5 Overlocker Tips You Won't Find in the Manual (my best serger tips!)

[@MissRebekah1974]

Before sewing and especially serging, drink plenty of water. Fabric and thread put off dust and tend to dry out nose and eyes. Use a good hand lotion/moisturizer. This will keep your hands from getting dry and snagging fabric or threads. Set a timer for one hour and twenty minutes. This is to give yourself a break. Get up, drink some more water, rotate neck and shoulders, go look out a window at things far away. Take about twenty minutes to do this then reset your timer and now that you are refreshed go back to your project. Make Beauty! Aunt B

[@Julija_Gobere]

Oh these are such great tips! 🤗

[@06snydernancy]

Oh have a little air purifier close by.

[@007lovediamonds6]

Absolutely 100% you are right

[@GoldieHoffmanComedian]

Aw, these are GREAT and such important tips for our health, both physical and mental. we often forget this in advice/tips list, so thanks! :)

[@isabeljohnston5020]

Thanks a lot for those great tips!😊

[@eva_unrast]

My little overlock-tipp after about 40 Years of sewing: The third cone from the left holds the thread that sews the actual overlock stitch; the other three sew more or less straight. Therefore, the 3rd cone uses considerably more thread than the others. So if you always put the obvious fullest cone in the third spot, you'll use up the cones evenly. So, in your tip for never using purple thread again, the cone should be put in 3rd place; the other three places are then occupied by the small bobbins.

[@Julija_Gobere]

What a great insight! Thank you for this tip🤗

[@eva_unrast]

@Transplanted1 On all the overlock machines I've used so far, the third cone was the one that went around the hem and therefore used a lot more thread than the others. Possibly this is not the same on all machines? You can find out by testing four different color cones on the machine you are using, then you can see from the seam color which cone belongs to the high-consumption ones.

[@SBL1932]

Great ideas. Some I already knew, but not all. Thank you for sharing

[@debrun3275]

Brilliant thanks

[@linalice8318]

Good to know about it as I am a new learner,thanks! But I feel curious about the color arrangement. If using 4 different or contrasted colors of threads, should I think about how to put each one on the certain thread holder to create a master piece of view? Thanks!

[@katybe6]

I did know these tips already, but that doesn't mean they aren't valuable. My favourite tip is about tension settings. Once I have the settings right, I take a photo with my phone of the settings with a piece of the fabric on top. I often buy fabric by the roll, so I can easily check what settings the fabric needs by checking through the serger album on my phone.

[@Julija_Gobere]

That is such a clever tip!

[@cruznk9]

Excellent idea

[@UpInTheSky2025]

Thankyou!

[@danicourtnay]

If your shoulder seam doesn't need to stretch, you can also stabilize with a piece of ribbon or twill tape. I don't like the feel of clear elastic so I often use cotton twill tape to reinforce my shoulder seams.

[@lauraelbertsen]

Wait, I can thread bobbins and use them for the serger? My Lady, this is the best find of the year!

[@jewelgaither1504]

I have worked in a garment factory in the past and that's the way they taught us to change the threads. I've used it for 40 or more years. Really saves time.

[@Julija_Gobere]

I learned this at sewing school, where we would change threads for industrial overlockers like that - those industrial are so difficult to change threads any other way!

[@dale3404]

I clip the elastic tape that comes on RTW clothes, unless I need it to keep the garment on the hanger. The strips can be used for reinforcing shoulder seams, don’t add to the landfill, don’t poke out when wearing the garment, and are free.

[@Julija_Gobere]

That’s a great idea!

[@zazmau]

In some cases, not all, you can use cut off selvage edge of woven fabric.Try to match color. It's free!!!!

[@johannaholmgren8088]

Brilliant re-use of clear elastic!! Man, when I think of how many miles of that I've thrown out when I could have just used it...!!!!!

[@daxxydog5777]

I’ve been doing that for years! I also use old vintage ribbon pieces I end up with when I buy random bags of notions.

[@lilaholland5764]

Great idea for reducing waste & saving $'s!

[@inekekrul6340]

Thank you for your tips! I have a few tips: use black and white as standard colours and only change the cones for the colour you need at the very left. And maybe the upper looper. So for a dark red sweater, you can use 1 or 2 red cones and 2 black. It is not visible in the seam! And the other tip; if your serger does not have a catching part for the scraps. There are plates for under the serger, with a bucket or net to catch the treads and cut of scraps. Your floor and lap will stay clean of treads.

