of sewing machines are available for the blind?
There are several kinds of sewing machines available for blind people to take advantage of. They include hand sewing and embroidery machines, sewing machines with LCDs, and talking sewing and embroidery machines. The best one will depend on their personal preference and what they are looking for in a machine.
Final Thoughts
The article explained the features and functions of the sewing machines for blind people that you should know about to help you in your selection. It is important to know what these features and functions are so that you can make an informed decision when buying a sewing machine.
When buying a sewing machine for blind people, it is also important that you read reviews, customer feedback, and read reviews written after using the product. This will help you understand more about the product and make a better decision when making your purchase.
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