Any budding seamstress knows that a Serger machine is going to make life a lot easier, and their projects much faster to complete. Ideal for making a variety of clothes, they come in all sorts of threading capabilities and at first glance, can be a little intimidating. This is why we have compiled a list of the best Sergers for beginners.
There is something for every budget but what they all share in common is that they are among the easiest to use, but also reliable. Whether you know them as serger machines or an overlock machine, the following are examples of products that you can depend on to make consistent and fast stitches every time.
The 6 Best Sergers For Beginners
#6 JUKI MO654DE Portable Thread Serger Sewing Machine
We like this serger machine for a beginner because it is easily portable, so it can easily be taken to a sewing class. It is a 2-3-4 thread serger and offers an automatic rolled hem, so no awkward adjustments need to be made to switch. Although it is easy to use, it is also powerful, with 1,500 stitches per minute although it will be a while before a newcomer uses it at such speeds with confidence.
This means it is powerful enough to get through a variety of fabrics and multiple layers. There are plenty of small adjustments that can be made including differential speed and stitch length and there is the option to purchase additional presser feet. It is convenient to carry and not too bulky and tension adjustments are easy, make it a sensible purchaser for a beginner.
#5 Juki 1-Needle, 3-Thread Overlock Machine MO-623
A simple serger machine ideal for beginners, this is a 3-thread product that doesn’t over complicate things. A 2-thread adaptor is available for smaller projects and features a built-in rolled hem to make it easier to use without having to switch between. Slightly smaller than a lot of the competition, it is easier to handle and portable as a result.
Still, looks can be deceiving as it is also one of the fastest and most powerful Sergers on our list, capable of delivering 1,500 stitches per minute. There is adjustable stitch length and it is a model known for its ease of use, yet is versatile enough to make all sorts of items including crafts, garments, home decor, and other accessories.
#4 Brother 2340CV Coverstitch Serger, Sturdy Metal Frame
With slightly less power than some of the other sergers out there, this might be the ideal product for a beginner and an easier learning curve. Still, with 1,100 stitches per minute, it is still capable of getting through projects quickly. Anyone wanting to sew coverstitch is going to find it is an ideal product and can be used as a 2-3-4 thread serger.
The color-coded threading makes it easy to follow and get started with and can cover stitch materials of 3mm to 6mm with ease. The looper threading system is fast and convenient, so a beginner can get going without having to wrestle with the thread and the metal frame makes it sturdy, ensuring any skipped stitches are much less likely. A favorite for sewers who wish to make easy t-shirts with plenty of room for enjoying the additional features once they are up to speed.
#3 Brother ST4031HD Serger, Strong & Tough Serger
The words strong and tough should be synonymous with every Serger machine, so it is good to see Brother’s popular ST4031HD including it in the name. Because of its sturdy metal frame, it offers fewer vibrations when at the top speed of up to 1,300 stitches per minute, making things more comfortable for a beginner. The color-coded thread guide also ensures it is easier to thread than most.
Its large extension table opens up more possibilities for larger garments and pieces of fabric and there are an instruction manual and CD to help a learner to get to grips with the machine and its numerous features. The blade is made from carbon steel to make smooth cuts through multiple layers and the convenient stitch width control can be adjusted via a dial on the side. A foot controller and 3 presser feet make it an all-round worthwhile purchase.
#2 SINGER | ProFinish 14CG754 2-3-4 Thread Serger
Despite being called ProFinish, this product is an ideal serger for beginners since it is easy to use, but provides excellent results. The 2-3-4 thread capability also ensures it is one of the most versatile options, giving plenty in the way of stitch variations. There is color-coded lay-in threading making it easier to set up and adjustable stitch length and width. Its free arm capability allows the user to stitch cuffs and sleeves with ease.
However, even with the conveniences, it is still a powerful machine, capable of 1,300 stitches per minute. Its automatic fabric trimming saves a lot of time from some of the fiddly tasks and there are 4 built-in rolled hems making converting to this mode a lot smoother. The included accessories make getting started easier so a beginner can make the most of the needle set, all-purpose foot, spreader for two thread stitches, screwdriver, and more.
#1 Brother 1034D Serger
One of the best Sergers for beginners and not only because of the reasonable price tag. This product comes equipped with the potential for 3 or 4 threads and is powerful enough to deliver up to 1,300 stitches per minute should the user need it. It is labeled as heavy-duty and this is evident in the metal frame and quality components, it needs to be to push out all those stitches per minute.
This also allows it to get through multiple layers of denim and other thick materials with ease, so it is up to the task of any beginner’s project. Its color-coded thread guide makes it easier to set up, as does its lower looper thread system. Included are 3 presser feet and plenty of other accessories to help get a newbie started.
