Abstract: A sewing machine having two needles (8, 9) that are at an angle (alpha) to the vertical axis of a piercer (C) is provided. After the piercer has pierced the item to be sewn with a tip thereof, the needles pierce through vertical slits (27) in the piercer (C). The two needles are driven in a direction of the respective axis thereof, i.e., in a direction of the axes (V1, V2).