Toyota SLR 4D Review
Pros
- Cost: Coming in at the lower end of the price range for entry-level sergers, the Toyota SLR 4D is a solid machine for the price.
- Variety of Stitches: A 2-needle, and 4-thread cone setup allows the user to configure the stitch selection (overlock, rolled hem, or flatlock) to meet their project needs and fabric weight.
- Speed: Boasting a motor that sews up to 1,200 stitches per minute, this provides plenty of speed for the beginner once the basic technique of using an overlocker is mastered.
Cons
- Threading: Manual threading is undoubtedly more difficult than automatic threading, especially for beginners that aren’t familiar with the sequence of threading through loopers and needles. This machine is known to take longer to get the hang of compared to some other brands/models, even with the color-coded thread guides.
Where to Find the Best Value
| Toyota |
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| Toyota SLR 4D
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Review
Constructed under the strict supervision of the founder of the TOYOTA motor company, Toyota sewing machines entered the sewing market in the late 1940s, offering solid machines at economical prices for sewists. The SLR 4D is from their line of SL1A overlockers, designed with function, ease, and reliability in mind.
At the very basis of its concept, serging is a simple process, and the SLR 4D embodies that. It provides the user with very basic functions to create efficient, quality seams without the added bells and whistles that increase the price. Super craftsmanship is utilized to construct a dependable serger that gets the job done time and time again.
Stitch Options
With the option for 1 or 2 needles and up to 4 cones of thread, the user has a handful of stitch options to choose from, tailoring the finished edge to the weight of their material and their project needs.
This model offers 2- 3- or 4-thread overlock stitches, two rolled hem options, and a flatlock stitch.
2-thread overlock: Using a single needle (either left or right) and only the bottom looper, this stitch is great for finishing the edges of light-weight fabrics.
3-thread overlock: This stitch uses a single needle and 3 threads to quickly finish the edges of medium to heavy-weight fabrics that won’t undergo heavy wear and tear.
4-thread overlock: Utilizing both needles and all 4 threads, the 4-thread overlock stitch is the strongest option on this machine and the most commonly used serger stitch. It’s perfect for constructing durable, flexible seams on knits or woven fabrics.
Rolled hem: Sewing with the right needle, both loopers, and 3 threads, the fabric is slightly folded over before being encased in the thread from the loopers. This stitch is commonly used to finish lightweight materials such as chiffon or organza, or when finishing long lengths of fabric when creating ruffles.
Flatlock: A flatlock stitch is created by bringing the raw edges of two fabrics together, butting them up next to each other, and then sewing a seam that joins the two pieces together.
Specifications
Speed: 1,200 stitches per minute
Number of Needles: 2
Differential Feed: 0.7 – 2.0 mm
Stitch Length: 1.0 – 4.4 mm
Stitch Width: 4.2 – 6.0 mm
Light: 15W incandescent bulb
Weight: 17.9 pounds (7.5 kg)
Dimensions: 8.7 x 11.8 x 11.4 inches
Product Features
Instruction Guide
The instruction manual, which includes directions in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, and Dutch, is comprehensive and illustrated. It includes directions on how to prep the machine before use, detailing the threading steps, changing needles, and adjusting the moveable cutter. Instructions on 4-thread overlocking using both needles are extensive and easy to follow.
Compact Size
Sergers have a much smaller footprint than sewing machines, making them a compact addition to your sewing area. The Toyota SLR 4D is slightly smaller than the average size as well so it takes up even less space and is easy to stow away when not in use.
Color-Coded Threading Guide
Without a doubt, one of the biggest challenges with coverstitch machines or sergers expressed by sewists is the task of threading all the needles and loopers. To help make the threading process easier, Toyota Home Sewing provides a color-coded threading guide right on the front of the SLR 4D. Each thread spool has a distinct color line for clarity.
Thread Cutter
Save time and thread by utilizing the convenient thread cutter found on the machine, just behind the needle plate and sewing area. No more continually looking for scissors to cut threads and free your project from the machine!
Warranties
The Toyota SLR 4D comes with a 3-year limited warranty from the date of purchase.
Click Here to See Toyota SLR 4D Pricing, Pictures and Reviews!
Verdict
The Toyota SLR 4D is a solid, simple machine that doesn’t offer the user many bells and whistles. It is particularly good at finishing the edges of thick or stretchy fabrics. Threading this machine is debatably finicky, and the stitch options are limited but at the low price tag, it makes a good machine for someone who only needs a serger periodically.
If you’re in the market for a simple, easy to use overlocker that comes in at a great price, the Toyota SLR 4D hits all the marks!
Read Our Ultimate Guide On How To Find The Best Serger
About Amanda S.: Growing up, I was fascinated by watching my mom and grandma turn fabric into beautiful handcrafted items. In my early 20’s, I finally got brave, buying a sewing machine and teaching myself to sew. As I fell in love with sewing, my machine collection expanded, and I ran an Etsy shop sewing children’s clothing for a few years. As a single mom of 3 great kids, my sewing time has lessened, but I still try to find time to work on quilts, bags, and projects with my kids, teaching them what I love.