Best Serger Carrying Cases
One of the best things about personal use serger sewing machines is their portability — allowing sewists to pack them up and take them to classes, sewing retreats, or even travel with them. If you are going to be hauling your serger around, invest in a quality carrying case to protect your machine not only from dust and dirt but from bumps and jolts as well. A bonus is that carrying cases are available for purchase in a variety of sizes, styles, and colors to keep your machine clean and safe. We’ve put together a list of the best serger carrying cases available today.
What to Look For in a Serger Carrying Case?
Before beginning your search for the best carrying cases for your machine, it’s essential to think about the purpose behind buying a case. Are you hoping to take your serger on a working vacation? Are you going on an occasional girls’ sewing retreat? Are you transporting it to weekly classes or on-site alterations?
Thinking about these things will help you determine what features your carrying case needs.
Size
The most critical consideration in a serger case is purchasing the best size for your needs. Measure your machine to get its dimensions and then look for a case with larger dimensions. How much larger depends on the accessories and everything else you want to carry with your machine.
When researching products, be aware that the shape of serger carrying cases and sewing machine carrying cases are slightly different. Sewing cases are typically smaller from front to back and may not accommodate the “depth” of a serger.
Soft or hard shell
Upon first thought, you may think a hard-sided case is the best way to go since it’s rigid. The soft-sided models do a great job protecting your serger and offer you many more choices in colors, size, storage, etc. Many hard-sided cases are rated as being “flimsy” by reviewers.
Stiff bottom panel
To support the weight of your machine, and prevent seams from ripping, invest in a case that has a stiff bottom panel. Some manufacturers design their cases with a removable wooden base for added support and stability.
Padding
Typically cases are constructed with layers of padding – varying in thickness – in the exterior panels to protect your serger. If you are simply protecting your machine in your sewing room or traveling by automobile, the protection level isn’t as important. But if you are traveling by plane, look for a case with plenty of padding or buy one large enough to add extra foam, fleece, or other fabric around your machine.
Wheels/trolley
If you’re going to travel through airports with your serger as a carry-on or doing a considerable amount of walking from a parking lot to your class, you should consider a rolling case with wheels. Look for sturdy wheel construction and a telescoping handle for length adjustment. Wheels with 360° movement are simpler to maneuver than fixed wheels but come at a higher price.
Accessory compartments
This is perhaps one of those times where more is better! Look for a serger carrying case with plenty of pockets, compartments, and dividers to hold thread, scissors, your owner’s manual, spare parts, tools, and even project books and fabric if you want.
Product Reviews
Tutto 9224TMA
Pros
- Boasts a roomy interior and plenty of pockets for accessory and fabric storage.
- Inside straps hold your machine in place during transport.
- Zippers on front and top allow easy access from both sides.
Cons
- Too large to put in an overhead bin on an airplane.
- No padding on the side panels.
Tutto is known for its high-quality luggage, sewing machine cases, and business cases. The 9224TMA is considered an XL sewing case providing you with 18-1/2x25x13 inches of storage when unfolded but collapses to a mere 3-inches when not in use. A fiberglass frame keeps the overall weight down, making it easier to haul with the removable puller bar. An internal floating divider expands the depth and separates accessories/fabric from your machine.
Tutto 17″ Purple Serger Tote On Wheels
Pros
- Sturdy, lightweight fiberglass frame.
- Inside straps hold your machine in place during transport.
- Made from 840 denier nylon fabric.
Cons
- The handle isn’t telescoping, so it isn’t adjustable to your height.
Another high-quality, well-rated product from Tutto, the 17-inch serger tote on wheels, is explicitly designed for sergers and overlock sewing machines. The interior compartment measures 16″L x 15″H x 14″D and is accessible from both the top and front zippered panels. Internal and external pockets keep all your sewing tools, fabrics, and accessories organized. A fiberglass frame keeps the weight down and allows you to pick the entire tote up to load into a vehicle.
Luxja Overlock Sewing Machine Case with Detachable Trolley Dolly
Pros
- Removable trolley and shoulder strap lets you choose between carrying or pulling your machine.
- Additional padding for the bottom panel can be added or removed as needed.
Cons
- It doesn’t fold up easily for storing when not in use.
- The main compartment is only accessible from the top of the bag.
One of the best features of the Luxja overlock sewing machine case is the removable trolley and shoulder strap. Easily switch between transport methods to fit your needs. Thick padded sides protect your machine when on the go, and multiple storage pockets provide plenty of space for all your sewing items.
Embroidex Floral Serger/Overlock Carrying Case
Pros
- An economical, stylish option that is easy to use and functional.
- A cushioned, ergonomic carry strap is comfortable on your hands, reducing strain.
- The roomy interior accommodates a range of serger dimensions.
Cons
- No trolley or wheels, so it has to be carried.
The Embroidex floral carrying case is a highly-recommended product for the sewist looking for a stylish, economic carrying case without wheels or a trolley. Heavy-duty material and high-strength stitching provide durability, while high-quality zippers make accessing the internal compartment hassle-free. A large exterior pocket conveniently stores a foot pedal, power cord, and other sewing notions.
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.