About Sergers
Sergers, or overlock machines, produce stitches that overlap the edge of the fabric. Sergers used to be made only for industrial sewing, but are now widely available for home use. Unlike traditional sewing machines, which use a spool of thread and a bobbin, sergers use multiple spools, or cones, of thread to create overlock stitches. Sergers can sew fabric together very quickly and create finished, professional seams.
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Benefits
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Overlock stitches can prevent fabric from raveling, creating finished seams, such as those found inside commercially sewn T-shirts. Because of this, sergers can help give home sewing projects a professional look. Most sergers also trim the seams as they sew, automatically cutting away excess fabric. Many sergers also sew faster than traditional sewing machines, which can save time for people who sew frequently. Sergers can also be useful for creative decorative finishes on the hems or edges of fabric, or creating blind hems with minimal visible stitching.
Type
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Most commercial textile manufacturers use industrial sergers, which are designed to produce only a few stitch types for specific materials at very high speeds. In contrast, many sewing enthusiasts use sergers specifically designed for home use. Home sergers are usually less speedy than industrial machines, but have a greater variety of stitch types and options. Some home sergers mainly use manual controls, while others are completely electronic.
Features
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Most home sergers use four cones of thread to create the overlock stitches. However, some models may use as many as eight cones. Sergers may also come with changeable presser feet for different types of projects, such as creating rolled hems. Although most sergers come with a variety of stitch styles and lengths, models may vary significantly in the types of stitches they can create. Some sergers also come with electronic controls, and an automatic or one-touch threading feature. In general, the more features a serger has, the more expensive it will be.
History of
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Overlock stitching machines began with the Merrow Machine Company's invention of a crocheting machine in 1881, which they later developed into an overlock stitching machine. Industrial sergers became important tools for the textile industry during the early twentieth century. In 1964, companies began adapting industrial sergers for home use, creating models known as Baby Lock sergers. While early home models were difficult to thread and use, modern sergers may feature automatic threading, as well as a variety of electronically-controlled features.
Risk Factors
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Like sewing machines, sergers must be used with caution, as the sharp, moving needle can be hazardous. Some sergers use two or up to five needles. Home sergers stitch at speeds of up to 1500 stitches per minute, and industrial sergers may use speeds up to 9500 stitches per minute. Many home sergers also have a blade that automatically moves up and down to cut the fabric during overlock stitching. Serger users must take special care to keep their hands and fingers away from both the needle and the blade.
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