Different from a conventional sewing machine that forms a stitch with a bobbin and top thread, an overlocker works with loopers and needle threads that form an overlocking stitch.Differential Feed: This adjusts the movement of the feed dogs, and therefore how the fabric feeds, to eliminate puckers, stretching and ripples in seams. It can also be adjusted to gather the fabric.
Overlockers are used to clean-finish the seam allowances although today’s models can do far more than that, and they have become increasingly easy to operate, creatively diverse in their stitch capability and more economical than ever.Threading Ease: Nothing is more frustrating than a machine that is too difficult to use. Thread and rethread any machine you’re considering buying. Be sure you know how to thread the lower looper; it’s usually the most challenging thread path. Most overlockers have color-coded thread paths and lay-in threading. You can actually pull threads through without completly re-threading usually BUT you want to be able to re-thread if neccessary. Ideally buy from a local shop so they can show you and you can try it. In Sussex try Varneys in Portslade or Brighton Sewing Centre in Hove – details on our sewing machine page here
What are the 20 parts of a sewing machine?
Sewing Machine Parts and Functions with PicturesFoot pedal: It controls the speed of the machine which depends on the force exerted on it. … Power cord and switch: … Hand wheel: … Reverse lever: … Pattern selector: … Take-up lever: … Feed dog: … Face plate:
When selecting an overlocker, keep in mind that as the number of threads and loopers increase, so does the price of the machine. So, choose the configuration that best fits your needs.
Both beginning and experienced sewers benefit from tools that simplify sewing and make professional results easier. Most sewing machines have an overlock or overcast stitch in their library of stitches, so why do you need an overlocker? You don’t really need one, but they’re nice to have, and, while a sewing machine can certainly perform an overcast stitch, it can’t cut the fabric as it stitches, and it can’t use the thicker, decorative threads that are so popular. And most sewing machines don’t sew anywhere near as fast as overlockers.
Instructional Classes and On-Site Repair: If possible, take Overlocker classes to learn all the functions of the machine. Hands-on experience will help you get the most mileage from your purchase. Ask when buying your overlocker if classes and/or an instructional video are included in the cost of the machine. If not, we offer overlocking lessons and workshops here in East Sussex at Sew In Brighton – click here for more info about our lesson and workshop options for learning to overlock with confidence.
Not long ago, overlockers were only available for commercial use. The machines were huge, heavy and impractical for home sewers. Fortunately, the market has changed and there are wonderful assortments of industrial-quality overlockers, at a variety of price points, designed specifically for home sewers.Determine how much you think you will use an overlocker, familiarize yourself with the various stitches and then take time to visit at least two overlocker dealers. Have the dealer demonstrate the machine and explain its stitch capability. Practice threading several different models before making a purchase. If possible, purchase your overlocker from a dealer so you have the opportunity to take classes, ask follow-up questions and utilize convenient repair and maintenance service.
Conversion Ease: Be sure to ask how the machine converts from a standard overlocker stitch to a rolled hem or chainstitch. Sometimes it’s a button/dial; sometimes it involves disengaging a thread path or adding a conversion plate.Key piece of an overlock sewing machine Crossword Clue Nytimes . The NY Times Crossword is a classic American puzzle. It is a daily puzzle and today like every other day, we published all the solutions of the puzzle for you. Anytime you encounter a difficult clue you will find it here. In case there is more than one answer to this clue it means it has appeared twice, each time with a different answer. You came here to getWe and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page..
In the United States, the term “overlocker” has largely been replaced by “serger”. However, in other parts of the world such as Australia and the UK, the term “overlocker” is still in use.
Adding extra variation in stitch types is the differential feed feature, which allows feed to be adjusted; extra-fast feed creates a ruffled or “lettuce-leaf” effect. Finally, some merrowing machines contain parts to roll the fabric edge into the stitch for added durability.J. Makens Merrow and his son Joseph Merrow, who owned a knitting mill established in Connecticut in 1838, developed a number of technological advancements to be used in the mill’s operations. Merrow’s first patent was a machine for crochet stitching, and the Merrow Machine Company still produces crochet machines based on this original model. This technology was a starting point for the development of the overlock machine, patented by Joseph Merrow in 1889. Unlike standard lockstitching, which uses a bobbin, overlock sewing machines utilize loopers to create thread loops for the needle to pass through, in a manner similar to crocheting. Merrow’s original three-thread overedge sewing machine is the forerunner of contemporary overlocking machines. Over time, the Merrow Machine Company pioneered the design of new machines to create a variety of overlock stitches, such as two- and four-thread machines, the one-thread butted seam, and the cutterless emblem edger.
