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Overlocker – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
Those who are dedicated to sewing know the importance of an overlock machine to reinforce the joints and edges of the various pieces that make up a certain garment. For this reason, it is advisable to evaluate various quality indicators in a machine of this type, and also consult as many options as possible on the market. To advance this task a bit, we reviewed various models and found that the Alfa Profesional 8707 is highly recommended by users, since it allows sewing with up to four different threads, with a very simple handling mode that is well explained in the instructions. use, in addition to having an integrated lamp that greatly improves visualization when sewing. The second option is the renowned Singer brand, with its modelSinger 14SH654, which also allows you to work with four threads and regulate aspects such as the length of the stitch, or the thread tension for a more personalized finish.
Buying guide – What is the best serger on the market?
If you want an overlocker to give professional finishes to your garments, you should analyze certain parameters before buying, such as whether it is supported by your sewing machine, how many threads it works with, among others. That is why we have prepared a guide to buy the best overlocker, so that you consider the key characteristics above whether it is cheap , and that it really serves to make your textile pieces look like a designer.
Design and dimensions
An overlocker is an item that will serve to complement the seams and give a professional finish to your garments. Their designs are basic, they mostly have a needle and two anchors that regulate the movement, the colors are usually in cream tones and combine with sewing machines.
In relation to the dimensions, this is an important point, because according to its size, its applications will also be, the largest ones being those that allow the greatest number of functions. Similarly, the size should be selected according to the size of the sewing machine you use regularly and the size of the workshop where it will be installed, so that it occupies a reasonable space.
In this case, those with a compact and practical design that combine a good size with all the properties of these machines are recommended.
Types
There are several types of overlockers for both professional and amateur use; Selecting one or the other will depend on the needs and the investment that you want to make. The first are those with three threads, which are the cheapest and simplest; their operation is usually a little slower, because they work from three bobbins and spend less thread on the seam; They are used for simple auctions.
We also find four-thread overlockers, which are made up of two needles and two anchors and allow stitches to be reinforced by using the four threads for resistant seams.
Another type of serger is the five thread; This model is used for professional and quality finishes. It is made up of two needles and three loopers, they are fast, they require more thread for their operation, but the finishes are superior to those with three and four threads. The prices of these machines vary, being more expensive those with a higher number of threads, and cheaper those that use less.
Performance and Features
In the comparison of overlockers, the performance of these devices must be considered, which can cut the fabric at the same time as they sew it. Depending on its performance, undulations, gathers, ribs, ruffles, elastics and any other type of technique can be made with three, four or five threads.
Although they do not have a specific power, the performance of these machines is given by the number of stitches per minute that they are capable of producing.
The average is around 1000; however, there are models that can perform up to 1,500 stitches per minute, which allows for fast work. In addition to the stitches, these machines must have other characteristics such as not being noisy, having a compact size and allowing the width and length of the stitches to be adjusted; these measurements vary between 3 mm and 6 mm.
Use and manufacturing materials
Before acquiring an overlocker, the use that will be given to it should be considered, whether it will be regular or sporadic, whether it will be professional or for experimental practices, because how much it costs will depend on this, the professional ones being more expensive and durable.
The intention should always be oriented to acquire one that is good and economical. The materials of these devices are usually of a high level of resistance and quality. Especially those for regular and professional use must be robust and combine plastic with resistant metal for a long useful life that allows them to function correctly for a long time.
Type of stitch, fabrics and threading
Depending on the overlocker model, there are some that allow you to regulate the type of stitch on width and length, in relation to its length and variation.
Also, depending on the model, it is possible to use it on different types of fabrics and use different threads to give the fabrics greater versatility of finishes.
In addition, the overlocker models come with various types of threading: manual and automatic; the first requires time, while machines that have automatic threading are usually more expensive, but they save time and effort, so their use is simple and practical, especially when there are many tasks ahead of them and little time to make them. the clothes.
brands
The brands and manufacturers are another point to consider before purchasing an overlocker. In the market there are hundreds of brands that incorporate new models for the user every time; however, there are few trusted brands that have the credibility and recommendation for having dedicated years to the garment manufacturing industry worldwide.
