Every beginner seamstress aspires to make clothes of couture quality, and the coverstitch machine is frequently the most desired tool on their wish list. This specialty sewing machine, sometimes called a flat-stitch machine, is well known for its capacity to create precise, long-lasting hems and finishes that closely resemble those seen in apparel purchased from stores.
Because a coverstitch machine can easily handle stretchy fabrics, unlike a regular sewing machine, it’s a favorite for sewing everyday knits, swimwear, and activewear. It changes everything for anyone trying to take their sewing projects to the next level with the smooth, polished results it produces.
But why is the coverstitch machine so appealing, and why do so many people just want one? Let’s examine the features that make this sewing machine essential for individuals who take their hobby seriously.
Feature | Reason for Popularity |
Professional Finish | A coverstitch machine gives garments a polished, store-bought look that appeals to beginners who want professional results at home. |
Durable Seams | These machines create strong, stretchable seams, perfect for activewear and knit fabrics, making them a dream for those working with such materials. |
Ease of Use | While they seem complex, coverstitch machines are user-friendly, making them less intimidating for novices eager to expand their skills. |
- What is a coverstitch (flat-stitch) machine
- How it works
- Features of the cover stitch
- Types
- What is the difference between an overlock and a cover stitch machine?
- What is a top-stitch cover stitch machine for?
- Top 3 household overlock machines
- Video on the topic
- 5 MISTAKES SEWERS MADE when working on a sewing machine. Sewing for beginners from Papa Sewing.
- How to avoid skips when sewing on a cover stitch machine. Nuances of working on a cover stitch machine
- A sewing mistake that many people make when working on a cover stitch machine!
What is a coverstitch (flat-stitch) machine
The equipment was solely industrial for a considerable amount of time. In workshops, overstitch machines were used to sew sportswear and knits in large quantities. In actuality, this is their intended use.
Using chain stitches and a unique thread weave, a coverstitch machine creates an elastic flat seam. It consistently secures knitwear and elastic fabric edges. Stretching the product’s width and length is simple. The threads are not going to break.
The way that people view the selection of fabric for clothing has evolved significantly in the last 20 years. People started to favor butter, Barbie, cooler, comfortable, wrinkle-free knitwear, and other contemporary textiles. Using a standard sewing machine to sew items has become difficult. A traditional sewing machine is prone to errors when stitching stretchy fabric; the stitches are often weak and break easily.
Home-use coverstitching machines are beginning to be available. They are compact, easy to use, and cost several times less than industrial ones (coverstitch machines are expensive equipment).
To be fair, knitwear can also be sewed on standard sewing machines with special double knit needles and elastic threads. However, the seam accuracy and stitch quality won’t be identical to those achieved with a coverstitch machine.
How it works
A coverstitch machine differs from a sewing machine in its structural makeup. It resembles an overlock more.
A coverstitch machine is not equipped with a bobbin case. The needles and looper receive the threads straight from the bobbin. Usually two to three needles are present. It can operate with two to five threads concurrently.
A standard shuttle stitch involves wrapping the upper thread around the lower, or bobbin, and then tightening it. Both the inside and the outside of the stitch are identical. The overlock stitch is made and has a unique appearance.
For inexperienced seamstresses, the Coverstitch machine—also called a flat-stitch machine—is a dream come true because it effortlessly produces polished seams and hems that look professional, something that regular sewing machines struggle to accomplish. The capacity of this specialized machine to work with stretchy fabrics is especially appreciated, making it an essential tool for anyone hoping to take their sewing projects to the next level of excellence and artistry.
Features of the cover stitch
In English, the cover stitch is also referred to as a flat stitch, covering stitch, coverstitch, or flatlock. You’re thinking of chain stitches.
When the loopers and needle come into contact, a flat stitch is created. It appears as though it is two parallel lines on the one hand, and a flat stitch that is "clogged" with entwined threads on the other.
Since the threads are not tightened, the seam can easily stretch with the cloth. The material’s edges are also firmly held in place because of the dense weave. The weave unravels quickly when a thread breaks, which is the only drawback of the chain stitch.
Cover stitching is applied to manufactured goods. Examine the hem of any T-shirt or tank top you own:
Types
Four primary stitch types can be performed by any cover stitch machine:
- Three-needle, 5.6-6 mm wide.
- Wide two-needle, 5.6-6 mm wide.
- Two-needle narrow, width 2.8-3 mm.
- Single-thread chain stitch. Used to join parts.
The looper thread and the threads in the needles of cover stitch machines work together to create a flat seam. On the underside of the product, the looper thread creates a cover.
What is the difference between an overlock and a cover stitch machine?
The two machines appear to be very similar at first glance. A cover stitch machine is visually identical except for the sleeve extension. This is done so that the product can be placed conveniently when connecting with threads. Sleeve extension on an overlock machine is essentially nonexistent.
A cover stitch machine can lay a stitch anywhere on the fabric, whereas an overlock machine can only work with the edge.
Table of comparison:
Cover stitch machine | Overlock | |
Purpose | Working with stretch fabrics and knitwear | Processing the edge of a product |
Functions | Stitching, hemming | Trimming and overcasting the edge |
Seam | Flat | Volumetric, overcast |
Number of needles | 2-3 and more | 1-2 |
Sleeve extension | Yes | No |
Stitching | Yes | No |
Trimming | No | Yes |
Overcasting | No | Yes |
What is a top-stitch cover stitch machine for?
The looper creates an interlacing pattern of threads that forms the cover stitch. Because the looper is positioned at the bottom of typical home coverstitch machines, the cover stitch is only formed on one side.
Two loopers come with top-stitch cover stitch machines. One weaves the threads from the fabric’s bottom, while the other does so from its top. As a result, if a three-needle stitch is chosen, the cover stitch is created simultaneously on both sides using five threads.
- increases the reliability of the stitch;
- allows you to lay a decorative stitch on both sides at once;
- improves the elasticity of the seam.
While the top cover is a standard feature of nearly all industrial overlockers, it is still uncommon in domestic models.
Top 3 household overlock machines
Expert seamstresses have direct knowledge of what a cover stitch machine is. Each special piece of equipment has a rating. Let’s look at three common home models:
- JANOME Cover Pro D Max. Average price – 39,000 rubles. 3-needle cover stitch machine, 80 W power. Performs 7 types of seams (14 programs). Masters praise it for its good stitch. Minus – no automatic threader for the lower looper.
- Merrylock Average price – 20,000 rubles. One of the best budget cover stitch machines. Makes 4 main lines, power is 100 W. Makes 1300 stitches per minute. The model is praised for its versatility, reliability and affordable price. It has few disadvantages – no free arm and automatic tensioner for the upper threads.
- Brother CV Equipped with a removable upper deck, can perform 7 different seams. The working area is large and is 15.5 cm. The thread tension is adjusted automatically, there is an automatic thread trimmer, the lower looper is easy to thread. This is one of the most functional models. Disadvantage – requires proper setup. Average cost – 40,000 rubles.
An invaluable tool for improving sewing projects is a coverstitch machine, particularly for those working with stretchy materials like knits. It offers hems and seams that look professional and are challenging to accomplish with a standard sewing machine.
Purchasing a coverstitch machine can help inexperienced seamstresses increase their productivity and improve the quality of their work. It’s a dream for any serious sewer because of how simple it is to create finishes that are both durable and clean.
Even though it may seem like an advanced tool, the advantages it provides make it worthwhile for novices to take into consideration. Using a coverstitch machine can provide one with the self-assurance and fulfillment necessary to spark a lifelong passion for sewing.