.. to be improved and advanced in technology. The reciprocating shuttle had been invented by Allen Wilson in 1851, but a big change came with Helen Blanchard’s invention of the Zig Zag in 1873.
Helen was from Maine, and had already invented “hat-sewing machines”, surgical needles, and other sewing machine parts and components, so it was only natural that she should change the industry.
With the Zig Zag, seams could be finished quickly to be very sturdy, and buttonholes could be made by machine.
(Photo: Helen Blanchard and her Zig Zag invention)