Best Sergers & Overlock Machines in 2022

Last update: December 7, 2022

Are Sergers hard to learn?

Sergers are a type of sewing machine that can quickly sew together fabric edges and finish them with a professional-looking stitch. They're relatively easy to learn how to use, but like any sewing machine, they take a little practice to master. The biggest challenge with sergers is getting the tension settings right. Once you've got that down, though, they're a breeze to use.

Can a serger do everything a sewing machine can?

A serger can do many of the same things as a sewing machine, but there are also some things that a serger can do that a sewing machine cannot. For example, a serger can create a finished edge on a piece of fabric, while a sewing machine cannot. A serger can also sew much faster than a sewing machine.

Can I make clothes with just a serger?

A serger is a type of sewing machine that can be used to finish the edges of fabric and create seams. You can use a serger to make clothing, but it is not the only type of machine that you need. You will also need a sewing machine to sew the pieces of fabric together.

Can you do normal sewing on an overlocker?

You can do normal sewing on an overlocker, but it's best to use it for its intended purpose, which is to finish the edges of fabric.


Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger with Differential Feed Review:


I've had this serger for two years and haven't had any significant problems. The thought of purchasing a serger initially made me feel frightened, but I assure you that it's actually quite easy to use, and even changing the thread is simpler than I had anticipated. The value is outstanding for the price! I used a pricey Baby Lock Ovation at a sewing workshop prior to buying a serger. Did you like it? Of course, but the suggested retail price was close to $6,000. I've used the Brother 1034D for less than $200 and haven't had any problems with repairs or malfunctions. Don't be reluctant to make an online serger buy. Although many seamstresses advise purchasing one from a nearby retailer to benefit from customer care and maintenance, for such a low cost, you really can't go wrong. I've never had a Brother sewing machine that needed maintenance or that broke.Although I am aware that the serger can perform a variety of tasks, I have only used it as a 4-thread overlocker, which is why I initially purchased it. Constantly converting and changing a sewing machine is a nuisance in my opinion. Brother devices are really inexpensive, and I've always thought the quality was excellent - especially given the price.One of my best purchases was the Brother 1034D Serger, which I now have in my collection of sewing machines.To help you avoid frustration, here are some pointers I can share: -Always test out scrap fabrics that are the same as the project you're working on -The different settings, such as differential feed, stitch length, and stitch width - play around with them using scraps and keep a notebook handy to record which settings worked best with various fabrics as a reference guide.-Before beginning to serge, make sure the presser foot is down. This may sound like common sense, but I've mistakenly serged more times than I'd like to admit!



Brother R1634D 3 or 4 Thread Serger with Differential Feed, White (Renewed) Review:


I've wanted one of these adorable little things for so long! But when I have to acquire something this pricey online, especially when it was refurbished, I have my doubts. I gambled and I'm glad I did! The machine was already threaded; all I had to do was tie some string to the supplied string, then pull the string through. A CD that explained how to use the device was also included. I've been sewing for 8 years, and I design costumes. Amazing!It was simple to operate and was fresh new.



Brother Designio Series DZ1234 Serger Review:


I've finally had the chance to sit down, open the box, and figure this thing out. I have never serged because I am a newbie sewer. I started sewing two months ago and felt at ease using him. I must say that after reading the reviews, I almost decided against buying it because it appeared so intimidating. I'm happy to say that it only took me 30 minutes to go from unboxing to sewing my first sample, and that's with me shirking attention to the TV. Although the handbook is not quite as thorough as the one for my Brother SE425, it still serves its purpose. Before attempting to thread, it is helpful to study the full threading section (only a few pages). Those that are too lazy should:1) The upper looper thread (green, third position) is inserted first.2) The second thread is the lower looper (blue, fourth position). To complete threading, you must pull out a metal tab; instructions are on the machine, and an arrow points to the location of the tab.The left needle (1st position/yellow) is next, then the right needle (2nd position/red).After everything has been threaded, start threading a chain while making sure the threads are to the right of the needle gadget. You can stitch your first sample once you have your chain (see the attached photographs for a sample of the four thread overlock stitch)!Craftsy offers a few serging lessons that will instruct you on creating enjoyable things with your serger if you're looking for enjoyable projects to complete (like a scarf and a bag). I'm currently enrolled in a class called "fun with knits," which is designed to teach students how to sew knits without the use of a serger. However, I will definitely need a serger to make my fleece sweatshirt. Results will be updated here.Several things about this irritated me:Four white threads were already pre-threaded onto the machine. When I first opened the box, the 4 threads were all tangled, and it took some time to untangle them all. Its outdated light bulb, which becomes heated shortly after the machine is turned on and isn't very bright, is another thing I don't like about it. Since I can easily switch to an LED bulb when this light goes out and the knotty thread issue was quickly resolved, I still gave this product 5 stars.Edit (1/18/2016): I had a lot of fun using this baby to create pillowcases for Christmas presents. The procedure was greatly accelerated, and the end result was really attractive. 90% of the work was completed on the serger, but I still used my sewing machine to hem the edge to give it a neater appearance. It's a terrific approach to quickly create a lot of presents because serging the three sides takes less time than ironing the fabric after pre-shrinking. One yard of fabric is all that is required; fold it in half on the fat side rather than the long side, then serge the two sides together (remember that there is a fold and an opening). Although technique works really well for straight lines, I found it to be difficult to work with for L-shaped edges because it is practically impossible to have a perfectly closed seam with these kinds of edges. I attempted to make a knit dress the simple way, but the arms proved to be rather difficult. There may be workarounds for this because I'm quite new to sewing and serging.I also created a stitch binder, which is a HUGE help. Every time I experiment with a new stitch, I make a sample and tape it to some paper. I'll include information about the stitch type, thread tensions, stitch length, etc. It REALLY helped me learn a lot more about the serger, and I feel much more at ease using it now.This is fantastic for serging straight edges, as of 9/2/2016 (e.g. pillowcases, napkins, table linens). Although I still view myself as a novice sewer/serger, I am able to solve the majority of issues on this by myself. I haven't really had any problems with the settings; instead, I usually use the incorrect needle and/or thread when my stitches don't look good. There is no other appropriate way to control or modify the speed other than with the presser foot, thus I am having a lot of trouble going on to other types of edges. Currently, it is either moving too quickly or too slowly, and because of the challenging angles, I find it to be nearly impossible for knit clothing. Things start to go wrong if you move too slowly. Only the larger hems—not the cuffs or sleeves—can be hemmed. Given that there are numerous videos online of people creating shirts with only a serger, I believe it is something that can be learned with practice.



Janome Even Feed Foot with Quilting Guide Horizontal Rotary Hook Models Review:


Products from Janome are always easy to use and function as promised. However, this one may have benefited from some usage and attachment instructions. To find the answer, I had to visit the Janome website. Because I'm a beginner quilter, those guidelines may not be necessary for professionals, but let's face it, everyone has started off as a newbie sewer at some point.



Brother Serger, 1034DX, 3/4 Thread Serger with Differential Feed, 3 or 4 Thread Capability, 1,300 Stitches Per Minute, ColorCoded Threading Guides Review:


Outstanding value for the money! I think this machine is really reliable and, thus far, very effective, and the price is unbeatable. Just.Can't.Beat.The.Price!I stopped sewing for a long time, but when I learned about quilting, I picked up a tiny Brother machine (CX155LA 199.00) and started sewing again. I made a few quilts before deciding it was time to start making clothes because I'm hard to fit (36" inseam and lengthy arms). But since I'm not in my 20s anymore (LOL), I can't make as much "homemade" stuff as I did back then. These days, everything I do needs to be beautifully finished. I was aware I required a serger.I subscribed to CRAFTSY UNLIMITED (now called BLUPRINT), which was a well-spent $15.00 per month for me to brush up on my sewing abilities, develop my quilting abilities, and pick up some chic tailoring tips. To my amazement, there were several lessons for sergers as well, which was really helpful.I had only heard two things about sergers: (1) they're great for finishing, and (2) they're a pain to thread. Given that sergers are in high demand, I had to wonder how real this threading issue could be. Despite this, I was still certain that I needed a serger. I done a ton of homework and was prepared to (maybe) lose my mind. Although the 1034 was highly praised by critics, the DX was the new model. I couldn't debate the cost because it was a little investment and I could sell it and take a loss if I didn't like it or utilize it.This machine has my full satisfaction. I've done a few simple projects (blouse, pouches, and handbag) so far in the week I've had it to start learning how to use my machine. I like how the machine is already threaded when it is delivered; this allowed me to read the manual and follow the threads to understand how it operated. Even after reading a lot, I was still apprehensive of threading the machine.After two days of sewing, my lower looper thread became untracked, and my machine abruptly stopped producing fabric. There were no solutions online, so I turned to the handbook (duh! ), where I discovered that the thread had come loose from a very obvious location. However, it was time to learn how to thread the machine, so I cut out all the threads. I finished threading the entire thing in 10 minutes on my first attempt. It was simple as pie! I couldn't help but wonder why so many people encountered challenges that resembled nightmares. Nothing could be any simpler!I'll mention two things that have made threading and changing needles considerably simpler that I bought as a result of my online serger training. Both of these items cost around $5 each at a nearby craft store, but neither is included.1. A machine needle threader and inserter.Although inserting the needle is not difficult, this threader incorporates a mechanism that makes replacing the needle much simpler, especially if you don't have teeny tiny hands... Two needles are used by your serger. Where has this threader been all my life, oh my word?Machine for threading and inserting needles, Dritz 2532. A threader for serger needles and loopsThe looper features a tiny hole that some people might find a little challenging to thread. Your looper threading is made incredibly simple with this tool. Because of its length, you can access places that would be difficult for someone with larger hands or poor vision.Dritz Threader for serger needlesThese two tools seem a tad pricey on Amazon, in my opinion. Using a craft store coupon, I could get them for a significant discount.The documentation doesn't seem to make it clear where one of the two recommended areas to lubricate, thus I recommend viewing a youtube video before using your equipment. Due to its long, thin tube, the ZOOM SPOUT oiler allows you to reach into confined spaces for oiling. I definitely suggest it. Zoom Spout Oiler for Sewing Machines, 4 oz.While cutting, sergers produce a lot of fluff. When you open up the front of the serger to reveal the threading sections and where the looper arms are, similar to how you'll discover a lot of fluff in the bobbin area of a conventional machine, you'll observe "fabric/thread lint" (see photo). I advise using high-quality thread rather than cheap junk. Cheap thread will frizz and produce extra debris for you to clean out of your serger. Because I've had success with their ordinary sewing thread, I decided to purchase Toldi-Lock (Guittermann) thread. This thread hasn't shown any signs of "fuzzing" so far, and the lint in the picture is from some red batik fabric. Use your craft store coupons once more; a cone costs $3.59 each, but when on sale, it costs much less. Four thread cones are required. To familiarize myself with the many functions each thread does in the stitching, I found it helpful to sew on scrap fabrics using the four threads that came with the machine. This assisted me in figuring out whether I actually needed to switch ALL FOUR to the same color, or perhaps I only needed to switch the upper/lower looper threads...I'm thrilled with this purchase and eager to discover more about the gadget. It's a wonderful addition to my sewing machine because the two have different uses.



