Top 10 Best Sergers for Beginners | 2023 complete Review

A serger, also popularly known as an overlock machine, is a magic machine!

It can work wonders on the finished product and is a joy to any seamstress – whether professional or otherwise.

Why would you use a serger?

A serger is an absolute necessity when it comes to giving a refined and professional touch to the finishing of clothes that you sew. Using a serger, you can easily go beyond the basics of just staying happy with your finished product.

You can make sure that the edges are not frayed or unraveled and the finishing looks chic and classy. This does not only enhance the look of your product but also guarantees longevity.

Serger for the beginners

When you have just started out with a serger, many things are going to intrigue you. The various functionalities, the different finishing styles that you can get out of your serger are going to entice you all the more. But knowing some basic features like the ones below is helpful.

Buying Guide

Easy to use

Being a beginner, it is obvious that you would want to buy a serger for dummies that is easy to operate. A machine that is easy to understand can up your sewing game by many levels.

Price factor

While you are learning how to use a serger efficiently, you may not want to buy an expensive machine. However, if you go for a very inexpensive one, you may not get the desired results. So it becomes important to strike a balance between the price and the features on offer.

Fabric feed

Trying out twists and ruffles to your product can be a fun way to gather interest in sewing. For this, you need a serger that provides a differential fabric feed, so that you can easily learn how to create stylish edges with different fabrics.

Accessories

We all feel good if there are some extra accessories supplied with the serger you buy. That helps us by saving some money as well as the energy of not having to buy a new set of accessories. An extra accessory also means that you get the freedom to try out new and cool stuff with your brand new serger. That is always adding fun while you learn.

In this article, I have shortlisted the top 10 models of sergers that are ideal for beginners.
Let’s take a look at them.


#1. Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger

The Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger is a reliable and high performing machine using which you can deliver expert edge finishing on many different fabrics.

Be it on knits or linens or even your regular formal wear; you can use this serger to create decorative edges like ruffles and gathers to make the end product appealing.

Important Features

  • 22 stitch functions
  • Versatile stitch options
  • Adjustable stitch width
  • Easy threading
  • Removable free arm
  • Can sew up to 1300 stitches per minute

Brother 1034D 3/4 Serger Review

You can even join laces; sew narrow sleeves of your tops and even those teeny spaghetti straps very conveniently.

This comes built in with 22 stitch functions for the most varied kinds of bridal wear, home decor items and crafts made using thin fabrics or knits or even the stretchy ones. The Stitch options include 4 thread overlock, 3 thread overlock, narrow hem, rolled hem, and ribbon lock stitches.

You can adjust the stitch width according your need from 5mm to 7mm from left needle. In that way you can provide perfect stitch width to your project.

It is very easy to thread the overlocker. The lower looper threading system helps the thread to stay in right place.

The arm is removable. You can remove the arm to sew the sleeves and cuffs and collars when required.

You will not face any problem while sewing stretchy, knitted, or thin fabrics. The differential fabric feed improves the stitch quality while sewing different types of fabrics.

The most important feature of this Brother 1034 D 3/4 serger is, it does not required any special needles. You can use any standard home sewing machine needles.

This is a high speed serger. It can sew up to 1300 stitches per minute.

The foot controller is smart and effective too. It is extremely easy to use, and you can pick up its functions by your own in just a matter of few minutes.

The manual included in the package comes with a video tutorial along with printed pamphlets to enhance ease of use.

Pros
  • Comes with accessories like tweezers, four spool nets, needle set, cleaning brush and trim trap
  • Quick and efficient
  • 25 yr warranty
  • Very easy to use
  • Easily affordable price
Cons
  • Not excellent on thicker stiffer fabrics
  • Not to be used in countries do not support 120V AC
  • This needs to be oiled before you use it for the first time

 

 

#2. SINGER 14CG754

The SINGER 14CG754  Serger machine is equipped with a 4-3-2 thread capability that provides you with a broad array to select from stitch options for all types of projects to come out with amazing results like a pro.

Important Features

  • 18 built-in stitch functions.
  • Sewing speed is 1300 stitches per minute.
  • Differential feed
  • Upper knife is movable.
  • 2-3-4 thread capability.
  • Adjustable stitch length and width.

