You probably are wondering what the difference between serger and sewing machine is. Maybe you wonder if you must have both machines or either can do just fine. Before we learn what each machine is, it’s good to understand that they are two different machines both physically and with their capabilities. That means they cannot be used interchangeably. Instead, you can use both to complement each other and make your sewing much easier. Well before we decide whether you need to have either or both, let’s understand what a serger vs sewing machine is.
What is a serger vs sewing machine?
What is a serger?
It’s a kind of specialized sewing machine, also known as an overlocker machine. It uses three or more threads that create overlock stitches. A serger is different from a sewing machine both visually and in functionality.
Tasks performed by a serger
- Stitching seams
- Trims seam allowance
- Overcasting fabric edges
Must Read: How to Use a Serger Sewing Machine – Simple Beginners Guide
What is a sewing machine?
A standard sewing machine is a mechanically driven machine that uses two threads to sew. It has a top thread and a bottom thread also called a bobbin thread, which loops and locks to create lock-stitches.
A sewing machine is used to join several layers of fabric together to make garments. There are technical and computerized machines.
While both machines can be used to create almost any project, they cannot be substituted one for another. The reason is that they have some differences. However, once you understand what each machine does and what to expect, you can now make a decision on serger vs sewing machine.
Must Read: How to use a Sewing Machine for Beginners with FAQs
Similarities of a Serger Vs Sewing Machine
Here are some similarities of a serger vs sewing machine.
- Both can do a narrow rolled hem
- They can make gathers
- Can do neat piping
- Hem knits
What’s the difference between a serger and a sewing machine?
When comparing serger vs sewing machine, you will realize there are many differences between them in terms of efficiency, time, and ease of use, effectiveness, and precision.
1. Both use different stitches
The main difference between serger and sewing machine is the stitches each uses. A serger uses only an overlock stitch. A sewing machine has a variety of stitch options.
You can do straight stitches, chain stitches, decorative stitches, or zigzag stitches. Hence, a serger limits you from stitching a variety of stitches.
2. Neat professional finish
Ideally, a serger will give you professional-looking seam allowance edges. Sergers have blades that trim the seam allowance as they overlock the raw edges to give you a neat and clean finish.
The row edges are overlocked with threads to prevent fraying. Compared with a sewing machine, edges are left unpolished unless you use stitches like the zigzag stitch to secure them.
3. A serger takes less time
When dealing with bulky work, a serger is quite fast as compared to a sewing machine. It will help you finish the edges fast because it does the trimming and finishing at the same time.
A serger has blades that trim the excess seam allowance, for a sewing machine you have to trim manually. When doing projects that don’t require trimming, you can turn off the blades.
4. Strong stitches
A serger uses overlock stitches while a sewing machine uses lock stitches. Next, you can find a serger with 3-8 cones of thread. Two of which are needle threads, and the rest are upper and lower loopers.
When comparing a serger vs sewing machine stitches, the serger stitches are much stronger. So, if you are considering making projects with strong stitches, then making them with a serger would be the best option.
5. Efficiency and Effectiveness
A serger is fast compared to a sewing machine. Even with the industrial sewing machines, a serger would still stand to be twice as fast. Therefore, it is ideal when making bulky projects.
A serger has a differential feed. This means that fabrics can feed into the machine at a different speed. So, for example, when making gathers or using stretching fabrics, you don’t need to prep the fabric for sewing.
All you need is to set the feed dogs at different times and feed your fabric through to make gathers or sew the stretchy fabric in one step.
6. Precision
When comparing serger vs sewing machine precision, serger works best. Sewing with a sewing machine requires you to guide the fabric through to ensure the stitching is in place. In most sergers, there are two feed dogs that feed the fabric evenly so you don’t have to worry about the fabric slipping.
So, do you need both a serger and a sewing machine?
You cannot substitute a sewing machine for a serger and Vis a Vis. What a serger does is compliment the sewing machine, especially if you are sewing for professional purposes. In addition, a serger will give you a neat and strong finishing.
However, there are some tasks you cannot do with a serger like topstitching, buttonholes, facings, and zippers. Likewise in a serger, there are some functions it can achieve that a sewing machine cannot.
Or, if it can, it would take much time to accomplish, such as trimming edges, you will need to do that manually, then hem. A serger accomplishes both tasks simultaneously.
You will thus need a sewing machine to complete certain tasks and a serger other tasks.
Wrapping Up
Serger vs sewing machine?
If you are looking to purchase a serger or a sewing machine, you probably now wonder which one to choose. The decision is entirely up to you. Now that you know the difference between a serger and a sewing machine, choose according to your preference.
Remember that each machine has its pros and cons. When deciding on either, choose the one that will be more effective and efficient for your needs.
For beginner sewists, you’d want to start up with a regular sewing machine before you decide to invest in a serger. A serger comes in handy when you have made up your mind on what projects you will be constantly making.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do all sewing machines have a serger?
sewing machines do not have a serger. However, you modify your sewing machine to overcast or perform some tasks of a serger. You can also use stitches like zigzag stitch to overcast your hems.
2. Why do I need a serger sewing machine?
For making clean and professional edges, then a serger is what you need. They are ideal for making certain fabrics like knits, or any stretchy fabric. In industrial production where you need mass production, a serger can work twice as fast compared to a sewing machine.
3. Why use a serger instead of a sewing machine?
When using some fabrics especially very stretchy ones, a serger will be the best choice. Also used for overcasting and trimming excess seam allowance. When using fabrics that fray, the upper and lower looper threads enclose the raw edges to secure them from fraying.
4. Can you do regular sewing on a serger?
You can make a complete garment using a serger. It can stitch, and finish the edges. The only trick is when adding zippers, buttonholes, or facings. Unfortunately, a serger does not have those options.
5. Can you serge on a regular sewing machine?
Yes, you can use an overlocking foot to make overlocked edges. Your machine may have one or you can buy one. Make sure the foot matches your machine brand. You can also use a ladder stitch to serge the edges. However, they will not be as neat as when using a serger.
