Do I REALLY Need a Coverstitch Machine? | Sewing Tools

[@SparkyOne549]

Yes! Please do a video on twin needles!

[@suzanneevans1771]

Adding my vote to that 🙋‍♀️

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks, we will put this on our list!

[@nickyjeune3332]

Yes please!!

[@user-uq6xf4du7y]

@@SeamworkVideo I am looking for your video on twin needles but can't find it (maybe it's my bad). But if you already have one (posted one), could yu, please, attach the link here? Thank you!

[@SeamworkVideo]

@@user-uq6xf4du7y We don't have one yet!

[@candyd.4398]

More videos on coverstitch and serger machines please! I own both so it'd be helpful. Like the different ways they can be used with examples.

[@SeamworkVideo]

👍

[@MsSavvy9]

I just ordered a new serger. I already had a very old second hand serger and since I had never used one before I wasn't sure if I was doing something wrong or if it was the machine. I would love a serger troubleshooting video. Best practices. That sort of thing.

[@rholt8800]

I love sewing knits, and I hate the tunneling I kept getting with twin needles. I got a Janome Coverpro and life got better! I highly recommend one if you like sewing knits. 😊 Great video, please do more!

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks for watching!

[@SlowSewingMama]

I love my coverstitch machine, but I definitely haven’t mastered it. It does require a huge learning curve. I got mine used from an elderly couple who wasn’t using it. 😊

[@marysews1]

I bought a BabyLock Euphoria just over a year ago, and now I use it on all my sewn garments.

[@saf3508]

I would love more videos on sergers. I’m just starting to experiment with knits and am struggling.

[@Anon63872]

Great Video. Straight to the point. Much informational value. Thanks! :)

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks for watching!

[@a1nelson]

Another big pro, imho: even on knits, it’s ridiculously easy to remove all of the stitches at once if there’s a problem or you’d like to make a change. No need for a seam ripper, razor blade or the frustration. A second additional pro would be the amount of sheer stretch that’s available along the stitch line (adjustable).

[@SeamworkVideo]

Definitely! Lots of pros with the coverstitch machine.

[@lavivaneau0]

I really, really want a coverstitch machine! But am overwhelmed by the options. Thanks for giving a concise rundown of what to look for.

[@SeamworkVideo]

Glad it was helpful!

[@a1nelson]

One subtle point to seriously consider is the working area (harp space). Unlike when using a serger/overlocker, you’ll likely need to run fabric to the right _and_ left of the needles if you’re doing anything beyond hems. This is important in activewear, for example.

[@kaygee8343]

This is one of the best reviews I have ever encountered. Everything that should be considered when trying to decide about wheter or not to purchase a coverstitch machine was discussed. PARTICULARLY the last tip about buying a used machine. I wholeheartedly concur. Honestly, for me, that includes sewing machines, as well. I purchased a used Bernina (it was approximately ten years old when I bought it) for a song. It does everything I wanted and more. Not to mention the two Baby Lock sergers. I got them used from sellers on Craigslist. They work just fine for a fraction of the cost. I would like to see more videos about coverstitch machines, I don't really plan on getting one, but you never know. Needless to say, if I do, I'll be checking out the ads on sites like those you mentioned.

[@SeamworkVideo]

So glad you found this helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@tamarakarlin2758]

I bought a Babylock Euphoria coverstitch after a couple years of research, saving up and waiting. I got it for a great price used to teach two classes with all the feet and love how easy it is to thread and use. I still need to learn to use all the feet. My goal was to get all my machines and higher cost supplies before I retire in a couple years and this coverstitch was my last big purchase. I bought my main Juki sewing machine and Babylock serger as gently used also and I'm very happy with both. A coverstitch machine isn't a necessity but it is a nice item to have for professional looking garments and if you have the space for it. Would love to see more videos on coverstitch and sergers, thank you!

[@SeamworkVideo]

Sounds like you have quite a nice machine set up! Thanks for watching!

[@sewmyownclothes2125]

I agree with the Euphoria. If it was not for space and budget I would probably have one.

[@robyn3349]

Lol, no! Not until they are reasonably priced! Personally, I think the zig zag is amazing!

[@SeamworkVideo]

It is simple and effective for sure!

[@TheMinot60]

I think, yes I do. After 45 years of sewing, I'm running out of things to buy!!

[@SeamworkVideo]

They are super handy for sewing knits!

[@courtcraw4rd]

I would love more videos on coverstitch and serger troubleshooting!