Singer 14CG754 Serger Review

You get to save time while sewing quickly through hems and seams and also with their finishing.

This model is one of the best serger with cover stitch and also offers creative stitching choices and fabric combinations that can expand your creativity.

This model from Singer comes with a stitch length and width that can be easily adjusted. For beginners, the differential fabric feed and color-coded threading techniques can allow more freedom.

You will see how easy it is to set up this machine and carry it along with you.

The handle makes it easy to take this serger machine wherever you travel.

You can complete up to 1,300 stitches per minute using with its automatic fabric trimming feature. And the host of accessories that come with it are a delight to any seamstress.

Starting with the all-purpose foot controller, tweezers and needle set to the spreader, a small screwdriver, power cord- you will find everything included in the package. And for easy installation and use, refer to the instruction manual provided.

Pros
  • Portable sewing machine
  • Easy to use
  • Lots of accessories
  • Impressive performance
Cons
  • Not very easy to use with thicker fabrics
  • Instruction DVD is recorded in low resolution making it hard to understand the steps

#3. SINGER 14SH764CL Stylist Serger Portable Sewing Machine

 

 

The SINGER 14SH764 Stylist serger model is one of the best machines as per serger reviews 2018 with a 4-3-2 stitch functionality that can provide up to six stitch types to achieve that perfect finish of the end product.

Important Features

  • 4 built-in rolled hems.
  • 2-3-4 thread capability.
  • Heavy duty metal frame.
  • 1300 spm sewing speed.
  • Differential feed.
  • Upper knife is movable.
  • Color coded lay in threading system.
  • Stitch length and width adjustable.

SINGER 14SH764 Stylist serger Review

You get to choose any one from rolled hems, blind hems, flat locking or overclocking stitches and more.

This machine also comes with a differential fabric feed that can smoothen out any stretching and puckering fabric and its changeable stitch length and width can help you to keep the seam strong.

Since this is so easy to use, there is no reason for you to worry, if you have just started out with sergers.

The best thing about this model is the color-coded threading system – you can be assured of setting up the machine correctly.

Picking up the steps for achieving the perfect finishing will be really easy once you have check out the instruction manual that comes with this package.

This model is made out the heavy metal body, so you can easily sew without skipping, and the machine stays still. With a stainless steel bed plate for smooth fabric feed, this serger can sew up to 1,300 stitches in one minute.

You also get differential fabric feed with this model, making it suitable for trying out a variety of sewing projects. This serger comes with a warranty of 25 yrs.

Pros

Pros

  • Very lightweight and easy to carry
  • Comes with a variety of accessories
  • Differential fabric feed
Cons

Cons

  • Not very easy to use with thicker fabrics
  • Instruction DVD is recorded in low resolution

#4. Brother Designio Series DZ1234 Serger

Another very easy to easy to use serger model is the Brother Designio Series DZ1234.

This product ensures that you can enjoy reliable and easy sewing with amazing results.

Brother Designio Series DZ1234 Important Feature

  • Sewing speed is 1300 stitches per minute.
  • Can be converted to free arm.
  • Easy color coding threading.
  • Convenient stitch width control.
  • Differential feed ratio of 0.7 to 2.0
  • Uses home sewing needles.

Brother Designio Series DZ1234 review

The color-coded threading feature has been provided so that you do not have to struggle while threading this serger. This is a great time saver when you are rushing to finish products.

There are a variety of features that come with this product, such as Gathering Foot and Piping Foot, Blind Hem Stitch Foot and two sets of starter threads so that you can deliver high end finishing right from day one.

Using this serger, you can sew up to 1,300 stitches per minute with a differential fabric feed that offers 0.7 – 2.0 ratio for many fabrics. You can sew lightweight knitwear for winters with amazing results every time.

Achieve the perfect stitch width which can be easily adjusted from 3.0 mm to 7.0 mm. The free arm that comes with this item is ideal for stitching continuous or cylindrical paths of fabric like those of collars and sleeves of shirts.

