Finding the best serger for the money is quite a daunting task. Particularly if you’re new to the world of stitching and sergers! But that doesn’t mean you put off the search. Choosing the best serger for beginners is essential. That is if you prefer sewing straight ends and seams. And even more so when you haven’t used a single serger before!
Sergers, much like sewing machines, are equipped with many features. Since you’re a newbie, your set of requirements differs. From that of an experienced DIY enthusiast or professional! For you, factors such as easy threading and user-friendly operation are more important.
Case in point, the models reviewed below offer just that.
The best serger 2018 is at your disposal. All you have to do is read through the reviews. To determine the one suitable for your particular needs and requirements! Sound good?
And if you don’t have time for that, here’s a quick comparison table for you.
Serger Name | Our Rating | Thread Capability | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
#1 Editor’s Choice | 3-4 | 1,300 stitches/minute | |
#2 | 2-3-4 | 1,300 stitches/minute | |
#3 | 3-4 | 1,300 stitches/minute | |
#4 | 2-3-4 | 1,500 stitches/minute | |
#5 | 2-3-4-5 | 1,300 stitches/minute | |
#6 | 2-3-4 | 1,300 stitches/minute | |
#7 | 3-4 | 1,300 stitches/minute | |
#8 | 4-3 | 1,300 stitches/minute | |
#9 | 3-4 | 1,300 stitches/minute | |
#10 | 2-3-4 | 1,300 stitches/minute |
* All links above will take you to the latest prices on Amazon.com or you can read our in-depth serger reviews below.
Best Serger for Beginners Reviews 2018
1 Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger with Differential Feed – Editor’s Choice
The majority of sewing enthusiasts swear by the performance of Brother 1034D serger. The Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger Machine is a model you cannot ignore. Especially if you’re looking for the best serger for beginners! That means it’s the easiest and most convenient to use.
Here’s the thing you might find the most appealing.
There are 22 different integrated stitches and an invaluable differential feed. The latter offers two options when it comes to handling textures and fabrics
In all, for the affordable price, you do get tons of features. Plus, the unit can handle all types of sewing applications. In that sense, it’s safe to say that the Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger doesn’t let you down.
As a beginner, taking more than 15 minutes to understand the Brother 1034D Serger is impossible. Usability is a factor that stands out here. The machine is built with user-friendly features. That are perfect for your home crafting and professional projects.
What I’m about to disclose is not really a deal-breaker. It’s a small bump in the road. Since the Brother 1034D is a bit heavy, its vibrations require attention. But only when on fast speed! And by the attention, I mean a sturdy worktable.
Pros
Cons
First Impressions: Brother 1034D Serger - What comes in the box and demo
2 Singer ProFinish 14CG754 – Best Advanced Serger for Beginners
The brand Singer has been quite popular ever since your great-grandmother started sewing. And the Singer ProFinish 14CG754 Serger is the most advanced model of the present times. Even though it falls in the budget-friendly category, much like the previous pick. Singer also provides you with a useful instructional video.
Sewing with and threading this Singer machine is super easy. Once you fire it up, you’ll notice that you’re spending minimal time on the overlocking function. So it’s plausible how the serger is equipped with user-friendly features suitable for beginners.
The only problem you might encounter is adjusting the tension. To find the correct setting, you have to spend a lot of time testing different fabric pieces.
Pros
Cons
SINGER 14CG754 Serger Overlock Tour of the Machine
3 Brother Designo Series DZ1234 – Best Serger Package with Additional Accessories
Another awesome creation by Brother is the Designo Series DZ1234 Serger. But this particular model is equipped with extra accessories. And you do have to shell out more dollars for that. So if the budget is not a concern, you can go ahead and purchase this best serger for beginners.
To conclude, it’s an excellent machine that creates a professional finish. Even beginners deserve to feel more confident about their sewing projects.
When you can perform a variety of lines and stitches, you know you’re dealing with an amazingly capable serger. The machine is highly practical and functional. And it can do a lot more than any traditional model.