[@cassieoz1702]

I use grey and cream as my 'standards' and colour in the left needle if using the serger in 4-thread mode

[@akbunny5221]

Thanks for that....! Only just got a serger, it was gifted to me...😊. I've sewn loads of practice seams and they appear good. The biggest 'problem' I have is guiding the fabric along the distance marks (keeping the fabric straight under the needles) - I'm used to using flat bed sewing machines where it's easy. Any tips greatfully received....! Cheers. Mark.....

[@MayowaOye]

This is spot on!

[@helenhardman2564]

I knew most of these and they are good tips. The winding of bobbins is a great one I hadn't heard.

[@ljc1323]

I love how you get straight to the point. Great video!

[@TorBoy9]

I love your tips. I, too, knew to tie the new threads when changing threads, but not reduce the tension. My favourite serger tip is to buy a book on sergers, which will tell you about the different serger stitches you can do, usually just by changing the tension of various threads.

[@loves2spin2]

Can you recommend one?

[@tsunamiglory]

I was very interested to see how to make a sharp corner that looks fantastic! Thanks for the tip

[@nancybackes111]

I use a fabric loop turner rather than a needle for tucking in the thread ends. A loop turner is like a very long needle but it has a small latch hook at the end instead of an eye. Push the the hook end in through the stitches, catch the thread tail, and pull the turner back out. The hook closes as you pull the turner and pulls the tail into the stitches. So it does the same thing as the needle trick, but it is faster and not as fiddly as you don't have to thread those ends through the eye of a needle.

[@judykish1481]

Thanks for that idea. I normally thread a needle, but will certainly try the loop turner.

[@cruznk9]

The loop turner is easier for arthritic hands too.

[@trishgrant2715]

Love the clear elastic tape trick!

[@Julija_Gobere]

That one was game changing for me once I first learned it! 🤗

[@lindathompson3676]

Loved these tips and especially how to change thread colors and saving thread. Genius!!!

[@1carwin]

Very helpful hints. I had heard about tying threads together to avoid re-threading the whole machine but no one mentioned changing the tension. I'll definitely be trying this again.

[@debragreaves9550]

Once u tie properly no need to change tension.. DO IT ALL D TIME

[@bun04y]

My serger recommended tying the threads but didn't say anything about changing the tension or just pulling. Instead it said to serge a chain to pull the threads through the machine. I'm going to try just pulling as usually the knots get stuck at my needles and break.

[@bettyknowles8490]

Do it slowly when it reaches the needle cut the thread then thread the needle

[@gdhhayes2129]

exactly the same for me! I was thrilled to get this tip as it's a game changer

[@chrismcl6373]

I use a similar technique but rather than changing the tension and pulling the threads, I just run the machine until the knots on needle threads get up to the eye, then clip those and thread the needles

[@ellebrown6560]

I'm 65 and "just purchased my first serger, a Pfaff 796 Hobbylock. Thank you so much for your tips. I did have a friend tell me abt #1, abt the tying but yoou went further and showed where to tie. I think your tips are truly invaluable and thank you sooo much!!!!!

[@paulalarueduke3671]

I just found your site and wanted to thank you for these hints. Please continue to help sewers. Enjoy listening to your accent. Your English is very good

[@cckrull8147]

Just came across your channel and I’m so delighted! Enjoyed all your tips and some I already use! Keep up the great videos on sergers!

[@nwester4232]

Great tips!! I always avoid changing the thread colors on my serger for fear of having to rethread the machine, so your first tip is especially appreciated - a game changer for me! Thank you!

[@fionahobbs8818]

I love your thread changing technique! ❤

[@Diva9000x]

I buy 2 cones of the same color for use on the loopers. I wind bobbins for the 2 needles. Gray & taupe will blend with a lot of colors. You gotta have black & white cones for sure.

[@marydz2673]

Thank you for sharing this valuable tips. I stopped using the serger machine because it terrifies me the idea of re threading. I am so happy that I found your video. I 'm going to start using my serger again. God bless you.🤗

[@Julija_Gobere]

so happy to hear my video encouraged you to use your serger again! I love mine and use it all the time :)

[@loislee4638]

After struggling with threading my lower looper, I've finally managed to master it. It was challenging but once you've done it a few times, you'll be much more confident 😁

[@littlecookie6636]

loislee4638 I agree! It happened that I had to finish a project and the tying-on method had failed. I referred to my serger book instructions and with the encouragement of my non-sewing-but- mechanically-minded husband, I re-threaded my machine successfully. I’ve done it three times now and it built my confidence. The serger doesn’t intimidate me any longer.