Pros
  • Color coding helps in easier threading of machine and to keep track of individual threads
  • Differential fabric feed
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Affordable Comes with variety of accessories
Cons
  • New users might find it to be slightly difficult to understand
  • Not to be used in countries do not support 120V AC

 

#5. SINGER Sewing Machine 14J250 Stylist II Serger Overlock Machine 

The SINGER 14J250 Serger is capable of a 4-3-2 thread feature that can offer a wide variety of stitches and finishings to select from, to suit your varying requirements of projects.

Important Features

  • 2-3-4 thread capability.
  • Adjustable over edge cutting.
  • Wide open threading.
  • Automatic needle threader.
  • Differential feeding.
  • 1300 spm sewing speed.

Singer 14J250 Serger Review

And you can come out with amazing results like an expert every time you use this.

With its color-coded technology, you can save a lot of time using this product while stitching through hems and seams.

You can get a large number of creative stitching options for different combinations of fabrics. The most amazing feature of this product is the ease with which you can get it set up.

The Needle Threader and Wide Open Threading features make this possible. The differential fabric feeder takes care of smoothening out all rough and frayed edges of fabrics.

To make sure that the fabric being used is cut and sewn evenly, and smoothly the Cutting Width Gauge has been provided in this item.

You can now get a professional finishing and that too very quickly with up to 1300 stitches per minute. Robust and durable, this model from Singer is surprisingly quite lightweight. However, it must only be used in countries that support 110 Volt line supply.

Pros

Pros

  • Up to 1300 stitches per minute makes for quicker turnaround time
  • Electronic speed control feature ensures a constant sewing speed
  • Portable
  • Easy to use
Cons

Cons

  • Machine might seem shaky while in use
  • Not to be used in countries that do not support 110 V power

 

#6. SINGER 14SH6540 Differential-Feed Serger Sewing Machine

Another wonderful machine for achieving expert finishing is this model from Singer.

SINGER 14J250 Important Features

  • It has 1300 stitches per minute of sewing speed.
  • Differential feed function
  • 4-3 stitch configuration
  • Color coded threading system
  • Heavy duty metal frame
  • Tension is adjustable

SINGER 14J250 Serger Review

Like self-threading sergers comes equipped with a 4-3 stitch configuration and differential feed that allows you to create different edge finishing using fabrics; you can create ruffles and sew knits on lightweight winter wear without stretching or damaging them the least.

This SINGER 14SH654 model comes with two needles and is ideal to add that finishing touch to your projects.

You can apply up to six stitches with three or four different threads which allow for quick and easy stitching.

Apart from stitching, it can also be used effectively for trimming and overcasting fabrics. This machine is definitely recommended for beginners since it provides convenience, fantastic speed as well as reliability.

The color-coded feature makes this super easy to set up and keep track of threads while 1300 stitches per minute make this a lightning fast performer.

The tension of the model can be adjusted easily and so is the stitch length (2.0 to 4.0 mm) and stitch width (3.0 to 6.7 mm). You can easily switch over to free-arm sewing and store accessories that come with this package.

It comes with a manufacturer warranty of 25 yrs and is recommended for use in USA and Canada only.

Pros

Pros

  • Host of accessories come with the package
  • Ideal for light knitted fabrics too
  • Portable machine
  • Supports flat lock stitches for embellishments on fabrics
Cons

Cons

  • Not recommended for countries which do not support 110 Volt
  • Not great for thick and heavy fabrics

#7. SINGER 14T968DC Professional 5 5-4-3-2 Thread Capability Serger

Learning to take on various types of projects can be done very easily with the help of this serger machine.

Singer 14T968DC mportant Features

  • Can sewup to 1300 stitches per minute.
  • 2-3-4-5 thread capability
  • 4 built in rolled hems
  • Tension is self adjustable.
  • Adjustable cutting width.
  • Stitch length control.
  • Color coded threading system.

Singer 14T968DC Review

This SINGER 14T968DC Serger Overlock machine comes with 5-4-3-2 thread capability with a changeable tension system as well as the adjustable cutting width for fabrics.

It offers a wonderful sewing speed of up to 1300 stitches in one minute to complete projects fast and efficiently.