The most recognized brands usually stand out for the quality of their materials to guarantee durability. Their products are more expensive and are equipped with different advanced features that improve the performance of the machines for better and faster production.
The 5 Best Overlockers – Opinions 2022
There are several models of sergers that are currently on the market. Year after year, manufacturers incorporate new models with advanced functions that make them popular and recommended among users. Being so many, choosing the best overlocker is not an easy task, so to make it a little easier we have reduced the list to the five most recommended models by users based on price, functions and quality.
1. Alfa 8707-Domestic Overlock Sewing Machine
Main advantage:
In addition to its compact and attractive design, it should be noted that it is a model that can be threaded more easily, due to its help system for this task, which can facilitate its use, making it more efficient, by avoiding investing too much. time on it.
Main disadvantage:
The foot controller may have a very high sensitivity based on the experience of some users, so when sewing at a slow speed greater care is required, which may make the task difficult at first.
Verdict: 9.9/10
It may be the best option to overlock your fabrics without further complication, either with 3 or 4 threads, as needed. In addition, the model includes practical accessories.
practicality
Among the features that we can highlight of this machine is the fact that it has a free arm, that is, you can remove this piece to be able to work with tubular-type garments, such as shirt sleeves, for example.
On the other hand, if you have had the experience of getting confused when threading the threads in other overlocker models, you will be pleased to know that it has an automatic threading of the lower looper, which makes this task considerably easier compared to other conventional models.
In addition, you will not only be able to use this machine on thick fabrics, you can also use it on finer ones, because the pressure of the presser foot is also adjustable. It should be added that you do not have to do things with 4 threads all the time. The machine offers the versatility of using only 3 in case you consider it convenient.
Functions and design
So that you can overlock just the way you need it, among the functions available in the model you can find the stitch length, which can range from 1.1 to 4 mm. With this you have greater versatility to work with fine fabrics or with those that have a clear tendency to fray, which can be a problem when sewing them. Also, you can set the overlock width from 2.3 to 7mm as you need.
On the other hand, it should be noted that it allows separate control of the tension in each of the threads. This can be convenient when, for some reason, one of them is thicker or thinner than the rest.
To the above we cannot fail to mention that the model has a professional and compact appearance, so you will not have too many problems to include it among your sewing equipment.
power and safety
Due to the power of this machine, which can reach 1,200 stitches per minute, it is necessary to analyze the safety of this type of device, since the hands are very close to the needles.
In this regard, so that you can work more safely and avoid accidents, the model has a mechanism that cancels the function of the pedal in the event that the thread cover is not positioned correctly, which is appropriate.
2. Singer 14SH654 Overlocker 1300 ppm
This Singer overlocker model is promoted among the best overlockers of 2022, because it has a speed that provides up to 1300 stitches per minute, which speeds up the production process.
Among its advantages, it stands out that it has four threads and can be used on almost any fabric, from delicate silk to thick denim.
Thanks to the technology incorporated by the manufacturer Singer, features such as thread tension, stitch length and differential feed are controllable, having a length of up to 4 mm and a stitch width of up to 7 mm, which allows working with different seams and effects such as wavy.
In addition, this model has a simple threading that is guided by colors to avoid confusion. Due to its size and simplicity in operation, it is easy to operate. In addition, it has a basic and aesthetically striking design in white.
To have a quality product you do not need a large investment, so we recommend that you take a look at this Singer model, considered by many customers as the best overlocker for 200 euros, since its characteristics meet many of the expected standards..
Pros
Speed: It has a speed of 1,300 stitches per minute, making it an appropriate machine for any production area and efficient with work time.
Control: It has the ability to control in any area: thread tension, stitch length and differential feed, giving you the freedom to choose the working mode.
Versatility: It is a powerful machine, so it can be used both on delicate silk and on thick jeans, obtaining excellent results in your garments.
Cons
Language: The included instruction manual is in Italian. However, on the manufacturer’s website you can download the Spanish version.
Complexity: Several users agree that threading the machine for the first time is a complicated and tedious process, some have taken up to 6 hours, but after several uses it becomes easier.
3. Janome 0732212274527 Coverpro 900cpx Overlocker and Coverer
For those who are wondering which is the best overlocker, you can review this Janome model that weighs just over 7 kilos and measures 38.1 x 50.8 x 43.2 cm, which makes it manageable and allows place it anywhere.
