What is it?
An overlocker trims, stitches and finishes an edge in one pass. In the UK and Australia it is usually called an overlocker; in North America, a serger. The stitches are the same.
When should you use it?
- Joining a seam in a T-shirt or dress? Start with a 4-thread overlock.
- Neatening the edges of woven seam allowances? Try a 3-thread overlock.
- Hemming a chiffon scarf? A rolled hem is lovely.
- Want the seam to lie flat or show off thread? Explore flatlock.
- Making ruffles? Use differential feed to gather.
What fabrics work well?
Think about stretch and weight. Knits usually want a seam that can move; lightweight fabrics often want a narrower, less bulky finish; heavyweights may need a wider stitch and slower sewing.
How many threads?
Four threads for joining, three for edge finishing is a helpful rule of thumb — but always check which options your overlocker offers.
What should the finished stitch look like?
Smooth, even and flat, with thread wrapping neatly around the cut edge. Test on scrap fabric first and compare both sides.
Common problems
If the stitch looks uneven, rethread in the order shown in your manual, check the needle and change one setting at a time.
TRY THE STITCH SELECTOR
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