Why You Need a Serger or Overlock Machine
If you're an avid sewer or quilter, you've probably heard about sergers and overlock machines. But you may be wondering if investing in one of these specialty sewing machines is really necessary. Here's a look at the key benefits of sergers/overlockers and why they can be a worthwhile addition to your sewing room.
Faster Seaming and Finishing
A serger can sew a seam and finish its edges with an overlock stitch up to 1300 stitches per minute! This makes tasks like hemming knits or creating seam finishes on woven fabrics much faster compared to a regular sewing machine.
Professional-Looking Finishes
The overlock stitch used by sergers trims fabric edges while seam stitching for a clean, professional result. You can achieve a variety of edge finishes from a basic overlock to a rolled hem. It's perfect for finishing raw edges on projects neatly.
Sew Knits and Stretch Fabrics With Ease
Sewing knit fabrics like jersey on a regular machine can be frustrating. But a serger is designed to handle stretch and lightweight knits with the overlock stitch. You'll have an easier time sewing knit garments without stretching, puckering or waving seams.
Create Decorative Effects
Sergers aren't just practical - they can add decorative touches too. You can use specialty threads and adjust settings to create flatlock, pintuck, or coverstitch effects. Serging gives garments and projects a couture-like appearance.
More Effective on Heavyweight Fabrics
Overlock stitches are stronger than regular straight or zig zag stitches. This makes sergers ideal for heavy canvas, denim, and upholstery type fabrics. The stitch can better withstand repeated laundering and wear.
Variety of Functional Stitches
Beyond overlock stitches, many sergers come with options for versatile seaming stitches like a narrow coverhem, chain stitch, and 4-thread mock safety stitch. So sergers aren't one-trick ponies - they can do a wide range of stitches for construction and embellishment.
Saves Time and Thread
Sergers utilize 2-5 spools of thread at once. This means you can seam and finish seam allowances in one step rather than stitched and then trimmed afterwards. You'll save significant time and thread for projects with many seams.
While not essential for all sewing, a good serger/overlock machine offers tangible benefits for finishing garments, sewing knits, quilting, and embellishment. Consider your current and future sewing goals and evaluate whether adding this equipment can improve your sewing experience.
Top Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Serger
Sergers are invaluable tools for achieving professional-looking garments and projects. But there's a learning curve to mastering these machines. Here are top tips for making the most of your serger and its capabilities.
Learn the Machine Inside Out
Get very familiar with how your particular model works. Understand the functionality of various settings and parts like:
- Tension dials
- Stitch length/width adjustments
- Presser foot pressure
- Cutting blade on/off
Refer to your instruction manual often as you learn. Knowing your machine well will help troubleshoot issues later.
Use the Right Needles
Sergers require specialized needles to avoid skipped stitches and thread breaks. Use ballpoint needles for knits and stretch fabrics. Sharp needles are ideal for woven fabrics. Make sure needles are set properly and replaced regularly.
Thread Correctly
Most serger problems stem from improper threading. Refer to a threading diagram and follow each step carefully. Ensure threads follow the color-coded paths from spool to needles/loopers. Setting the dials in threading mode can help.
Set Tensions Properly
Balanced thread tension prevents puckering seams or looper threads showing through. Check your manual for the right tension settings. Adjust individually until achieving even, flat seams. Use scraps to test tension.
Use Quality Thread
Thread too thick or cheap can cause jams and breaks. Use the thread weight recommended by your manual. High-quality polyester or cotton/poly threads have enough strength and elasticity for serging.
Clean Frequently
Lint and tiny fabric bits easily collect in sergers. Regularly use the cleaning brush, pipe cleaners for loopers, and canned air to remove lint. A small toothbrush cleans stitch fingers well.
Use Specialty Feet
Presser feet like the gathering, piping, and blindstitch feet open up serging possibilities. Take advantage of them for professional effects like stretch stitching, pintucks, hems, and more.
