Nowadays, sewing equipment is available to everyone. On sale there are different models of sewing devices that allow you to perform a full cycle of sewing operations at home. One of these machines is a household overlock.
What is overlock used for?
Overlock is a type of sewing machine designed to cover the edges of fabric. In one trip, the overlock cuts off excess fabric, grinds parts together and processes the cut. Some models perform complex seams, chain and decorative stitches and many other operations. Household sewing overlocks are an addition to sewing machines, since the latter do not perform overcasting seams.
A feature of overlock machines is their ability to make elastic seams that are necessary when sewing knitwear.
Functions of the Modern Overlock
If we compare the Soviet household overlock and its modern counterparts, the latter are distinguished by great capabilities. The current models of overlocks are created using the latest technology and allow you to quality overcast any fabrics: stretch, knitwear, chiffon, silk, curtain materials.
Modern household overlock allows you to perform the following types of seams:
- Plain basting.
- Connecting seam.
- Role marking.
- Multi-colored seam.
- Decorative overlay.
- Seam without trim.
- Flat or stitch seam.
- Chain stitch.
Expensive overlock models can perform more than 50 different operations.
Specifications
Household sewing machines and overlocks are distinguished by the fact that in the latter, loopers are used instead of the shuttle mechanism to weave threads. In low-cost models, the design consists of an upper and lower looper.
In any overlock it is possible to adjust the tension of the threads. Thanks to this, the device can sheathe fabrics of different densities and elasticities. So, with a decrease in the thread tension in the lower looper and needle thread, the overlock performs a flat seam.
Also, all models have a seam width adjuster. The user can set the required width by making weaving on the tongue. When installing the second needle, you can perform different versions of the three-thread stitch.
Additionally, a household overlock can be equipped with such parts:
- thread threader - the presence of this device speeds up and facilitates the process of threading threads;
- differential conveyor - designed to make elastic seams;
- a removable tray for scraps - it gathers scraps of thread and fabric that are formed during sewing;
- sleeve platform - a device for sheathing cylindrical products.
Types of household overlocks
Today there are many types of overlocks, but they all work almost the same way. They are arranged according to one principle and are intended for processing the edges of tissues. The main difference between overlocks is the number of threads used. So, on this basis, the following types of household overlocks are distinguished:
- 2-thread overlock - designed to seal the cut edges of the fabric so that they do not crumble. Some models allow you to perform a role stitch with two threads.
- 3-thread overlock - characterized by the presence of 3 loops that exchange threads during firmware. The device flashes the edges of the fabric with role, regular and, in some cases, decorative stitching.
- 4-thread overlock is the most versatile sewing device that allows you to make different seams using 4, 3 and 2 threads, if the model provides a converter.
- 5-thread overlock - used for mass production of textile products. Such a machine is usually used in industry for sewing clothes with the simultaneous grinding of parts. Basically, 5-thread overlocks perform a flat seam, which is used to process the sleeves and bottom of T-shirts and other products from knitted fabric. Household overlocks of this type usually perform only the function of grinding parts. 5 thread models are also available that do not cut the fabric. With their help, you can sheathe products with decorative stitches and complex seams, forming patterns and patterns.
How to choose
When buying a household overlock, the following parameters should be considered:
- The width of the edge of the fabric. Almost all models have the ability to adjust the width of the seam, the maximum value of which can be 9 mm.
- Availability of differential feed function of sheathed fabric. It is necessary for sewing knitwear and for connecting seams. The differential rail contributes to the implementation of the elastic seam, which does not break when the fabric is stretched. This tool also allows you to make the edge wavy.
- Easy threading in a loop. It is good when the overlock is equipped with a threading agent. It is mechanical and pneumatic. When inspecting such models, you should pay attention to how loopers are viewed. If they are clearly visible, threading will not be difficult.
- The purpose of the purchase. If an overlock is needed to make a regular overcast seam, then it is better to choose an inexpensive model with minimal functions. To solve more complex problems and tailoring products from different types of fabric, it is recommended to buy a household overlock with a wide range of operations. The most popular are 4-thread overlocks with removable loopers.
Overlocks Janome
One of the best sheathing machines are Janome household overlocks. Under this brand a large selection of models with different design features is presented.
All Janome overlocks are equipped with a differential conveyor, a knife lower drive system, a stitch length and presser foot adjuster. In each model, it is possible to turn off the knife and switch to the roller seam without replacing the hinged plate. In overlay "Zhanome" needles of the household standard are used.
Features of Janome machines:
- Multifunctionality.
- Color marking for threading.
- The presence of a refueling indicator.
- Foot control speed sewn.
- Infinitely variable speed.
- The presence of lighting in the work area.
How much does a household overlock cost
The price of an overlock for a home starts from 7 thousand rubles, depending on the configuration and manufacturer. So, the budget model Avex costs 8 thousand rubles. For a 4-thread overlay Yamata you need to pay about 10 thousand rubles. Models of this cost usually perform up to 10 sewing operations.
Multifunctional household overlocks in a complete set are much more expensive. So, the price of 2-thread models of the Baby Lock brand ranges from 90 to 120 thousand rubles. They perform 50 sewing operations on different fabrics.
The brand’s popularity also affects the cost of an overlock. Chinese counterparts from popular manufacturers can cost several times less.