Adjustable stitch width can be found to the side and a removable free arm is there when the need arises. It is an ideal serger for beginners and often used for craft and home decorating, as well as formal and bridal wear.
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Serger For Beginners Buyers Guide
Buying any type of sewing machine can be daunting, especially as a beginner. There is so much to learn and no one wants to make a big purchase only to find out the product they chose is not up to the task. A serger for beginners is no exception and there are plenty of features that make better options so good.
Because of this, we have created the following buyer’s guide. By the end of it, you will be able to tell the good products from the not so suitable and can enjoy a reliable serger that is easy to use.
What To Look For In A Serger For Beginners
Easy Threading
With multiple threading options, this can be one of the more complicated elements of a Serger, but it doesn’t have to be. Most of the better sergers for beginners tend to have color-coded threading to make set up as easy as possible. Since it is one of the first hurdles a newcomer will be up against, it is always best to find a product that makes it as simple as can be.
Multiple Threads
The more threads you have available, the stronger the stitches will be. Also, there are more options in general. Still, for a beginner, anything over 4 can be overwhelming. Not every project needs so many threads but having more does open up the potential for different stitches.
Stitches Per Minute
Every serger machine needs enough power behind it to get through a variety of tasks quickly. Although some of the advanced products are super fast, a beginner doesn’t need it to be. Around 1,100 to 1,500 stitches per minute is plenty enough and it will take a while for a beginner to work their way up to top speed anyway. As long as it has the potential for faster speeds, then it should be fine.
Differential Feed
By feeding the fabric in different ways you can create different finishes and effects. For example, speeding the feed creates a ruffle effect which can be a desirable finish for some. Having this opens up more possibilities once you get up to speed. It’s nice to have but will take some getting used to for a beginner.
Rolled Hem
Most sergers can make rolled hems, but some ensure this is done a lot easier. With a built-in rolled hem, there is less switching between settings and it can make an easy and natural transition once the stitches are finished.
Included Presser Feet
Although a traditional sewing machine will come with several, as long as the serger machine you choose has two or three included, it leaves you with plenty of sewing options. Some such as a blind hem foot can be used to create invisible hems, whereas a gathering foot will finish a seam whilst attaching a ruffle.
With numerous options available, you can see why they are useful, just try and match the presser foot to the task you wish to use the machine for. Also, remember that it is possible to buy different presser feet for most serger machines separately.
Heavy-Duty Frame
This is an important attribute for any serger machine and means it will absorb a lot of the vibrations but also adds to its power. The quality of a machine is often down to the working parts and the quality of the frame so when you see the words heavy-duty, it is usually a good sign.
How Much Does A Serger Machine Cost?
Because there are plenty of options, the price does vary significantly. As a beginner, a lot of the added features of the more expensive options are unnecessary, so it is easy to save some money. A quality serger machine that has enough scope for you to develop your skills but is still easy to get to grips will cost around $300 and above.
Of course, the greater the budget, the more features, and capabilities a Serger is likely to have. For the most part, a beginner machine doesn’t have to cost a lot.
Do I Need A Serger?
No one needs any type of sewing machine but if you are looking to produce strong seems to a variety of materials, then a serger is an ideal product. Anyone looking to make clothing should invest in one whether it is for you, your family, or anyone else. When turning them inside out and washing, the garments will look as though they were purchased from a shop.
What Is The Best Serger For Beginners?
Although any of the products we have included above would make an excellent choice for a beginner, one stood out above the rest. We like the Brother 1034D Serger for many reasons. Not only does it come at a reasonable price that won’t be hard to justify as a beginner, but it is powerful enough to push out 1,300 stitches per minute, is easy to thread thanks to its color-coded guide, and has a heavy-duty frame to make it reliable and strong.
With multiple uses, adjustable stitch length, and plenty of included accessories, it is ideal for anyone using a serger for the first time or wishing to get to grips with them.
Can I Replace My Traditional Sewing Machine With A Serger?
Although certain tasks are made easier with a serger, it doesn’t cover all the various stitches and capabilities of a traditional machine they are made of different purposes so it is not wise to replace it altogether. To make life easier, consider keeping a traditional machine for the likes of zippers, facings, buttonholes, and more as a serger will not be able to complete these tasks.
Is It Hard To Use A Serger?
Any new sewing machine can be difficult to get to grips with without any previous experience, but a serger doesn’t have to be intimidating. Certain traits make them easier to use and set up but with the likes of YouTube to help, it has never been easier to use a serger.
Most products come with instruction manuals to help with fast set up but it is worth taking the time to improve your stitches and keep the edges secure so they last a long time.
