Topic
Overlockers
An overlocker trims, stitches and wraps the seam edge in one pass, which makes knits and neat seam finishes quick. A coverstitch machine sews the twin-needle hems on T-shirts.
- Threads
- 3 or 4 thread overlock, 2 to 5 thread on some
- Feed
- Differential feed for knits
A 4 thread overlock uses two needles and two loopers for a strong stretchy seam; 3 thread is lighter, for edges and rolled hems. A built-in knife trims the seam as you sew.
Differential feed moves the front and back feed dogs at different speeds, so knits do not stretch out and fine fabrics do not pucker.
Threading the loopers is the part people find hardest. Colour-coded guides help, and air threading on some models takes most of the effort away. Overlockers may use a different needle system from sewing machines, so check the manual.
Guides on this topic
- Sewing machine vs overlocker: which comes first?Sewing machine vs overlocker explained: what each one does, why an overlocker cannot replace a sewing machine, and which to buy first for dressmaking.Comparison
- Overlocker vs coverstitch machineOverlocker vs coverstitch: how each stitch is formed, which jobs suit each machine on knits, and when a combination overlocker and coverstitch makes sense.Comparison
- Overlocker differential feed explainedWhat overlocker differential feed does, how the two feed dogs work and which settings stop wavy seams on knits and puckered seams on fine wovens.Guide
- Overlock stitch vs zigzag for finishing seamsOverlock stitch vs zigzag and overcast stitches for finishing seams, compared by fabric type, with when a sewing machine is enough and when an overlocker helps.Comparison
- How to thread an overlockerHow to thread an overlocker: the usual looper and needle order, the tie-on method for changing colours, and why air threading makes the job quicker.How-to
Buying guides on this topic
- Best coverstitch and combination overlockersSix coverstitch and overlocker plus coverstitch machines compared by type, cover hem, threads, threading help and weight, from listings.Buying guide
- Best overlockers for beginnersSeven three and four thread overlockers compared by thread options, differential feed, rolled hem, threading aids and weight, from listings.Buying guide