Can my sewing machine do overlocking?
So what a serger does is it cuts off as you sew and finishes the edges. So they don’t fray. You may be wondering why you even need to finish off your seam.
Additional variables in the types of overlock stitches are the stitch eccentric, and the stitch width. The stitch eccentric indicates how many stitches per inch there are, which is adjustable and can vary widely within one machine. Different stitch eccentrics create more or less dense and solid-looking edges. The stitch width indicates how wide the stitch is from the edge of the fabric. Lightweight fabrics often require a wider stitch to prevent pulling.In 1964 several engineers and managers at one Japanese manufacturer redesigned the industrial serger they were currently manufacturing as a smaller, lighter model intended for home use. They presented their concept to their employer, and after it was rejected they quit and formed the Juki Corporation.
A landmark lawsuit between Willcox & Gibbs and the Merrow Machine Company in 1905 established the ownership and rights to the early mechanical development of overlocking to the Merrow Machine Company.
Nick Tacony, founder of Tacony Corporation, introduced machinery for producing the overlock stitch (so called “baby lock”) to the United States market. This allowed sewing enthusiasts to produce clothing with finishing seams like those made by industrial garment manufacturers.Throughout the early 20th Century, the areas of Connecticut, US and New York, US were the centres of textile manufacturing and machine production. Consequently, many overlock machine companies established themselves in the Northeastern United States.Overlock stitches are classified in a number of ways. The most basic classification is by the number of threads used in the stitch. Industrial overlock machines are generally made in 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 thread formations. Each of these formations has unique uses and benefits:An overlock is a kind of stitch that sews over the edge of one or two pieces of cloth for edging, hemming, or seaming. Usually an overlock sewing machine will cut the edges of the cloth as they are fed through (such machines being called sergers in North America), though some are made without cutters. The inclusion of automated cutters allows overlock machines to create finished seams easily and quickly. An overlock sewing machine differs from a lockstitch sewing machine in that it uses loopers fed by multiple thread cones rather than a bobbin. Loopers serve to create thread loops that pass from the needle thread to the edges of the fabric so that the edges of the fabric are contained within the seam.
Overlocking is also referred to as “overedging”, “merrowing”, or “serging”. Though “serging” technically refers to overlocking with cutters, in practice the four terms are used interchangeably.
Overlock sewing machines usually run at high speeds, from 1000 to 9000 rpm, and most are used in industry for edging, hemming and seaming a variety of fabrics and products. Overlock stitches are extremely versatile, as they can be used for decoration, reinforcement, or construction.Don’t be embarrassed if you’re struggling to answer a crossword clue! The more you play, the more experience you will get solving crosswords that will lead to figuring out clues faster. That should be all the information you need to solve for the crossword clue and fill in more of the grid you’re working on! Be sure to check out the Crossword section of our website to find more answers and solutions. We have the answer for Key piece of an overlock sewing machine crossword clue in case you’ve been struggling to solve this one! Crosswords can be an excellent way to stimulate your brain, pass the time, and challenge yourself all at once. Of course, sometimes there’s a crossword clue that totally stumps us, whether it’s because we are unfamiliar with the subject matter entirely or we just are drawing a blank.A clue can have multiple answers, and we have provided all the ones that we are aware of for Key piece of an overlock sewing machine. This clue last appeared November 26, 2022 in the NYT Crossword. You’ll want to cross-reference the length of the answers below with the required length in the crossword puzzle you are working on for the correct answer. The solution to the Key piece of an overlock sewing machine crossword clue should be:
What are the parts of overlock machine?
Main parts of overlock machine:Thread stand.Thread package.Thread guide.Disc type tensioner.Thread guides.Needles.Loopers.Thread cutter.
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Can all sewing machines overlock?
As you might have guessed, overlockers are the only machine that can perform an ‘overlock’ stitch. This is a specialised stitch that sews over the edge of your fabric to reduce excess seam and prevent fraying.
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What are the 4 main parts of sewing machine?
