The term 'SEWING MACHINE INVENTOR' can be broken down into two crossword solutions: Howe (4 letters) and Elias Howe (9 letters). Elias Howe was an American inventor who is credited with inventing the first practical sewing machine in 1846. His invention revolutionized the clothing industry, allowing for mass production of garments. Howe's invention was based on a design by English inventor Thomas Saint, but Howe improved upon it by adding an eye-pointed needle and a shuttle operating mechanism. Howe was granted a patent for his invention in 1846 and went on to found the Howe Machine Company.