In one preferred mode, the operator selects by the touch panel 2 a pattern from the displayed patterns on the display 1 and starts the embroidery by operation of the start/stop switch. The CPU 10 is checking the detection signal from the sensor 3 and when the signal is on, the CPU 10 keeps the display 1 in operation. When the operator goes out from the sensor detectable area 60, the signal of the sensor 3 disappears and the CPU 10 generates the LED display 4 indicating the progress of the sewing. Since the operator can see the LED display 4 from the outside of the display visible area 61, the operator recognizes the conditions of the machine A.