# Best overlockers for beginners Source: https://stitchandhem.co.uk/best/best-overlockers-for-beginners 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 An overlocker trims the seam allowance, sews the seam and wraps the raw edge in thread in one pass, which is why shop bought T-shirts look so neat inside. For a first overlocker, threading is the make or break feature. Four threads run through two loopers and two needles, and the lower looper is the awkward one, so colour coded guides and a lower looper threading aid save a lot of frustration. Differential feed lets you stop knits going wavy and fine fabrics puckering, and a rolled hem setting gives the narrow edge you see on scarves and napkins. This guide compares seven overlockers on thread options, differential feed, rolled hem, threading aid and weight, using only what each listing states. Keep a sewing machine too: an overlocker does not do buttonholes, zips or topstitching. ## Products ### 1. Janome 8004D Threads: 3 or 4; Differential feed: Adjustable; Rolled hem: Yes, plus flatlock; Threading aid: Colour coded guides, pre-threaded; Weight: 7.66 kg A three or four thread Janome overlocker that arrives pre-threaded from the factory, with colour coded guides, adjustable differential feed, cutting width and tension, rolled hems and flatlock seams. In its favour: - Pre-threaded from the factory, so you can sew a first seam straight out of the box. - Adjustable differential feed, cutting width and tension are all listed. - Rolled hems and decorative flatlock seams are both stated. Good to know: - There is no lower looper threading aid in the listing beyond colour coding. - Top speed and included feet are not given in the listing. ### 2. Brother M343D Overlocker Threads: 3 or 4; Differential feed: Not stated; Rolled hem: Not stated; Threading aid: F.A.S.T. lower looper system; Weight: 7.24 kg A popular three or four thread overlocker with Brother's F.A.S.T. lower looper threading system, an LED light, an instructional DVD and a 3 year warranty. A friendly first overlocker. In its favour: - The F.A.S.T. lower looper threading system tackles the hardest part of overlocker threading. - An instructional DVD is included, which helps when learning threading and tension. - A 3 year warranty and an LED daytime light are listed. Good to know: - The listing does not mention differential feed or rolled hem, though you should check the manual. - Stitch length and speed figures are not stated in the listing. ### 3. Brother 3034DWT with Wide Table Overlocker Threads: 3 or 4; Differential feed: Not stated; Rolled hem: Instant rolled hem; Threading aid: Streamlined threading; Weight: 7.78 kg A Brother three or four thread overlocker with streamlined threading, an instant rolled hem, LED lighting, a free arm, foot pressure adjustment, a waste tray and an extra large extension table. In its favour: - A free arm and an extra large extension table are listed, useful for cuffs and large pieces. - Foot pressure adjustment and a waste tray are included features. - An instant rolled hem setting and a DVD for basic operation are listed. Good to know: - The listing has some unrelated text, so confirm the box contents with the seller. - Differential feed is not mentioned in the listing. ### 4. Janome 9300DX Threads: 3 or 4; Differential feed: Yes; Rolled hem: Yes; Threading aid: Not stated; Weight: 8 kg A standard three or four thread Janome overlocker with differential feed, rolled hemming, a 5 mm maximum stitch length and a top speed of about 1,500 stitches a minute. Needle guards front and back are listed. In its favour: - Differential feed and rolled hemming are both listed. - A top speed of about 1,500 stitches a minute is stated. - Front and back needle guards are listed as a safety feature. Good to know: - No threading aid is mentioned, so expect to learn threading from the manual. - Included accessories and feet are not described in the listing. ### 5. Bernette B44 Overlock Sewing Machine - Top Dealer Bundle, Easy Threading, 15 Stitches, 1300 SPM, Adjustable Differential Feed, Crimping Option, Color-Coded Threading, Accessories Storage Type: Overlocker; Stitches: 15; Buttonhole: Not applicable; Key extra: Differential feed, colour coding; Weight: 9.06 kg A Bernette overlocker bundle with 2, 3 and 4 thread stitching, 15 stitches, adjustable differential feed, colour coded threading, a threader and up to 1,300 stitches a minute. In its favour: - Two, three and four thread options cover seams, edges and narrow finishes. - Adjustable differential feed helps prevent stretched or puckered seams. - An extension table and protective cover are in the bundle. Good to know: - Bundle descriptions are vague, so confirm the exact accessories. - Threading the loopers is manual, unlike the air threading b68. ### 6. SINGER S14-78 Serger, White Threads: 2, 3 or 4; Differential feed: Yes; Rolled hem: Yes, 4 fine hem options; Threading aid: Not stated; Weight: 6.3 kg A Singer overlocker with 2, 3 and 4 thread stitches, differential feed, four rolled and narrow hem options, adjustable tensions and stitch length, an adjustable lower knife and a movable upper knife. In its favour: - Two, three and four thread stitches give more seam and edge options than most here. - Four rolled and narrow hem options are listed. - The upper knife can be disengaged to sew without trimming. Good to know: - The listing says it is an international product that may differ from local versions. - No threading aid is mentioned beyond the standard guides. ### 7. Juki MO-80CB Free-Arm Serger Overlock Machine Threads: Not stated; Differential feed: Yes, adjustable while sewing; Rolled hem: Yes; Threading aid: Lever lower looper threader; Weight: 6.35 kg A free arm Juki overlocker with a lever operated lower looper threader, differential feed you can adjust while sewing, adjustable cutting width and foot pressure, and rolled hemstitching. In its favour: - Threading the lower looper is done with a lever, which the listing says makes it easy. - Differential feed can be adjusted while sewing, handy for knits and georgette. - A 5 year limited manufacturer warranty is stated. Good to know: - The listing does not state the thread count options. - It is listed as an international product, so check plug and voltage. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.