Ever wondered what would be the next step in building your sewing skills? Imagining those amazing, professional-looking stitches and knits, but don’t have the prowess to do it with a conventional sewing machine? It may not be common for casual seamstress or tailors, but a serger is one great tool in achieving those clean seams, In this article, we will be talking about sergers vs sewing machines, what are the pros and cons, and do you need one if you are a beginner.
What are Sergers and how is it different from a regular sewing mahine?
Sergers, or also known as an overlock machine, which the main function is to create a clean seam by knitting multiple threads to create that professional look. It also cuts excess fabric (from the built-in knives) for that extra layer of a clean finish. It does not, however, differ much from a conventional sewing machine, as creating a professional-looking seam, can be accomplished with time and patience. Other than the knife feature, 4 needles from 4 thread holders create a multi-layer, multi-color seam, achieving durable, impressive seams that manufacturers wanted to see on their shirts or dress.
Sergers vs Sewing Machine
Best for knitting or building woven garments. Specifically woven seams so it won’t fray.
Both sergers and a sewing machine can create seams, but unlike with the sewing machine, sergers create a seam with a professional, clean finish.
A sergers usage is mainly achieving a clean finish seam. A sewing machine can do a multitude of sewing jobs.
Do you need one?
If your tasks are mainly doing clean garment edges or knitting, especially if you wanted to lessen the workload on the regular sewing machine. Or if you are running a textile business or you are a fabric supplier/manufacturer, then this might be your best option. Other than the mentioned above, you really don’t need to. It is also not recommended for beginners as it does not do multiple functions, unlike the conventional sewing machine.
With that being said, we have compiled a list of top-rated Sergers and sewing machines from Amazon that you might want to add to your sewing arsenal or a tool that can improve your business or your sewing skills. The list will be beginner-friendly and will welcome all newcomers who want to start sewing, or for the regulars who wanted to upgrade to a new level of sewing techniques.
Serger
SINGER | ProFinish 14CG754 2-3-4 Thread Serger with Adjustable Stitch Length, & Differential Feed – Sewing Made Easy,White
Another great sewing brand Singer presents their pro lineup with ProFinish 14CG754. This exceptional machine features a 2-3-4 thread capability that provides the versatility you need on achieving all types of seams, from your personal clothing to business projects, all will result in a professional-looking touch. It also has stitch length adjustments which you can utilize on different types of fabrics, and a differential feed and color-coded lay-in threading that will help you thread with ease. Its fast, 1,300 stitches-per-minute with automatic fabric trimming, will make your work twice or thrice as much as in a regular sewing machine for seaming. A switch is also accessible to convert the serger into a rolled hem sewing mode, great for seamless transition of adding a rolled edge without manually adjusting the fabric by hand. The accessories include an all-purpose foot, needles set, tweezers, spreader, (for 2 thread stitches), small screwdriver, foot control, power cord, instructions manual, and a stitch guide. Comes with a 25-year limited warranty including 2-year in on electronic components and 90-days of labor. For only $314.97. Rated at 4.5 stars from 1,866 raters. Great for the startup business.
JUKI MO644D Portable Serger
With portability in mind, this quality portable serger/overlocking machine from Juki packs features from a standard, heavy-duty model. It features a 2-3-4 thread for layer options, as well as an automatic rolled hem for a seamless transition. A color-coded threading breakaway looper adjustment for easy thread differential feed, as well as length accuracy. The machine comes with a multi-purpose foot for sewing a wide variety of stitches and products. It is also has a fast stitch system rated at 1,500 stitches per minute. Accessories include a foot controller, lower knife 2/3 thread converter, nets, spool caps. tweezers, cleaning brush, needle threader, needles in a needle box, small and large screwdriver, oiler, accessory bag, dust cover, and a looper thread. For only $299 with free returns. Rated at 4.5 stars from 453 raters.
SINGER | Making The Cut S0230 Serger 4 Thread, Differential Feed, 1300 Stitches Per Min-Sewing Made Easy Serger, Blue
The Making the Cut series from Singer, will not only create your professional-looking seams, but the matte blue color is a fresh new aesthetic for a modern tailor. The Making The Cut S0230, features a system wherein it sews a seam and makes a sew finish at the same time while trimming away excess seam allowance, creating that professional finish look. It also has 2 threads, 3 threads, and 4 threads stitch combination options thread levels, and a color-coded threading system for ease of threading and avoid mixing colors. The differential feed allows you to sew super-stretch fabrics without the wavy distortions, perfect to avoid fabric fray. The built-in Free Arm feature, also helps in seaming small items and hard angles. It also has a fast stitching system, rated at 1,300 stitches per minute. For only $199.99 with free returns. Rated at 4.5 stars from 811 raters.
Janome MOD-8933 Serger with Lay-in Threading, 3 and 4 Thread Convertible with Differential Feed
This serger from Janome is the perfect complement for tailors and stylists. It features an easy-to-use system wherein you can select from 3 or 4 overlock options, comes with a differential feed that helps prevent stretching and puckering, ensuring that projects are handled with precision and elegance. It also features an automatic roll hem switch, for garments that require a rolled hem, it saves you time from re-adjusting back and forth. The lay-in threading system with color-coded thread guides allows an easy thread reapplication. Accessories included are 4 spool threads, general purpose presser foot, screwdrivers, tweezers, set of serger needles, instruction manual and DVD, power cord, foot controller, and a 25-year limited warranty. For only $290.96 with free returns. Rated at 4.5 stars, from 190 raters.