It’s exciting to know that the Brother Designo Series DZ1234 Serger is outfitted with a light bulb. But, at the same time, it’s disconcerting to find out that this bulb is not bright enough. Plus, it gets hot too soon.
Pros
Cons
Brother Designio™ Series DZ1234 Serger Overview
4 Juki MO644D Portable Serger – Best Portable Serger for Beginners
Hunting for the best Juki serger that’s also the best serger for beginners? If YES, welcome to the ultimate review.
In here, I’m going to discuss every bit of the Juki MO644D Portable Serger.
Juki is not as popular as Singer and Brother. Even so, the brand manufactures exceptional models. And this one, in particular, is the most favorable on the current market. All thanks to its easy usability and portability.
Overall, the Juki MO644D Portable Serger has the strength to handle multiple layers. And despite being so portable and compact, it gives the other heavier models a run for their money.
Great quality and solid construction are the top factors. Closely followed by the lightweight design that’s ideal for small spaces! Then there’s the sharp knife to make the experience more efficient. And lastly, the different hem designs exceed expectations. So there’s no reason why I wouldn’t recommend this best Juki serger to both beginners and experts.
The one major complaint I have is not directed toward just this machine. All lightweight sergers share the same problem. Their foot pedals are so light in weight that you have to keep adjusting. And that does sound like an inconvenient task.
Pros
Cons
JUKI MO-654DE/MO-644D: Preparing, Threading, and Adjustments
5 Singer Professional 5 14T968DC Serger -Best Serger for All Fabrics
Here’s one good reason to buy the Singer Professional 5 14T968DC Serger. Its exceptional thread capability grants you the opportunity to work on all fabrics. That’s how it became the best serger for beginners. You can subject the unit to different applications without a worry.
Additional accessories are also a part of the package. So if you’re looking for a model that can handle any type of sewing, you know what to take into consideration.
You don’t have to be a professional to admire the longer sewing arm. Or the clear presser feet and wide flatlock! The latter creates flat and stretchy seams. Something that’s not so easy to achieve given your amateur sewing skills.
But if you think that initiating stitch changes is an effortless task, you’re wrong. There are too many settings you’re forced to adjust to make the switch.
Pros
Cons
Introducing the First Ever Sewing Assistant App from SINGER®
6 Singer Sewing Machine 14J250 Stylist II – Easiest to Thread Serger for Beginners
Manual threading is not always easy. Particularly if you’re new to the whole process of using sewing machines! But there are many models out there that make manual threading uncomplicated. And one such option is the Singer Sewing Machine 14J250 Stylist II Serger.
By far it’s the most convenient to thread.
The brand name Singer is now synonymous with sewing machines and sewing. That explains why I have reviewed over three Singer models until now. Including this one!
What you’re looking at here is the best serger for the money. The Singer Sewing Machine 14J250 Stylist II SergerOverlock Machine performs remarkably well. It’s a silent model that requires no special tools for threading. So be prepared to broaden your sewing projects.
When exterior lighting is lacking, you can’t help but minus a point. So is that something you would be okay with?
Pros
Cons
7 Janome 8002D Serger – Best Durable Serger for Beginners
Isn’t the best serger for beginners a durable model? As a first-time user, wouldn’t you prefer buying a machine that you know is going to last for a very long time?
If you agree with me, you might be interested in the Janome 8002D Serger.
Does it allow you to form different stitches? Of course, it does.
Does it make the task of switching between these stitches more convenient? Of course, it does.
So consider yourself lucky if you actually decide to buy this little durable monster.
Doesn’t Janome have an extremely reliable reputation? It definitely does. So the Janome 8002D Serger lives up to that. The simple design and extraordinary performance sound like a great combination for beginners.
It’s not a silently working serger. So don’t entertain any such expectations.
