Elna Sewing Machines is a Swiss brand that has been a household name in the sewing industry for over 80 years. Founded in Geneva in 1940, Elna quickly established itself as a leading manufacturer of high-quality sewing machines that were designed to meet the needs of both amateur and professional sewers.

The first Elna sewing machine, the Elna #1, was introduced in 1940 and quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional performance and durability. It was also notable for its elegant and compact design, which made it a popular choice among fashion-conscious sewers.

In 1952, the company launched the Elna Supermatic, which was the first sewing machine to feature automatic buttonholing.

The company's founder, Dr. Ramon Casas, was a Spanish engineer who had previously worked for the Swiss watchmaker, Rolex. He saw an opportunity to apply his expertise in precision engineering to the sewing machine industry, which was then dominated by bulky and unwieldy machines that were difficult to use.

Elna also pioneered the use of computer technology in sewing machines, introducing the Elna Carina in 1978, which was the first sewing machine to be controlled by a microchip.

Dr. Casas set out to design a machine that was not only smaller and lighter but also more user-friendly and versatile. He incorporated a number of innovative features into the design, including a free-arm mechanism, a tension control system, and a zigzag stitch that could be adjusted in width and length.

Over the years, Elna has continued to evolve and expand its product line, offering a wide range of sewing machines and accessories that cater to a variety of sewing needs.

Today, Elna is part of the Janome Group, a leading global manufacturer of sewing machines and related products. Despite the changes in ownership, Elna has maintained its commitment to quality and innovation, and continues to be a trusted and respected name in the sewing industry.

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