The first-class twin needle decorative seams of the new special sewing machine 381 make every garment special. Both needles can be individually actuated or disconnected so that even difficult-to-sew seam contours, such as collar corners, can be sewn without any problems. The manually engageable additional thread tension ensures an optimum stitch pattern in case of varying material thickness. The 381 is based on the proven sewing technology of class 380. Sewing equipment of class 380 can be used with the 381, too.