Read Pleater vs Amanda Jane: Which Smocking Pleater to Buy
The two dominant home smocking pleaters go head to head. Which one belongs in your studio?
Quick verdict
Both are excellent lifetime tools. Choose based on availability in your region:
- North America / Australia: Read pleater (easier to find used, better parts availability)
- UK / Europe: Amanda Jane pleater (locally serviced, easier shipping)
If both are available at similar price, the Read edges out on resale value.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Read | Amanda Jane |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Australia | UK |
| Row options | 16, 24, 32 | 16, 24, 32 |
| Table clamp | Included | Included |
| Feed rollers | Hard rubber | Softer rubber |
| Needle style | Curved, standard | Curved, standard |
| Replacement needles | Widely available | Widely available |
| Resale value | High | Moderate |
| Used price (24-row) | $250–$400 | $200–$350 |
Row count matters more than brand
The single most important spec is row count:
- 16 rows — cuffs, pockets, insertions, samples
- 24 rows — bishops, yokes, bodices (the versatile choice)
- 32 rows — full bishop dresses, wide panels
If your budget forces the choice, get a 24-row of either brand rather than a 16-row of your preferred brand.
Where they actually differ
Both machines work identically. The differences are small:
- Feed roller feel. Amanda Jane's softer roller grips slippery batiste marginally better. On Imperial broadcloth the difference is invisible.
- Crank throw. The Read's crank feels slightly heavier and more mechanical. Preference, not quality.
- Needle replacement. Both use similar curved needles, replaceable individually.
Buying used
Both pleaters last decades. Used ones from smocking guild sales or retiring smockers are typically 60–70% of retail and in excellent condition. Inspect:
- All needles present and straight
- Crank turns smoothly
- Rollers roll evenly (no flat spots)
- Table clamp holds tight
After you buy
Once you own a pleater, track each setup in Sewist Studio's project kanban so you know which needle rows and yardage produced each finished plate. Pull fabric from the digital stash so nothing gets pleated twice.