Below, we’ve called out the main parts to identify:Spool pin: Holds a spool of thread.Bobbin winder spindle: Bobbin is placed here during winding.Bobbin winder stopper: Stops winding the bobbin when it reaches capacity.Stitch width adjustment buttons: Controls the zigzag stitch.
Below, you’ll find any keyword(s) defined that may help you understand the clue or the answer better. Find all the solutions for the puzzle on our NYT Crossword November 26 2022 Answers guide.
On high speed and modern machines, the tension dial with numbers graduated on it is used for varying the tension. The higher the number, the greater the tension and vice versa. When the tension is adjusted correctly, the stitch line will be straight and even on either side of the fabric.
There are two kinds of tension device, such as direct tension device and indirect tension device. Both types have parts like (a) pressure disk, (b) tension spring, (c) thumb nut, (d) tension mounting bar and (e) pressure releasing unit.
There are different types of machines and equipment are used in garment industry to manufacture garments. Among them sewing machine plays an important role in apparel manufacturing industry. There are a lot of sewing machines used in garment industry. So it is essential to know about sewing machine. If you know the basic parts of sewing machine and how they work is an essential part of sewing. It enables you to properly use your machine and makes troubleshooting easier when problems do arise. In this article I will give explanation of different parts of a sewing machine and their functions with images.
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Do some straight stitches, some zig zag stitches, and just make sure everything is running smoothly. Even if you’re an old hand at sewing, you can mis-thread, which will mess up your stitches. You don’t want to start off your project with skipped stitches or thread tangles so take the time to test!Do pay attention to your manual. Yes, most people find it the least interesting thing in the world to read, but you’d be amazed at how much work goes into putting one together. One thing we’ve learned in our work with Janome is the tremendous amount of effort on the part of the factory technicians in Japan as well as the education department at Janome America to make sure the information you need to stitch successfully is included in that trusty manual. Obviously, the more advanced your machine, the more information (and pages) in your manual. Take advantage of it. Any time you are having a problem, the manual is the first place to turn.The best way to search: Check out the black bar at the top of every page. It includes links to our project and technique categories + an open box to use for searching by key words.Remove the packing materials and carefully lift the machine out of the box. Remember… lift with your knees. This model came standard with a hard cover, which is in place over the machine in the box.
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Pull out the manual. It will list all the elements that should be included. Your first job is to identify all the presser feet and accessories to make sure everything is there and you know what’s what. The next step is to test your stitches. This is not only an important thing to do when you first unpack your machine, it’s also a great idea to do before any project or whenever you change your settings. Our sample model also had a handy plasticized stitch chart that could be attached to the top of the machine. It’s a great quick reference, and you simply slide it out and fold away the holder when not in use.*Sew4Home reserves the right to restrict comments that don’t relate to the article, contain profanity, personal attacks or promote personal or other business. When commenting, your name will display but your email will not.We’re using one of Janome’s mid-line Magnolia machines. You can visit Janome.com to see the full range sewing machines and sergers. Let’s open up our machine and find out what’s inside.
Your machine will come home with you in its shipping box. Make sure, as with anything you get in a shipping carton, there is no damage to the outer box. Most dealers have inspected their shipments previously, but a quick once-over is always a good idea.
How is an overlock different from a normal sewing machine?
Different from a conventional sewing machine that forms a stitch with a bobbin and top thread, an overlocker works with loopers and needle threads that form an overlocking stitch. When selecting an overlocker, keep in mind that as the number of threads and loopers increase, so does the price of the machine.
Models and makes of sewing machines differ in layout and features, but the basic parts are similar. Your machine’s manual should show a detailed diagram of your specific model. If you don’t have a manual, check the manufacturer’s website. Often, manuals can be found online and downloaded. Consult your machine’s manual for specific instructions on use and care. Below, we’ve called out the main parts to identify:
If you are working with a manual model, all your stitches are likely to be printed on the front of the machine and/or on a pull-out guide and/or on buttons or dials. Whichever the method, you’ll have a way to navigate to all the included utility and decorative stitches.The best thing any “NEW” machine can have and has to work is a needle threader. I have a cheapy machine that the threader works really well and an expensive machine where it doesn’t work. In either case, neither are Janome.
What are 2 advantages of using an overlocker?
With an overlock, you can stitch up lovely rolled hems to finish off your table linens, gathers for beautiful ruffles on pillows and so much more! The extra strength that is given when using the overlocker on the seams allows for a longer life to your handmade sewing projects.