[@areareare9953]

I have a nice sturdy workhorse of a sewing machine - I was looking to see if I needed a serger, and now I've just heard of coverstitch, so I'm glad to see some videos explaining. I'm not a professional seamstress, but I make alot of knit tops.

[@SeamworkVideo]

Glad we could help! A serger is a very handy machine for knits, and a coverstitch gives you a professional hem finish you can't easily achieve on a sewing machine, but you can definitely get along with out them and still make great garments.

[@stephaniestratman5489]

A Serger 101 would be amazing! I'm having trouble getting consist results with mine.

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks for the suggestion!

[@PibbleMom297]

I have a serger that I bought years ago and only used a little bit. I don't own a coverstitch machine and don't want one. I am perfectly happy using twin needles. I'm a vintage sewing machine collector and have lots of machines available to me, so I can set up a specific machine with "twins" and have it ready whenever needed. One caveat about doing this on knits, you MUST test on scraps first to find the appropriate tension. Be prepared to change your bobbin tension as well. Once you have that; you're golden and won't have tunnels. Of course this also depends on what type of sewing being done. Is it production sewing for sales? Is it just sewing for yourself and you aren't usually under deadlines? Do you just HAVE to be able to do it faster? Can you afford a coverstitch? Do you want to be bothered with learning a relatively complex machine? These factors need to be weighed as well - we're all different and have different needs/wants. And as for me, I'm staying with my twin needles, but if you'd love to have one - go for it!!

[@SeamworkVideo]

Those are all great questions to consider!

[@kbsokolan]

Several years ago my insurance paid for both a Babylock Solaris and a Babylock Triumph after a neighbor caused a flood that rained down upon my four older sewing machines! I was so excited to have a serger with a cover stitch that worked! That said, I still am having skipped stitches, stitches that pop, etc. when I use the cover stitch feature! Boo! I would love for you to do more vids on perfecting this finicky stitch, Sarai!

[@SeamworkVideo]

That's too bad you're having trouble with this stitch even with the coverstitch machine! Have you tried a stretch thread (like Wooly Nylon) in the looper? That might help ease the tension and prevent skipped stitches.

[@pmclaughlin4111]

On those very rare occasions when I sew active wear (very rare occasions) I think it would be great to have a cover stitch !machine. On the other hand, all the reasons , especially expense, comes in to play. Although, I am fine with doing twin needles, I realized that there was another option. I am not thrilled with the look of the "professional" two rows of stitching. I actually hand hem using a catch stitch. It's flexible. Invisible on the outside. Quasi finishing the raw edge on the inside-depending on how you stitch. Once you get into a rhythm , it doesn't take too long, and a package of hand needles and a thimble are a lot cheaper and easier to store than a dedicated machine. And a package of hand

[@SeamworkVideo]

Hand hemming is a great alternative. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@rewritingastory]

I'd love to see a pros and cons video on a serger/coverstitch combo machine.

[@Liguorienne]

I have look at those and for what I have found it you always have to take the time to change the machine set up, so when you sewing normally and you need to use the Coverstitch before going further on the project, you need to change all the setting in to make it Coverstitch and after that to go back sewing you need to change everything again. For me it was really not a good . If you do have already a sewing machine, go for just the Coverstitch if you have the space and the money.

[@rewritingastory]

@@Liguorienne The space savings seems like it'd be nice, but I've heard too many (except the salespeople) say what a hassle the changeover from coverstich to serger is.

[@Liguorienne]

@@rewritingastory exactly , it a pain in the … and you get frustrated after a time and you hate your machine because of the waist time lost I’m so so sorry for my bad writing in English, i’m french and i really do my best ☺️

[@rewritingastory]

@@Liguorienne Thank you! Don't worry, your English is much better than my French. 😄

[@jenniferwiers5195]

I have a Babylock Ovation serger / cover stitch machine and I absolutely love it

[@bboon47]

I like your comparisons...however, I decided to buy a new cover stitch machine from a dealer rather than used. The reason is I got the "dealer" as part of my purchase. they gave me one on one instructions and they will be there if I need any further help versus if you buy used, well, you are basically on your own. I love KZbin videos but it is no substitute for hands on.

[@SeamworkVideo]

That's great! Enjoy your new machine!

