Close

01/02/2021

What do I need in an overlocker?

What do I need in an overlocker?

The basics: an adjustable pressure foot, variable bite width, and stitch length. Consider the location of the thread cutter and make sure it is in a comfortable position. Also consider a vertical needle position and an overlocker with a built-in blade if you are going to work with thicker fabrics.

What are the parts of a serger and their functions?

The basic serger parts are:

  • The feed system – which consists of the feed dogs, needle plate, and presser foot, which work together to feed the fabric evenly through the serger.
  • The cutting system – which trims the seam allowances with a movable upper knife and a stationary lower knife.

How do you use an overlocker?

How to Use a Serger for Corners

  1. Start sewing as normal along the first edge.
  2. Stop at the end of the first corner, at the very edge of the fabric.
  3. Take one or two stitches off the edge. Go slowly so you don’t take too many stitches.
  4. Lift the foot up and pivot the fabric in line with the next edge.

Can you use an overlocker as a normal sewing machine?

Although you can create knit garments on a sewing machine, you can also make them using an overlocker. However, I’ve often heard people say they only use their overlocker for finishing seams. You will normally need to adjust the differential feed up a notch or two to work with knit fabrics.

Can you use overlocker for regular sewing?

An overlocker does not replace a sewing machine. Many overlocking stitches have built-in stretch, making them the perfect tool for seaming knit fabrics. Additionally, the eyes of the loopers are larger than the eyes of sewing needles and can therefore accommodate thicker decorative threads.

Do I need special thread for an overlocker?

For perfect results on your overlocker and coverstitch machine it is essential to use a good quality thread that is lint free. For that reason we only stock the highest quality Polyester 120’s and 180’s overlocking thread.

Can you sew normally with an overlocker?

Although you can create knit garments on a sewing machine, you can also make them using an overlocker. You will normally need to adjust the differential feed up a notch or two to work with knit fabrics. This prevents the fabric from stretching as it feeds through the machine.

What is the upper looper on a serger?

The Upper Looper produces the stitch that lays on the right side, or top of the fabric, and the lower looper provides the stability for the stitch. Together the upper looper and lower looper secure the stitch at the edge of the fabric after it has been trimmed by the blade(s).

What are loopers on a serger?

Loopers (4): A looper is a small lever inside the serger that has a thread hole (similar to a needle) at the end. Rather than penetrating the fabric, the loopers create thread “loops” around the fabric raw edge. Most sergers have an upper and lower looper that move in tandem with the needles to form the seam.

Is an overlocker easy to use?

This 2-3-4 thread Singer overlocker is very user-friendly and reasonably priced, making it a great entry-level machine. As with most well-equipped overlocker machines, you can quickly and easily adjust the stitch width and length.

Can you use a serger as a regular sewing machine?

Although some projects can be done 100 percent on a serger, a serger cannot replace a regular sewing machine. You will still need a regular machine for facings, zippers, topstitching, buttonholes, etc. A serger cannot do this job.

What kind of thread do you use in an overlocker?

As the overlocker needles don’t use any more thread than a normal sewing machine, you can use a reel of all-purpose thread that closely matches your fabric. Or here’s another thread-saving tip: If you’re only using your overlocker to neaten the raw edges, remove one of the needles.

What can you do with an overlocker sewing machine?

Your first question might about what this machine actually does. An overlocker (or serger) is a type of sewing machine that uses multiple threads to seam fabric while also overcasting to cover raw edges. It can be used for construction, finishing, or both at the same time.

What should I put in my overlocker box?

For your machine, the essentials for machine maintenance will come in the box (things like screwdrivers, thread nets, and oil). It’s important to know that the oil used on your overlocker is different from the oil used on your standard machine—these bottles are not interchangeable! You can read more about overlocker cleaning and care over here.

How are the loops on an overlocker made?

Firstly there’s no bobbin; instead it has two loopers. The upper looper sits on a piston which moves vertically. The lower looper looks like a long finger that rocks in an arc from left to right. The loopers wrap the edge of the fabric in thread, then there are two needles that stitch down the loops.