Pros
Cons
Setting Up Your Serger for a Rolled Hem
8 Singer Finishing Touch 14SH6540 – Best Serger for Light and Thin Fabrics
If there’s any serger famous for helping you achieve an expert finish, it’s this one.
The Singer Finishing Touch 14SH6540 Differential-Feed Serger Sewing Machine is an excellent option.
Thanks to the color coding! And you’ll be grateful for the adjustability as well. Because adjusting stitch length and tension is not something you can do in all sergers. Without the shadow of a doubt, I consider this as the best serger for the money.
How about I tell you that the Singer machine runs smoothly? Would that be convincing enough? Or how about the fact that you can put it to use immediately? Starting it up is easier than you might imagine. And operation is so smooth that neat edges are inevitable.
Do you know why this particular Serger model is so perfect for just light and medium fabrics? It’s because the presser foot pressure demands expert skills. Adjusting it for heavier fabrics is not something you can carry out as a beginner.
Pros
Cons
9 Juki MO-50E 3 or 4 Thread Serger – Best Affordable Serger for Beginners
I would be lying if I said that it’s just the budget-friendly price tag that makes a positive impact. The Juki MO-50E 3 or 4 Thread Serger offers more than only affordability. And if you don’t believe me, please keep on reading.
This best serger for beginners helps in achieving an expert finishing in the most efficient and quickest manner!
I hope now you don’t think of such inexpensive sergers to be any less in terms of performance. As compared to the costlier models!
The answer to the following questions is YES.
- 1Does the Juki MO-50E Serger thread easily and quickly?
- 2Does the machine operate silently without too many vibrations?
- 3Are your chances of getting it right on the first go higher?
So are you ready to be a Juki junkie?
In all honesty, I have only one problem with this best Juki serger. The threader tends to jam under the foot presser.
Pros
Cons
10 Brother 3234DT 2, 3, or 4 Thread Serger – Best Serger for Large Projects
When you look at the Brother 3234DT Serger, what’s the first thing you see? The broader extension table, isn’t it? So doesn’t this imply that the machine is built for completing large projects? In that case, expect nothing short of heavy-duty performance.
So how about you seriously consider buying this Brother creation?
Brother is a manufacturer that attracts only compliments. The current model is perfect for you if you enjoy creating professional stitches. If that’s your priority, then you can’t wrong with any Brother serger.
If your workspace is limited, I wouldn’t suggest this option. Just look at the Brother 3234DT Serger’s extension table and you’ll know what I’m talking about.
Pros
Cons
Brother 3234DT Serger Overview
Best Serger for Beginners Buyer’s Guide
It’s a magical piece of equipment. A serger, also known as overlock, brings nothing but joy to any sewer. Be it a beginner or a professional! But for the former, it’s important to find the best serger for beginners. And there are units specifically designed to serve that demographic. Haven’t you looked at the 10 top-selling models above!
But why use such a machine at all? What are the advantages of working with a serger? Here’s the deal about sergers. They deliver the DESIRABLE PROFESSIONAL and REFINED TOUCH to every sewing project. When the serger is a part of the picture, your completed product goes beyond just making you happy.
Classy and chic finished looks with edges that aren’t unraveled or frayed at all. That’s the kind of an outcome you should be expecting. So your end product does more than only look good. It guarantees longevity as well. And I’m sure that makes you feel ecstatic, not just happy. After all, the efforts you put in do count at this point, don’t they?
Factors to Take Into Account When Buying the Best Serger for Beginners
For a newcomer, basics and bare minimum are essential. Anything more than that, in terms of features, and the process might get complicated. So here’s what you should look into:
Differential Feed
The differential feed of the best serger for beginners is the most crucial aspect. As the feature allows you to experiment with different styles. These include ruffles, decorative edges, etc.
Every machine is packed with 2 FEED DOGS, which push the material. And what the differential feed does is CONTROL THESE FEED DOGS.
The feature is guided by a differential feed ratio. The most common being 0.70 - 2.0.
