What is a Serger?
A serger is a specialized type of sewing machine used for creating professional-looking seams on many different types of fabrics. Sergers have multiple small blades that trim and overlock the fabric edges while sewing them together. This allows for strong and neat stitching on hems, seams, and other areas. Serger needles are slightly different than normal sewing machine needles. They are thinner and have a rounded point to prevent fabric from pushing up onto the blade.
Regular Sewing Machine Needles vs Serger Needles
Though you may be able to use regular sewing machine needles in a serger, it is not advised. Regular needles are designed to be used with straight stitching and don’t provide enough coverage for the multiple blades of a serger. This could lead to the fabric being pushed into the serger’s blades, which can damage the needle and fabric. Additionally, the shape of a regular needle is not designed to work with the special type of overlock stitch that a serger stitches, meaning you won’t get a clean, polished finish.
Choosing the Right Serger Needles
It is important to choose the right type of needles when working with a serger. There are two basic types of serger needles — regular and non-stick needles — and each type is suited for different fabrics. The right type will depend on the fabric that you are serging. Serger needles are marked with a size such as 20/70 or 20/80. This number indicates the size of the needle and the size of shank. Most sewing machines use needles sized 9-16. Serger needles are smaller than normal sewing machine needles and can range in size from 8-18.
Tips for Using Serger Needles
Serger needles should be changed frequently as they can become dull quickly. It is recommended to change your needle every 5 hours of sewing or if you notice a change in the stitch quality. Besides changing the needle, you should also ensure that the blades are regularly cleaned and lubricated to prevent damage from dirt and debris buildup. Additionally, before starting a new project, it is a good idea to do a thread tension check by running your serger on a scrap piece of fabric. This helps to ensure you have the correct tension settings, which prevents bunching or poor stitch quality.
Serger Needles and Thread Quality
In addition to choosing the right type of needles, it is also important to use quality thread when working with a serger. Sergers are not recommended for sewing very heavy fabrics, such as linen or canvas. If you are stitching heavier fabrics, you should use a lightweight thread that is strong enough to hold up against the weight of the fabric. It is recommended to use a polyester thread for projects such as denim or home decor fabrics, rather than a cotton thread.
What About Specialty Needles?
There are also specialty serger needles available for specific kinds of fabric. Applications such as lace, textured fabrics, and stretchy fabrics require a larger size needle for a better stitch quality. Specialty needles with a larger eye and sharp point make it easier to thread heavier threads, such as nylon or upholstery thread, through the needle, as well as allow for a better stitch quality on more difficult fabrics.
Using Thread in a Serger
Using the right type and size of thread is essential when serging different fabrics. It is important to use a heavier weight thread when working with heavier fabrics and a lightweight thread when working with lightweight fabrics. Additionally, it is important to use a thread that is not too thick or too thin, as the wrong thread size can make it difficult to achieve a neat, polished finish.
Conclusion of Serger Needles
In conclusion, it is not advised to use a regular sewing machine needle in a serger as its shape and size are not suitable for the serger’s special overlock stitch. It is important to choose the right type of Serger needles for each project and to change them regularly. Additionally, using the correct type and size of thread is essential for achieving a polished, professional-looking finish on fabrics.
