Choosing the Right Serger Thread
Choosing the right serger thread for a project is as important as choosing the right serger for yourself. It’s essential to buy the best quality thread you can afford. The low tensile strength of cheaper threads allows lint and fuzz to build up faster. Serger thread is sold on large spools holding between 2,000 to 3,000 yards of thread because so much is used during the serging process.
These threads are designed to be used in multiples of two or more spools because they have dual duties: to construct a seam while finishing the raw edge of the fabric. Serger thread is finer than standard sewing machine thread to avoid the bunching and pulling that cause bulky seams. Using multiple spools of thread ensures the end seam, hem or finish will be flexible, durable and strong.
Polyester is the most widely used type of thread used in serger machines due to its strength, durability and flexibility. However, some projects might call for a different type of thread, such as nylon, cotton, wooly nylon or other thread types. It’s easy to become intimidated by the amounts of thread used in serging, but the end results are more than worth the effort and cost. Here is a look at several popular polyester brands of serger threads that vary in quality and price.
Maxi-Lock Serger Thread
This high-quality, polyester thread is one of the most popular brands on the market. This thread provides consistently strong, smooth results, even when operating a serger at high speeds on lightweight knits. Maxi-Lock thread, by American & Efird, is strong yet find, versatile and available in a rainbow of colors. It’s well worth the price.
Coats & Clock Sure Lock Overlock Thread
This manufacturer is well-known for producing excellent sewing and embroidery threads. Their multi-purpose Sure Lock thread is no different in terms of quality and reasonable pricing. Each 3,000-yard cone contains polyester thread available in a wide range of colors.
IZO Home Goods
IZO Home Goods all purpose thread is a great option for the budget conscious that still delivers on quality. This thread can be used for a variety of serger projects and features polyester covered polyester core for strength. This thread can be used with serger, over locks, merrows and single needles.
Gutermann Serger Thread
This strong, high-performance thread is also manufactured of polyester. It’s well-known for being resistant to fraying and producing strong, flexible seams, hems and finishes. This type of serger thread was specially formulated for 3-4 overlock sergers. Gutermann serger thread is available in many colors on large, 1,094-yeard spools.
Madeira Aerolock Premium Serger Thread
Madeira is a well-respected thread manufacturer because the company routinely produces top-quality, core-spun threads that never fail to outlast daily use and routine cleanings. Like all Madeira threads, the Aerolock Premium line must pass comprehensive tests to ensure consistently flawless performance. The 2,000-yard spools of polyester thread are available in 48 colors. Madeira also makes a durable, two-ply, all-purpose thread in a huge variety of Colorfast colors, which is less expensive than the premium line.
Mettler Seracor Serger Thread
Formerly known as Metrocor Serger thread, is a reliably elastic polyester serger thread that also ensures hems and seams that last. It will not shrink during washing and sews even, flat stitches on all types and weights of fabric. This line of 50-weight, multipurpose Mettler Seracor thread is available in lengths of 2,743 yards. This brand offers the least amount of colors (11) but has an enduring reputation for quality.
How to Choose Serger Thread
Material
- Polyester (most popular)
- Nylon (great for elastic fabric e.g. swimwear)
- Cotton (not as strong as polyster)
- Wooly Nylon (great for elastic fabric e.g. swimwear)
- Poly-wrapped Poly Core
Color
Serger thread is available in basic colors and different shades and blends.
Smoothness
Serger thread should be smooth so it navigates through the serger easily. Polyester is popular for this feature while cotton is not due to the short fibers which can be messy too.
Price
As with anything you get what you pay for and the cheaper serger thread can do as little as create a messy situation to damaging a serger. If within your budget go for the higher quality serger thread.
The Bottom Line
You don’t have to break the bank to purchase a quality serger thread. Choosing a type or brand with a decent price and a great reputation will help you produce beautiful, professional-grade work. If you’re new to serging, do some research, talk to some experts, keep an eye out for thread sales and learn to simplify your thread purchases. Maybe you’ll be able to treat yourself to a few serger accessories you’ve had your eye on with the money you’ll save.
Find more serger thread options at SewingMachinesPlus.com
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.