What is an overlocker in a sewing machine?

Many details can tell about the quality of a textile product. When creating clothes or, for example, a tablecloth at home, it is important to choose not only good fabric and strong threads - you also need to take care of the finishing of seams and edges. Such a common device as overlock. Many people know that you need to buy it separately. But what then is an overlocker in a sewing machine? Maybe it alone will be enough to satisfy basic handicraft needs? Let's figure it out together.

Overlock in a sewing machine: what is it and why?

As already mentioned, without such a device it is impossible to create beautiful edges on products. It is used both in home workshops and in professional studios and even in industrial settings. It has been a long time since they began to supplement the usual sewing machines with the functions of overlockers. With their help, it was possible to bring tissue sections into an acceptable form.To do this, it was enough to select the appropriate stitch width and frequency.

overlocker on a sewing machine

An overlocker in a sewing machine today is a special foot that creates a high-quality overlock seam. Depending on the model of the main device, its modification and appearance may vary. But be that as it may, the stitching is always different from the one created by the original device.

What is the difference?

An experienced craftswoman will be able to determine by eye which particular device was involved in processing the cut. Those that have been overcast with a sewing machine are usually finished with only two threads. Overlock uses from 2 to 5 (industrial - up to 8). It creates more attractive and intricate weaves. They look better and are more durable.

sewing machine with overlock

Important! Overlock stitches on a sewing machine are a kind of modification of the zigzag stitch.

In addition, the differences also concern the following points:

  1. A thread. In a sewing machine it goes through the shuttle.
  2. Fabric supply. The overlocker is equipped with a differential feed function - its competitor does not have this.
  3. Thread holder. The sewing machine is not designed to use a large bobbin.
  4. Speed ​​of work. An overlocker copes with the functions assigned to it much faster.

Those who still want to opt for a multifunctional machine need to acquire a special overlock foot. It will help create a beautiful and neat seam and hold the fabric during work.

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