[@riasmith2396]

I loved the top about sewing the inner corner. Thank you for that! Ria Smith, South Africa

[@isabelleblanchet3694]

I simply lift the presser foot when changing the thread that way, it removes the tension automatically.

[@joanijackson3108]

I made a cover for my serger. Quilted and pockets at back for cord and peddle. Thanks for the tips 🙏🏼🤗🌸❤️

[@rhondamoore9842]

Brilliant tips! I’ve only used my serger a few times, and your tips will help so much!

[@Eva-ri1zb]

Thanks for your great tips, especially changing threads

[@TheEvie202]

Good idea about the thread you are only using once or twice. I used to buy 4 cones of a fashion color and wound up with tons of serger threads. Didn’t know a bobbin wouldn’t work on a serger. Thanks 🙏 ❤

[@daxxydog5777]

Thanks for the tips! I use the tapestry needle tip a little differently. I insert the needle into the seam first, and then thread the tail through the eye. You don’t need to leave such a long thread tail that way.

[@Julija_Gobere]

Yes, that's a great way to do this finish, too! 🤗

[@brendaweaver251]

Thank you for those tips!

[@bacon_girl1155]

Very helpful, Julija! A number of years ago, the very first thing I made with my serger was a cover for it. I thought that I would learn a ton of things doing that - and I did. But, you always teach me more. THANK YOU!!!!!

[@gildaparodi-swords5623]

I didn’t know to lower down the dial to zero for changing the thread. I kept it at 4 and the threads would come undone. Thanks for this great tip!

[@davernew.305]

Same here! Have used this technique but never heard of releasing the tension! Game changer and makes so much sense!

[@beesan7478]

same here.glad to learn it.Thank you

[@williamsews]

I don't know if you have the same terms for knots in your country, but you need to tie it off with a Reef Knot, not a Granny Knot, the Granny will slip. I haven't hand threaded an overlocker for decades.

[@marysesiegmanngodet2454]

👍🏻 Very good tip, I will turn the tension to 0 as of now. Many thanks 🌸

[@kthybrown007]

My solution is to lift the threads out of the tension disks (mine are knobs), pull the threads as described, then flip the threads back into the tension disks (and "floss" them to make sure they are in). It eliminates the need to (remember to) readjust the tension, which never seems to be the same as it was...

[@celarasmith8030]

Simply Brilliant tips. I'm going to try them all. Thank you very much.

[@kathyboschen6719]

I’ve just bought my overlocker and I have to change my threads for the first time. I found this video just in time! I can’t wait to change my threads now!

[@nancyfelkner9782]

Thank you for these tips! I just found your channel. You have some great suggestions. I haven't done much sewing for a very long time; your suggestions make we want to try sewing again. It is something that I LOVE to spend time at.

[@glot6013]

Thanks, the changing of the thread is a real game changer. I waste a lot of time re-threading the machine. All your tips were great but the threading took the cake. Thanks a trillion!!!!

[@ilkbahar9424]

I just ADORE your channel.

[@asheraucoin]

Very professional and helpful and I am so thankful!

[@melindam1974]

I hadn’t heard of hints 4 and 5. Thank you!

[@carolruiter1694]

Your a star...thanks for the tips. You're never too old to learn something new❤

[@creativitybycarilyn6634]

Nice tips! I think I came back to watch this one after seeing it before. I forced myself to thread my serger the hard way every time so I would get good at it. Now I'm realizing my time is worth something, so I now prefer to use any technique that saves time. My 1st tip is to use overlock thread also on regular sewing machines with a thread stand. You can get them for 3.00 per spool when they're on sale at Joann's.. It's way cheaper than buying small spools that quickly run out. I buy 4 of the popular colors and 1 or 2 of the less commonly used colors. 2nd tip is to rewind thread onto bobbins when they are getting low. This way you can discard large cones or spools that take up a lot of space.

[@tallpaska5913]

Another tip is to frequently dust the serger's working parts. They create a huge amount of lint which affects their performance. Keep small paintbrushes handy and develop a habit of opening the machine and sweeping it. If you see a speck of lint next to the blade, you can be sure the inside is already dusty.

[@trishgrant2715]

After every sew

[@Julija_Gobere]

Ahh yes, that is very good tip and dusting more often is definitely something I should be doing!

[@sherrillsturm7240]

Yes, many times faster than the sewing machine. While cleaning the insides, you can also check the positions of the loopers as they pass the needle(s) by rotating the wheel by hand. Once in a while, they are off timing, and might have a tiny piece of thread caught.

