Most of the sewing practices depend mainly on tools designed by artists. However, there are some sewing practices that the standard sewing machine cannot do. For this reason, the designers upgraded the traditional sewing machines to what we now call the Serger machines. However, every sewist, whether a professional or a beginner, knows what the hell one can undergo threading with a serger. The funny truth is that you cannot run away from it unless you choose to use the best self threading sergers.
Self threading serger machine will save you a lot of time and energy and give you peace of mind to create outstanding and beautiful designs.
However, today’s market is full of different models that vary in prices and features, making the choosing process confusing. You don’t have to worry since I have compiled a list of the best self threading sergers to assist you in making the best decision.
I have also incorporated some of the main factors of contemplation, including dimensions, weight, speed, number of threads, and many more. The best decision ever is to keep reading to find out more.
Table of Contents
What Is a Serger?
A serger is a type of sewing machine that can create professional-looking seams and edges on fabrics. A serger can also trim excess fabric and prevent fraying with its built-in blade and loopers. A serger is different from a regular sewing machine in several ways.
Difference Between Serger and Regular Sewing Machine
- A serger uses multiple threads, usually two to five, to create overlocking stitches that wrap around the fabric edges. A regular sewing machine uses only one or two threads to create straight or zigzag stitches.
- A serger has a differential feed, which means that the two sets of feed dogs (the metal teeth that move the fabric) can operate at different speeds. This allows the serger to handle stretchy, slippery, or bulky fabrics without puckering or stretching.
- A serger has a free arm, which is a narrow part of the machine that can be removed to sew tubular items, such as sleeves or cuffs. A regular sewing machine usually has a flatbed, which makes it harder to sew curved or circular shapes.
Uses of a Serger
A serger can be used for various purposes, such as:
- Finishing raw edges of fabrics to prevent unraveling and add durability.
- Sewing seams and hems on garments, especially knitwear, activewear, and lingerie.
- Creating decorative effects, such as ruffles, lettuce edges, or rolled hems.
- Attaching elastic, lace, ribbons, or other trimmings.
To use a serger, you need to know how to thread it correctly, adjust the tension and stitch settings, and guide the fabric through the machine. Threading a serger can be tricky, as you need to follow a specific order and path for each thread. Some sergers have color-coded guides or automatic threading systems to make it easier.
Adjusting the tension and stitch settings can also be challenging, as you need to consider the type and thickness of the fabric, the number and size of the threads, and the desired effect.
Some sergers have pre-set options or digital displays to help you choose the right settings. Guiding the fabric through the machine requires some practice and coordination, as you need to align the fabric edge with the blade and keep a steady speed.
A serger can be a great addition to your sewing arsenal, as it can help you create professional-looking and durable projects. However, a serger is not a replacement for a regular sewing machine, as it cannot do some tasks, such as buttonholes, zippers, topstitching, or embroidery. A serger is best used in combination with a regular sewing machine for optimal results.
How Does a Self Threading Serger Work?
Using these units is going to be your best experience ever. The reason is that they take care of the entire threading process by themselves. The only thing you need to concentrate on is ensuring the thread seats in the right place. Here is how these machines work.
- The first step is placing the thread in the guide. This feature will help feed the thread to the lower looper.
- Once you ensure the thread is secure in the guide, it’s now time to turn the machine on. After this, the lower looper will begin threading itself. Since you will be required to work with the correct tension, you can adjust the thread’s strength by lifting or lowering the presser foot.
- After the machine is done serging, you should ensure the thread is slack before removing it. After this, you can now turn off the unit and slowly pull the thread out by hand.
How Self Threading Sergers Are Different from Normal Sewing Machine
Serger machines are more complex in design compared to standard sewing machines. There is only one similarity between these two units, and the resemblance is that they both sew fabrics.
Sewing machines are ideal for almost all sewing applications. On the other hand, sergers can only do specific sewing tasks. For instance, you cannot use serger machines for topstitches and zips.
When you consider cutting your fabric before sewing, you realize that serger machines become reliable since you can use them for cutting and sewing. They integrate blades that sit just before the needle, which stitches.