Sewing is an art. But it does rely on science and technology as well. And then there’s math with all those fractions and geometry. But most importantly… there’s your machine! A good machine makes the difference – not only in the sewing experience but in the professional look of the finished project. Janome America is the exclusive sewing machine sponsor of Sew4Home and we love our studio Janome machines. When you have a great machine, you can literally forget about it, and put your full concentration on the art of sewing. To borrow a line from Janome that explains this phenomenon: the easier the tools, the more creative you become. Janome machines are precise and reliable from the top of the line to the most basic entry level model. One of the very first articles we did on Sew4Home explained the parts of a basic sewing machine. We’ve updated that article to benefit of all the new sewing enthusiasts out there. Plus, it never hurts for any of us to dust off our skills and knowledge.If your machine has a free arm option, this is accessed by pulling away part of the sewing table. Often there is additional parts storage within this removable section. Our buttonhole foot was stored inside the accessory bin. When setting up your machine, use this bin to hold your most used presser feet and other handy tools. Remove the cover. There may be additional packing materials within the machine itself. Our foot control was packaged in the center opening and there was an additional styrofoam piece protecting the needle area. We provide the likeliest answers for every crossword clue. Undoubtedly, there may be other solutions for Key piece of an overlock sewing machine. If you discover one of these, please send it to us, and we’ll add it to our database of clues and answers, so others can benefit from your research.Today’s crossword puzzle clue is a quick one: Key piece of an overlock sewing machine. We will try to find the right answer to this particular crossword clue. Here are the possible solutions for “Key piece of an overlock sewing machine” clue. It was last seen in The New York Times quick crossword. We have 1 possible answer in our database.
Founder & Editor of Textile Learner. He is a Textile Consultant, Blogger & Entrepreneur. He is working as a textile consultant in several local and international companies. He is also a contributor of Wikipedia.
Below you will find a list of possible answers Key piece of an overlock sewing machine crossword clue, but there may be more than one answer. If that is the case, it’s because some clues can sometimes have multiple answers. In that case, you can find out which one is correct for your puzzle by double-checking the letter count.Crossword clues are often difficult and sometimes annoying. There’s nothing wrong with getting a cheat or two when they are particularly irksome. If you find yourself in a situation where you are dumbfounded and can’t even guess the answer, you can refer to the section below for the correct solution. We compile a list of clues and answers for today’s puzzle, along with the letter count for the word.
The clue and answer(s) above was last seen in the NYT. It can also appear across various crossword publications, including newspapers and websites around the world like the LA Times, New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and more.
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How to do overlocking on a sewing machine?
And over the prong. Yeah i’m happy with that so i’m not going to get no broken needle.
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Overlockers differ from sewing machines in that they’re not suitable to be used on their own when stitching together a garment. They work best in tandem with a sewing machine to complement the more versatile work that sewing machines can perform.Also, whereas sewing machines only need 1 line of thread for stitching, overlockers need at least 4. As you can imagine, they can be quite tricky to set up because of this, requiring a deft touch and careful alignment. The results, though, speak for themselves; overlock machines can create some truly beautiful patterns, like mock flatlock and cutting knife stitches, which sewing machines simply can’t replicate. If you’re a beginner, it’s best to start with a sewing machine as they’re more than capable of creating entire garments on their own. Overlockers are great at what they do, but the more complex stitches they create aren’t necessary until you’ve gained some vital experience and are comfortable behind a sewing machine. If you’re wondering which might be right for your needs, this handy guide will walk you through the key differences between a sewing machine and an overlock machine, as well as how they work together to create high-quality garments.As you might have guessed, overlockers are the only machine that can perform an ‘overlock’ stitch. This is a specialised stitch that sews over the edge of your fabric to reduce excess seam and prevent fraying. It’s a great way of stitching together multiple ends of fabric, neatening up a finished product and giving it some long-lasting quality.
Sewing machines and overlockers – it’s easy to confuse the two when starting out on your sewing journey. While they do have some similarities, they each do very different jobs despite overlapping in some areas.
All this makes sewing machines ideal for learning the ropes. Overlockers, meanwhile, are specialised equipment suitable for creating complex patterns once you’ve learned the basics. A fantastic entry-level option is the Silver 720D Overlocker – Silver overlockers are known for their excellent quality, and the affordable price of the 720D makes it the perfect choice for furthering your skill level.