SINGER Serger 2-3-4 Thread Capability Overlock with Blind, Rolled Hems and Flatlocking, Take Your Creations to The Next Level, White Review:


Yesterday, I showed up on time. Open the box tonight. I've included pictures so you can see what's inside. December 2018 was the buying date. Additionally, you could see how much of each color's thread is on the spool. It offers you more than other brands do.Try to follow the instructions in other videos while re-threading. To attach, just turn the tension to zero, use the manual wheel to turn, and stop before you reach the needles.From all the reviews and videos, I was unable to determine exactly what was included before I purchased it for others who had the same question. Everything appears to be in place.I've put it through a number of sewing tests. Obviously, the recommended tensions are only suggestions.Sergers lack common sense. For the tension to be accurate, it will require additional time to figure this out. The instructions for the stitching tensions per thread/spool are in the paper manual that is provided. Although I haven't viewed the DVD yet because I just set it up this evening, it does come with one. Before I purchased it, I watched a lot of YouTube Singer videos online. The booklet reads like a technical manual. Sigh. similar to all Serger manualsI've used sewing machines for a very long time. I'm not new to sewing, and I've used a serger once, albeit sparingly.Sergers are undoubtedly a challenging species to understand.Reading the other reviews of this device is terrifying. I'm hope I made the right decision. It is unquestionably affordable. Only time will tell.I've always loved the Singer company. I recently purchased a second, higher-end Singer sewing machine that is quite good.Despite receiving a mixed bag of reviews, this serger is ready to use, as stated in the summary.I've used it for quite a few tests, changed the tensions in accordance with the manual, and it functions as it should.Every serger I've ever seen or used is noisy, so I'm not sure why people complain that it's noisy.My one and only gripe is how difficult it is to remove the free arm. It takes me quite a few tries every time I try to take it off. I don't think I'll be wearing it much anyway.Regarding previous return reviews: Before the warranty or the return period expires, you should always take whatever you order out of the box and thoroughly inspect it. You really have no cause for complaint if you wait past that point. So they offer you a specific time.Over the following week, I intend to use this serger to sew gifts, garments, and discarded household items.I did purchase the Amazon 3-year warranty. It wasn't a lot of money, and I believed it was a decent precaution.



Brother Serger, ST4031HD, Strong and Tough Serger, Durable Metal Frame Construction, Large Extension Table, 1,300 Stitches Per Minute Review:


Since this serger's name includes the words "strong" and "tough," I assumed that it could handle thick textiles. Since I already had a Brother Designio Serger, which can handle four layers of bamboo terry cloth, I assumed this machine would be able to manage the same task with ease.Wrong.Let me however begin from the beginning. This machine is pre-threaded and has typical settings for stitch length and tension. In both polyester and wooly nylon thread, it breezes through cotton quilting fabric at all stitch lengths and widths. (Just keep in mind that wooly nylon thread is really difficult to thread.) As far as threading sergers go, this one is very simple. The thread routes are well indicated, and the instruction is simple to read and comprehend. Compared to the Designio and 1034D, there are just minor variations in how the lower looper is threaded. Compared to the Designio, I also found it simpler to remove the blade and stitch finger from this serger. Good news thus far,Let's return to the powerful and tough now. I've discovered that it cannot stitch, serge, or cut heavy fabrics as I would anticipate. The Designio successfully completed the first run of four layers of 10-ounce bamboo baby loop terry, but the fabric became tangled in the mechanics and the needles bent, snapped, and became stuck in the machine. It took me some time and a lot of angst to correct it, but I eventually succeeded and tested it again. No, it just wasn't occurring unless I was sewing straight seams; the moment I tried to sew a curve, no matter what I tried, the machine went berserk. This was very depressing. Why does the Designio model handle this without any issues?However, again as a "strong" and "tough" machine, this seems like it should be able to do what a less strong and tough serger in the Brother line can do. It can manage three layers of the bamboo baby loop terry with some careful and cautious handling.There don't seem to be many distinctions when comparing Brother sergers. This machine has a detachable table, which I appreciate, a bigger trim waste bucket that clicks in more securely than the Designio's, and extra pressure feet. Although both machines can stitch at a rate of 1300 stitches per minute, the stitch capacity is identical to that of the Designio.I would have given this five stars if I had been able to work with four layers of baby loop terry the way I can with the Designio. It can handle "many layers of denim, layered knits, and heavy duty fabrics," according to the description, and I assume that for Brother, "multiple" refers to two. (If you are unfamiliar with baby loop terry, it is a somewhat light, flatter/velvety sort of nap—see the pictures.) My advice would depend on how you planned to use a serger. When working with lighter weight fabrics and creating a rolled hem, the Designio's larger variety of stitch widths capabilities over the S