Manual/Automatic Threading
Manual threading is quite a challenging task for beginners. Even though some manufacturers provide useful instructions, the process can get really annoying. In that case, you might prefer to work with a self-threading serger.
You have to follow that thread through the different parts. And it’s not like you can do that haphazardly. The proper technique of manual threading takes a while to get used to. But up until then, don’t expect to achieve desired results. Or face no problems at all.
No. of threads
Never buy a serger without checking the number of threads it allows you to use. Even if it’s the best serger for beginners! More often than not, THIS NUMBER IS 3/4. But higher-end models offer as many as 8 options as well.
Tension
Be it a serger or sewing machine, thread tension is something you cannot neglect. When it’s improper, stitching gets compromised. Too tight thread tension can cause the thread to break. And if too low, expect undesirable flat seams.
So now you know why some sergers feature an automatic controller for thread tension. But that doesn’t mean manual controllers are useless. It’s all about preferences and convenience.
Usability
It’s only realistic to assume that the market consists of machines that are easiser to use than the others. At this point, BROTHER and SINGER MODELS come to mind. They are the most convenient to operate. So don’t forget to take that into consideration during the buying journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
1
How is a serger different from a sewing machine?
Even the best serger for beginners tends to perform functions that you can’t expect from any sewing machine. And it applies the other way as well. So here’s a question you should be asking instead.
Do I need a serger machine?
The answer, in all honesty, depends on your sewing projects.
Sewing machines perform hemming and join pieces. They have the ability to create buttonholes and attach zippers. Even form many specialty stitches. You can even use sewing machines for topstitching and quilting.
But do you just want to quilt? If yes, then NO you don’t need a serger.
However, the area where sewing machines fall short is finishing. Standard machines produce seams with raw edges. And these edges require hem tape covering, pinking shears trimming, or zigzag finishing. But such options are not quick to perform. For instance, trimming is both time-consuming and boring.
So what a serger does is eliminate such a problem. It makes the seam, trims, and finishes IN A SINGLE PASS. At the same time, the serger is responsible for creating decorative style rolled hems.
Plus, you can use it when working with KNIT and STRETCHY FABRICS as well. Thanks to the stitches that stretch along with the material. Unlike the stitches of a sewing machine!
However, it’s not such a good idea to construct standard hems with a serger. Cause the edge is highly prone to roll in such a case. In that regard, for hemming fabrics that are stretchy, nothing beats the best coverstitch machine. Or the best sergerequipped with coverstitch!
Just keep one thing in mind. That you cannot use coverstitch functionality or machines and sergers for following projects:
- Decorative topstitching.
- Quilting.
- Making buttonholes.
- Attaching zippers.
And this gives rise to another relevant commonly asked question.
2
Can I use a serger for regular sewing applications?
The best serger for beginners and professionals can surprise you in many ways. But such machines have several exceptions as well. Like I mentioned above, don’t expect a serger to make buttonholes. Or sew in zippers!
Sergers also don’t work well with shirt cuffs and lined yokes. And that’s because their seams are not visible within the double fabric layers.
But here’s what a serger might help you with. Standard machines require you to use the zigzag stitch. It keeps the sewing project from fraying after you stitch the seam, doesn’t it? So at such times, the serger can come in handy. As it DRASTICALLY REDUCES THE SEWING TIME! All such machines have the ability to seam and overlock in a single step. Isn’t that wonderful!
Wrap-Up
My Choice: Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger
Consider the Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger as the best serger for beginners. It’s a high-performing and reliable machine that you can use with different fabrics. And not just use but easily use it for your creative sewing projects.
User experience is so remarkable that even professionals buy the Brother 1034D Serger.
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2. Singer 4411 vs. 4423 vs. 4432 vs. 4452 (What Is The Best Singer Sewing Machine?)
Great list, it helps a lot for beginners. In my opinion, the 2nd one is the best one on the list. It is perfect for the beginners, but it is also great for advanced users.