Standard sewing machines typically use one stitch, while the serger uses approximately 3 or 4 stitches. Thus, they are capable of creating lock stitches.
Another advantage of using the sergers is that they have a faster cutting and sewing speed than the standard sewing units. The unique fact about these products is that you can join them together into one machine, but this depends on your preference.
Best Self Threading Sergers
Juki is one of the leading companies in making the most reliable sewing and serger machines. They have come up with this self threading serger MO-1000 that is undoubtedly a great machine this time around.
This product threads the needle with an automatic needle threader. The adjustable differential feed works well with stretched fabrics like knits and georgettes to create beautifully sewn finishes. Besides, you can make adjustments while sewing.
The reasonable 9.95mm distance between the needle and knife allows you to sew inside curves. Operating this machine is even easier since you can easily switch to 2-thread sewing by pushing the 2-/3- thread changeover attachment towards the left.
Even better, the 72.4mm height of the throat infinitely improves the usability of the workspace. What’s best about this unit is the sound reducing design which minimizes the operation noise, allowing it to sew with fewer vibrations.
Summary of the Key Features
- It comes with an automatic needle threader.
- The needle area remains brightly illuminated with the LED sewing light.
- The machine has a sound reduction design for quiet operation.
- It has a wide throat area of height 72.4mm.
- The distance between the knife and needle is 9.95mm.
- It features an adjustable differential feed.
- It integrates necessary accessories for maintenance practices.
Pros
- It has improved workspace usability.
- The machine has a waste collector, featuring as a standard accessory.
- It has convenient threading with an easy threader.
- The price is reasonable.
- Excellent customer service.
- It’s easy to use.
- The item has a 5-year warranty.
Cons
- The throat height is only 72.4mm.
Janome MyLock 634D Overlock Serger
Do you wish to make the most of your serging time with professional results? The Janome MyLock 634D Overlock Serger has the unmatched capability of any other best self threading serger.
This item comes with two needles and a 2, 3, or 4 thread overlock stitching mechanism. It also has a lay-in thread tension dial that ensures you always thread with the correct tension. Operation is even easier with the provided threading chart and the color coded thread guide.
You can easily access the lower looper guide and use the changeable thread guide in making thread changes. The quick change rolled hem makes serging a breeze.
With the lower looper pretension setting slider, you will always work with the correct tension. You can also adjust the stitch length between 1mm to 5mm, depending on your project’s requirement. The cutting width is also adjustable.
Thus you can make cuts between 3.1mm to 7.3mm. Another variable feature of this unit is the differential feed ratio that allows you to adjust between 0.5 to 2.25.
My lock 634D operates with a maximum speed of up to 1300 stitches per minute. Even better, it comes with a bonus kit that includes beading attachment, blind stitch foot, ⅛” piping foot, and three pack needles of serge size 14.
Summary of the Key Features
- It has an adjustable stitch length between 1mm to 5mm.
- You can adjust the differential ratio between 0.5 to 2.25.
- The adjustable cutting width ranges between 3.1mm to 7.3mm.
- It features an easily retractable upper knife.
- The unit also has snap on presser feet.
- It has a changeable thread guide.
Pros
- You can vary the tension.
- It’s easy to access the lower looper guides.
- It comes with a bonus kit.
- The machine operates at high speeds.
Cons
- The maximum stitch length is only 5mm.
You will realize that the Juki brand is appearing for the second time. This is enough proof that the Juki, MO-50E is one of the best self threading sergers in the market.
The machine allows you to use either three or four threading. It also has a lay in tension with integrated years of Juki industrial machine technology to produce enough power ideal for reliable serging. Threading using this machine is easier with the lower looper and the needle threader.
The rugged construction provides resistance to the job site toucher for enhanced durability. With the calibrated knife adjustment, you will have consistency from one project to the next.
The integrated differential feed assists in controlling the movement of both the front and the rear feed dogs. This function also helps in removing the rippling when serging stretch fabrics.
When serging using the inbuilt rolled hem, the fabric will smoothly roll over as the stitches form. You can perform this process using three threads, including the upper looper, lower looper, and right needle.
