Singer Professional 5 14T968DC Review
Pros
- User Friendly: The Singer Pro 5 14T968DC has several automatic features and functions, including automatic tension control, color-coded threading, moveable upper knife, and built-in rolled hems.
- Coverstitch Function: This serger has the uncommon ability to produce several cover stitches in addition to the traditional stitches on a serger.
- Quiet Operation: The heavy-duty metal frame on this serger reduces vibrations during operation.
Cons
- Price: This higher-end machine offers a wide range of advanced features, making it more expensive than other Singer models.
- Threading Difficulty: The Singer Pro 5 must be threaded manually, which can be tricky and time-consuming.
- Plastic Components: Some components are made of plastic, making them less durable.
Where To Find The Best Value
- User Friendly
- Coverstitch Function
- Quiet Operation
Review
The Singer Pro 5 14T968DC is a top-of-the-line serger with enough versatility and features to be used exclusively as a professional machine. It provides a 5-4-3-2 stitch configuration with a variety of stitch styles. It offers many adjustable features and included accessories to make operation as customizable and comfortable as possible. The Singer 14T968DC is a serger worthy of use for the most important sewing tasks.
While the odd locations of the loopers and upper needles can make threading difficult at first, it consistently produces smooth, perfectly even stitches on a variety of fabric types and thicknesses. The accompanying workbook includes comprehensive, illustrated threading instructions and stitch techniques and tips.
Stitch Options
With 14 built-in stitch options, this serger offers a range of stitches to choose from using 2, 3, 4, or 5 threads. The ability to adjust the length and width on the stitch settings allows you to customize the stitch to your exact project needs.
- Double chain stitch
- 2-thread wrapped edge overlock
- 2-thread overedge
- 3-thread overlock
- 3-thread flatlock
- 3-thread rolled hem
- 3-thread ultra-stretch mock safety stitch
- 4-thread ultra-stretch mock safety stitch
- 4-thread safety stitch
- 5-thread safety stitch (narrow)
- 5-thread safety stitch (wide)
- Cover stitch (narrow)
- Cover stitch (wide)
- Triple cover stitch
Specifications
Speed: 1300 stitches per minute
Number of Needles: 2
Threads: 2-3-4-5
Stitch Width: 3.0 to 9.8 mm
Differential Feed: 0.6 to 2
Light: LED
Dimensions: 13.5 x 10.5 x 11.5 inches (L x W x H)
Weight: 18.6 lbs
Product Features
Impressive Stitch Options
The Singer 14T968DC serger has a 5-4-3-2 stitch capability to ensure a perfect stitch with rolled hems, cover hems, chain stitching, and more. This serger also features four built-in rolled hems with an easy-access lever for moving the stitch finger into the proper position. The stitch width and length can be adjusted on all of the stitches to keep seams strong and avoid fabric bunching.
Coverstitch Capability
This feature alone makes the Singer Pro 5 unique among sergers in this price range. With an included coverstitch feature, there’s no need to switch between your sewing machine and serger when working on projects or garments to create a mock coverstitch hem. You can choose between a narrow, wide, or triple coverstitch.
Self-Adjusting Tension System
The automatic tension system on this serger is one of its most valuable features, especially for those inexperienced with using a serger. When you select the stitch you wish to use, the machine instantly adjusts the thread tensions to the proper setting. Getting perfectly balanced stitches is as easy as turning the stitch selection dial.
Adjustable Differential Feed
Being able to adjust the differential feed dogs makes a marked difference in stitch quality. The adjustable differential feed controls the ratio of movement between the front and back feed dogs, which will help feed the fabric smoothly beneath the needles. This adjustability is essential for producing smooth, even stitches, especially when working with very stretchy or delicate fabrics.
Color-Coded Threading & Lay-In Tension Guides
Without a doubt, one of the biggest challenges with manually threaded sergers is the task of threading all the needles and loopers. Singer provided an easy-to-understand color-coded threading guide right on the front of the serger to make this easier for users. The Singer Pro 5 14T968DC eliminates tension disks and hooks to simplify manual threading. Follow the color-coded guide, lay your threads in the proper channels, and the serger automatically sets the tension.
Built-in Free Arm
By simply sliding the removable accessory compartment off the serger, you can transform the work area into a free arm. This feature makes it a breeze to put a professional finish on sleeve cuffs, collars, trouser hems, and small, intricate sewing projects.
Warranties
Singer offers a 25-year warranty covering manufacturer defects, a 2-year warranty on all electronic components, and a 90-day warranty on parts and labor.
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Verdict
The Singer Pro 5 14T968DC is a fully versatile machine capable of achieving the most complex professional or home sewing tasks. Unlike other comparable machines, it provides a wide range of stitch styles and hem features. It is also unique in the fact that it features an automatic self-adjusting tension control system.
While it comes in at a higher price than many other popular sergers, it features more options in comfort and control by comparison. Despite its perceived shortcomings, its built-in stitch capabilities, adjustable stitch control, and many additional accessories make it a machine that is sure to please those willing to accept its higher price.
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.