Why Do We Overlock on a Sewing Machine?
Why do we overlock when sewing? Is it to hide fabric edges, avoid fraying edges or stretch fabrics? All these goals can be accomplished with an overlock presser foot. An overlock sewing machine is a special type of sewing machine designed for covering raw edges and seams of fabric when making garments. This prevents fraying and makes the seams stronger. In addition, the machine can be used for hemming, ruffling and adding decorative finishes to fabrics.
Using an overlock machine is a convenient way to give garments a professional look when finished. The overlock presser foot is designed to create even, professional looking stitches with the use of multiple threads. This means that it is possible to finish the seams without pre-sewing them or even topstitching them. It also eliminates the need to trim the edges of the fabric and allows you to finish seams quickly and easily.
The overlock machine is also great for adding decorative effects to fabrics such as binding, ruffles and topstitching. This allows you to create unique, high-end looking garments. The ability to overlock with multiple threads also means that the seams are more durable and less likely to fray. The other advantage of the overlock machine is that it takes up less space in the workroom than a traditional sewing machine.
If you are looking to add professional touches to your sewing projects, or if you are considering investing in a sewing machine, an overlock machine may be the perfect choice. It is versatile, easy to use and will add a professional finish to your creations.
How to Use an Overlock Machine
Using an overlock machine is not as difficult as it may seem. The machine is designed to make it easy to cover raw edges and seams. To get started, thread the overlock machine according to the manual, feed the fabric in behind the presser foot, then press the foot control. The machine will do the rest.
When threading an overlock machine, it is important to make sure that the threads are threaded properly. Most machines are designed to be threaded from left to right and the thread should be pulled tightly. Also, most machines require four to five threads to be used for the stitch, so make sure that all of the threads are pulled through the tension discs.
When using the machine, it is also important to adjust the stitch width and length correctly. This will help to ensure that the seams and edges are sewn securely. The stitch width should be adjusted according to the type of fabric being used and the length should be adjusted depending on the look you are trying to achieve.
Once the threads are threaded properly and the stitch width and length are adjusted correctly, the machine should be ready to sew. The fabric should be fed in behind the presser foot slowly and steadily. As the edges are fed in, the presser foot will hold the fabric in place and the machine will do the rest.
Pros and Cons of Overlocking
When using an overlock machine, there are both pros and cons. The pros include that the machine is easy to use, that it gives a professional finish to garments, and that it can save time. The cons include that the machine is more expensive than a regular sewing machine, and that it can be difficult to thread properly.
The biggest pro of using an overlock machine is that it can give a professional finish to garments. It is possible to finish garments quickly and easily and the seams will look even and neat, which gives the garments a professional appearance. Additionally, the machine can be used to add decorative touches to fabrics, such as binding and ruffles.
The biggest con of using an overlock machine is that it can be difficult to thread properly. Most machines require four to five threads to be used for the stitch, so it can be time consuming to thread them all correctly. Additionally, it can be difficult to adjust the stitch width and length correctly, which can lead to uneven seams or edges.
Types of Overlock Machines
When it comes to overlock machines, there are two main types – Sergers and Coverstitch machines. Sergers are the most common type of overlock machine and are designed for covering raw edges and seams. Coverstitch machines are designed for adding decorative finishes to fabric, such as binding, ruffles and topstitching.
Sergers have four to five threads that are used to cover the raw edges, while coverstitch machines have two to three threads that are used to create decorative finishes. Additionally, coverstitch machines can be used to create hems on fabrics, while sergers cannot.
When it comes to deciding which type of overlock machine is best for you, it really comes down to what type of projects you intend to make. If you are looking to make professional looking garments or add decorative finishes to fabrics, then a coverstitch machine may be the better option. On the other hand, if you are looking to simply cover raw edges and seams, then a serger is the perfect choice.
Maintenance for an Overlock Machine
When it comes to an overlock machine, regular maintenance is essential. It is important to clean the machine regularly and oil the blades and tension discs. Additionally, it is important to check the thread tension and adjust if necessary.
Regularly changing the needle is also important. Needles can get blunt over time, so it is important to regularly change them to ensure that the stitches are evenly created. Be sure to use the correct type of needle for the fabric you are working with.
Finally, it is important to make sure that the presser foot is adjusted correctly. The presser foot should be adjusted according to the thickness of the fabric and the stitch length should be adjusted accordingly.
Conclusion
An overlock machine can be a great tool for making professional looking garments. It can be used to cover raw edges and seams, as well as add decorative finishes to fabrics. It is important to thread the machine correctly, adjust the stitch width and length correctly, and maintain the machine regularly. By following these steps, you will be able to get the most out of your overlock machine.
