Figure 61.—Spoul’s patent braid guide, 1871. (Smithsonian photo P-63102.)
Figure 62.—Rose’s patent embroiderer, 1881. (Smithsonian photo P-6399.)
Figure 63.—Harris’ patent buttonhole attachment, 1882. (Smithsonian photo P-63103.)
The method of manufacturing machine needles did not differ appreciably from the method used in making the common sewing needle, but the latter had never become an important permanent industry in the United States. Since the manufacture of practical sewing machines was essentially an American development and the eye-pointed needle a vital component of the machine, it followed that the manufacture of needles would also develop here. Although such a manufacture was established in 1852,[83] foreign imports still supplied much of the need in the 1870s. As more highly specialized stitching machines were developed, an ever-increasing variety of needles was required, and the industry grew.