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Overlockers

Overlockers have evolved from the industrial side of the sewing machine market … they were used in factories before they were ever used in a home environment. This is in contrast to sewing machines, which were used in homes before they were amassed in factory settings.

Overlockers are always in addition to a sewing machine, never instead of a sewing machine. That said, no sewing machine - even at £4,000 - will do what the overlocker does.

The modern domestic overlocker performs many functions – not just finishing edges.

Using 4 threads, they will seam, cut and finish almost any fabric, giving a professional look to your projects. Because of they way the stitch is formed, stretch or bias cut fabrics will retain their elasticity and the stitching will not "crack".

Using 3 threads, they will neaten all fabrics.

Some overlockers convert to 2-thread sewing, which is useful if very fine fabrics are used, being less bulky on the edging.

A rolled-hem is made using 2 or 3 threads. This gives a beautiful finish to any fine, soft fabric and is a really quick way of achieving hems on bridal and dancewear.

Flatlocking uses 2 or 3 threads and is normally visible on the right side of a fabric – think raglan sleeves etc – giving a decorative ladder-stitch effect.

Overlockers can be used with decorative threads, thick, thin or metallic to create beautiful finishes for garments and home dec items.

Even gathering can be achieved and the raw edges overlocked at the same time.

Blind hemming is also possible, although the quality of results will differ with different fabrics.

Some overlockers also have the ability to Coverstitch. This finish is often found on lingerie or leisurewear: on the right side of the garment, two parallel lines of stitching are visible .. on the inside of the garment, a neat overlocked finish.

The overlocker is, today, a vital piece of sewing equipment which will speed up your sewing and make it look really special.

You can even make patchwork on an overlocker – don’t mention this to the patchwork purists!

Prices for overlockers vary. They can be bought for under £200 or over £1,000.

They will all cut and finish, but the quality of stitching and ease of use also varies enormously.

Most overlockers will do 3 and 4 thread stitching. The rolled hem is sometimes built in to the machine and sometimes needs an attachment. Some makes have optional feet for gathering, blindstitching, cording and attaching elastic.

You may find that on the cheaper machines, more time is spent balancing tensions and more changes are needed to accommodate different fabrics.

We are happy to recommend the following overlockers. They will all sew 3-thread, 4-thread, roll hem, flatlock, and gather. Why not use our Personal Shopper service to find your ideal machine.