Demystifying Overlockers. A beginner's guide to Sergers

Threading needles
Loosen the tensions all the way down to zero when threading. This allows the thread to properly seat itself between the tension disks. Reset the tensions after threading is completed. You have to turn those dials...

Too much lint
Lint from the cut fabric builds up in the machine and if not removed, will cause problems, It can soak up the oil (which lubricates the machine) and get caught under the stitches and moving parts, Use a small brush to...

Overlock Threads
Unfortunately, when overlockers first came on to the market, it was often thought that any old cheap thread would do. However, this is untrue. Threads that are too strong may bend the Loopers of the machine and fine...

Never drop another needle into machine
When removing needles from an overlocker leave them threaded up or put a piece of cloth underneath, If the needles are dropped in the process then they can be easily retrieved and so will not...

What is an overlocker, why use one, what can it do?
If you need to sew stretchy seams, use fabrics that fray or just want speedy sewing, you would love an overlocker (or Serger as it is known in the USA). Think of todays leisure wear...

Sewing machine or overlocker ?
You can achieve similar seam finishes on your sewing machine - by using an overlock stitch or close zig zag stitch. However, an overlocker does it quicker, neater and of course, in one-step. Todays overlockers...

A few of the words that you will hear are as follows:
Serger - this is the American term for Overlocker. Serging is therefore overlocking. Loopers - instead of bobbins, an overlocker has loopers. The threads that come from under the needle plate ...

An overlocker without differential feed is as much use as a sewing machine without a needle..! Differential feed on an overlocker has two feeds, the front feed and read feed. They have the ability to move the fabric under the presser...

Cover stitch or sometimes called a cover hem?
A cover stitch appears on many shop bought clothes. It is a professional hem stitch that overlocks the raw edge...

5-THREAD OVERLOCK:
A 5-thread stitch is ideal for sewing and finishing woven fabrics. It is the industry standard. It consists of a straight seam (chain stitch seam) and 3-thread overcast stitch. A 3- or 4-thread overcast can be used...