Use of Serger Thread in Sewing Machine
It is natural for people to consider that serger threads and regular sewing machine threads are interchangeable. After all, both are strands of thread, right?However, the reality is that serger threads and regular sewing machine threads differ in a few key areas, including their size and stitching effects. Utilizing the wrong type of thread for a particular project can have a big impact on the finished product, making the difference between a beautiful, long-lasting garment and one with visible pulling and stitching issues.
Serger threads are designed to be very strong to hold together the fabric and thread overlock which is a fast, strong stitch reducing the amount of unraveling.
Regular sewing machine threads, on the other hand, often contain a much finer cotton or polyester thread or a combination of the two.The result is a finer thread that is less bulky and more suitable for weaving through the fabric. This makes them perfect for most common sewing machine stitches, like straight and zigzag stitch, as well as decorative embroidery.
The most jarring difference between regular threads and serger threads is the thickness. Serger threads are much thicker than regular threads and, as such, require a much larger needle. If a conventional machine needle is used with serger thread it may get damaged, potentially causing the thread to break and resulting in poor stitching.
Another factor to consider when using serger thread in a sewing machine is the effect that it has on the stitches. Serger thread is designed to hold fabric together quickly and securely and, as such, it may not give you a pretty, finished seam. Instead, it may look bulky or unattractive.
For this reason, it’s usually best to steer clear of serger threads when using a regular sewing machine. Although it should be noted that some serger threads are designed to be used in a sewing machine, usually as a form of decorative stitching.
In most cases, sticking to the recommended thread type for the project will help create a beautiful, long-lasting garment or craft project. Knowing when and how to use the right type of thread for a project can mean the difference between a fine, finished product and one that falls apart after a few uses.
Reasons to Use Serger Thread
When using a serger, it is always recommended to use serger thread since it’s specifically designed for overlocking stitches. Serger threads are quite thick and are made from highly durable materials, such as polyester-core spun, multi-core and texturized yarns.
Serger threads also come in a huge variety of colours, allowing the crafter to find the right colour to match or contrast the fabric. Plus, there are also specialty serger threads with finishes such as glitter, metallic, and metallic-fleck that are perfect for creating decorative stitches.
Interior decor projects also benefit from serger threads. For this type of project, you’ll need a durable thread that can withstand the heat of an iron or the regular use of furniture. Serger threads are perfect for this purpose since they are designed to last.
In addition, many fabrics like knits, which are becoming increasingly popular for sewists, require an overlock stitch which is why serger threads are used for this type of project.
Types of Serger Thread
When using a serger, it is important to ensure you are using the right type of thread for the project. There are three main types of serger thread available: regular, pre-wound and core spun.
Regular serger thread is the simplest type as it is thinner and has no core. The benefit of using this type of thread is that it is cheaper and easier to thread through the serger. However, it is not as strong as the other two types.
Pre-wound serger thread, on the other hand, is thicker and has a core. These threads are already attached to the spool and so it is much easier to thread through a serger machine. These threads provide strong, neat stitches and are perfect for heavier or thicker fabrics.
Finally, core spun serger thread is a combination of two threads. The core thread is wrapped in a second thread, usually cotton. This creates a stronger, more durable thread than either of the two single threads used on their own.
These threads are generally more expensive, but the extra cost is worth it for those who work with thicker fabrics. Core spun threads also come in a wide range of colours and finishes, allowing the sewer to find the perfect thread to match their project.
Benefits of Serger Thread
Serger threads are durable and the thicker thread means that they provide very strong stitches that won’t pull or unravel. This makes them perfect for when you need to sew thick fabrics and delicate fabrics, such as knits, as the thread won’t break or cause damage to the fabric.
In addition, serger threads come in a variety of colours and finishes, so it is easy to find a thread that matches the fabric for a neat finish. Plus, if you need to sew in decorative stitches, such as monograms, you can use a specialty serger thread.
Serger threads are also perfect for pleating and gathering fabrics. The thickness of the thread ensures that the pleats or gathers won’t come undone easily and that they’ll last through multiple wearings.
Finally, serger threads are designed to be machine washable, so you don’t have to worry about the thread fading or breaking. This means you can confidently wash your garments knowing that they won’t be ruined by the washing process.
Disadvantages of Serger Thread
The main disadvantage of serger threads is that they are much thicker than regular sewing threads.This means that you need to use much larger needles for your serger, which can be expensive if you don’t already have them.
In addition, serger threads tend to be more expensive than regular threads and you’ll need to buy larger spools to accommodate the thicker threads, which can make them pricier.
Finally, serger threads are not always suitable for decorative stitching. The larger, bulkier thread can result in visible stitches on the project, making it look poorly finished.
Conclusion
When considering whether or not to use serger thread in a sewing machine, it is important to consider the type of project and the type of thread that would best suit that project. Regular thread is usually the best choice for most everyday projects, while serger thread is better for heavier, thicker fabrics and interior decor projects.
However, if you do decide to use serger thread on a sewing machine, be sure to use the correct needle size and the right type of thread for the project to ensure a long-lasting, beautiful finished product.