If you want to boost your creativity, this machine will be the ideal pick for you; there are many options for trying out different decorative flat locking features and unique stitching options.

Using this all-purpose serger machine you can learn different sewing tricks easily and quickly and get results which are no less than a pro.

There are a lot of accessories that come with this model; you get a multipurpose foot controller, Tweezers, Spreader, Needle Set, Serging Knife, Screwdrivers, Spool caps, Brush, Oiler, Spill net, Soft-Sided Dust Cover, Cone Adapters, Power Cord and more.

For easy use and quick learning of the functionalities, this model comes with a CD manual and a workbook. Setting up this machine and using it will be a cakewalk even if you are just starting out with serging.

Pros

Pros

  • Rolled hems built-in
  • Automatic tension control
  • Adjustable stitch and length width
  • Try out various stitch types
  • Achieve expert finishing
  • Portable metal body
  • Various accessories
Cons

Cons

  • Expensive Certain instructions in the manual are vague, as per user reports
  • Some components are made of plastic and fragile

#8. JUKI MO644D Portable Serger

One of the best sergers for the novice, the JUKI MO644D Portable Serger combines ease of use and ease of learning seamlessly without compromising on the results. Even as a beginner, you will never find it difficult to thread this model using its color-coded technology.

JUKI MO644D Important Features

  • 2/3/4 thread capability.
  • built-in rolled hemming.
  • Heavy Duty Knife System.
  • Color coded threading system.
  • Differential Feed Adjustment.
  • Easy Stitch Length Adjustments.
  • Easy Cutting Width Adjustment.
  • Flip and Roll technique for hemming.

JUKI MO644D Review

This machine is extremely easy to carry around and comes with 2-3-4 threading capabilities.

You can set the stitch length and the width of the fabric that you want to stitch. You get to control each and every bit to use this machine exactly as per your needs and expectations.

Even the foot pressure can be adjusted easily by just turning a knob. If you have so far seen machines which work great on only thin fabrics, then this model will be a surprise for you.

It can easily stitch fabrics from lightweight to medium weight without the machine trembling or jerking, using its powerful knife that cuts through fabrics evenly.

However, you cannot sew through leather, fur, reptile skin, canvas and plastic using this product.

And to top it, you get a host of accessories with this package starting from oil dispenser, 2/2 thread converter and lint brush to thread nets, spool caps, needle threader and much more.

Pros

Pros

  • You can achieve fantastic speed of stitching using this model, the maximum being up to 1500 stitches per minute
  • Create rolled hems easily
  • Adjustable stitch length and width
Cons

Cons

  • Not great for very thick and heavy materials
  • Free arm stitching not possible

#9. Janome 8002D Serger

One of the highest rated models by experts, this is also one of the best sergers for beginners.

Janome 8002D Important Features

  • Built-in rolled hem feature.
  • 3-4 thread lock capability.
  • Can be easily switched over to roll hem feature.
  • Color coded threading system.

Janome 8002D Review

The most remarkable feature of this product is its threading technique, which is extremely easy. For beginners, setting up this machine and start sewing with it is extremely easy.

You can get robust stitches which are quick and effective too. An amazing product from the house of Janome, this compact item is magic when it comes to the different kinds of stitches that you can carry out using it.

You can get very high precision 3-4 thread stitches using this product and a superior finishing for all projects that you undertake.

Moreover, there is no change of plate required, since it comes with a built-in rolled hem feature.

The rolled hem feature is one of the finest features of this serger from Janome and can be set with just the push of a switch.

Other features such as the color-coded threading technology, presser foot lifter and electronic foot make working with this serger a true delight. You can use it at any time as per convenience since it is as noiseless as possible.

Pros

Pros

  • Compact size, but extremely efficient and versatile for varied uses
  • Comes with a host of accessories like tweezers, screwdriver, and needles.
  • Great for use on thin as well as medium thickness fabrics
  • Very easy to use for beginners
Cons

Cons

  • Threading might seem a bit difficult at first for new users
  • You can use only HA-ISP #11 – 14 needles with this machine

#10. Juki, MO-50E Serger

This is undoubtedly one of the best sergers for the money in its class.