Juki MCS-1500 Cover Stitch and Chain Stitch Machine Review:


This machine was just purchased by me. It works beautifully, however threading it correctly required a lot of trial and error on my part. The machine was delivered threaded, but the tread was merely threaded; it wasn't on a spool. It was difficult to see the appropriate pattern because of the threads that were dangling all over the place. I didn't think it was consistent with the text. I experienced a lot of breakage and seams that completely failed. I'm still having trouble learning how to thread it properly. On this device, YouTube only has Japanese-language videos, which is unfortunate. I was able to follow it to a certain extent, but I had trouble getting it correctly. A technician was there when I went to the vendor who could speak with me on the phone but not share a screen. If the person instructing you can't see what you are doing correctly, learning how to thread a machine will be next to impossible. Additionally, I haven't yet discovered any FB Groups for this device. I am aware that the reason might be that it is so fresh. But I believe I have worked it out now after much effort to make it work. I'm hoping JUKI American makes a YouTube series on this device so I can learn how to properly utilize it.



Janome 8002D Serger Includes Bonus Accessories Review:


I'll continue to revise this review, but I got it after doing some research and deciding that I wanted something reliable, uncomplicated, and simple. With this serger, Janome appears to have hit the nail on the head. Before I could use it, I had to re-thread it because my toddler managed to get a hold of it before I could.Although it initially seemed intimidating, a serger turned out to be relatively easy to use and got easier with each thread, contrary to what I had been told. I perused the manual and a video on YouTube. Once threaded, it functioned flawlessly!



Juki, MO-50E, 3 or 4 Thread Serger, Lay In Tensions, Adjustable Differential Feed, Built In Rolled Hem, Automatic Lower Looper Threader, Retractable Upper Knife (MO-50E/UL) Review:


The Brother 1034D was a very good machine, and I'm not knocking it; however, it was going to cost as much to repair it as it would to replace it, so I decided to consider an upgrade instead. I bought this to replace my entry level Brother serger, which had broken (no fault of the machine, it was due to reckless serging!!!):0). Although it appeared to be a pretty simple machine (not an update), it mentioned automatic threading, an adjustable knife, and an automatic rolled hem. Although the automated knife and threating are fantastic, it's important to note that the automatic rolled hem still calls for the removal of one needle and numerous setting adjustments. You can't just turn a switch and have a rolled hem (oh, how I wish I could!) Then again, it's not really any better or worse than the brother either. Overall, I believe that I did receive a slight upgrade for the same amount as my brother. I truly enjoy this device. Also, it's a little bit quieter.


Can you Serge on a regular sewing machine?

No, you cannot serge on a regular sewing machine. A serger is a specialized machine that is used to create a finished, professional edge on fabric. It is not possible to replicate this effect on a regular sewing machine.

Can you use a serger without cutting?

Do you overlock edges before or after sewing?

Most people prefer to overlock edges before sewing because it gives a neater finish. However, some people find it easier to overlock after sewing because it allows for more accuracy. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide which method works best for them.

How much does a serger machine cost?

A serger machine is a specialized sewing machine that is used to create finished seams that are strong and have a professional appearance. A serger machine can cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000, depending on the features and quality of the machine.

Is it hard to learn to use serger?

No, it is not hard to learn to use a serger. In fact, many people find it much easier to use a serger than a regular sewing machine. The main difference is that a serger can sew much faster than a regular sewing machine, and it can also create a much more professional-looking finished product.

Is it worth buying a serger?

A serger is a type of sewing machine that is used to create finished seams by trimmed, and overcasting the raw edges of fabric. Sergers are also known as an overlock sewing machine. Sergers are wonderful machines that create professional looking seams. They are also very fast. A serger can sew a seam in about half the time it would take to do the same seam on a regular sewing machine. Sergers are not, however, necessary for everyone. If you do not do a lot of sewing, or you do not sew garments, you