How and which to choose overlock for home among 3,4,5 thread models

The sewing overlock is intended, in the first place, for processing of cuts of fabrics obmetochny seam, which prevents them from falling off. The operation is necessary for the manufacture of knitwear, stretch or very fine fabrics on a professional level. Modern models of household overlocks may contain other useful options, which further expands their capabilities, and at the same time complicates the answer to the main question - how to choose an overlock for the house. To make the right choice and buy the right device, it is enough to understand the principles of operation of various modifications.

What do you need an overlock

Many beginners in the sewing business are wondering, why do you need an overlock, and what it is used for. A set of programmed strings in a household sewing machine does not allow you to sew clothes of professional quality, the only solution is zigzag or built-in obmetochnye (overlock, knitted) seams. On closer examination, the result is obvious: the overlock considerably surpasses usual cars on quality of a line, they look professional and smooth.

The capabilities of a highly specialized machine are quite attractive, especially for those, who sews products from different materials. To understand, what is overlock, get acquainted with its capabilities:

• obmetochny seam;
• marginal seam and chain string;
• flat seams;
• edging;
• heel seams.

All these types of seams are used in the processing or grinding of knitted parts, elastic or loose fabrics. Experienced seamstresses know very well, that even the usual grinding of some materials can be a serious problem. This is where overlock functions will be needed.

Rows, created by equipment, stretched together with the fabric, elastic or non-stretching threads are used for processing or grinding, example, of cotton or polyester. And here are the inappropriate threads, purchased stock or for other machines, will have to postpone, which will extend the life of the overlock.

Different models have different sets of strings in their "arsenal", because they are the ones to pay attention to in the first place. Simple devices perform 3, 4-x thread seams, but the more expensive 2-thread strings will make the models more expensive, necessary for work with thin materials, or strong 5-thread.

Blade, built-in overlock, makes it possible to get perfectly smooth, whole-cut edge. Additional processing of the product after overlock is no longer required.

Overview of the main types of overlock

Overlock - highly specialized equipment, available in several types. The type of strings also depends on the type of machine, which it is able to perform. To choose the right new device, you need to assess your needs and capabilities of different models. To decide on a purchase and that, how to choose the right overlock, get acquainted with their modifications.

On 3 threads

A simple 3-thread overlock is the cheapest and most affordable option, the model is intended for simple obmetochny lines:

• obmetochny seam from three threads;
• narrow and wide obmetochny seam;
• flat seam abo Flatlock, including narrow or wide species;
• role seam (undercut) with 3 thread;
• edging.

Pay attention to this type of overlock, before, how to choose a suitable model for work. They contain a basic set of strings, necessary for the manufacture of clothing or other products at the factory level. Lack of some options and strings, which are in more advanced models, does not always become a problem: after all, not all users will need them.

On 4 threads

Semi-professional 4-thread overlock models make the front row of the second upper needle and perform all the basic obmetochny seam, available in 3 thread modifications. The device is intended for several purposes:

• turning of an edge of products from loose materials;
• finishing of knitwear or elastic fabrics;
• strengthening places, which has a large load during operation.

Often four-threaded models are acquired for sewing covers, overalls, bathing suits or bags. In addition to the "base", they perform reinforcing string fourth thread, necessary for working with highly stretchy fabrics.

On 5 thread

Multifunctional 5-thread overlock is one of the top: 3 threads go to the marginal seam and 2 straight (or direct) chain string, that allows to grind and obmetyvat details of a product at the same time. The key advantage of the devices is significant time savings when performing some operations. A good five-point overlock performs reinforcing and overlock strings of five threads, as well as a vestibule seam-braid, so necessary when working with knitwear.

On 8 thread

For home use, the purchase of such models is hardly justified, their purpose is the industrial manufacture of clothing. Usually, professional level equipment has a wider range of capabilities: thread cutter, functions of the spreading machine, fully automatic thread tension adjustment and, Of course, higher build quality.

Overlock for home use or work in a small studio can be with 3, 4 or 5 threads. Their cost is relatively affordable, and the option justifies all equipment costs. Which to buy overlock, naturally, depends on needs, but when the question of savings is not worth it, buy a model with the maximum available capabilities.