[@notesfromleisa-land]

I still have my Bernette 334 DS (made by Juki) that I bought in the early 90's. It still works beautifully. (Which is why my advice to any is to buy the best quality that you can afford). I was never anything more than a casual (hack at that) sewist. But after a couple of decades of not sewing (work/family intervened), I was interested in sewing comfy knit dresses etc. I bou0hgt a Juki coverstitch on closeout. Like a serger, there is a learning curve on the threading and operation. But even for a hack like me, the end result was very professional looking which was precisely my reason for buying it. Is it necessary? No. But some of us are gadget addicts. I consider a serger necessary. My other bit of advice is that the used market can be a great place to mine for spectacular bargains. Why? Because some never learn how to properly operate their machine and give up on it, trade it in.

[@ineshughley7317]

Yes please have more videos on cover stitch machines.

[@SeamworkVideo]

👍

[@bajaboolie]

I guess I thought sergers *were* coverstitch machines! I’ve learned something new today, and it’s only 6AM. I’d love videos on all three topics-coverstitch, sergers and twin needles. (And maybe touch on the difference between coverstitch and sergers-I can’t be the only one…can I ?!)

[@SeamworkVideo]

You are definitely not the only one to think that! Sergers are sometimes called overlockers, and those names can be used interchangeably, but a coverstitch machine is its own thing. Thanks for the video topic suggestions!

[@alisonbrandon9059]

I agree. Totally thought they were all the same machine…

[@kjones2008]

Serger/Overlock Machines are traditionally edge finishing machines. They can both reduce/eliminate the chance of your woven edge unraveling and stretch nicely when used with knits and stretch wovens. (As an aside, I’ve read/heard that 3 thread/2 needle and 1 looper stitches are a finishing stitch while 4 thread/2 needle and 2 looper stitches are also a functional seam finish … i.e. they can take wear and tear that the 3 thread cannot.) A coverstitch machine is a hemming machine, not a seam edge finishing machine. And, you can use both on the same seam. 😆 Edge finish a long leg seam on athletic wear with an overlocker/serger, and then flatten that seam with a coverstitch machine … putting either side of the stitch on the public side. Like the simple clean look of those parallel stitches, stitch your pants with right side up. Prefer the look of the sinuous looper side, stitch your pants with wrong side up. Expand your sewing world with another machine? Or paralyze yourself with too many options? I like Sarai’s commentary, only you can decide what will work for you!

[@sewmyownclothes2125]

Yes, please more videos on serging, twin needle, and coverstitch. I still need to learn how to use a twin needle and all the stitches on my babylock vibrant before I make a final decision on a coverstitch. My issue is space and I have 3 machines, my mothers old Singer which I will not part with, my Bernina 570, and my Babylock Vibrant so this would be number 4. I plan on sitting on the fence for a long time.

[@SeamworkVideo]

You've got lots of fun machines! :-)

[@a1nelson]

Personally, I would not recommend buying a used coverstitch unless you’re able to see it in operation, sewing at least two different types of fabric. For reference, I am not even a little afraid of buying used machines. Actually, other than my very first, low-end, beginners model, all of my other machines were purchased not in working condition. I enjoy the economy, the challenge and the sense of ownership that comes with bringing machines back to life. However, and it’s a big ‘however’, getting a serger or coverstitch machine back into good timing and alignment, whether it had been mishandled by a previous owner, worn out or was inadvertently damaged, is not for the faint of heart. Replacement parts can be pretty expensive and not always easy to find. I’ve had to fabricate a couple parts for these reasons. Worse yet, a machine that’s not dialed in and stitching poorly might cause its new owner to think that _they_ are the problem, rather than the machine. Look out for bargains, but please be careful.

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks for the insight! That's good advice.

[@vicki52801]

Yes, please do a video on twin needles!

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks for the suggestion, great idea!

[@auntiezann5146]

Thanks for this, Sarai! I do sew frequently with knits, and have wondered about a serger. But I did try the twin needle, and it was fine. In fact, I thought it came out pretty well for never having used it. That said, I nearly always use knits with a print. It hides the zigzag stitches, and a whole multitude of sins!

[@SeamworkVideo]

It sounds like you've figured out a good approach for working with knits without a serger or coverstitch machine.

[@swiftnow22]

Yes, videos on sergers please!

[@nicolehunter2645]

Please make a video about twin needles. I have a method that works for me, but love drawing on the best practices of other sewists. Thank you!

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks Nicole!

[@blufaerie]

My sister gave me a Juki MCS1500 and I am scared of it! But I just started with knits so I’m gonna try.

[@SeamworkVideo]

You can do it!

[@meagantaylor8320]

I have a cover stitch and am too scared to use it. Would love more videos on coverstitch

[@SeamworkVideo]

Don't be scared! It's really a pretty straightforward machine once you get used to it. You got this!

[@Sylvia_plaid]

Coverstitch videos please 🙏!!!