Regular sewing machine
SINGER | Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine with 110 Stitch Applications, Metal Frame, Built-In Needle Threader, & Heavy Duty Accessory Kit – Sewing Made Easy
A definite workhorse, this heavy-duty sewing machine from Singer will last for years while maintaining the same quality output from the first time you use it. Built from a metal frame and a stainless steel bedplate, the Heavy Duty 4452 allows smooth fabric flow and skip-free sewing. The sewing machine features 32 stitching types that include 6 basic, 7 stretch, 18 decorative stitches,, and 1 fully automatic 1-step buttonhole stitch, perfect for all-around usages such as crafts, home decoration, clothing construction,, and more. It also features a built-in, automatic needle threader that allows effortless threading, allowing the beginners to avoid that frustrating feeling of threading into a small hole of a needle. It is also has a fast stitch system rated at 1,100 stitches per minute. Accessories included are an all-purpose foot, zipper foot, buttonhole foot, button sewing foot, clearance plate, needles (16×5 and 14×3), seam ripper/brush, edge/quilting guide. spool holders, bobbin, L-type screwdriver, auxiliary spool pin, spool pin felt, and a softcover. For only $200.10 with free returns. Rated at 4.5 stars from 5,377 reviews. Product Disclaimer: The sewing machine is warranted for use in the US and Canada at 110 volts.
Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine, 70 Built-in Stitches, LCD Display, Wide Table, 10 Included Feet, White
This amazing computerized sewing and quilting machine from Brother, offers a multitude of stitch styles, on a wide table, best for building all types of fabrics. It features 70 built-in stitching types, decorative, heirloom,, and quilting stitch functions, and 7 1-step auto-size buttonholes. It also comes in an automatic needle threader, which pushes the thread through the needle, perfect for those having a hard time with this initial setup. It comes with a 10 feet sewing table ideal for long fabrics and quilting. Built from a metal frame for durability and a fixed needle bar allows cleaner stitching and even lines. Accessories included are a quilt guide, seam ripper, 4 bobbins, 3-piece needle set, ballpoint needle, twin needle, spool pins, foot pedal, hard case,, and trilingual English/Spanish/French manual. For only $199.99 with free returns, Rated at 4.5 stars, from 18,911 raters. Product Disclaimer: This product is intended for sale in the US at 120 volts, and any other use or sale voids the warranty.
SINGER | Quantum Stylist 9960 Computerized Portable Sewing Machine with 600-Stitches, Electronic Auto Pilot Mode, Extension Table and Bonus Accessories, Perfect for Customizing Projects
Take your sewing to the next generation with this computerized, electronic pilot mode from a well-known brand, Singer. The Quantum Stylist series 9960 features 600 built-in stitches including 5 alphanumeric fonts and 13 built-in 1-step buttonholes with exclusive buttonhole underplate for fabric protection, allowing the user to create a multitude of stitching designs that will fulfill your creative desires. It comes with an automatic needles threader, perfect for those struggling with threading a needle, skipping this time-consuming initial setup, and lets you jump right ahead in sewing. It also has a fast stitching system, rated at 850 stitches per minute. It also has an extra-wide table, perfect for large fabrics and quilting. Accessories included are a needle pack, 4 bobbins, cleaning brush, auxiliary spool pin with felt washer, screwdriver, a driver for needle plate, thread cap. overcasting foot, blind hem foot, zipper foot, rolled hem foot, button sewing foot, satin foot, quilting bar, open toe foot, cording foot, straight stitch foot, darning embroidery foot, even-feet foot, buttonhole foot and underplate, and a general-purpose foot. For only $449.99 with free returns. Rated at 4.5 stars from 7,080 raters.
Janome Mystical Mint Basic, Easy-to-Use, 10-Stitch Portable, Compact Sewing Machine with Free Arm only 5 pounds
From another front-running sewing brand, Janome offers you a compact, easy-to-use portable sewing machine. It features 18 built-in stitch modes including straight, zigzag, crescent with two needles position, ideal for beginners trying out simple stitching patterns and applying them to different fabrics. The threading diagrams and top drop-in bobbin with a clear cover make for easy set-up. It comes with a finger guard to protect little fingers. Accessories included are a needle, bobbin, threader, ac adapter, and a footswitch. At only 5 pounds, it is very easy for transport and storage, even kids can carry the machine. It also comes in an assortment of stylish colors. Now for only $61.99 from its original price of $119 with free returns. Rated at 4 stars from 1,388 raters.
Janome Pink Sorbet Easy-to-Use Sewing Machine with Interior Metal Frame, Bobbin Diagram, Tutorial Videos, Made with Beginners in Mind!
This trendy and stylish, pink sewing machine from Janome, brings out the colorful nature in you as it stands out from the usual white or any traditional-colored sewing machine. Its metal frame is made for heavy-duty sewing and will guarantee long-lasting usage. Features 15 built-in stitch patterns, 4-step buttonhole, and a front-loading bobby system, helping you create a multitude of sewing patterns while doing it at ease. It also features a 3-piece feed dog system, removable free arm, and dual retractable spool pins, useful for all types of fabrics and sewing tight or difficult angles. Accessories included are 4 presser feet, beginner accessories, easy-to-follow instruction manual tutorial videos, and a 25-year limited warranty. Now for only $157.81 from its original price of $199, comes with free returns. Rated at 4.5 stars from 394 raters.
At first glance, any sewing machine system might be intimidating to operate, but do not worry. All machines come with an easy to understand instruction manuals and tons of tutorials on YouTube. Hopefully, the list will help you start the sewing journey that you dreamed of or the machine that will help you jump-start your business. Cheers!
