What each machine does
| Task | Sewing machine | Serger | Coverstitch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construct woven seams | Yes | Yes (4-thread) | No |
| Construct knit seams | With stretch stitch | Yes, with differential feed | No |
| Finish raw edges | Zigzag / overcast | Yes, trims as it sews | No |
| Buttonholes | Yes | No | No |
| Zippers | Yes | No | No |
| Topstitching | Yes | No | Chain stitch only |
| Knit hems (ready-to-wear look) | Twin needle | No | Yes |
| Rolled hems | With a hemmer foot | Yes | No |
When a serger is worth it
- You sew knits regularly (T-shirts, leggings, children's clothes).
- You want inside seams that look like store-bought.
- You sew a lot of pieces and want to finish seams faster.
When it is not
- You mostly quilt: quilt seams are enclosed.
- You sew mainly bags and home décor with lined interiors.
- You are still learning the basics on a regular machine.
Our picks
- First serger: Brother 1034D
- Easiest threading: Baby Lock Celebrate
- Knit hems: best coverstitch machine
Frequently asked questions
Can I sew clothes without a serger?
Yes. Zigzag, overcasting stitches, French seams and pinking all finish seams on a regular machine. A serger makes it faster and more ready-to-wear looking.
Can a serger sew a zipper?
Not in the usual way. Zippers, buttonholes and topstitching need a regular sewing machine.
Is a serger hard to use?
The sewing is easy; the threading is the learning curve. Air-threading models such as the Baby Lock Celebrate remove most of it.
Do I need a coverstitch too?
Only if you sew many knit garments and want professional hems. Otherwise a twin needle on a sewing machine is a reasonable substitute.
— The BobbinBench Team