Baby Lock Diana Serger Review
Pros
- User Friendly: The Baby Lock Diana serger is easy to learn to use and is a breeze to operate.
- Extensive Instructions: A comprehensive, step-by-step threading manual is provided in addition to the owner’s manual.
- Quiet Operation: The Diana produces little vibration, even at top speed.
Cons
- Cost: The price is somewhat high compared to similar models.
- Manual Operation: All functions and features on this machine are manual.
Where to Find the Best Value
| Baby Lock |
|---|
| Baby Lock Diana
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Review
Baby Lock’s Diana serger (model BL480A) is one of several manual sergers in the company’s A-Line series. This machine is pricey for a manual machine, but it does offer a great range of stitch options, includes an extra, in-depth threading manual and offers the sturdy construction and the quality of production Baby Lock is known for. Once you get comfortable working with up to five threads, this serger is very easy to operate.
Stitch Options
The Diana includes an impressive array of stitch options, including 2-thread overlock and wrapped overlock stitches, 3-thread overlock, rolled hem and ultra-stretch mock safety stitches, 4-thread overlock, ultra-stretch mock safety stitches, 5-thread overlock and safety stitches, wide and narrow cover hem stitches and triple cover hem stitch. Stitch lengths are adjustable from 1 mm to 4 mm and stitch widths can be set between 3 mm and 9.8 mm.
Specifications
Speed: 1,500 stitches per minute
Threads: 2-3-4-5
Color-Coded: Yes
Light: Bulb
Weight: 19.5 lbs.
Dimensions: 12 inches by 14.17 inches by 11.43 inches
Product Features
Chain and Cover Stitch Functions
Diana can be quickly adjusted from a single chain stitch to a triple needle cover stitch with the flick of a switch. This function, which is nearly unheard of in a manual machine, allows you to produce perfect cover stitches using up to three needles and five threads. The chain and cover stitch functions include single, double and triple cover stitches and flatlock stitch options.
Adjustable Differential Feed
Being able to adjust the differential feed gives you the greatest level of control over how the fabric you’re using moves beneath the needles. It also allows you more ease when gathering fabric or working with very stretchy materials. Whether you’re working with the sheerest fabrics to multiple layers or heavy denims, you’ll be able to keep the stitches smooth and even. The differential feed ratio is adjustable between 0.6 mm and 2 mm.
Tension System Disks
You can save time when working with the chain or cover stitch functions by simply using one dial to control the tension settings for both stitches and the triple cover stitch. No more stopping the machine to adjust the tension settings when using specialty stitches.
Warranties
The Baby Lock Diana serger includes a 25-year limited warranty, a 10-year warranty on mechanical parts, a 5-year warranty on electrical components and a 1-year warranty on labor.
Shop online at Sewing Machines Plus.com, an authorized Baby Lock dealer.
Verdict
Baby Lock’s Diana might not include all the fancy features of her high-end sisters, but she packs a punch in ease-of-use, functionality, and stitch variety. And no matter which stitch you use, this machine produces secure, flawless stitching every time. Toss in the ability to use up to 5 threads and a cover stitch function and you realize manual threading isn’t that bad after all. This serger is so easy to use that transitioning from one function to another isn’t difficult or time-consuming. It is a little pricey, but it’s a Baby Lock, so it’s well worth a look.