You will enjoy using the rolled hem in making edges of a piece of silk cotton or other delicate fabrics and turning it into a scarf. The rolled hem is also excellent when used on sheer fabrics, including a pair of sheer curtains or a slip.
Summary of the Key Features
- You can serge using the four or three threads.
- It features a lay-in tension mechanism.
- The unit has an adjustable calibrated knife.
- It comes with an inbuilt rolled hem.
- The machine integrates a differential feed mechanism.
Pros
- It’s ideal for both beginners and professionals.
- It has a rugged construction.
- This unit comes in an economically priced package.
- It’s a robust and reliable serging machine.
Cons
- It weighs up to 16 pounds.
Elna 664 PRO Overlocker by Elna
Elna 664 PRO Overlocker by Elna is the real pro machine when it comes to serging. With this unit, hemming skirts or sewing stretch fabrics can never be a problem again.
This machine is also there to assist you in cutting and assembling garments. Some of the incorporated accessories include the snap on thread guide that ensures you always do the right thing on your project.
Additionally, this machine integrates a tension control clip that helps put a varied amount of strength on the threads to form a strong balance stitch. The large and small screwdriver will make maintaining your machine an easy job.
Even better, the item comes with a spanner, spool caps x 4, spool holders x 4(cones), spool nets x 4, spreader (for two thread overlock), tweezers, standard foot, and an upper knife(spare). There is also the foot control mechanism, an exclusive Elna accessory box, and a waste chip box.
You should never worry if you are a beginner, and you choose Elna 664 PRO Overlocker by Elna as your best self threading serger.
On purchase, you will get a detailed operational manual with everything you need about this powerful machine’s operation. You will also enjoy using this unit for years of maintenance free operation, thanks to its rugged construction.
Summary of the Key Features
- It features a tension release clip.
- The unit comes with a lint brush.
- This machine incorporates all you need for maintenance.
- It has a rugged construction.
- It comes with an operational manual.
Pros
- You can use it to cut and assemble garments.
- It’s affordable.
- The product is excellent in hemming skirts or sewing stretch fabrics.
- It comes with 40 x threads.
Cons
- It only has four spool caps.
Best Self Threading Serger Buyers’ Guide
Do you wish to upgrade from basic sewing to using a serger, or are you planning to make the first purchase? I know by now the purchasing process must be causing your head to tumble around.
In this detailed guide, you will find all you need to consider before taking the next step. You will also find many other facts and tips that will be reliable when looking for the best self threading serger.
Why You Need The Best Self Threading Serger
- Easy to use. Since it’s a self threading machine, operating does not come with a lot of complications.
- Rugged construction. The units have a robust structure that allows them to handle the job site toucher.
- Compact and lightweight. The compact designs provide ease of storage and transportation to different workstations.
- High-speed operation. These machines operate with extra high speeds that allow you to finish your projects in no time.
- Powerful motor. The motor is responsible for the continuous fast operation.
- No manual threading. Since the units are self threading, there are no more hassles of manual threading.
- They are no more tangled, knotted, or twisted threads.
- You can use it to perform a cover stitch ideal for seams and cuffs.
- They allow for stretchy clothing movement.
Types of Self Threading Serger Machines
Below I will briefly take you through the two main types of self threading sergers available on the market.
- Lay-in Threading Technology Sergers
These kinds of sergers only thread the lower looper. If you compare this capability to the standard sergers, you will realize that it’s a remarkable improvement that will make the threading process a lot easier.
What makes threading the lower loop easier for you is the machine’s color-corded route that indicates how you should place the thread. Sergers incorporated with this technology are pocket friendly since they have fewer options.
- Jet Air Threading Technology Sergers
If you are a seasonal sewer, you will agree that sergers integrated with the Jet air technology are completely automatic self threaded. Such units utilize the airflow that makes the thread flow through the tubes connected to the threading ports.
The air does its trick, and the upper and lower loopers get threaded. Even though such models are a bit pricey, you can never regret having one of them since they compensate the price with incredible features.
One of the main advantages of such a unit is that it simplifies the serging process a lot. Therefore, suitable for both professionals and beginners.
