Sewing is a very competitive field to venture into. This has led to the production of numerous sewing machines, with each having different capabilities. For instance, we have ordinary sewing machines which differ in performance from the sergers. The reason is that sergers operate at very high speeds, have various thread settings, and many more. But if you are an amateur, you won’t regret using the best sergers for beginners.
You will find a color-coded threading guide and instructional videos to guide you through your early days. Not forgetting that these units have a dual operating mode that allows you to sew and cut simultaneously. They also have a shorter neck compared to ordinary sewing machines.
But being a beginner, you will face a lot of challenges in determining the right choice for your projects. However, it would be best if you worried no more since this article has all you need, including a comprehensive guide. Read on to find out.
Table of Contents
What Is a Serger?
A serger, also known as an overlocker or an overlock machine, is a sewing machine capable of sewing seams, trimming seam allowances, and finishing fabric edges in a single step. This machine uses multiple threads (Ranging three, four, or more) to make an overlock stitch- a looped stitch wrapping around the edge of the fabric.
A serger has built-in knives for cutting excess fabric as you sew, resulting in a neat, professional-looking finish.
A serger is different from a normal sewing machine and must not be confused for the same thing.
Why a Serger Is Different from a Regular Sewing Machine
Here are some of the things that distinguishes a serger from a regular sewing machine:
First, a serger comes with double needles and loopers instead of a single needle and bobbin. The sergers, needles, and loopers create the overlock stitch.
Secondly, a serger comes with a differential feed, meaning the two sets of feed dogs (the metal teeth moving the fabric) can move at different speeds.
The differential feed allows you to adjust the level of stretch or gather in your fabric, depending on your fabric type and desired finish.
Thirdly, a serger comes with a free arm, meaning the base of the machine has a narrow and curved design that makes it easier to sew around curves and corners, like sleeves and cuffs.
Best Sergers for Beginners
Here are some of the best sergers you can use if you are a beginner:
Sewing machines are best for most sewing applications. However, there are some critical jobs, that they can’t handle precisely, and that’s why I have Brother 1034D serger as my first product in the best serger for beginners review.
This incredible machine has a whole metal construction for interior and exterior casing, rendering it durable and rigid. The unit outperforms your expectations as it features a 3 to 4-thread system, which vigorously handles multiple layers of denim, leather, and other heavy fabrics.
What makes it a remarkable machine is the robust motor that produces astonishing power, which results in a high-speed performance of up to 1300 stitches per minute.
Summary of the Key Features
- You can conveniently control the speed using the included foot pedal.
- The machine allows you to easily thread using the color-coded upper thread guide and lower threading mechanism.
- It also integrates three snap-on feet, which include the standard, gathering, and blind stitch.
- The high-speed performance of 1300 stitches enables this machine to sew hard-to-sew materials easily.
- It has a differential feed that improves the sewing on stretch or thin fabrics.
Pros
- It has a 3 to 4 threading system.
- You can purchase optional presser feet to sew blind hem pin tuck and flatlock stitches.
- High-speed operation.
- It has a convertible sewing surface.
- Easy thread changes.
- It gives a perfect finish.
Cons
- The maximum sewing speed only reaches 1300 stitches per minute.
JUKI machines have always been on the sewing industry’s top list; this does not exclude the JUKI MO654DE Portable Thread Serger Sewing Machine. It comes with a 2, 3, and 4 threading system that shows no mercy to any material type.
You will also find an embedded color corded threading breakaway mechanism with an external looper adjustment for stitch length and differential feed. Not to mention the rugged knife system that has a dedicated drive system to cut most of the materials smoothly.
Lastly, you won’t use this machine without recognizing its high-speed operation that reaches a whooping 1500 stitches per minute.
Summary of the Key Features
- This unit can comfortably handle light to heavyweight fabrics.
- It has a safety switch, which prevents it from running with the cover switch open.
- The machine features a 2, 3, and 4 thread system that handles any material.
- It has a well-located control system that allows for easy access, especially for beginners.
- The differential feed has a ratio of 0.7: 2.0.
Pros
- The unit has a maximum stitching length of 4mm.
- It has a high-speed operation of about 1500 SPM.
- Ideal for types of fabrics.
- It has a powerful knife system.
- This machine comes with an automatic rolled hem.
Cons
It has a maximum stitch length of only 4mm.
3. Janome 8002D Serger Includes Bonus Accessories
Why should you suffer looking for serger products yet you can effectively utilize the Janome 8002D Serger sewing machine. To begin with, it can operate with speeds ranging to 1300 stitches per minute.
It also has a high-performance retractable knife that cuts through most materials with ease. On top of that is the right, left, upper, and lower needle thread tension dial that you can effectively use to vary the thread’s tension depending on the project’s demand.
At the climax of its performance is the pressure adjective screw that enables you to regulate the working pressure from low to high, depending on the material.
Summary of the key features
- This machine has a thread guide bar that helps you do precise sewing by choosing the right threading option.
- The stitch length dial allows you to regulate the required stitch length depending on the material.