[@SeamworkVideo]

Here's one that's linked in the description: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gX_LnHp5f5t_hq8

[@suewilbur504]

Would love a twin needle video and more videos about sergers. Personally, I don’t sew enough knits to consider buying a cover stitch. If I win the lottery, though…..😂

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks Sue!

[@kelliewheatcroft354]

Please do a video on troubleshooting skipped stitches with coverstitch machines.

[@SeamworkVideo]

Great suggestion, thanks so much!

[@thesewingbratt966]

I agree with "Slow Sewing Mama". I have had my machine Singer Professional 5 for about 10 years, but I haven't mastered it yet!! I need HELP!!! The threading is soooooo intimidating!! 😢😢 I am not a novice at ALL!! But Serger isn't my favorite thing to do.😢 There's not a whole lot of people talking about this machine. The tutorials are very generic and I don't get it!

[@SeamworkVideo]

Here's a threading video for your machine that might help you: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q5rCqZ-dq6-Ui8k

[@ayshanikole3267]

Since I’m just a beginner when it comes to dealing with knits I’m going to start with the twin needle. I also don’t deal with knits a lot so I don’t think getting a coverstitch machine would be worth it. Maybe in the future for sure 😊

[@SeamworkVideo]

The coverstitch is definitely a nice-to-have versus a need-to-have. The twin needle is a great alternative!

[@user-cc3wl8sm9w]

Love it! ♥

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks Jen!

[@tommiespriggs9606]

Would like to see your twin needle video 😊.

[@SeamworkVideo]

Thanks for the vote!

[@laurarice7920]

Thanks. Great video discussion. I’m wondering what blouse pattern you are wearing? It looks great on you.

[@SeamworkVideo]

It's ready-to-wear!

[@katekelly8192]

Please show me how to use twin needle on my BerninA when finishing hems and neck on knits

[@Liguorienne]

Hi I have buy my self last years ã Coverstitch Janome 3000 and I really love it, but I do not find a lots of tutorial about how to assemble sport garments and heavy fabrics like a hoodie on KZbin. I know it is not for heavyweights fabrics but it does work. I do struggle sometimes whit the stitches. I would really like if you could explain the steps on sports garments assembly whit the Coverstitch , do we need to cut one layer before using the final stitch with the Coverstitch so it won’t make to bulky? And the tension on the back side of the fabric’s Thank you ❤

[@Liguorienne]

How and also, how to repair a garment that already have Coverstitch stitches, sometimes it’s not so obvious

[@SeamworkVideo]

These are great ideas for a follow up video, thanks so much!

[@helenv2906]

Hello and Thank you for this informative video,. would you be able to tell me the model of your bernina coverstich please.

[@SeamworkVideo]

That is the Bernina L220 coverstitch. Unfortunately they don't make it anymore!

[@ritaadler-everett5392]

I do sew a lot of knits, and I have been eyeing coverstitch machines for my athletic wear, in particular. I'd love to see more videos about the functions of this type of machine. In your video you said to look for machines that offer our preferences. But at this point, I don't know what my preferences are or what features I like.

[@SeamworkVideo]

You might find this article helpful: www.seamwork.com/articles/coverstitch-machines

[@ritaadler-everett5392]

@@SeamworkVideo Thanks so much!

[@TheMinot60]

Third machine, hahaha ha. It would be about my 12th, and my 5th set up.

[@SeamworkVideo]

That's a lot of machines! 😂

[@TheMinot60]

@@SeamworkVideo vintage junky, then one big ass janome M7 slipped in.

[@user-gt9vi5xg3z]

I used to own an industrial overstitch machine thinking it would easily go over bumps and thick fabrics, but I was wrong. It ended just up being more annoying than anything because it constantly broke threads every time I went over even the slightest bump and I'd end up having to rethread my machine over and over again. It ended up sitting there and I used my PFAFF serger/coverstitch machine instead. When selling my industrial overstitch machine I heard that there are some machines that are better with heavier weight fabrics and some that are better with lighter fabrics. I had no idea this was a thing.. is this true? Or is there a solution when it comes to sewing over bulk with a overstitch machine?

[@SeamworkVideo]

I don't know about industrial coverstitch machines, but many home sewing coverstitch machines have a presser foot designed to accommodate some bulk. I guess it all depends on how bulky the item you're sewing is, and what the specific machine is able to handle.

[@sarahorne4592]

@@SeamworkVideo Oh! Makes sense.. I’ll definitely be looking into a special presser foot for my Pfaff! Thank you!