Best Self-Threading Sergers

We’ve put together a list of some of the best self-threading sergers available today. 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.

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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.

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Juki MO-1000 Serger

The Juki MO – 1000 Serger is a user friendly machine with a patented push button Jet-Air threading feature to make set up a breeze. Users will find this machine packed with features rivaling more expensive models, a variety of stitch options, and a long knife for flawless, professional cuts.

There are seven built in stitch options and the machine operates at a top speed of 1,500 stitches per minute. Stitch options include a 2- 3- or 4-thread overlock, a 3-thread narrow overlock stitch, a 3-thread rolled hem stitch, a 3-thread flatlock stitch and a gorgeous 3-thread, lettuce edge rolled hem stitch. The machine includes color-coded threading guides for easy threading and the adjustable differential feed accommodates a variety of fabric thickness and textures.

The Juki Mo-1000 is a high-quality machine that doesn’t skimp on features or technology and is paired with quiet operation and ease of use. Read the full Juki MO-1000 serger review.

Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews of Juki MO – 1000 on Amazon

Pros

• To thread with this serger is relatively easy
• A handy user’s manual comes with this machine
• It comes with a very professional look and construction
• You have many great features to make your work much easier

Cons

• The looper cover of this machine may get jammed easily
• It comes with quite a high price point attached to it

Baby Lock Eclipse DX Serger

The Baby Lock Eclipse DX operates at a top speed of 1,500 stitches per minute and features the patented Jet-Air one-touch threading system to offer users a productive and easy-to-use machine. The Eclipse also features a tubular looper system to prevent threading errors and tangled threads, an adjustable differential feed, and an exclusive fabric support system for smooth and balanced stitches on all fabric types and styles.

Stitch options on the Eclipse include a 4-thread overlock stitch with an integrated safety seam, 1 needle, 2- and 3-thread overlock, flat lock, and rolled hem stitches. Standard stitch widths produced by the Eclipse include a left needle width of 5 mm and 7.5 mm, a right needle width of 3 mm to 5.5 mm, and a rolled hem stitch width of 3.5 mm. The standard stitch length on the Eclipse can be adjusted between 1 mm and 4mm and the rolled hem stitch length is between 0.75 mm and 4 mm.

The Baby Lock Eclipse DX is compact and portable, but capable of handling a variety of fabrics from very sheer to heavyweight denim and leather. While the Eclipse DX is considered a basic model, it offers users a variety of stitch options and features that make this machine a great choice. Read the full Baby Lock Eclipse DX Serger Review.

Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews of Baby Lock Eclipse DX

Pros

• Easy to keep stitches balanced and flat with the fabric support system
• You have a wide variety of thread rolled hemming options
• They are available in a wide range of models to suit your need
• It has a high top speed for stitching

Cons

• It isn’t easy to find a retailer for this product
• This machine does not come with an automatic tension adjusting feature

Elna 664 Pro Overlocker

The Elna 664 Pro Overlocker offers a variety of features at a mid-range price with sturdy construction and quiet operation. It features twelve built-in stitch options and runs at a top speed of 1,300 stitches per minute.

The Elna 664 Pro includes a self-threading lower looper with a pre-tension setting lever. Stitch options and features include 2- and 3-thread rolled hem stitches, 2-, 3- and 4- thread overlock stitches, 2- and 3-thread flatlock stitches, 3-thread wide and narrow hem stitches and 3- or 4- thread chain offs that can be used for decorative purposes. The stitch length on the 664 Pro can be adjusted between 1 mm and 5 mm.

Additional features include an adjustable differential feed with a 4-piece feed dog system to accommodate a variety of fabric styles and thicknesses, a tilting needle clamp for easy threading and needle changes with the push of a button, and adjustable cutting knives for clean and smooth edges. This easy-to-use manual machine is a great choice for home sewists and comes with a built-in storage area and a generous accessory package. Read the full Elna 664 Pro Overlocker Review.

Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews of Elna 664 Pro on Amazon

Pros

• This machine comes with many extra accessories and tools
• Snap-on presser feet are straightforward to use on this machine
• You have many stitch formations to choose from
• There is slight vibration, and it operates very quietly

Cons

• This serger can not provide a 5-stitch cover stitch
• You do not have an instruction DVD included with this machine

Janome 6234XL Overlocker

The Janome 6234XL Overlocker is a well-constructed machine that is easy to thread and learn to use and offers a variety of features that create professional quality results. The 6234XL produces 1,300 stitches per minute and includes an accessory package with a selection of useful tools.