- It also has a needle plate setting knob to adjust the needle settings.
- The under knife release knob helps prevent accidental cuttings.
- It has an adjustable cutting width ranging from 3.1mm to 7.3mm.
Pros
- It features a cutting width adjustment dial.
- 5-year customer guarantee.
- The unit has an adjustable thread tension.
- Extra high-speed sewing of up to 1300 stitches per minute.
- Easy to use snap-on presser feet.
- It includes bonus accessories.
Cons
- This machine only has up to a 5-year warranty.
I had no reason to leave out the Brother ST4031HD Serger on this top tier list. First, it has a heavy-duty motor that offers a desirable performance ranging to high speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute.
Another remarkable feature is the 3 to 4 threading mechanism that you can vary according to your current project. You should also not forget the color-coded thread guides, which you can refer to for any sewing technique.
What makes it even better is the rugged metal casing for interior and exterior framing that ensures all the mechanisms are well aligned.
Summary of the Key Features
- You can use this machine for all your sewing ventures taking advantage of the 3 to 4 threading system.
- This unit guarantees you high-speed operations with astonishing sewing speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute.
- It also has color-coded thread guides that ensure you never go wrong with any of your sewing projects.
- The heavy-duty metal casing facilitates a longer shelf life.
Pros
- It comes with three accessory feet.
- You can serge with confidence on multiple layers of hard to sew materials.
- This machine boasts of its durable carbon steel blade.
- It remains stable even when working at high speeds.
- Adjustable sewing speeds using the foot controller.
- You have an assured 25-year warranty.
- It features an extension table.
Cons
- It’s a bit heavy at 7.94 pounds.
If you want to work as a professional, even though you are a beginner, get yourself the SINGER | Professional 14T968DC Serger. Unlike other sergers, this unit integrates a 2-3-4-5 thread system that gives you more simplified and flexible threading options.
What’s more, is the self-adjusting tension system that saves your time and energy in adjusting the thread tension. You can operate this feature by simply turning the dial to select the chart, and the machine does the rest for you by automatically setting the thread tension.
Finally, it has 4-nested rolled hems, which are elementary to switch since the machine has an easy to access lever that moves the stitch finger to facilitate the rolled hemming.
Summary of the Key Features
- The unit offers a high-performance speed ranging to 1300 stitches per minute.
- It has a self-adjusting tension system for convenient thread adjustments.
- The machine also features a thread 2-3-4-5 threading design to suit a variety of sewing applications.
- This unit has 4-inbuilt rolled hems that you can effortlessly convert using the accessible lever.
Pros
- It has a wide range of stitching options.
- You have a limited 90-day warranty for belts, rings, and bulbs.
- This product features a 0.5amp motor.
- It has three steps in one’s sewing capability.
- The machine is ideal for trimming and overcasting.
- It has an adjustable cutting width and stitch length control.
Cons
- This unit does not feature an extendable table.
You can’t afford to miss the stunning features on the SINGER | ProFinish 14CG754 2-3-4 Thread Serger with Adjustable Stitch Length. This amazing machine boasts of its 2-3-4 thread system that allows you to have all your jobs done in no time, no matter the material.
It also has an adjustable stitch length and width, which works in conjunction with the differential feed and color coded lay-in threading to stipulate for ease of use. This machine also allows you to easily transport it using the well-located carry handle.
The peak of its achievements is the free arm, which lets you effortlessly sew sleeves and cuffs at speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute.
Summary of the Key Features
- This machine has an automatic fabric trimming that saves you the time you would have spent on manual trimming.
- It operates at astonishing speeds that can reach a maximum of 1300 stitches per minute.
- The unit also swanks with its four inbuilt rolled hems that are effortless to convert.
- This product comes with numerous additional accessories.
- It has a powerful motor that facilitates the high-performance.
Pros
- It has a speed control mechanism.
- The unit comes with a whole purpose foot.
- This machine has an easy to access lever to adjust the rolled hemming.
- It’s compact and lightweight.
- It has options for fine or highly stretchable fabrics.
- This unit also has an LED work light.
Cons
- It only has four rolled hems.
JUKI machines never disappoint, and the JUKI MO644D Portable Serger is not exceptional. It has extra high sewing speeds that reach to a whopping 1500 stitches per minute, all thanks to its potent motor that offers incredible performance.
This dazzling machine claims its worth with the color-coded threading breakaway looper that you can easily use to adjust the stitch length and the differential feed. Another striking feature is the heavy-duty knife system with a dedicated drive mechanism to easily cut through various materials.
To complement all these excellent characteristics is the 2-3-4 thread system that effectively handles most of the fabrics.
Summary of the key features
- This unit can sew any fabric type ranging from thin to thick materials.
- It features a color-coded threading breakaway looper for elementary adjustments of the differential feed and stitch length.
- You will effortlessly work on numerous materials with this machine’s high-performance motor.
- It has a convertible 2-3-4 threading system to handle multiple fabric types.
Pros
- It integrates a multipurpose presser feet
- The unit has well-located control dials.