Juki, MO-50E Important Features

  • Sewing speed is 1300 stitches per minute.
  • Built in rolled hem
  • Differential feed
  • Automatic Lower Looper Threading
  • Adjustable Knife.
  • Adjustable Stitch Length

Juki MO-50E Review

The Juki MO 50E from the house of Juki is a wonderful machine with which you can achieve expert finishing very quickly and efficiently.

It comes loaded with top of the line features such as 3-thread flatlock, three thread overlock, three thread narrow overlock, four thread overlock and more when it comes to different stitching techniques as per different requirements.

The best thing about this model is its lightning speed up to 1300 stitches per minute.

You get a calibrated knife adjustment to achieve higher precision while cutting through fabrics – this feature is hardly available in other models in the same price range.

Differential fabric feed lets you adjust wrinkled and stretchy fabrics with ease while the automated lower loop threading makes setting this up very easily.

The rolled hem feature is accessible but simple fingertip controls. You can adjust the stitch width and length and the level of the knife to set higher or lower for ease of use.

Pros

Pros

  • Plenty of useful features
  • Affordable price Portable
Cons

Cons

  • Threader jam occurs under foot presser

Conclusion

You can treat the tips and features included in this compilation as a serger buying guide for those who are very new to this field.

By reading this, you can easily decide for yourself the best serger to buy in 2019.
You can learn quickly the various techniques of using sergers to achieve the best results. These models are highly reliable and efficient and are bound to produce finishing which will sweep you off your feet.

 

16 Comments

  1. I agree that listing prices is more helpful, especially if one does not want to support Amazon or go to a site with cookies (and thereafter get bombarded with ads).

  2. After having a Viking Husquarvana serger for 20 years, I bought a Juki 50-e serger. I am happy with the ease of use, the high quality and ruggedness of this machine.

  3. I have a self-threading Baby Lock Serger that is amazingly easy to use. It saves threading frustration, has over a dozen hem styles, and you can turn off the cutter with ease. I actually can get quilts done in record time!

  4. You never even mentioned Baby Lock (Ovation, Triumph…). How can the Ovation not be a top ten Serger? Do you work for Singer?

    • Thankful for comments like this. I am looking for a simple serger for a total beginner and it seems a few people agree that Baby Lock is an overlooked option. Thank you.

  5. Baby lock is perfect for the novice because of its easy threading, and excellent for those of us who have low back issues and cannot lean over to do all the threading that Husqvarna and others require. Baby lock all the way!

  6. Baby Lock …beginners! I understand why they are not listed -price!! A novice I could not spend that much money. Really!!!

  7. No Babylock????? Really?? C’mon…you don’t have to go TOL to get a machine loaded with great features. The Imagine by Babylock would be an ideal machine. I’m a serger newbie, and I love my Enlighten!

  8. Babylock is a great serger but not even remotely priced for a beginner. The ones you all refer to that air thread are thousands in cost. super Easy but very expensive. I have a brother and it’s adequate and was under $300 in price. Paid $35 for a beginner class to learn how to thread use it. No way I’ll spend so much more to get a server finish.

  9. WHY EVEN DO A COMPARISON IF YOURE NOT GOING TO LIST THE PRICES??? Bush League…

    This may as well be a clickbait site..
    Be better.

  10. Babylock is absolutely my top choice for beginners – a used machine can be less expensive – but of course you will never see it recommended because it’s not sold online, and therefore there is no way to link to it and make money from affiliate programs. This is my big disappointment with where blogs have gone.

  11. I want to buy a new serger. I have a baby lock 2, 3 thread machine. Don’t want to pay $$$. Read the reviews. Although I’m experienced, it was daunting. Still not sure what to buy.

  12. I bought a preowned Babylock for $80 online! I am suprised as well they weren’t mentioned! The price shouldn’t matter. This reviewers job is not to judge how much we are willing or able to spend, it should be to present several options in various price ranges.

  13. I can’t check your product prices by those link you provided.
    They are redirecting me to an error page.
    Please resolve this issue.
    Thanks

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