The Janome 6234XL comes pre-threaded and includes a color-coded lay-in threading feature and self-threading lower looper to simplify the threading process. Stitch options and features include 2-, 3-  and 4 overlocking stitches, decorative overedging stitches, and a fine, 2-thread picot edging stitch option. Seam width can be adjusted between 1mm and 5mm, and seam length is adjustable from 2.0mm to 3.3mm for narrow stitching to 7.5mm for wide stitches. The machine comes with an adjustable differential feed to handle fabrics of varying types and thicknesses, a rolled hem change-over feature, and adjustable cutting width with a built-in retractable upper knife.

The 6234XL is solidly constructed with a powerful motor that offers smooth operation with very little vibration. The machine does not have a huge selection of automatic features, but it is easy to use, and an excellent option for beginners. The included DVD is extremely beneficial for new users and the accessory package comes with tools and extra parts making the 6234XL a great value. Read the full Janome 6234XL review.

Click Here for Pricing, Pictures and Reviews of Janome 6234XL on Amazon

Pros

• This machine operates at a very low noise level
• You have a high lifting presser foot with this machine
• It has a solid but lightweight construction for easy relocation
• To operate this machine will not be that difficult, even for the beginner

Cons

• You have inferior lighting with this serger
• This machine is not meant for those with a low budget

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Buyer’s Guide

There are several things you need to know about sergers before you go out and buy one for yourself. We look at the different features and how they compare with standard sewing machines to get the job done.

What Is a Serger?

A serger, also known as an overlock machine, is a specialized machine that can sew just like with the standard sewing machine. The difference is that the seams are much stronger with a serger, and it looks more professional than done with a sewing machine.

It works by locking threads around the seam, and it cuts off the allowance while you are sewing with it. If you use a serger instead of a sewing machine, the seam will not fray easily, even after time.

A complicated stitch to master, the rolled hem, can be done relatively quickly with the serging machine. It also helps make everything you sew with it look far more professional and durable while stronger.

Can a Serger Replace a Regular Sewing Machine?

Even though it is possible to do some of the sewing jobs on a serger, it will not be able to do everything. Much of the regular work can just not be done on a serger. You will need a sewing machine for that.

You will need a sewing machine to do buttonholes and topstitching and replace a zipper. A serger can also not be used for doing facings, for that your standard sewing machine is needed.

You can see that it is not possible to replace your standard sewing machine with a serger to get the sewing done. It is safe to say that any seamster out there needs to have a sewing machine to do all the stitching.

Do You Need a Serger?

It is not essential to have a serger, even if you are a professional dressmaker or an amateur fixing and designing at home. A serger does add a lot of strength to any seam and will make it look much more professional than with a sewing machine.

It will also make your sewing work much easier if you can use it for many of the different sewing jobs you usually do. With the many different fabric types available on the market, it will be easier to use a serger for sewing.

With a serger, all your sewn items will look much better, and they will be stronger and last a while longer. If you want to make the inside of all the items you sew look like it is made in a factory, use one.

How To Choose a Serger Machine

Choosing the correct type of serger machine can be overwhelming, so we provide you with a few hints. This will make it much easier for even the beginner to go and find the best serger that will suit your needs.

Ease Of Use

With many different brands and models available to choose from, you need to find the one that will be easy to use. That is why it is essential to find one that does not have a steep learning curve before you can use it.

It would be best if you chose a serger machine that comes with an instructional DVD to learn the operations much quicker. Even expert users prefer a serger machine that is not too difficult to operate so they can start working.

Price

This is one of the main concerns when buying a serger machine, especially for beginners who are afraid they may waste money. The best option is to choose one with all the features but without a very high price tag.

Accessories

It would be best if you chose a serger machine with as many extra accessories to save you money from buying everything individually .

Differential Feed

This feature on a serger machine will make it much easier for you to work on many different types of fabric.

Versatility

This is one of the many benefits you will appreciate with a serger compared to a regular sewing machine. Most sergers come with the speed control feature that determines the speed the fabric passes underneath the presser foot.

This will make a huge difference when you make gathers, for instance, for the successful serging without pulling the fabric. A serger also gives you far more control over the thread tension and the length of the stitch.

This is all possible with the differential feed feature that comes with almost all sergers available on the market. Most brands will provide you with several different presets to do things such as rolled hems to make it even better.

You will find that these features will make it easier to get the job done when using a serger instead of a sewing machine.

Conclusion

There are obviously plenty of reasons to consider purchasing one of the best self-threading sergers. 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.