Adjust Settings For Fabrics
Adjusting stitch length, width and differential feed improves serging results on various fabrics. Here are suggested settings:
| Fabric | Stitch Length | Width | Differential Feed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight knits | 3 mm | 3-3.5 mm | Narrow |
| Medium/Heavyweight Knits | 3-3.5 mm | 5-6 mm | Normal |
| Woven Fabrics | 2.5-3 mm | 3.5-5 mm | Normal |
Use Presser Foot Pressure
Adjusting foot pressure helps feed fabrics smoothly. Increase pressure for heavy fabrics, reduce for delicates. Test on scraps to determine the ideal setting.
Learn all the tips and tricks to get the most mileage from your serger. With practice and fine-tuned settings, you'll achieve professional results efficiently.
Beginner's Guide to Threading a Serger
Threading a serger for the first time can seem daunting. But follow these steps to easily thread your serger and be ready to start sewing!
Understand the Parts
First familiarize yourself with the main parts of a serger:
- Spool pins - Holds thread cones
- Tension dials - Adjusts thread tension
- Loopers - Guides thread to interlock stitches
- Needles - Pierces fabric for stitch formation
- Stitch finger - Helps form stitches
- Presser foot - Holds fabric flat as it's fed
Set Your Serger in Threading Mode
Consult your manual to set your model in threading mode. This brings loopers and tensions to optimal position.
Thread in Order
The order you thread matters! Threading goes:
- Upper looper (red)
- Lower looper (yellow)
- Right needle (green)
- Left needle (blue)
Follow the Threading Path
Trace the color-coded path from spool pin through threads guides, tension discs and loopers. Threading diagrams help.
Use Tweezers if Needed
Tweezers can assist threading tiny loopers. Make sure threads are fully seated in slots.
Thread Delivery System Carefully
Moving from back to front, thread comes up through lower looper, down through upper looper, then through hole in stitch finger.
Needles Last
With flat side of needle to the back, thread left then right needle from front to back.
Pull Thread Chain
Turn handwheel clockwise to start interlocking chain. Gently pull chain taut but not tight.
Reset Tensions
Return tensions to normal sewing mode as per manual. You're ready to serge!
Be patient, go slow, and refer to threading diagrams. With practice, threading will become quick and easy. Soon you'll be serging like a pro!
Common Serger Problems and How to Fix Them
Sergers are invaluable tools but also prone to issues. Here are some common serger problems and tips to resolve them.
Thread Breaks
Frequent thread breaks usually stem from improper threading, tension problems or low quality thread. Try these fixes:
- Rethread completely following a diagram
- Ensure threads are securely in tensions discs
- Set tensions back at default setting
- Switch to high quality polyester thread
- Check for damages parts like loopers
Skipped Stitches
Needles not inserting properly into fabric causes skipped stitches. Solutions include:
- Insert new sharp needles for woven, ballpoint for knits
- Check needles are fully inserted and not bent
- Increase presser foot pressure
- Use lighter weight thread
Irregular Stitches
Stitches that bunch or overlap are often a tension problem. Try:
- Cleaning lint from loopers and tensions
- Ensuring threads follow guides
- Rebalancing tensions individually
Fabric Puckering
Excess tension leads to puckered seams. Reduce tension incrementally until seam lies flat.
Looper Thread Showing
Looper thread visibility indicates the needle tensions are too tight. Loosen needle tensions slightly until looper thread blends in.
Fabric Jamming
Fabric not feeding smoothly? Check for:
- Presser foot pressure too low - increase slightly
- Buildup behind needle plate - clean out lint
- Needle inserted incorrectly
Cutting Blades Not Cutting
If fabric edges aren't trimming, ensure:
- Upper cutting blade is lowered properly
- Blades are sharpened and free of nicks
- Proper blade oiling and cleaning is maintained
No Stitch Formation
No stitch formation means threads aren't interlooping. Causes include:
- Incorrect threading order
- Not setting in threading mode first
- Thread guides improperly threaded
- Tensions too tight
Knowing common serger problems helps diagnose and correct them quickly. With a few adjustments, you can get your serger stitching smoothly again.