Need an overlock converter

A special converter is a metal bracket, mounted on the upper loop. It allows you to perform neat two-thread seams and work with fine textiles. You can buy the converter separately or pay attention to household overlocks already with a built-in part. When creating two-thread rows, the thread itself is tucked only into the lower loop and the needle.

Types of stitches, available with converter:

• narrow obmetochny seam;
• flatlock stitch;
• chopping role seam;
• overcast three-thread seam.

Everyone decides on the need for an option for themselves, based on the specifics of the work. You can buy an overlock at a low price, and later buy a converter, if it is really necessary.

Overlock Converter

Design features of overlock

Choose from a variety of design options and features, what you really need to work. Some features can significantly increase the cost of your device, but to be absolutely useless, their acquisition is rational only with the appropriate financial capabilities.

1. Loop of a chain stitch will allow to create overlkom flat 4 and 5 thread seams with parallel direct lines, that is, use overlock for home sewing as a sewing machine. More such devices are available to perform multi-threaded hemming of the cut on the inside, grinding of details.
2. Comfortable work is provided even by trifles, example, color marking of natenapravitel. There may be some confusion when working with different or identical threads, especially with prolonged concentration.
3. Many machines are equipped with automatic refueling of the lower loop, this reduces the time to set up and prepare the overlock for work. Regardless of the user experience, option, really, useful.
4. The puncture force stabilizer will be especially appropriate when working with dense fabrics - it allows you to make the process of processing the cut smooth and fast.
5. Loose sleeve or removable sleeve platform makes finishing cuffs or low pants as fast and comfortable as possible.

   Free hose platform

6. Thread tensioner adjustment. It is considered, that the manual process is complex and laborious, partly so it is. Budget models have a panel with mechanical front adjustment knobs. If financial possibilities allow, you can pay attention to the overlocks of the middle price category. Their adjustment is located on one axis, which as a result provides good uniformity of a stretch, unavailable cheap devices. The most expensive household overlocks have electronic adjustment, the computer is responsible for the quality here.

Thinking about it, which is better to buy overlock, carefully study the functionality of different models. Make sure you keep a short list of your priorities, which will allow you to easily decide between several modifications.

Additional overlock option

In addition to key functions, the overlock can be equipped with additional ones.

1. Disconnecting the blade. In the process of processing the edge of the product, the knife cuts off the excess, but this is not always necessary. Example, when working with very loose materials or fabric of different densities, when making decorative stitches or when processing rounded details.
2. Experienced users are well aware of all the difficulties in working with knitwear, the fabric stretches, which makes the string look poor: wavy and uneven. Differential conveyor will help to avoid marriage. The speed of the two ridges can be adjusted with a special material feed regulator and possible difficulties can be completely eliminated. Another advantage of a differential conveyor is the ability to create assemblies.

   Overlock transporter 51 class

3. Adjusting the stitch length will allow you to optimally adjust the overlock when working with different fabrics, which will increase productivity.

Perhaps, not all additional features will be of interest to the user before purchase, but in the process of work, with experience, many of them will be appreciated. Saving time is a significant advantage for any seamstress.

Overlock, cover and sewing machine

Task, which overlock to choose is not the only one, which appears to the user. When making some types of clothing will have to think about additional equipment included with the selected overlock. Sewing machine, unlike overlock, only hems the edge of the textile in the folded form, performs a flat seam with 3, 4 or 5 thread. Such devices are not intended for trimming excess fabric and chain rows.

Full-fledged sewing shop, even at home, must contain overlock and rasposhivalnuyu machine. The solution for many was the cover, which combined the first, and a second device. In practice, it only saves space, but not the cost. The price of a pair of overlock + rasposhivalnaya machine is approximately equal to the purchase of one coverlock.

The user is waiting for other possible troubles when choosing a combination of equipment. The main thing is the difficulty in frequent reconfiguration of the machine, when in the manufacture of one product requires a rapid change of operations. This decision is justified, when the manufacturing time is indefinitely rigid.

In terms of convenience at the professional level, it is better to choose two devices, than one combined. It is optimal to supplement a simple overlock with a coverlock or a multifunctional spreading machine.

When we choose a good overlock, you need to pay attention to the manufacturers. Today there are several leading brands, and as the Japanese, and Chinese, whose products have already garnered many positive reviews.