Product · Brother
Brother M343D: easy lower looper threading
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The Brother M343D is a long-standing beginner overlocker, and its main selling point addresses the job new owners dread most: threading the lower looper. Brother's F.A.S.T. system is designed to make that route simpler, and an instructional DVD is included to walk you through setup. With a 3 year warranty, it is a low-risk first overlocker for seam finishing and knits.
- 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
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.
Our take
Threads and stitches
The listing states 3 or 4 thread overlocking. A 4 thread stitch gives a strong, stretchy seam for jersey and sweatshirt fabric, with two needle lines and two loopers. A 3 thread stitch uses one needle and is lighter, used mainly for neatening raw edges on woven fabrics.
There is no mention of a 2 thread stitch, a rolled hem or the number of stitch types in the listing.
The lower looper problem
On most overlockers the lower looper thread follows a twisting path deep in the machine, and it must be threaded in the correct order relative to the upper looper. Get it wrong and the stitch fails. A dedicated lower looper threading aid shortens that route and makes re-threading after a break far less painful.
The instructional DVD is helpful for visual learners, although some people may need a DVD player to watch it.
Build, size and warranty
The spec table lists a weight of 7.24 kg, Taiwan as country of origin and a 3 year warranty. Dimensions are around 33.5 cm wide, 28 cm deep and 29.6 cm high. An LED daytime light helps see the threads, which matters when checking loop formation.
The listing does not confirm differential feed, which is an important control for knits, so check this with a dealer.
Against the Juki MO-80CB and Janome 9300DX
The Juki MO-80CB lists a lever lower looper threader, another approach to the same problem, along with a free arm. The Janome 9300DX publishes differential feed, rolled hemming and a speed of 1,500 stitches per minute. The Bernette b44 states colour coded threading and adjustable differential feed.
Who it does not suit
If rolled hems on scarves and napkins are important, choose a machine that lists them, such as the Janome 9300DX or Singer S14-78. Anyone wanting a confirmed differential feed should check before buying.
Verdict
Buy the Brother M343D if lower looper threading is your main worry and you want a straightforward 3 or 4 thread overlocker with a 3 year warranty. If rolled hems and published differential feed matter, the Janome 9300DX or Singer S14-78 state both, and the Juki MO-80CB offers a different threading aid.
Compared with alternatives in: Best overlockers for beginners
Amazon listing title: Brother M343D Overlocker