Sewing is a hobby and profession that requires precision, skill, and the right tools. One of the most important tools in a sewing arsenal is a sewing machine. While there are many different types of sewing machines available, two of the most popular are the coverstitch machine and the overlocker machine.
In this blog post, we will explore the key differences between these two types of machines, their advantages, and when you should use each. We will also discuss the factors you should consider when choosing the right machine for your needs.
Whether you are a professional seamstress, a fashion designer, or an enthusiastic hobbyist, understanding the differences between a coverstitch and an overlocker machine is essential to achieving the best results with your projects.
What is a Coverstitch?
A coverstitch machine is a specialized sewing machine that is designed to produce a type of stitch that is commonly used for finishing hems on knit fabrics.
It lays down single or multiple straight stitches on the top of the fabric, while at the same time creating a sort of overlock on the underside. This allows for a professional-looking and secure finish on knit fabrics.
Coverstitch machines typically produce a variety of stitches, such as a single-needle coverstitch, a double-needle coverstitch, and a triple-needle coverstitch. The number of needles used will determine the number of top stitches that are produced.
The most common stitch is a double-needle coverstitch, which creates two parallel lines of stitches on the top of the fabric. Some machines also have options for chain stitching.
Coverstitch machines are best suited for projects such as hemming t-shirts, knit tops, and other knit garments. They are also great for attaching neckbands, cuffs, and other trims.
Coverstitch machines can also be used for attaching elastic, creating decorative topstitching, and even creating a mock flatlock stitch. They are also great for attaching any stretchy fabric or knitwear.
What is an Overlocker?
An overlocker, also known as a serger, is a specialized sewing machine that is designed to produce a type of stitch that is commonly used for finishing seams on knit fabrics and other types of fabrics.
It uses multiple threads to create a strong, professional-looking seam that is also stretchy. Overlockers typically have one or more cutting blades that trim the fabric edge as it is sewn, which helps to prevent fraying.
Overlockers typically produce a variety of stitches, such as a 3-thread overlock stitch, a 4-thread overlock stitch, and a 5-thread overlock stitch.
Each type of stitch is used for different purposes and can be used to create different types of finishes. 3-thread overlock is used for simple seams, 4-thread overlock is used for stretchy seams and 5-thread overlock is used for added security and elasticity.
Overlockers are best suited for projects such as creating seams on knit fabrics, finishing raw edges, attaching lace, creating ruffles and pleats, and creating decorative edge finishes.
They can be used on a wide variety of fabrics including knit, cotton, silk, and even leather. They are also great for creating professional-looking hems, cuffs, and neckbands. They are also great for creating a secure and clean finish.
Coverstitch vs Overlocker
Differences and Similarities
- A coverstitch machine and an overlocker are both specialized machines used for specific purposes in the garment-making process.
- The main difference between the two machines is their function: a coverstitch machine is used for hemming finished garment edges and decorative chain stitching, while an overlocker is used for trimming excess seam allowance and sewing a run of neat stitches over the edge.
- Both machines have multiple needles and thread options, but the coverstitch machine has only one or two needles, while the overlocker has multiple needles, usually three or four.
- Coverstitch machines are used to create a neat and professional finish to the edges of a garment, while overlockers are used to make sure that it will last longer by eliminating excess fabric and making the seams more sturdy.
Pros and Cons of Each Machine
- The coverstitch machine’s main advantage is its ability to create a professional-looking, finished edge on a garment. It also has fewer thread and needle options which makes it simpler to operate
- The overlocker’s main advantage is its ability to trim excess fabric and create sturdy, durable seams. It also has multiple thread and needle options which allows for more creativity and versatility.
- The coverstitch machine’s main disadvantage is that it can only be used for hemming and decorative chain stitching, which can limit its use in some projects.
- The overlocker’s main disadvantage is that it can be more complex to operate due to its multiple thread and needle options.
When to Use One Machine Over the Other
- A coverstitch machine should be used when a neat and finished edge is required on a garment, such as on a t-shirt or dress hem.
- An overlocker should be used when a durable and sturdy seam is required, such as on a pair of pants or a jacket.
- An overlocker-cover stitch combo machine can be used for projects that require both types of stitches, providing a powerful suite of options and saving space.
Overlocker-Coverstitch Combo Machine
Function and Purpose
- An overlocker-cover stitch combo machine is a single machine that can perform both overlock and coverstitch stitches.
