With the help of any, even a simple sewing machine, you can create a masterpiece. After all, famous and great couturiers worked in the second half of the 19th - early 20th centuries, when sewing machines only began to come into use, had a minimum of functions and were uncomplicated. What to say about such things as computer control, electric drive or a sewing machine with an overlock function - it was out of the question!
Overlock function: seam features
An ordinary sewing machine makes a “shuttle” type stitch, while an overlock stitch forms a specific stitch. There are also differences in the principle of sewing. The classic machine produces a two-thread seam, and a real overlock allows the master to create even five-thread seams.
Electric overlock sewing machines only imitate overlock stitch, which is similar to a zigzag. Special feet make the line neat, tightly press the fabric. Outwardly, the stitch will be similar to the stitch of a professional overlock, but in quality -tensile less durable.
Choosing a machine with overlock function
The market for sewing machines, both household and professional, is saturated with offers from various manufacturers. The buyer often cannot understand the "sea" of sewing machines, gets lost in a huge list of functions, is afraid to overpay extra money - because of this, he is able to make a rash purchase.
We will tell you about the types of overlock sewing machines, see what the manufacturer offers us, and help you choose a decent model.
The main selection criterion is functionality
First you need to understand what investments you can afford and for what purposes you need a sewing machine.
Do you just want to shorten a skirt, hem a curtain or sew up a jacket torn by a child, without resorting to the services of an atelier every time? Or maybe you have a desire to sew a carnival costume or update your own wardrobe? If the latter, what are you up to? For summer dresses made of knitwear or for coats, or maybe for rough jeans? Let's move on.
Here are the main points to consider when choosing an overlock sewing machine:
- company that produces sewing machines;
- variety of sewing machine models;
- price.
Overlock Sewing Machine Manufacturers
Here, as everywhere: there are undisputed leaders and firms, little known. Janome, Bernina, Husqvarna, Brother, PfaffSinger - the choice is great and ultimately determined by the personal preference of the master, the availability of models and accessories. The availability of service centers for servicing sewing machines is also important, since you will need to resort to their services from time to time.
Inexpensive overlock sewing machines from little-known manufacturers with a similar set of functions will cost less, but there is a high risk of getting not only low quality. Purchasing accessories for such a machine can be difficult. And one more thing: little-known companies have very individual foot attachments or bobbin sizes. Therefore, if you decide to save money, be sure to ask about which accessories are suitable and where you can get them.
Model Variety
All cars are divided into:
- industrial;
- household.
Household ones do everything at once, industrial ones do one thing, but "excellent" and with excellent performance. They will sew day and night without breaking. Industrial ones are needed if you are going to open your own studio, as they are bulky, noisy and expensive.
Depending on functionality, overlock sewing machines are divided into:
- electric;
- electromechanical;
- embroidery.
Electromechanical - the most economical, they are also classified as semi-automatic. The disadvantage of this model is the limited number of lines, much less than the electric one.
When choosing, you need to pay attentionwhether there are additional presser feet and the corresponding types of stitches in the functions of the device. A more convenient model, which includes a special tool for cutting fabric, imitating knives.
Sewing Machine Overview
Are you interested in models with a large number of stitching operations or inexpensive overlock sewing machines? Their price in any case will depend on the type of device. An all-electric machine is more expensive than a mechanical one. The equipment and the number of possibilities also matter.
- Minerva Mini is a true mini overlock sewing machine. It looks like a cute women's handbag, in fact, it is a full-fledged convenient sewing machine. Easy to use, has 11 types of stitching, fixed adjustment, upper thread tension adjustment function, reverse, bobbin winding. The price of such a device is from 5 thousand rubles.
- Inexpensive sewing machines with overlock "Singer" (model 1507) are quite functional, have 8 operations, reverse and speed adjustment function, the kit comes with a foot for sewing in a zipper. Their cost is about 6 thousand rubles.
- Janome machines (model My W23U) - sewing machines with overlock, the price of which starts from 10 thousand rubles. They belong to the semi-professional or professional type of equipment. The nodes of the mechanisms are metal, the engine is reinforced and is able to withstand an increased load. The model has 23 operations, additional paws, including for lightning. There is a function such as automatic looping.
- Brother overlock machines (Universal 37S brands) even morefunctional. 37 steps, needle threader, you can even make blind stitches. Their price is more expensive - about 17 thousand rubles.
Of course, this technique is cheaper than industrial, since the cost of professional machines starts from 25 thousand rubles. There are models worth 35 thousand rubles. for overcasting carpets or rugs.
What are we paying attention to?
When choosing an overlock sewing machine, you obviously have decided on the goals you want to achieve with this technique.
Are you planning to work at home or sew to order - reviews show that it is better to purchase a full-fledged overlock. But this option is not suitable for everyone due to the high price. But for domestic household needs, a simplified inexpensive device with overlock functions is quite suitable. It will be enough to sheathe the household. Of course, not all components of the model will be made of metal, there is also plastic, but if used correctly, such a machine will last a long time.
Zip sewing feet have almost all models. But not everyone has extra legs. They will have to buy more.
Additional accessories - additional features
The basic equipment of a machine with an overlock function limits its ability. To achieve a good result and quality, it is important to choose the right accessories for the machine: the right presser foot, needle, thread for the fabric or operation. In the instructions for the sewing machine you will find a table of ratios of the thickness of the needle and thread. Get it wrong heredifficult.
The master must have special needles, they will be needed when working with leather, stretch, jeans or jersey. Different sharpening of the tip will allow you to work with the material most accurately. Beginning seamstresses are familiar with the situation: skipping a stitch or marriage of seams. This is not the fault of the overlock sewing machine. Reviews show that often the problem is the wrong choice of needle.
There are also a large number of paws. The basic equipment contains a minimum. Purchasing extra presser feet shouldn't be a problem, so be sure to check availability when choosing a machine.
Pay attention to the feet, which are not included in the basic package, but are essential:
- Teflon - with them there will be no problems when sewing products from materials such as leather, suede, faux fur and even plastic.
- Feet for roller hemming. They vary depending on the width of the hem - in 2, 4 or 6 mm.