Browse our fantastic range of sewing machines today, or take a look at our great overlockers for giving your garments an extra injection of quality. See our blog for everything you need to know about overlock machines.
At Sewing Direct, we’re passionate about helping you progress in your sewing skills. Our range of sewing machines, overlockers and haberdashery essentials are curated to meet the needs of sewers from all skill levels.Like a sewing machine, an overlocker – also known as a serger – is designed to stitch patterns into fabric. However, it differs in the type of specialised stitching it can create.
Overlockers sew at a much faster pace than sewing machines, typically performing more than 1,500 stitches per minute. Sewing machines, on the other hand, are rarely capable of performing more than 1,000 stitches per minute.
Sewing machines themselves can produce an array of stitches including straight, zig-zag and embroidery patterns – not to mention stitching for buttonholes and zippers. Some sewing machines can even replicate overlock stitching, but never to the degree that a true overlock machine can.Expand your work surfaces for large sewing projects with an extension table. At the same time, the table also prevents the surface from bearing the strain of the fabric. The waste bin collects any fabric and thread remnants while sewing and overcasting. These are gathered up neatly and don’t end up everywhere.
What is the feature of overlock machine?
An overlock sewing machine, or serger as it is commonly known, can trim, stitch, and overcast seams as they sew. They can also be used for applications such as inserting a zipper and creating beautiful decorations with certain stitches.
For some sewing jobs you will need additional accessories, as well as for regular maintenance of your overlock machine. We at W6 offer you high-quality overlock accessories in best brand quality at fair prices. Discover the accessories you need for this wonderful hobby in our online shop.Depending on the type of fabric, there are different sizes of needles which are more or less suitable. We have needles for the W6 N 656 D free-arm overlock machine for the different 18 stitch programmes. You can also order various presser feet for the overlock model. This gives you the best results for any sewing work. You want to make garments and sewing projects that look like they came straight from the shop? With an overlock sewing machine you can sew and overlock seams quickly and precisely. The advantage: You save a lot of sewing time. If you’re not using your overlock sewing machine, the dust cover will protect it from dust. And if you plan to meet your friends to sew together, you can conveniently transport your overlock in a sturdy transport bag.Your hands are often not enough for particularly fine work. With our tweezers, you can even get into the places that are difficult to reach, and get hold of the thinnest threads. The LED tweezers will also light things up for you to see.
The important products for every sewing, embroidery or overlock machine are oil and brushes for regular care. Order both along with your new overlock if you don’t already have the care accessories at home. Regular care guarantees a long service life and smooth function of your sewing tool.At W6, there’s more than just quality sewing machines and accessories to get excited about – we also offer a comprehensive service package. We are happy to advise you via email or by phone, about the products we offer. You will even find spare parts for your overlock machine in our online shop. Of course, we can also offer to inspect any W6 machine for a fair price. This fixed price includes the service work, replacement parts, and the costs of postage, of course. With the all-round care-free package for your sewing machine, you will have long years of enjoyment with the beautiful and creative hobby of sewing.
At W6 Wertarbeit, you will find excellent quality. You will find a vast range of accessories compatible with our overlock sewing machines to help you create unique fabric projects. Give your creativity a professional touch. We deliver the overlock accessories:
The type of overlock machine used will determine the kind of sewing techniques that can be done. The price of the machine depends on the number of threads and loopers, so users should consider the configuration that best fits their needs.
Insook Ahn is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences at NMSU. Her area of expertise is in creative fashion design, sustainable design, functional design, and CAD. She has taught for twenty years at three different universities, and has published research showcasing creative design works.
A two-thread model is best for finishing seam edges and decorative edgings, or finishing edges for light fabrics (Figure 1). It can also be used to stitch flatlock seams. A flatlock seam is usually sewn with the wrong sides of the fabric together. The seam is then pulled so the seam allowances slip and lie flat inside the stitching. This seam is useful when seaming sweatshirts, jogging suits, and other active wear made from sportswear fleece and velour. It can be used to stitch elastic and lace to lingerie. Hems can also be sewn using some two-thread overlock machines.
