Coverlock - what is it?

Do you just love to sew or do it? Overlock is an indispensable assistant to the seamstress. But not everyone knows what types of this device are, and what they are for. For example, a carpet - what is it, are there any differences from a traditional device for processing seams. Or what is the flashing machine designed for? After reading the article, you will learn the answers to all these questions.

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What is an overlock for?

Overlock is not a standalone device, you need a sewing machine for sewing. In addition, overlock can be used to decorate things: sewing beads, elastic bands and ribbons.

Important! There are devices designed to work with certain types of fabrics and having special systems for threading.

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What to consider when choosing?

Here is a set of basic factors that you need to consider when going shopping.

Overlock or Carlock

Conventional overlock models are compact and can do side seams. More modern modifications, in addition to the basic set of functions, can serve as overcasting and sowing machines. Such devices are called carlocks. They have a higher cost and an expanded set of lines. Now you can probably answer if you need to consult a less advanced seamstress, carpet - what is it.

Number of threads per line

The number of coils that the standard model is equipped with is usually 3-4. They are used to form a three- or four-strand seam. In some models there are converters for two-thread seams. The carpetlock is equipped with a 5-thread system for the formation of a combined complex stitch.

Important! Each option has its advantages and weaknesses. Unlike the simplest model, a modern overlock makes it possible to make different types of lines. However, threading is significantly more complicated.

Manual VS automatic threading

Most of the models are equipped with guides and mechanical needle threaders. But if financial capabilities allow or you purchase a unit for personal use, pay attention to automated modifications.

Knives

Two fabric knives are the main difference between an overlock and a regular sewing machine. As a rule, the upper knife is used infrequently, and it can be turned off. With this device, the processing of dense tissues is simplified.

Important! There is also the ability to control tissue trimming.

The number of varieties of stitches

For a beginner, quite an undercut seam and an ordinary overlock stitch. With the help of expensive models, you can work with knitwear, products using the patchwork technique, and perform decorative seams.

Thread tension - automated or manual?

The simplest models are equipped with mechanical regulators. Costly models have electronic controls and an LCD display. The regulation of the tension of the threads is carried out in this case in automatic mode. It all depends on the type of material and the selected type of stitch.

Stitch size

In advanced models, the ratio between the width and length of the stitch is automatically adjusted. Do not forget to pay attention to the variation in the width and length of the stitch when buying.

Switching to different types of lines

In modern models, it is possible to select the type of stitch by switching functions on an electronic display.At the same time, a similar operation on a budget model involves replacing the needle board.

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Minor Functionality

What is a carpet and overlock, by what characteristics to choose such equipment is understandable. Let's consider some more nuances - something that can be done without, but which will be very useful in some cases.

Sleeve platform

With its help, the work on processing cylindrical parts - trousers, sleeves or cuffs is simplified. This work can be dealt with on a regular unit, so paying extra for this option is not necessary.

Differential conveyor

It helps to finish more accurately when working with delicate and stretch fabrics. Almost all modern models have a differential feed, only its pitch is different.

Work surface illumination

Available in almost all models. In expensive models, LED bulbs are used, in budget ones - ordinary incandescent lamps.

Extra table

Undoubtedly, it is convenient, especially when working with bulky items. At the same time, this is not an essential item.

Garbage container

It is installed from the front of the unit and collects the cut-off fabric. It is in many models, but the degree of convenience is different.

Optional accessories

These, for example, include paws used for different types of seams. As a rule, they can be bought additionally in a company store of the same company.

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Overview of manufacturers

Before we give a rating of overlocks for the home, consider the best manufacturing companies.

Brother

This is a multinational company, whose homeland is Japan. It has been on the market since 1908. In addition to sewing equipment, the company is known for producing printers, scanners and multifunction devices.

Baby lock

Another Japanese company. Over the 40 years of the company’s existence, its products have proven to be reliable, easy to use and of high quality. Design also did not disappoint. The undoubted plus is that the company is working hard on introducing innovations and improving cars.

Janome

Japanese company operating since 1921. The company itself conducts research activities, which allows it to introduce various innovations regularly.

Important! One of the main achievements of the company is that in 1979 it launched the world's first household sewing machine.

Bernina

A Swiss company with over eighty offices worldwide. The company specializes in the production of embroidery, sewing machines, overlocks, as well as a variety of sewing attributes. The company has highly qualified specialists in the field of specialized software.

JUKI

This company combines several Tokyo enterprises for the production of sewing equipment. Today it is one of the world leaders in the production of industrial sewing equipment.

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The best carpet, overlock and sewing machine

When forming lists of the best equipment, the following points were taken into account:

• The number of operations available.
• Speed ​​indicator.
• Functionality (presence of a display, automated pulling of threads, etc.).
• Compatible with different fabrics and different types of threads.
• The number of seams available.
• Stitch Width
• Cost.
• Dimensions
• Equipment.
• Design decoration.
• Line quality.

Brother 4234d

A popular model ideal for amateurs and beginners. The device is equipped with an automated threading of needles and loops. The energy intensity of the machine is small - only 40 watts. The speed indicator is not bad - the number of stitches per minute is 1300.

Important! There is a differentiated supply of tissues, which means that the technique works well with different types of fabrics.

Benefits:

• Light weight - only 6 kg.
• Illumination of the working surface with an LED lamp.
• Good staffing.
• Almost silent operation.
• Decent functionality.
• Affordable price.
• The small sizes.
• Written to disc, comprehensive user manual.