Brands that Manufacture the Best Self Threading Sergers
From the reviews of the sergers above, you have seen that the leading brands in manufacturing these units include Juki, Janome, and Elna. However, there are sewing companies that needed to add these types of sergers to their collection.
This includes Brother and Babylock. With all these big names, you will discover a variation in price, features, abilities, and other contrasting facts. But for now, the most popular and reliable brands are Juki, Janome, and Elna.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Self Threading Serger
- Number of Threads and Needles
You need to consider the thread capability of your machine before purchasing. Most of these units have a 3 or 4 capacity that requires either two needles and three or four threads.
You will also find some with 5 thread capability, although they are not very common. Such units are complicated to thread, but you can bank on them for the strongest and safest stitches.
Another point of contemplation is that you can only achieve a cover stitch with a machine with at least five threads. Therefore, always consider the number of threads before purchasing.
- Differential Feed
Almost all sergers come with an adjustable differential feed. This feature will enable your machine to work best with different fabrics of various thicknesses and textures.
The differential feed facilitates even feeds on different fabric types. Therefore, it’s of more benefit when working on projects with complex stretch fabrics.
It prevents your materials from stretching and losing their original form while sewing. Even more, it enables you to create decorative designs such as ruffles.
- Adjustable Knife
Another noteworthy feature is the adjustable knife. It allows you to achieve quality, clean, and even cuts even on multiple layers of fabrics.
- Presser Feet
This feature is ideal for holding down your fabric while serging. Machines with more presser feet are versatile and can effectively work on different fabric types of varying thicknesses and textures.
- Speed
All serger machines operate with speeds measured in stitches per minute. The best thing about these serger machines is that they work at relatively high rates, with the standard ones ranging between 1200 SPM and 1500 SPM. I would recommend choosing a product with an adjustable sewing speed since you can easily control your serging speed.
- Stitch Patterns
Most of these products come with multiple stitching options that you can choose from. However, the most basic ones include rolled hemming, flatlock stitching, a 3 thread narrow overlock stitch, and a lettuce edge hemstitch. It would be best if you choose the machine with more stitching patterns for more versatility.
- Color Coded Threading
Unfortunately, not all the self threading sergers have automatic threading. However, you can counter this with comprehensive color-coded threading of lay threading.
- Size and Weight
The weight and size of your machine determine its portability. Therefore, if you prefer a product that you can quickly move around with, consider a compact and lightweight one. This also allows for easy storage.
- Automatic/Adjustable Thread Tension
Working with automatic features like the thread tension will allow you a high level of control when serging. This function automatically detects the type of fabric you are working on and immediately adjusts the thread’s strength accordingly.
The only drawback is that it might sometimes be challenging to use when working on decorative projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What Is the Thread to Use In An Overlocker?
You can use any good quality thread that is smooth, fine, strong, and lint free.
- What Is a Good Serger for Beginners?
Beginners should go for the best self-threading serger with multiple features and essential functions that make serging a breeze. This includes an automatically adjustable thread tension, differential feed, threading guides, and instructional guards, among others.
- Which Is the Easiest Serger to Thread?
For your machine to easily thread, it needs to have convenient threading features, and for this case, you should consider one with an automatic threading system like the Juki MO-1000 Serger.
- Is It Right to Serge With Maximum Speeds?
No, it’s not. It would help if you regulated the serging speed depending on the task at hand for optimum results.
Conclusion
Every professional or beginner knows that choosing the best self threading serger can be a nightmare. Therefore, it would be wise to remember that you have to consider many factors and tips that I have deeply explained in the buyer guide section.
This also means that despite the provided facts, you should be in a position to choose one of the four best self threading sergers with the great confidence of a buyer.
If you are a professional, consider choosing a serger with more features, although it might be a bit expensive. For beginners, you should probably go for a cheaper unit. However, ensure it has all the crucial features necessary for basic serging.
But if you still find choosing quite confusing, I would recommend the Juki MO-1000 Serger since it comes with superior features, it has a quiet operation, and its ease of use is unmatched. For these few remarks, I wish you a productive shopping time.