Best Sergers for Quilting and Sewing Projects
A quality serger can take your quilting and sewing to the next level. Here are top-rated serger models for seam finishes, garments, home decor and more.
Brother 1034D Serger
This Brother serger is packed with features but very affordable. It has a 3/4 thread capability, adjustable cutting width, and 1,300 stitches per minute speed. Ideal for finishing quilt bindings, sewing knits, crafts and everyday use.
Juki MO654DE Portable Serger
As a portable, 2/3 thread serger, the Juki MO654DE delivers professional results on the go. Weighing under 8 pounds, it's great for traveling and classes. Handles delicate fabrics well.
Singer Professional 5 Serger
With options for 4/3/2 threads, this Singer serger adapts to projects. The color-coded threading, built-in needle threader and 2500 SPM speed simplify the process. It's great for garments and home decor.
Janome 8002D Serger
A budget-friendly choice, this Janome serger offers 3 or 4 thread stitch capability. Features like a retractable upper knife, adjustable stitch length and width, snap-on presser feet and more make it very versatile.
Bernina L450 Serger
Bernina's affordable L450 serger includes adjustable presser foot pressure, variable stitch width, and 1300 SPM speed for handling all fabric types well. Its compact size saves space for sewing rooms.
Baby Lock Triumph Serger
The Baby Lock Triumph offers professional results with features like wave stitching, automatic rolled hemming, and adjustable settings. Ideal for advanced sewers making clothing, home decor and quilts.
Investing in a quality serger pays dividends for quilters and sewers. Look for options with multiple threads, easy threading, adjustable settings and reliability from top brands.
Overlock vs Serger - What's the Difference?
If you're shopping for a specialty sewing machine, you've probably come across the terms "overlock" and "serger" and wondered - what's the difference? While often used interchangeably, there are some key distinctions between overlock and serger machines.
Stitch Style
Both create a stitch using multiple threads to seam and enclose raw fabric edges. But the construction differs:
- Overlock stitch uses 2-4 threads locked around the edge.
- Serger stitch interloops 2-5 threads along the cut edge.
Seam Finishes
An overlock stitch finishes seams with a narrow hem-like wrap. A serger seam has threads locked around the raw edges for a clean professional finish.
Cutting Blades
Some overlock machines lack cutting blades, so edges must be trimmed first. Sergers have upper and lower blades that trim allowance as they stitch.
Stitch Functions
Sergers offer more versatility like:
- Rolled hemming
- Coverstitching
- Flatlocking
- Lettering
Overlock machines focus mainly on seam finishing.
Ease of Use
Overlock machines tend to have simpler threading and fewer adjustable settings. Sergers allow more customization but can have a steeper learning curve.
Cost
Overlock machines are typically more affordable options. Sergers have more features and capabilities that come at a higher price.
While overlock and serger machines have their differences, both create professional edge finishes. Choose based on your budget and sewing needs.
Reviews of the Top Sergers Under $500
You don't need to spend a fortune to get excellent serging capabilities. Here are reviews of the top sergers models under $500.
Brother 1034D Serger
The Brother 1034D is a top seller for its quality and value. It offers 3/4 thread serging, adjustable stitch width and length, 1,300 SPM, and a bright LED work area. The color-coded threading and built-in needle threader makes setup easy. It handles a wide range of fabrics well and is great for finishing seams on anything from apparel to crafts.
Juki MO644D Serger
This portable Juki model provides professional serging with 2/3/4 threaded stitch options. The automatic rolled hem feature lets you easily hem knits and lightweight fabrics. It has a powerful knife system, 1,500 SPM speed, and cuts fabric effortlessly while serging. The MO644D is a workhorse machine for garment construction.
Singer 14CG754 Serger
With 2/3/4 thread capability, this durable metal-framed Singer serger adapts for projects. It includes features like adjustable tension and stitch length/width, built-in needle threader, snap-on presser feet, and 1300 SPM speed. The 14CG754 produces professional seams and edge finishes.
