History of Sewing Machine Timeline

• 1790

  The First Sewing Machine

  ​ Inventor Thomas Saint patented the ​first known sewing machine design, ⁤capable​ of stitching leather and canvas, but it never entered mass production.

• 1830

  Barthélemy Thimonnier

  Barthélemy Thimonnier patented the first practical sewing machine, which used ‌a hooked needle, a continuous thread,‍ and a shuttle.

• 1851

  Isaac Merritt Singer

  Singer’s sewing machine, with its foot treadle and rotary mechanism, became a commercial success and revolutionized the garment industry.

• 1867

  The Bridgeport Machine Company

  ​ Bridgeport Machine Company introduced the first machine ‍to sew buttonholes, enabling automation of this essential finishing technique.

• 1877

  The Florentine Tailoring Machine

  ​ ⁢ The Italian tailor Francesco Rivolta created the Florentine Tailoring Machine, which automated suit-making tasks, earning a gold medal at the Paris Exhibition.

• 1885

  The Domestic Sewing‌ Machine

  The Singer Manufacturing Company introduced the first ⁣practical domestic sewing machine suitable for use in homes, leading to increased adoption‌ and popularity.

• 20th Century

  Advancements and Innovations

  Throughout the 20th century, sewing ‍machines underwent continuous improvements, including electric and ‌computerized models, making sewing ‌more efficient than ever.