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You only need a basic sewing machine when you’re learning to sew… However, there are a few other useful machines you’ll probably want to acquire as you get better, such as a serger, coverstitch machine, and embroidery machine. They help you perform some common sewing tasks with more precision and speed.
If you’ve been wondering about all these different types of sewing machines, this post is for you. I’m going to show you what each machine can do and why you might want them in your sewing room.
Sergers (Overlockers)
A serger is a good investment if you plan to sew a lot of garments because it can sew and finish a seam at the same time. It also creates a stretch stitch, which is ideal for knits.
Some sewing projects can even be sewn completely on a serger, such as cardigans and yoga pants!
Sergers use three or four cones of thread to create an overlock stitch. They also have a knife that trims your seam allowance as you feed your fabric through the machine.
Here’s a picture of what a finished seam looks like on a serger:
Some people never bother to buy a serger because they are afraid of threading it. There is a learning curve to it, but it is something you can master. Many modern sergers even have an ‘air threading’ feature that practically threads your machine for you.
A serger cannot replace your sewing machine because there are certain tasks it cannot do. For example, a serger cannot create buttonholes, perform topstitching, attach patch pockets, or sew in tight corners. But, a serger is still a nice companion machine to have in your sewing room.
If you’re in the market for a serger, I recommend getting the Brother 1034D. It is easy to thread and is one of the more affordable models on the market.
Some sewing machines have a side-cutter attachment that allows you to create an overlock stitch that is similar to a serged seam, but it doesn’t work as fast as a serger.
Also Read: What’s the Difference Between a Sewing Machine and a Serger?
Coverstitch Machines
A lot of people get sergers and coverstitch machines mixed up. They look similar because they both require multiple-thread cones. However, they have completely different purposes.
A coverstitch machine is designed to hem stretch fabrics. It creates two rows of stitches on the front side of your fabric and secures the edges on the back with loops. A coverstitch machine can also create a chain stitch with one needle.
Also Read: What Does a Coverstitch Machine Do?
I personally have the Bernette b42 Coverstitch Machine. I love it!
Here’s a picture of what a finished seam looks like on a coverstitch machine:
You can buy a combination serger/coverstitch machine, but the downside is that it’s annoying to switch back and forth between coverstitch and serger. There are some parts you must change out to convert your machine.
Embroidery Machines
If you want to add appliques and other embellishments to your sewing projects, an embroidery machine can help you accomplish this task faster and with more precision. You simply upload an embroidery design to your machine, hoop your fabric, and then watch your machine do all the work.
You need a lot of supplies for machine embroidery. Every project requires stabilizer and special embroidery thread. You’ll also need to learn how to upload and modify embroidery designs from your computer and position them in your hoop.
Here’s a picture of what an embroidery machine can do:
Embroidery machines are amazing. They can take your sewing projects to a whole new level! Of course, they come with a high price tag. You’ll have to pay upwards of $7,000 to get an embroidery machine with one of the larger hoop sizes.
I have a combo sewing/embroidery machine — the Bernette b79. I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to get started in machine embroidery because it gives you the biggest bang for your buck. It has a 6″x10″ embroidery area and the amazing Bernina software. You can read my full review HERE.
Now, this is not an extensive list of all the machines you could buy for your sewing room, but it covers the three most important beyond a standard sewing machine. If you do a lot of quilting, you might also consider getting a long-arm quilting machine. The only problem is that they sit on a huge frame that takes up a lot of space. If I had one in my house, it would fill an entire room!
If you don’t already own a serger, coverstitch machine, or embroidery machine, now is a great time to add one to your wish list. The holiday sales are already starting!
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