Sew at slow, medium and fast speeds to learn how easy the machine is to control and to determine if it walks. Some machines have suction cups on the bottom to hold them in place. Check to see how easy it is to sew without trimming the seam edge while the blades are in place. Then, disengage the blades to determine how it is done.
The four-thread overlock will stitch a chain stitch or a safety stitch as it stitches and overcasts seams (Figure 3). The chain stitch model is most useful when seaming woven fabrics. The safety stitch model can be used to sew woven or knitted fabrics. It uses two loopers and two needles. Some four-thread overlock machines convert to do three-thread stitching.The tension dials may be marked with numbers to indicate degree of tension, but some machines use + or − signs. The tension system differs from machine to machine. On some machines, tension dials are sensitive, requiring only a slight turn to adjust the flow of thread. On others, dials must be rotated several times before the thread tension is affected.
How does an overlock sewing machine work?
An overlock sewing machine differs from a lockstitch sewing machine in that it uses loopers fed by multiple thread cones rather than a bobbin. Loopers serve to create thread loops that pass from the needle thread to the edges of the fabric so that the edges of the fabric are contained within the seam.
Use a variety of fabric weights and types when trying an overlock. Sew through single thicknesses and two or more layers of fabric. Adjust the presser foot pressure to make matching plaids or stripes a simple process. Check the amount of stretch in the seams you sew.
Notice how easy the machine is to start and stop stitching; some handwheels turn counterclockwise, others rotate clockwise. Is it easy to raise and lower the presser foot? Does the light illuminate the sewing area sufficiently? Is the instruction manual well-illustrated and easy to read? The overlock machine can be used to sew a wide variety of items—from placemats and napkins to sportswear and draperies. Sewing items like a T-shirt or jogging outfit can be done in minutes, and the seams of the finished products will look like those in store-bought clothing. An overlock sewing machine, or serger as it is commonly known, can trim, stitch, and overcast seams as they sew. They can also be used for applications such as inserting a zipper and creating beautiful decorations with certain stitches. They sew faster than conventional sewing machines at up to 1,700 stitches per minute. Because of these features, an overlock machine can save time and give a professional appearance to constructed items.The stitch length adjustment procedure varies from machine to machine. Some offer a stitch adjustment dial on the front of the machine. Others require adjustments to be made inside the machine. Determine how easily this adjustment can be made for regular seams or rolled edges.
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Other features to look for include an accessory or tool kit, a dust cover, a carrying handle, a built-in accessory storage compartment, and a scrap catcher. Some machines have a base that can be adjusted to create a free arm for sewing.
To find more resources for your business, home, or family, visit the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences on the World Wide Web at pubs.nmsu.edu.
The overlock can also be used to finish the edges of seams. Decorative effects can be achieved by using special threads in the loopers. Threads, such as metallics, silks, and perle cotton, can be used to sew seams or to finish garment edges. For special effects, fine knitting yarn, buttonhole twist, crochet thread, and even narrow ribbon can be used.
The presser foot of an overlock machine is much larger than that of a conventional machine. The pressure on most models can be adjusted to the weight of fabric being sewn. Because the foot is so long, there is seldom a problem of fabrics feeding unevenly as they are sewn. Check the position of the presser foot lifter on the machine. On some models, it is on the right side of the machine near the handwheel.
Seam edges are trimmed by blades located just in front of the needle(s). In some models, the upper knife can be rotated up to disengage the cutting action. In other models, one blade must be removed when trimming is not desired.
Change the machine needle if it appears to be dull or bent. Either factor can cause skipped stitches. Change the knife blade(s) as soon as the seam edges begin to look ragged.
The major concern for prospective owners is the threading process. Check to be certain the machine has a coded threading—colors, symbols, or numbers may be used. The thread stand should have adaptors for the use of cones or spools of thread. Check the use and care manual for threading instructions.Finally, before you buy a machine, check the warranty and dealer services available. What does the warranty cover and for how long? Who makes good on the warranty, the manufacturer or the dealer? Does the dealer offer new owner lessons? Will special classes be available to you after you have learned to use it? Does the dealer have a complete and consistent supply of the parts and accessories you will need?The throat plate or presser foot will have a special stitch former not found on a conventional machine (Figure 5). On some machines, this former can be adjusted to change the stitch width. On others, the throat plate or presser foot must be changed when a different stitch width is desired. Stitch widths range from less than 1 mm to greater than 5 mm.