Change in curtain machinery is happening in small incremental steps but still, a slow evolution is underway. The latest offerings from suppliers reflect an industry continuing to strive for excellence.

This sector is at a mature stage where minor modifications contribute to a finer end result. And with consumers in today’s market more precious about parting with their hard-earned monies, that ‘edge’, point of difference or higher level of quality could potentially make a difference in securing a sale. Greater efficiencies in manufacturing can also contribute to cost savings to help boost the bottom line.

Market-led modifications at Carr
Carr Australia has modified its manual machine to be able to set two additional sized eyelets. You can now set from SP4 size to 40mm curtain eyelets, says the firm’s general manager Lee Stebbing. “Our two pneumatic curtain eyelet machines are also popular,” he says. “They are a good solid machine that works well, are reliable and easy to operate. Along with these machines, customers can get everything from us; we supply the full range of curtain eyelets.”

Stebbing notes the firm has been securing consistent sales over the past year. “This is a steady market with slight growth which is good these days,” he said. “There is solid growth in the market.”

Juki – ongoing updates
Juki has updated its 9000 Series plain sewing machines four times in recent years to cater for curtain makers. “The new model has no oil in the top of the sewing machine, the needle bar is ceramic, it has an enclosed oiling system and a direct drive with no motor under the bench,” says Capron Carter Australia sales manager Bob McLaurin.

He confirms this model is a heavier machine making it quieter and more stable in the bench. “The bobbin winder is on the machine, not on the table,” he says. “If a customer wants header tape, we can adapt a multi-needle machine for that purpose.” The header tape goes through a guiding mechanism. It guides the top of the curtain through the machine that has a folder and sews in the widths wanted. Similarly, another Juki machine can be modified to complete pinch pleats.
Capron Carter is the sole authorised distributor for Juki in Australia.