If you’re not sure what a serger sewing machine is, it’s really very simple. These are multipurpose sewing machines that trim your seam and enclose the edge or seam allowance of a piece of fabric inside a thread casing, and they do this in one simple step! The best serger sewing machine will have up to five threaders, and to watch them work is truly like watching an artist at work.
Best of all, these sewing machines each have different options and features, so personalizing them and getting exactly what you need is a breeze. Naturally, the more expensive the machine, the more features you’ll get. If you’re wondering which features are considered the most important, keep reading.
Important Must Have Features for Your Serger Sewing Machine
Before we take a look at the best serger sewing machine on the market, let’s take a look at the features considered important when you’re researching this type of machine. They include the following features:
- Adjustable differential feed to create gathers and sew with different types of fabric
- Adjustable stitch width and length
- Adjustable sewing speed by foot control located on your pedal
- A presser foot that can be easily removed (snap-on feet work great)
- Built-in thread cutter
- Dials that have numbers stamped on them so they are easy to adjust
- High-quality blade that is easy to replace, sharpen, and disengage
- Needles that are each secured by their own screws or Allen wrench
- Removable stitch finger
- Seam width adjustments that are easy to maneuver, such as those with dials that turn
- Sewing light
- Threading paths and/or charts that are color-coded and/or pasted on the serger itself
Of course, there are other features that you might consider equally important. For one thing, the serger should be easy to open so that you can clean and thread it. You’ll also want it to use regular sewing machine needles, as this will make maintaining your serger a little easier.
Furthermore, there are other features that aren’t necessities but can make your life a lot easier, such as a carrying or storage bag, a free arm/flat-bed convertible sewing surface, built-in storage spaces, different feet, and maybe even a user manual or a DVD that can help you use your serger properly.
What’s with the Different Threaders in a Serger Sewing Machine?
Sergers come with different numbers of threaders, so which one should you buy? Unless you’re an advanced sewist, the five-thread machines are likely not necessary. If you’re average and would like to improve your sewing or crafting skills, it’s best to go ahead and choose one with four threaders.
Why? Because the third threader is there just for finishing seams, and the fifth threader is for added chain stitches and cover stitches.
Here is a recap of the various types of serger sewing machines:
- A two- to four-thread serger: This type of serger gives you a two-thread overlocked edge and allows you to create your stitches separately from one another.
- A three- to four-thread serger: These sergers can work with either three or four threads. You get good stretch capability and a seam that is both stronger and wider. You also get the capability to do rolled hems perfectly.
- A five-thread serger: Expensive, but worth it, this serger has all of the seam capabilities you need. It uses three threads for the overlocked edge and two for a straight seam line.
Experienced sewists usually have both a serger and a regular sewing machine, since sergers cannot do everything a regular sewing machine can. The more you work with your serger, the more you’ll love it. It is definitely a must-have for sewers who want to gain more experience and create more professional-looking masterpieces.
What Is the Best Serger Sewing Machine on the Market Today?
There are numerous sergers that have gotten great reviews from both customers and critics alike. Below are five of those sergers that you can consider when you’re looking for your own machine.
Juki MO654DE Portable Serger Sewing Machine
This is a very compact, portable sewing machine, but don’t let the small size fool you. It comes with all of the features that the big boys have, including a differential feed, color-coded threading, a built-in rolled hemming feature, and a sewing speed of 1500 stitches per minute.
This two/three/four thread machine also offers a knife system, a safety switch, and a super-easy threading system that many users believe is its best feature. Lightweight and easy to transport from one location to another, the Juki MO654DE portable serger sewing machine also provides you with a threading system that is color-coded for great ease of use.
This amazing machine also comes with numerous accessories, making it easy to begin enjoying its numerous features right away. It even comes with a built-in rolled hem feature that makes all of your rolled hems a piece of cake to execute. When it comes to the best serger sewing machine on the market, you can’t beat the Juki name.
Pros:
- Comes with several presser feet and a safety switch
- Sews up to 1500 stitches per minute
- Has maximum length of 4mm
Cons:
- Some people claim that it broke shortly after purchase
- There are some complaints about the stitches being too loose
Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Overlocker
The Brother name is second to none when it comes to sewing machines, and this serger sewing machine is no exception. It is both affordable and reliable, making it the perfect sewing machine for beginners. It may not be as advanced as some other machines are, but it provides learners with everything they need when they’re starting with a serger.
With the 1034D, your edge seams will always be perfect and you can work on all types of fabrics, from knits to linens and even fabric used for formal wear. You can also use the machine to create ruffles, rolled hems, spaghetti straps, decorative edges, and so much more.