- This machine is designed to provide the functionality of both an overlocker and a coverstitch machine in one machine, allowing for more versatility and efficiency in the garment-making process.
- It can be used for a wide range of projects, from trimming excess seam allowance and creating sturdy seams to hemming finished garment edges and decorative chain stitching.
Advantages of Having a Single Machine That Can Perform Both Types of Stitches
- The main advantage of having a combo machine is its versatility, it allows you to complete all the necessary steps of the garment-making process in one machine, which can save time and effort.
- The machine has a wide range of thread and needle options, allowing for more creativity and versatility in your projects.
- It also eliminates the need to switch between machines, which can save time and increase efficiency.
Space-saving Benefits
- Having a single machine that can perform both overlock and coverstitch stitches can save a lot of space, especially if you have a small sewing area.
- Instead of having two separate machines, you can have one machine that can do the work of both, which can free up valuable space in your sewing area.
- Also, the machine is more portable which is useful for those who like to travel and take their sewing machines with them.
Overall, an overlocker-cover stitch combo machine is a powerful and versatile tool that can save time and space, while providing a wide range of options for your sewing projects. It’s also a great option for those who want the convenience of having one machine that can perform multiple tasks.
Coverstitch and Overlocker comparison
| Feature | Coverstitch | Overlocker |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Stitch | Single/Double/Triple needle coverstitch | 3-thread overlock, 4-thread overlock, 5-thread overlock |
| Function | Hemming knit fabrics and attaching trims | Creating seams, finishing raw edges, attaching lace, creating ruffles and pleats, and creating decorative edge finishes |
| Best Suited for | Knit fabrics | Variety of fabrics |
| Cutting blade | No | Yes |
| Number of Threads | 1-3 | 3-5 |
| The professional-looking finish on knit fabrics | Yes | No |
This table provides a quick comparison of the main features of coverstitch and overlocker machines. It highlights the type of stitch each machine produces, the function they serve, the types of fabrics they are best suited for, and some other important factors such as cutting blade, number of threads and the professional-looking finish they provide.
This table is useful for those who are considering purchasing a machine and want a quick overview of the key differences between the two options.
FAQs
Yes, an overlocker machine is designed to handle a wide range of fabrics, including denim and other heavy fabrics. However, it is worth noting that some overlockers may struggle with very thick fabrics, so it’s important to check the machine’s capabilities before making a purchase.
While an overlocker machine can do many of the things that a coverstitch machine can do, a coverstitch machine provides a more professional-looking hem on knit fabrics and is great for attaching elastic or bias binding.
It also creates a stretchy and strong chain stitch on the wrong side of the fabric. Depending on the type of projects you will be working on, a coverstitch machine may be a worthwhile investment, even if you already own an overlocker machine.
Coverstitch machines are designed to use specific types of thread, such as stretch or coverstitch thread, which is thicker and more durable than regular thread.
Using regular thread may cause tension problems or even break the needles. Always make sure to use the appropriate thread recommended by the machine’s manufacturer.
A 3-thread overlocker uses three threads to create the overlock stitch: one needle thread, and two loopers. A 4-thread overlocker uses four threads: one needle thread, and three loopers
Editor’s Note
In summary, an overlock machine and a serger machine are essentially the same and are used to sew the type of stitch commonly seen on t-shirts or knit fabric seams. They have a cutter that trims off the edge of the fabric as you sew.
A coverstitch machine is used for doing hems on t-shirts or knit fabrics. It lays down a single/double or triple straight stitch on top and does a sort of overlock on the underside.
It generally has no cutter. Some machines are combo machines that do both serger and coverstitch stitches. It is recommended to research different brands and options before purchasing a machine.
Conclusion
Coverstitch machines and overlockers are both specialized sewing machines that have different functions and capabilities.
Coverstitch machines are specifically designed to create a professional-looking and secure finish on knit fabrics, while overlockers are designed to create a strong, professional-looking seam that is also stretchy, and typically has cutting blades to trim the fabric edge as it is sewn.
It is important to understand the differences between the two machines and to use them for their intended purposes. Coverstitch machines should be used when working on knit fabrics, attaching neckbands, cuffs, and other trims, and creating decorative topstitching.
Overlockers should be used when working on a wide variety of fabrics, creating seams, finishing raw edges, attaching lace, creating ruffles and pleats, and creating decorative edge finishes.
Having both options available can be handy, depending on the type of projects you typically work on. It is important to research different brands and options before purchasing a machine, to make sure that you are getting the best machine for your needs.
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