#1 Buying Guide: The Best Overlocker For Home Use

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The best overlocker for home use always has the same core features. Below, I will describe what features to look for in a serger/overlocker.

While the best overlocker takes 4 threads, it also allows users to sew with 2 or 3 spools.

4 thread stitches are ideal for finishing seams. For this reason, most overlockers are equipped for 4 thread serging. Some sergers don’t have 4 thread stitching available. Instead, they use 3 threads. While a 3 thread stitch is not strong as a 4 thread stitch, a 3 thread stitch is still great for finishing light to medium weight fabric seams. (Note: 3 thread seams, subject to high wear, may not last as long).

In some cases, you’ll need to use 2 threads. 2 thread serger stitches are ideal for making decorative top stitched seams on sports wear. The available 2 stitch option is great, especially for those who plan on making lots of leggings! Juki MO644D has the 2/3/4 thread option.

Juki MO-644D is a all-around excellent machine with 2/3/4 overlock.

Optional presser feet and/or accessories.

Versatility is always a good thing. Thus, you’ll enjoy an overlocker with the option to do ruffles,seam binding, and much more. The vast majority of machines have accessories sold separately. Every once in a while, however, you’ll find some great bundle deals out there. Babylock Vibrant has great accessories and is a true dream machine!

Baby Lock Vibrant has a wonderful selection of accessories:-)

Machine threading is made easy via a video.

All serger machines come with a manual, but the best overlocker for home use always comes with a video. The video makes it easy to thread a machine for the first time. Once you’ve learned the steps once, it be comes super easy to change out thread quickly.

The next best alternative to watching a video is an in-person training session from an authorized dealer. You won’t have the convenience of watching the video from your home, but human contact will help you to become better familiarized with the machine in less time. Brother 1034D offers a video. Plus, there are plenty guides online.

Brother 1034D a very popular machine that comes with a video guide. It also doesn’t hurt that its easy to find tutorials for the machine online!

Serger needles are easy to find.

My Juno 3434D fails in this area because it takes HA-1SP needles. No stores in my local area carry HA-1SP. Thus, I’ve always had to order my needles online. I heard its possible to switch to standards, but not all standards will work with the Janome Juno. Thus, I didn’t want to risk it. When you are looking for a serger, make sure it takes standard serger needles. Trust me, it will make your life much easier!

The price is right!

Of course, the best overlocker for home use must be in your price range. I got my Janome Juno from Craiglist for $100. It had only been used once and still had its original packaging. Janome Juno isn’t the BabyLock, Brother, or Juki I had dreamed of, but it fit my price range. After all, buying a cheaper serger allows you to have more money for fabric! On a tight budget? Go, go for Singer Pro Finish.

Singer ProFinish is a wonderful budget friendly option. It has 2/3/4 thread option. Plus, it takes standard needles!