- Flexible for all material types.
- It has a compact design.
- The machine is treadle powered.
- It features a rugged knife system.
Cons
- The motor might sometimes be noisy.
Janome MOD-8933 Serger with Lay-in Threading will give you ample time to master the serger sewing machines. It offers an acknowledgeable performance with its three and four-thread options, which allows you to take control of the entire sewing process.
Additionally, it features a differential feed mechanism, which helps prevent puckering and stretching, particularly on thin materials. But don’t forget it’s easy to access lower looper with a pretension setting slider that enables you to save on your working time.
The most exciting part about the MOD-8933 is the quick change rolled hem, which allows you to finish your sewing projects elegantly.
Summary of the key features
- The differential feed reduces the possibility of stretching and puckering on all fabric types.
- You have the three and four needle settings to handle any of your projects.
- The unit features a quick to change rolled hem that allows you to complete your scheme effectively.
- Its compact and versatile design reduces fatigue in operation.
Pros
- It conquered your projects with power, precision, and confidence.
- Convertible differential feed.
- Compact and lightweight.
- It integrates a color coded thread guide.
- High-speed operation.
- There is no stretching and puckering.
- Easily accessible control features.
Cons
- This machine only has three and four threading options.
Why should I close this list without including the Brother Serger, 1034DX, and yet many people know it’s right at the top as the best serger for beginners? Actually, I have no reason since this machine operates at extraordinary speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute.
Another striking feature of the 1034DX is the rugged metal framing that increases its shelf life by protecting the delicate parts and withstanding harsh working environments. It also incorporates high-performance 3 or 4 stitching options that you can use depending on the fabric.
In closing, we have included instructional videos, color-coded thread guides, and numbered upper and lower thread loopers to guide you through the early days of using this machine.
Summary of the Key Features
- The heavy-duty motor facilitates the continuous running of this unit, even when handling hard to sew materials.
- It has exceptional operating speeds of up to 1300 stitches per minute.
- You can effectively use this product by referring to the instructional videos and other labeled guides.
- It features a 3 or 4 thread setting to tackle both thin and thick fabrics.
Pros
- It comes with a soft protective machine cover.
- Ideal for beginners.
- It includes three diverse feet.
- Durable and versatile.
- Effortless to use.
Cons
- The machine only has three feet types.
Best Sergers for Beginners Buyers’ Guide
If you correctly use the Sergers, you rest assured of taking your sewing skills to the next level. Not only that, but you will also learn numerous sewing skills in no time as these units have easy to access control systems.
Nevertheless, you still have to know why you need one and the significant aspects that you will consider before making an order or purchasing. Follow me as we examine these factors.
Reasons to Buy the Best Sergers for Beginners
- Easy to use. You will save most of your sewing time with an easy-to-control and access-control system.
- High-speed operation. Unlike ordinary sewing machines, these units operate at extra high speeds.
- Numerous thread settings. You will have more than one thread-setting mechanism to handle your projects.
- Compact and lightweight. Comfortably carry your serger to various workstations using the ergonomic handle and considering that they weigh less than 20 pounds.
- Instructional guide. As a beginner, this is the best choice you will ever make since these machines come with well-labeled thread guides and instructional videos.
- Adjustable thread tension. Vary the tension in the thread using the tension adjustment dial.
- Durable. For durability, these units have a rugged metal casing for interior and exterior framing, which protects from the harsh working environment.
- Robust motor. The powerful motor ensures a continuous run, even when handling thick fabrics.
- Adjustable stitch length. You can vary the stitch length to various lengths and widths depending on the fabric or project.
Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Serger for Beginners
- Differential Feed
Choose a machine with a reliable differential feed since it helps to prevent the fabric from stretching and puckering. It also improves sewing on thin materials as they are considered more vulnerable to stretching effects.
- Threading System
Undoubtedly, you need a unit that can comfortably handle various fabrics without straining. It should have at least two stitching options. However, some machines like the SINGER | Professional 14T968DC Serger Overlock feature up to 4 thread settings, increasing its capabilities.
- Operating Speeds
Sergers’ are well known for their high-speed operation. This makes them more reliable since they can effortlessly handle different sewing tasks. But this does not prevent units like the JUKI MO654DE Portable Thread Serger Sewing Machine and JUKI MO644D Portable Serger from having maximum sewing speeds of up to 1500 stitches per minute.
- Cutting Blade System
Sergers perform both sewing and cutting operations. Therefore, you should also consider the functionality of the cutting mechanism. It should be retractable to prevent accidental cutting and adjustable so that you can manage the cutting width.
Conclusion
I believe by now, you are well convinced of the high-performance nature of the best serger for beginners. You have seen that they operate at very high speeds, and they have various thread settings, among other exceptional features.
These machines comfortably suit you, especially if you are a beginner since they have easy to use control dials and instructional guides. But what caught my attention is the Brother 1034D Serger with its convertible sewing surface.
However, you should not relent. Instead, feel free to choose the one that suits your project demands as you use this fantastic article as your guide.