[@bun04y]

I bought an attachment for my vacuum so that I can just suck out all the lint.

[@debrun3275]

If I could like this video twice I would. The threading advice in #1 is worth it's weight in gold.

[@cathleenaudrey7723]

Great suggestions Julija. I'm also down for the comments. So many good suggestions from your followers.

[@backseatadventures7295]

This is the best serger tips video I have ever seen ! Thank you so much 🎉🎉🎉

[@0campy]

Just found you! So glad I did. I'm new to serving... you've given me confidence.

[@revecarodriguez709]

I was taught in sewing how to change spools of thread , but was never told to turn dials ! I’ve had 1 serger machine Simplicity which I bought about ‘94 -95 was really frantic to use , the machine was sale for $500 , throughout the years I had spent about twice the price of it for repairs, finally my mom gave me hers Babylock , have been using since 2010 , it too was purchased by my mom when I bought mine ! I’ve practiced doing the corner by clipping, like you showed & like it , I just basically use for finishing seams , ( 3 thread ) rarely do I use second needle & 4th spool ! I would like to invest in a lock stitch machine ( ?) for athletic garments! Right now I need a car more than a new sewing machine !

[@janemills7636]

Just bought my first overlocker & yet to use so I’m super happy to have come across your tips. Thanks 👍🏻🥰

[@mewitthoft3942]

Great tip for overlockers, we call them overlockers here in South Africa. Just came across your channel recently and have been watching your other videos, they are wonderful! Keep up the good work!!!

[@raquelmarquesjackson1766]

Thank you. I loved your tips. Just got my first serger and I am still getting used to it so your tips were very helpful

[@olajordan4270]

I could listen to you speak all day. Greetings from an appreciative American. I asked on another tip you had Whether there is a sewing machine foot that we who do not have, or cannot afford a serger might purchase? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

[@Julija_Gobere]

Thank you for such sweet comment!🤗 I have a video on sewing knits and in that video I share a few methods how to sew without serger - this video might be useful to watch! kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGOmlaCPZZeilZYsi=sClkXifHg_Zq4iQL

[@Copperpot415]

Love the corner tip! Great presentation and valuable tips

[@ToniGuerrero]

Very grateful for the links to the elastic tape.

[@viviannolen36]

I was given a serger from a friend who’s mom had been a seamstress. It really was difficult at first to learn to use it but now I really depend on it to use on all my seams when seeing blouses or pants. I didn’t know about the clear elastic. I will get some soon. I have a sweater I’m about to take down a few sizes and that elastic will be fantastic to hold the body of the sweater as it’s very heavy yarn and stretchy. Thank you again for your time. I just happened onto your video from a quilt site I watch. I’ll be back.

[@elizabethrowe7262]

Great tips! I do use most of those tips and great to be reminded to keep doing this.

[@JustinaBergen-n9r]

Hi, I have been using all 5 tips and thank you for showing me the elastic trick I was never sure of to put in there. thank you.

[@carolynrockafellow417]

Great tips some I knew and some I didn’t thank you. 2 of my granddaughters got sergers for Christmas and this is perfect for them.

[@susane945]

Fantastic tips! Thanks very much! 😊😊😊❤

[@sharonslater4935]

Great tips, I love it, especially the threading. Thank you.🙂

[@JustGetitDoneQuilts]

Great tips thank you

[@terilooney]

I love your presentation and affect. Thanks for sharing.

[@suzanner2454]

Love the bobbin tip. Thanks!

[@leoniemarks4594]

I am saving this video! Threading the 1st channel is especially difficult (the one that forms the seaming stitch), and I was worried about doing that, but the tip of tying on the new colours and pulling them through is genius - as is winding bobbins to use instead of buying 4 cones of each colour. My Janone came with 4 yellow mini spools, but I bought 4 spools in a mid grey - a nice neutral colour - as I tend not to sew white fabric. Regarding the bonus tip, I was reluctant to spend £20-25 for a dedicated overlocker storage bag, but found I had a nice zip-top 'supermarket' bagg to hand, and put the overlocker in there. Okay, it's too wide - but as it only cost a couple of pounds, who cares!

[@Julija_Gobere]

I’m so with you about dedicated overlocker storage bag - I just couldn’t bring myself to buy it, I’d rather buy fabric for sewing instead! 😅

[@spooling_around]

I have had a serger for 14 years. I just learned about the tie off method last month! I wish I knew this years ago!

[@robinshane4661]

I change my threads the same way. Genius. It really does work like a charm. I love the clear elastic tape tip. I’m going to start doing that.