Minuses:

• No display.
• Low power.
• Insufficiently stable thread holder.

Important! This overlock did not disappoint most buyers. It justifies the price and helps to create good garments.

BERNINA 1300MDC

In terms of functionality, this model is unrivaled. For a professional, this is a real find. The number of operations that can be performed on this machine is 24! Selectivity is also not for this model. It works with all kinds of fabrics and threads. Speed ​​indicators are above average. The stitch width is up to 10 mm, the length varies from 1 to 4 mm.

According to seamstress reviews, the advantages of the BERNINA 1300MDC are as follows:

• The richest functionality.
• Smooth work.
• Low power consumption combined with significant power.
• Ability to work with various threads and fabrics.
• Electronic display.
• Ease of use.
• Good quality seam.
• Beautiful design.
• Light weight.

Among the shortcomings can be noted such:

• Significant cost.
• This model is not always on sale.

Important! Of course, the high price is a real deterrent for potential buyers. But those who purchased the unit leave only rave reviews.

BABYLOCK EVOLUTION BLE8W-2

Coverlock - what is it, we have already disassembled, now consider a specific example of a popular model? This model is one of the best carpet covers that can simultaneously serve as a sewing machine and an overlock. The model is almost completely automated. It copes with fabrics of different density and thickness - from denim to the finest silk.

According to customers, the strongest points of the model are the following:

• High degree of automation.
• Simple refueling.
• Good quality seams.
• Good instructions for use.
• A quick and easy transition between different types of operations.
• Stability through the use of suction cups.
• The small sizes.
• Light weight.
• Compatibility with different types of fabrics, threads and needles.
• Mobility, due to the handle for moving.

The model is not without its certain disadvantages:

• Too high sewing speed that is not adjustable.
• Too fast start.
• Not too comfortable foot (large size, does not rise high).
• The instruction is made with errors.
• Inadequate staffing.

Important! In general, this model enjoys a good reputation among users. However, many of them believe that for such a price the functionality could be richer.

Coverlock JUKI MO-735

Practical, versatile and inexpensive model. Functionality and automation level is average.

Benefits:

• Silent work.
• Comfortable foot.
• The optimal ratio between quality and value.
• The basic set of functions, which is quite enough for the home master.
• Ease of use.
• Convenient cord length.
• Ergonomic pedal.

Minuses:

• Vibration at work.
• Inconvenient waste bin.
• Low speed.
• Long transition between different types of operations.
• Incorrectly written instructions.
• No sleeve platform.

Important! Of course, there are drawbacks, but, according to the same users, they are not critical. Most reviews are positive. The quality of the products is quite decent.

JANOME COVERPRO 1000CP (COVERPRO II)

Sewing machine with which it is possible to process the edges of knitted products and knitwear. This modification is equipped with all the basic functionality for “openings”. There are no unnecessary “bells and whistles”, but for many this is not critical.

Benefits:

• Simplicity of work.
• Low price.
• An opportunity to buy additional accessories.
• Simple quick refueling.

Disadvantages:

• Difficulties in working with thin tissues.
• There are skipped stitches.
• Limited thread selection.

MERRYLOCK COVER STITCH AUTO

A high-speed sewing machine with 1300 stitches per minute. The sewing machine is quite affordable and widespread. Looper threading and thread tension are automated. Thanks to the differential feed, sewing is very convenient.

Benefits:

• High speed.
• Possibility of processing bulk textiles.
• Soft move.
• The ability to control the intensity of the tissue clamp and puncture force.

Minuses:

• High probability of thread breakage during operation.
• Skipping stitches.

Janser miniket 2000

Powerful carpet model. This is a portable machine designed to overcast the edges of carpet products. This 2-thread mobile model is equipped with wheels. There are 6 speed modes.

Important! The design features of the device allow you to overcast products with a high pile height. Retrofitting with a control knob and pedal is possible.

Power is 300 watts, there is a highlight of the work surface.

Benefits:

• Good performance.
• Mobility.
• Versatility, the ability to work with coatings of various thicknesses.

Disadvantages:

• Large sizes (460x350x520 mm) and weight.
• High price.

Juki MO-6700D

One-needle 3-thread professional model. Improved upper looper and thread guide mechanisms eliminate the need for periodic lubrication. There are 4 stitch width modes. The stitch length varies from 0.8 to 4 mm.

Important! The unit is designed to work with fabrics of thin and medium thickness.

Benefits:

• Good sewing speed.
• There is no risk of grease getting onto the fabric.

Disadvantages:

• The need for a special installation table.
• The complexity of the initial setup.

Important! This model enjoys almost exclusively positive reviews. Innovative technologies and good functionality have made this model popular among professional seamstresses.

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Which overlock to choose?

It all depends on whether you are an amateur or a professional, what fabrics you deal with and how often you sew:

1. For beginners who are not ready from the very beginning to invest a lot of money in a new craft, you can advise MERRYLOCK COVER STITCH AUTO.
2. The best amateur overlock model can rightfully be considered the Brother 4234D. If we are talking about a sewing machine, then the model JANOME COVERPRO 1000CP (COVERPRO II) is preferable.
3. The remaining models from the above overview of overlocks are among the professional ones. Juki MO-6700D is an excellent option for working with delicate and medium thickness fabrics.
4. A mobile model on wheels will help to refine the carpet.

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Stock footage

So, now you know how to choose carpet for home sewing. The point is small: make a choice and go shopping!