Janome 8002D Serger
Janome's 3/4 thread 8002D serger offers fundamental features at a very affordable price point. It has a retractable upper knife, adjustable stitch length/width, color-coded threading guides, and removable free arm. This is a great basic serger for starters.
Brother 2340CV Serger
The 2340CV is Brother's entry-level serger with 22 built-in stitches. It converts easily from 3 to 4 threaded stitching and has a handy reference chart on the machine. The adjustable cutting width and differential feed help serge various fabrics cleanly. It's simple but versatile for the price.
Baby Lock Ovation Serger
This 2/3/4 thread Baby Lock serger comes loaded with options lacking in lower-priced models. It has a 7-point feed system for smooth fabric feeding, specialty presser feet, automatic rolled hem, and precise tension settings. The Ovation delivers advanced serging results affordably.
Performing a wide variety of serging techniques no longer requires an enormous investment. Any of these sub-$500 sergers will take your sewing skills to new heights.
What is the Use of Amazon Prime for Sergers & Overlock Machine Buyers?
As an avid sewer or quilter looking to purchase a new serger or overlock machine, you may be wondering if Amazon Prime is worthwhile. Here's a look at some of the key benefits Prime offers for regular buyers of sergers and overlock machines.
Free Two-Day Shipping
One of the big perks of Prime is free two-day shipping on your serger purchase and other eligible items. This ensures quick delivery so you can start serging projects sooner.
Free No-Rush Shipping
If you don't need the serger right away, Prime members can choose free No-Rush shipping for a reward or credit. This is perfect if you find a deal but aren't quite ready to buy.
Try Before You Buy
Prime members can use Prime Wardrobe to try eligible sergers and overlock machines for 7 days before purchasing. This allows you to test out models at home risk-free.
Access to Lightning Deals
You can take advantage of Prime-exclusive Lightning Deals to score sergers and accessories at heavily discounted prices. Deals sell out quickly, so Prime helps you grab bargains.
Prime Day Deals
During Prime Day events, Prime members have exclusive access to special savings on popular serger models, threads, notions, and more.
Streaming Entertainment
Prime Video offers sewing tutorials and project inspiration you can watch while working on projects. The Prime Music library also lets you listen while serging.
For frequent buyers of specialty sewing machines, a Prime membership can bring convenience, savings, and other benefits. Evaluate whether the perks justify the annual fee for your shopping needs.
Introduction To Sergers And Overlock Machines
Introduction to Sergers and Overlock Machines
Sergers, also known as overlock machines, are a type of sewing machine that use multiple threads to seam fabric while also overcasting to cover raw edges. They can trim, stitch, and overcast seams as they sew, and can also be used for applications such as inserting a zipper and creating beautiful decorations with certain stitches. Sergers sew faster than conventional sewing machines at up to 1,700 stitches per minute, which can save time and give a professional appearance to constructed items. The type of overlock machine used will determine the kind of sewing techniques that can be done, and the price of the machine depends on the number of threads and loopers, so users should consider the configuration that best fits their needs. Sergers are the perfect complement to your sewing machine and can yield professional results for all of your projects. There are many different serger brands to choose from, but some of the most popular ones are Babylock, Juki, and Brother.
What Are The Differences Between A Serger And A Regular Sewing Machine?
Here are the main differences between a serger and a regular sewing machine:
Sergers:
Regular Sewing Machines:
Another interesting products
Can A Regular Sewing Machine Do Everything A Serger Can Do?
No, a regular sewing machine cannot do everything a serger can do. Here are some of the main differences between the two machines:
Sergers:
Regular Sewing Machines:
While a regular sewing machine can do many things, a serger is a specialized machine that performs tasks that a sewing machine cannot. Sergers are particularly useful for creating professional-looking seams and finishing edges, and they are often used in garment construction and other sewing projects that require a high level of precision and durability.
