# Best coverstitch and combination overlockers

Source: https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-coverstitch-and-combination-overlockers
Publisher: Stitch and Hem. Picks are based on what the Amazon listings state, not on hands-on testing. Method: https://stitchandhem.co.uk/how-we-pick

A coverstitch machine sews the hem you see on shop bought T-shirts and leggings: two or three parallel rows of stitching on top, with a looper thread zigzagging underneath so the hem can stretch without popping. An overlocker cannot do this, and a twin needle on a sewing machine only imitates it. You can buy a dedicated coverstitch machine, which stays set up for hems, or a combination machine that also overlocks but needs converting between modes. Dedicated machines are quicker to use day to day; combinations save space. This guide compares six machines on type, cover hem options, threads or needles, threading help and weight, using only what each listing states. Check the plug and voltage on any machine listed as an import, as some are sold for North American mains only.

## Products

### 1. Janome CoverPro 2000 CPX Cover Hem

Type: Coverstitch only; Cover hem: Yes; Threads or needles: Not stated; Threading help: Not stated; Weight: 8 kg

A dedicated Janome coverstitch machine with a free arm, a 4 by 5.5 inch work space, a seam tightening system and Tension Level Control to avoid puckering. A slide control softens or tightens the stitch.

In its favour:
- A free arm makes sleeve hems and leg hems on knits much easier.
- Tension Level Control and a seam tightening system are listed to reduce puckering.
- The 4 by 5.5 inch work space is described as the largest in its class.

Good to know:
- The listing does not state how many needles or threads it uses.
- As a dedicated machine it cannot overlock seams.

### 2. Juki MCS-1500 Cover Stitch and Chain Stitch Machine

Type: Coverstitch and chainstitch; Cover hem: 3 thread cover stitch; Threads or needles: 3 needles; Threading help: Colour coded guides; Weight: Not stated

A Juki cover stitch and chain stitch machine with three needles, a 3 thread cover stitch, a 4 thread chain stitch, colour coded threading and a top speed of 1,350 stitches a minute.

In its favour:
- Three needles allow a triple cover stitch as well as wide and narrow hems.
- Chain stitch mode adds decorative and basting options.
- Colour coded guides for the needles and loopers are listed.

Good to know:
- The warranty terms in the listing are for the US, so check UK cover with the seller.
- The listed weight is clearly wrong, so check it before buying.

### 3. Juki MO735 5Thread Serger & Cover Hem

Type: Overlocker and coverstitch; Cover hem: 2 and 3 needle; Threads or needles: Up to 5 threads; Threading help: Snap chain looper threading; Weight: 10.5 kg

A combination Juki that overlocks, sews a 5 thread safety stitch and switches to 2 or 3 needle coverstitch and chain stitch. Chain looper threading is listed as quick to do.

In its favour:
- Overlocking, a 5 thread safety stitch and coverstitch in one machine saves table space.
- Two and three needle coverstitch options are listed.
- A multi function presser foot is listed, cutting down on foot changes.

Good to know:
- Combination machines need converting between overlock and coverstitch modes.
- At 10.5 kg it is heavy to carry to a class.

### 4. bernette b68 Airlock - Maker Edition

Type: Overlocker, air threading; Stitches: 2 to 5 thread stitches; Buttonhole: Not applicable; Key extra: Automatic air threader; Weight: 14.8 kg

The Maker Edition b68 with automatic air threading for the loopers, colour coded paths, 2 to 5 thread stitches, a 130 mm work area, a knee lifter, five LED lights and Micro Thread Control.

In its favour:
- Air threading removes the hardest part of using an overlocker.
- A knee lifter, slide-on table and large cut-offs bin are listed.
- Two to five thread stitches give the widest choice in the Bernette lineup.

Good to know:
- The listing does not say which cover hem stitches are included.
- At 14.8 kg it is heavy for an overlocker.

### 5. Janome CoverPro 1000CPX Portable CoverStitch Machine with Free Bonus Package

Type: Coverstitch only; Cover hem: Yes; Threads or needles: Not stated; Threading help: Not stated; Weight: 10.3 kg

A portable Janome CoverPro coverstitch machine with a metal build, sold with a free bonus package. It suits sewists who want a dedicated machine set up permanently for hems.

In its favour:
- A dedicated coverstitch machine that stays set up for knit hems.
- A metal build is listed in the specifications.
- A bonus package is included, according to the title.

Good to know:
- The listing gives almost no feature details, so check needles and accessories first.
- The bonus package contents are not itemised.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.