It features a conventional three-thread design, but with state-of-the-art technology for fast sewing and features like hidden hem stitching.
It is also provided with a tension release device and foot pressure adjustment, so you can control the speed of the stitches on the garment.
It has a differential drag ratio of 0.5 to 2.25, which gives the ripples in the fabrics. Its speed allows up to a thousand stitches per minute and includes a cover to place it on the machine when not in use.
Another of the cheapest overlockers in our selection is this CoverPro 900CPX model, with a compact and lightweight design but with great power to carry out professional work in a short time. That is why we describe its pros and cons to help you in your purchase.
Pros
Control: It has a tension release device and foot pressure adjustment, which helps you control the speed of the stitches, giving you greater work precision.
Compact design: This machine has reduced dimensions and a weight of 7 kg, making it very easy to handle and move around if necessary. It also includes a cover to protect it when not in use.
Utility: Its manufacture includes state-of-the-art technology that provides speed to clothing and very useful functions such as a hidden stitch for hems.
Cons
Skipping: Some users indicate that while learning to use the serger they skipped stitches on fabrics of different thicknesses. To avoid this, it is necessary to carefully review the instruction manual and thread the looper correctly.
Capacity: Its traditional 3-wire design can limit work capacity if you make large volumes of garments.
4. Brother 1334DFU1 M1334d serger
Those who are dedicated to making clothes or want to venture into this trade need a good overlocker, like this model offered by Brother. Firstly, the product has a structure that reaches dimensions of 34 x 34 x 38.5 centimeters and weighs 7 kilograms. In addition, it is made with PVC for greater durability.
However, its quality is not determined by these aspects but by its operation and, in this case, something that stands out about this device is the fact that it has a section made for tubular parts such as the sleeves of a T-shirt, for example. In addition, its threading system is identified with colors to facilitate use.
It should be noted that both the length and width of its stitch is adjustable, between 4.5 to 7 mm and 2 to 4 mm, respectively. Additionally, the product works at a speed of 1300 ppm and comes with a light, which will give better threading and overcasting results.
It can be difficult to choose the best brand of sergers, as there are different companies that manufacture them. However, Brother is a brand that is gaining more and more recognition for the quality of its products.
Pros
Structure: The structure of this serger has adequate dimensions to work comfortably and, in addition to that, it is considered a robust and resistant machine. The latter is due to the materials used.
Identification: To make its use much easier, the model has a threading system that uses different colors as identification.
Adjustable: You can choose settings for the type of finish, as it allows the regulation of the stitch in order to offer better results, both in threading and overcasting. For that reason, it is suitable for professionals.
Cons
Fabrics: It is a suitable option for different types of fabrics, however, there may be some complications with thicker fabrics. Therefore, you may need to carry out previous tests to achieve a good result.
5. Pfaff Coverlock 3.0 Cover Stitch Overlocker
For those looking for the best value for money overlocker, you can check out this compact model that stands out among the cheapest overlockers, being a professional type with five threads that allows 3 forms of cover stitch.
Among its features we have that it is provided with an extension for the base that provides ample space for garment seams. It has an automatic tension dial, so when selecting the stitch, the thread tension will be done automatically.
Thanks to its technology, the stitch length, cutting width and presser foot pressure are adjustable and can be set according to fabrics and techniques.
With this Pfaff Coverlock 3.0 machine it is possible to sew up to 1100 stitches per minute, which saves time and does not lose precision, because it has two sewing speeds depending on what you are doing; so you can have a slow level for small garments that require perfect and precision finishes, and a fast speed for linear seams.
If you are looking for an overlocker with a classic design that allows you to do the job quickly and safely, but you do not know which overlocker to buy, we recommend you review the pros and cons of this Pfaff model that we describe below.
Pros
Adjustment: This model offers the function of tensioning the thread when selecting the type of stitch automatically.
Finishes: This 5-thread overlocker allows good finishes to be obtained with 19 different types of stitches and a power of 105 W equivalent to 1100 ppm.
Accessories: It has an integrated light to improve vision, as well as an extension for the base that facilitates the placement of garments for better precision.
