What are the advantages of an overlocker?

An overlocker’s stitch pattern typically allows for a significant amount of stretch – useful when sewing elastic or stretchy fabrics. And being able to stitch a number of threads at a time can be a huge advantage.

Is it worth having an overlocker?

Long answer: No, you don’t need an overlocker, but it gives a more professional finish to many clothes. If you make clothes that you plan to sell, then I would say it is essential! An overlocker creates a stitch that trims and wraps the raw edges of your project and can sew a seam at the same time.

Is an overlocker better than a sewing machine?

Because it is specialised for this task, it does a better, faster & more professional job than a regular sewing machine. An overlocker can also trim your seam allowance while sewing. This makes sewing jersey much easier, for example, as you can sew and neaten at the same time.

Is it difficult to use an overlocker?

Threading An Overlocker As you can imagine it is a lot more complicated than threading a sewing machine with two needles and four threads to contend with. Many overlockers also have to be threaded in a particular order and it can take a lot of time, practice and bedtime reading of the manual for you to perfect it.

Can you make clothes with just an overlocker?

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.

What is the difference between overlock and serger?

A serger and an overlocker are different names for the same machine. Americans generally refer to these as sergers, and nearly everyone else refers to them as overlockers. A serger performs an overlocking stitch, which is really more like knitting than sewing.

Can you use an overlocker as a normal sewing machine?

What Does an Overlocker Do? An overlocker does not replace a sewing machine. Its primary function is to clean finish a raw edge, giving the project a professional appearance.

Can you hem on an overlocker?

Most overlockers can sew a rolled hem stitch. The rolled hem stitch is sewn using either two or three threads, depending on your model – be sure check your instruction manual first. Rolled Hemming is suitable for light weight fabrics such as voile, organdy, crepe etc.

When should I use an overlocker?

If your sewing time is limited, an overlocker can help you whiz through your projects quickly and efficiently. An overlocker can be used for many finishes including construction of garments, through to finishing off the edges of fabric that will then be seamed on the sewing machine.

Should you overlock before or after sewing?

Some seams or fabrics benefit from being pressed open after being sewn in order to reduce bulk. In these cases, overlocking raw edges before construction may be the best bet. There may be patterns that require extra attention to fit and detail where you prefer to baste seams before committing to a particular fit.