[@annanash2817]

I just got a serger today and these are such wonderful tips! Thank you.

[@GeminiShazza]

Wow liked, subscribed, and added to my sewing list BRILLIANT INFO Thank you.

[@elayned6147]

Thanks for the tips, I knew most of these because I’m a tailor for a major department store. But a couple of them were new to me. I will be watching more of your videos for sure ❤👍❗️

[@estherdael6151]

Your tips really help a lot for new serger user like me. Thank you so much.

[@froggie219]

Thank you! You are so sweet and easy to listen to, I am a new subscriber!

[@montyollie]

Your channel is so inspirational! Thank you for all the tips!

[@yosiparrish]

Thanks for your great tips. I love your video and tips. Liked and subscribed.

[@lennettestewart5759]

These tips are Great! Thank you so much.

[@staceye2851]

😮 - #4. Holy poutine!! I pride myself on making up my own life and craft hacks, but I never thought of this one. TY!

[@luciatat4084]

Wow, your tips are amazing! I subscribed immediately! 😀

[@ChiSource]

Love love the bonus tip about using cloth groceries bag. Also the one about thread bobbins is new to me! Thanks for the awesome tips.

[@janeallen5969]

I don't have a serger--yet. I have watch other sewing experts and learn so much. Your tip on using a LG. Eye needle to return the thread a few stitches back on the edge is excellent. Better than other options I've seen. Plus I liked that you explained why it's a must to protect the seem. I've never seen the tip on clear elastic tape. It explains why I have seen it in some of my purchased garments. The cost savings on the thread by using extra bobbins is a great money saver. The retreating technique is valuable-- again not having a server I don't know about the complexities of using one, but doing as suggested sounds like I will avoid problems. I enjoy all of your videos!

[@dougnini]

thank you! You explained each tip great!

[@magdalenaschwei5822]

thank you for your clear and handy serger tips! Will be looking for more! 🌷🌷

[@happychicken7773]

Amazing. I have this machine sitting in my closet for ages. Hopefully I will gain enough confidence to start using it.

[@lamarciaboudrias6527]

Fantastic tips. Thank you!

[@dufocar566]

I already thread my machine just like you do. It really is a game changer. Thank you for the tips. Merci encore.

[@gypsygirl731]

Great tips thank you😊my fav us the trick of changing threads and the bobbins. I will make a serger cover for practice but the bag is great too.

[@utefeather9356]

Good ideas. Thank you

[@mauraprice6403]

Awe. Thank you so much. I love your channel. It is so helpful. Maura

[@kelvinhall2053]

Good video, crisp clear tips.

[@merrymacmurphy]

thanks for the great tips. im getting a serger tomorrow and this info was great!

[@sheilaguthrie4525]

Another thread saving tip is to use regular sewing thread in the needles. The needles don't use as much thread as the loopers, it's just like using the sewing machine in this way.

[@zazmau]

Regular sewing thread is more expensive than serger thread. It is also thicker than serger thread and adds excess bulk.

[@leslieeubank2400]

Thank you for the tips, they are so helpful!

[@Julija_Gobere]

Very glad to hear this ♥️

[@annjelley5363]

I have an old fashioned serger, so I’m hoping these tips will work. Thanks, I’ll keep you posted!

[@lisanegus9113]

I have just got my first ever overlocker as am very new to seeing and your tips are brilliant thank you very much 🎉

[@zinaw.9768]

Very informative video! Thank you for all the tips. I never noticed the hole in my serger foot until now. Will definitely use all of your suggestions and tips!

[@Julija_Gobere]

It took me YEARS to notice that hole in my serger foot! It literally was right before my eyes the whole time, yet it didn't click to actually use it :)

[@franceswashington3961]

Loved your tips,I did learn something, thanks great video.

[@dillismoore432]

I love love love your videos! I've learned some new techniques.

[@TracieSmithpomeranian]

Thank you for giving us your valuable information.

[@karengray2650]

Well put together video and great tips.

[@paulinecollins788]

Thanks Julie great tips

[@brendaturner8064]

Yessss!!! Your tips are very helpful! The first one was fantastic! Thank you so much!

[@gretabrown1408]

Thanks for your tips very helpful

[@sistermaide]

I use a really small latch hook, like the ones for knitting machines, to pull my tails in. It is easier and faster than the needle threading to push it through. Thanks for sharing these five tips.

[@faefunston4076]

I use double-eyed needles made for knitting machines. They work very well and don't get caught in the loops. So easy!