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The coverstitch is one of those machines that most sewists don’t buy until they’ve been sewing for years.
I know that was the case for me…
I didn’t get a coverstitch machine until I had mastered my sewing machine and my serger. Looking back, I really don’t know why!?! The coverstitch is an extremely useful machine, especially if you want to sew knits.
I own the Bernette b42 Coverstitch Machine. It has been an amazing workhorse for me. I pull it out whenever I need to hem knits because it makes the job so fast and easy.
What Is a Coverstitch Machine?
A coverstitch machine is a specialized sewing machine for knit fabric. It provides a super stretchy stitch that helps prevent wavy hems. If you plan to sew a lot of clothes, it is a worthy investment. I wish I would have bought one sooner.
Coverstitch machines look similar to sergers because they require 2-4 cones. However, they are very different! They are a lot easier to thread and there is no knife to cut fabric. You actually don’t use a coverstitch machine to sew two pieces of fabric together. It is mostly for hemming stretchy garments and adding decorative topstitching.
How Does a Coverstitch Machine Work?
When you’re sewing with a coverstitch machine, you can choose whether to use one, two, or three needles. Two needles is the most common method. When you sew with two needles, a set of parallel lines will form on the top of your fabric and the underside will show a chain stitch. Using three needles will result in an even stronger stitch.
The chainstitch is super stretchy, so you’ll never have to worry about popping stitches on activewear, slinky knits, or jersey fabric. Using a double needle on your sewing machine produces similar results to a coverstitch machine, but the stitch will not be as stretchy…
Coverstitch machines do not have a knife to cut fabric as you sew. Instead, you fold your hem where you want it, pin it in place, and then use the coverstitch to topstitch it down. The idea is that the edge of your fabric will be encased inside the chainstitch on the back. It saves time because you don’t have to serge the edge first and then pin up the hem.
Is It Worth It to Get a Coverstitch Machine?
Personally, I think a coverstitch machine is worth it, but everyone is different. It’s true that you don’t “need it,” but the same thing can be said about a serger… Coverstitch machines make sewing knit fabric easier, and they are very easy to learn. If you sew a lot of knit, you won’t regret getting one.
I absolutely love my Bernette b42. It is so easy to thread and saves me tons of time when hemming shirts and skirts. All I do is use a black or white thread cone for the bottom chainstitch and then I take the bobbin and thread spool off my sewing machine for the upper needles so that the thread matches. There’s no need to buy a bunch of thread cones in different colors. This machine has been a game-changer for me. I can whip up a t-shirt in under an hour now!
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