Best Self-Threading Sergers
Investing in a home serging machine can expand your creative possibilities far beyond the capabilities of a standard sewing machine. Whether or not you have experience operating a serger, you’re probably familiar with the chief complaint about these machines: the time-consuming (and often-frustrating) threading process.
Luckily for beginners and experienced serger users, there is an expanding selection of self-threading serger machines available to you. Each model offers its own unique range of additional features that will add decorative and professional finishes to any of your sewing or crafting projects. Not all self-threading sergers are high-end, expensive machines, but this time-saving function will cost you more than a basic serger. If you’re ready to make the creative leap into serging or want to upgrade your current machine, here’s a look at how self-threading sergers work, why they’d make a productive investment, and how they’ll make a great addition to your home sewing room.
Types of Self-Threading Sergers
While choosing the best serger depends on personal preferences, how often it will be used, budget and additional features and accessories, a self-threading serger is a bonus by itself. Mastering the art of manually threading a serger is a good skill to have, but wanting to avoid that complicated process is worth the extra expense to many serger users. Because self-threading sergers vary in their features and capabilities, it’s best to do some research and compare machines to choose one suited for your needs.
There are currently only two different types of self-threading sergers on the market: one type threads only the lower looper and the other threads both the lower and upper loopers.
Threading a lower looper serger is as simple as laying the thread into the threading guide and flipping a switch. Turning the balance wheel slightly will return the guide to its regular position. To change the thread, lifting the presser foot releases the thread tension, enabling you to remove the thread from the machine.
Self-threading sergers featuring the patented Jet Air function are even easier to thread. After inserting a specified length of thread into the threading opening, all you have to do is press a button. A short but powerful burst of air threads the machine in seconds.
Self-Threading Serger Manufacturers
If you plan to invest in a self-threading home serger, take the time to research and try out the machines that interest you. Much of the advanced technology that makes these machines so user-friendly was developed and patented by a limited number of manufacturers. The only companies currently producing self-threading sergers include Juki, Baby Lock, Janome and Elna, but this great feature is available on several of each company’s models.
Even though the cost of some of these machines can be intimidating, the level of user-friendliness and the number of additional features and functions – including extra-large work areas, an adjustable differential feed, multiple built-in stitch options, automatic tension adjusting, multiple lights, and being able to use up to 8 threads – often justify the investment for those who plan to use the machine on a daily basis.
The Best Self-Threading Sergers
Convenience isn’t the only plus in a self-threading serger. These advanced machines offer the best options for everyone from beginners to professionals. They’re well known for producing smooth, even stitches that put a professional finish on all types of hand-made garments and sewing and craft projects. Plus, they’re capable of easily handling a wider range of fabrics, multiple layers and thicknesses, and natural materials such as leather. Here are a few self-threading serger models that consistently receive the best reviews from experienced users.
There are obviously plenty of reasons to consider purchasing a self-threading serger. In addition to making the set-up process faster and easier, they produce superior finished garments and projects. Best of all, you’ll have more time to expand your sewing and crafting creativity.