A lot of people have been asking me, what is the difference between a serger and a sewing machine? I guess I just didn’t realize that wasn’t a common DIY thing.
Sergers and Sewing machines complement each other, and they are very similar. However there are a few differences.
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Definition of a Serger
A Serger is also known as an Overlock Machine. You can think of a serger as a type of sewing machine. It binds fabric together with an overlock stitch. That overlock stitch is created with 3 or 4 different threads.
Difference between a Sewing Machine and a Serger
- A serger is not the same machine as a sewing machine. It’s a completely different machine.
- The main difference is that while the serger is “sewing” or binding the fabric together, it actually CUTS the fabric as well. The blade that cuts the fabric sits right before the needles. Where, on a typical sewing machine you have to cut your project first, then sew.
- Another difference is that on a common serger you use 3 – 4 threads. These are used to create the locked stitch. On a typical sewing machine you usually use one thread, or two if you are using a double needle {that doesn’t include the bobbin thread}.
- The speed is a lot faster on a serger than it is on a typical sewing machine.
- The neck of a serger is very short, where on a sewing machine the neck typically is much longer.
- Along with that, you can only serge on one side of the needles – the left side. On a sewing machine, you can turn your fabric and either sew it on the left side of the fabric {the most common way}, or you can squeeze it on the right sides of the needles. This difference is important for some projects.
Why would you use a Serger instead of a Sewing Machine?
My personal opinion is that sergers are much easier than sewing machines. They are quicker, easier, and they eliminate unnecessary work that a sewing machine can’t take care of. I believe the serger has a better stitch – better meaning that it is a stronger, more durable stitch. I prefer to use a serger any day, with any project, hands down over a typical sewing machine.
But with my personal opinion aside, you would use a serger when you want to cut the edge of the fabric as you sew. This creates a clean raw edge.
The most common example would be projects such as hemming pants. Think of the bottom of the pant. On a typical sewing machine you would have to cut the bottom of the pant with scissors or a rotary blade. Zig zag the bottom to prevent the fabric from fraying. Fold over the seam allowance, iron, then fold over the seam allowance again. Then you could sew the hem the pants with a straight stitch or a double needle.
However, for that same example but on a serger all you would have to do is serge the bottom of the pants. Fold over once and topstitch. Simple.
And, bonus, on a serger you can even turn the blade off. So if there is a project {say you are working with elastic and don’t want to cut the elastic} you can turn the blade off and still serge!! LOVE it!!
Why would you use a Sewing Machine instead of a Serger?
Topstitching really is the main thing. Or if you have a project that you need a long neck for and you need to sew the fabric on the right side of the needle.
I created a 12 lesson Learn to Serge Series that teaches everything from how to use start and stop a serged stitch, to threading your serger, and even maintaining your serger.
If you want a recommendation on which serger to buy, I definitely definitely recommend the Brother 1034D
What should you do with this awesome information? PIN IT!
If you are looking for more information on how to serge, make sure you download the Learn to Serge ebook. With 12 comprehensive lessons you’ll be a serging expert in no time! Click here to download your copy. 
