Abstract: In a sewing machine equipped with an apparatus to terminate stitching at a predetermined point, the machine normally does not terminate stitching exactly at the desired predetermined point because the elastic nature of the workpiece causes the workpiece to stretch. A last stitch is added beyond the point where stitching terminates by the "step sewing" apparatus of this invention. To perform step sewing, an operator inputs a stitch pitch for step sewing with a digital switch, then pushes a step sewing button. Based on the selected stitch pitch, a CPU reads selected stitch pitch data. The data is used by the CPU to control a stitch pitch setting mechanism. A stitching device then performs a single stitch at the selected stitch pitch. By selecting the proper stitch pitch, the last stitch can terminate at the desired termination point.

Abstract: A sewing machine automatically sews a seam which ends at a desired point. The last n stitches, preferably the last two stitches, are of substantially equal length. A counter counts pulses while the work is being fed to the needle. The machine detects when the trailing edge of the work passes by a predetermined location ahead of the needle. Upon such detection, the contents of the counter are used to calculate the proper stitch pitch for the last two stitches. The stitch pitch is varied as necessary during sewing of the last two stitches in the seam.

Abstract: A sewing machine capable of multiple functions including terminating stitches at a predetermined point, carrying out predetermined stitch patterns, automatic stitch pitch adjustment, stopping at preset points and thread cutting without operator intervention. These operations are controlled by means of a computer interface with the sewing machine and can carry out labeling, pocket attachment, collar attachment, cuffs etc. at preset intervals.