Cons
Changes: In some cases, the change from overlocker to coverr can be complicated, so it is advisable to carefully review the instructions for use.
Cost: It is one of the most expensive in this comparison, but the general opinions affirm that it is a product of excellent quality.
Alfa 8707-Domestic Overlock Sewing Machine
This model is an Alfa overlocker, a manufacturer that presents this machine to the market in black that uses four threads, but also works with three, so that you can save material on garments that require less reinforcement.
It is commonly mentioned by users as the best overlocker because it is compact and light; It only weighs 9 kilos. It has presser foot pressure adjustment, has a built-in hemming device, and allows stitch length adjustment from 1.1-4mm which gives better control over the width and length of each stitch.
All these properties make the job faster and easier. It is also equipped with a regulation mechanism that provides a cutting width of 2.3-7.0 mm, which gives an advantage when working on thick fabrics, providing a professional finish. This model features a safety technology that prevents the pedal from operating with the anchor cover open, thus avoiding accidents.
The Alfa Professional 8707 has a motor power of 120W, which allows a maximum speed of 1200 stitches per minute. It also comes with a protective cover to cover after use and prevent it from being damaged.
The use of an overlocker is necessary if you dedicate yourself to sewing professionally; That is why making a smart investment is essential. To help you in your purchase we bring you the characteristics of this Alfa Profesional model, considered by many customers as the best overlocker of the moment.
Pros
Capacity: It has the ability to use 4 threads to work. It can also work with 3, to help you save material on less complex jobs.
Safety: As a way to avoid accidents, this model prevents the pedal from being activated while the anchor cover is open.
Power: It has a motor with a power of 120 W, which allows an approximate speed of 1,200 stitches per minute.
Design: It has a practical and lightweight design, suitable so that transport is not inconvenient, since it weighs only 9 kilograms, and can be placed anywhere without taking up much space.
Cons
Quantity: Due to its design, this machine does not sew with two threads, which is a limitation for those garments that do not need a greater number of seams.
How to use a serger
For those who know about sewing, they know the importance of having an overlocker available at home to be able to reinforce each sewing they decide to carry out, because in a nutshell, this is special for finishing the seams and edges of your clothing.
In this sense, once you have purchased your new overlocker, you must use it properly to avoid any type of incident that could damage its mechanism, so paying attention to our instructions described below would be of great help to you.
Read the instruction manual
Before starting to use your new overlocker, we consider it ideal that you manage to read the instruction manual included in the package, because in it you will be able to find, one by one, the steps to follow to use the available functions to reinforce the seams. of your confections. On the other hand, you will have information about the types of stitches that you can give according to the model you have chosen.
Use the right needles and threads
Once you have unpacked the overlocker and read the instruction manual, you will surely know how important it is to use the right threads and needles in order to enjoy a good seam.
In this sense, both the needles and the threads must be of good quality to avoid breaking constantly, having to incur unnecessary expenses. In this way, threads that are 100% cotton are generally recommended for sewing, while the needles are better when they are original.
Depending on the overlocker model you have purchased, you will have the advantage of using four threads on almost any type of fabric for greater comfort, that is, you will be able to sew from the softest fabric to the thickest as long as you use the overlock machine. the right way.
Thread the overlocker in the correct order
Threading the machine properly will be a task that you must carry out carefully in order to enjoy proper operation. Well, it should be noted that this process is important, since the threads are wrapped around each other in a very particular way, but which in turn will be the ideal way to finish off the seam of your clothing.
Thus, some models have a diagram present in the structure of the machine, right on a cover located in the lower part of it.
This diagram will be your guide every time you need to thread the machine correctly. Now, if said model does not have the same, you can easily look for the information in the instruction manual and that’s it, the important thing will always be to maintain the correct order of each thread to avoid incidents during the operation of the serger.
Adjust the stitch length
Adjusting the length of each stitch that you want to specify in your garments when using the overlocker will also be an essential task in order to enjoy an excellent finish.
It should be noted that many machine models have a numbered dial for such an action, so carrying out this task will not be complicated at all. In this sense, you should take into account that short stitches are for light and soft fabrics, while long stitches are used for heavier fabrics.