In fact, you’ll be amazed at what you can do with a serger that costs this little. Even if you’re past the beginner stage, you’ll still enjoy sewing with this machine. It sews up to 1300 stitches per minute and has 22 built-in stitch functions for you to enjoy.
Pros:
- Has color-coded threading system for ease of use
- Comes with a differential feed
- Sews up to 1300 stitches per minute
Cons:
- Some complaints about the “generic” case that comes with the machine
- Some people say it’s a very loud machine
- There are complaints that it can’t do rolled hems on all materials
Janome MOD-8933 Serger Sewing Machine
With a three- or four-thread overlock capacity, the Janome MOD-8933 serger sewing machine offers lots of features that both beginning and more advanced sewists have come to expect from a serger sewing machine. This includes a presser foot with adjustable pressure, threading guides that are super easy to use, and even a retractable upper knife.
With this machine, you also get adjustable stitch widths and lengths, and it even offers built-in elasticity in the stitches so that all of your garments fit properly. In addition to all of this, it’s a machine that is very user-friendly, which means that anyone can learn to operate it quickly.
Additional perks include sewing speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute and a compact size, which makes it perfect for people whose sewing or crafting room isn’t all that large. And the easy-to-turn dial lets you sew tight fabric, puckered fabric, and everything in between.
Pros:
- Fun design that is super easy to use
- Quick-change rolled hem feature
- Ability to sew up to 1300 stitches per minute
Cons:
- Some claims that it stopped working shortly after purchase
- Some complaints about it being difficult to thread
Brother ST4031HD Serger Sewing Machine
One of the things that makes this machine so unique is its super-tough construction, which includes a metal frame that is designed to last for many years to come. It can sew up to 1300 stitches per minute and even comes with a large extension table for those sometimes cumbersome projects.
This Brother serger machine can handle multiple layers with ease, thanks to its three- to four-thread capability, and it provides you with features such as carbon steel blades, a 7 to 2.0 differential feed ratio, stitch widths between 5mm and 7mm, and a ton of extras that allow you to set the machine up immediately and begin using it.
Some of the accessories that come with the machine include four mini thread spools, a foot controller, three different feet, numerous tools, and a four-piece needle set, among others. A sewing light is also included and makes all of your sewing projects that much easier.
Pros:
- Comes with lots of extras so you can begin using it quickly
- Offers a sewing speed of up to 1300 stitches per minute
- Has sturdy design and large extension table
Cons:
- Some claims that the replacement parts are extremely expensive
- Some complaints about the blade not cutting after a short period of time
Singer Professional 5 14T968DC Serger Sewing Machine
With 2/3/4/5-threaded capability and a sewing speed of up to 1300 stitches per minute, this sewing machine seems to do it all. If you’re looking for the best serger sewing machine out there, you can’t beat the Singer name and this machine proves why the name is so good when it comes to sewing.
It has a self-adjusting tension feature that keeps your stitches clean and smooth, and multiple rolled hem options that can accommodate you whether you’re a beginner or a more advanced sewist. You also get a heavy-duty metal frame for durability and a color-coded threading system to make the machine even easier to use.
The machine also comes with a total of five presser feet that you can use for everything from cording to beading and for blindstitches, elastic, and shirring. Singer even added an attachable clean pocket whose job is to catch all of the threads and fabric that you’re trimming off of the main fabric.
Pros:
- Sewing speed up to 1300 stitches per minute
- Color-coded threading system for ease of use
- Perfect machine for both beginners and more advanced users
Cons:
- Some claims that it “chewed” the fabric
- Some complaints about the user manual being difficult to understand
In Summary: which is the Best Serger Sewing Machine
Now that you know a little bit about these machines, it shouldn’t be hard to find the best serger sewing machine for your needs. They’re all a little different, but the good news is that most sergers are very reasonably priced and one or more of the machines available right now is guaranteed to be just what you’re looking for.
Before you look for your serger, determine your own personal needs. For instance, do you sew all the time or rather infrequently? Do you want just a basic serger or something more advanced? What types of fabrics do you generally work with and need a serger for?
You should also take the time to read reviews from real-life customers. While most products have a few negative comments from dissatisfied customers, you’ll be better off if the majority of the reviews you read are positive ones. Reviews from real customers give you the best insight into what type of product it is, and this can go a long way in helping you choose the best serger in the end.
Finally, you have to also consider your budget. While most serger sewing machines aren’t overly expensive, keep in mind that you’ll still need a regular sewing machine to complete many of your projects and this could affect how much you have left over to spend on your serger.
