Skip to Content

Best Coverstitch Sewing Machine for Home Garments USA 2024

This site is supported by our readers. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you, if you purchase through links.

what is the best coverstitch sewing machineEyes on the prize, crafter! Your search for the perfect coverstitch machine is a noble quest that requires patience and wisdom. Like a knight on an epic journey, you’ll face decisions that test your resolve. But keep your sights set on sewing victory, and you’ll find the machine that’s destined to be your trusty sidekick.

This coverstitch buying guide’s got your back, unveiling the finest options so you can stitch professional-looking hems and finishes on your garments. We’ll compare the top-rated brands’ prices and features so you can confidently invest in the right coverstitcher for your budget and projects.

So gird your loins, thread your bobbins, and let’s embark on the adventure together to discover your coverstitch soulmate.

Key Takeaways

  • JUKI 5 Thread Serger offers 2-3 needle cover hem options and can switch between coverstitch and chainstitch.
  • Brother 2340CV provides 1100 SPM speed, a metal frame, and 2/3/4 thread coverstitch versatility for stretch fabrics.
  • Janome 1000CPX has a 3-needle wide coverstitch, a heavy-duty build, high speed, and a seam tightening system for quality results.
  • SINGER SE300 features built-in embroidery but lacks accessories and has durability concerns.

Top 5 Best Coverstitch Sewing Machines

Looking for the best coverstitch sewing machine for your projects? The JUKI 5 Thread Serger provides professional finishes, the Brother 2340CV delivers versatile performance, the Janome 1000CPX enables quality home results, the Cutex 14TU858 offers advanced serging abilities, and the SINGER Legacy SE300 provides sewing, embroidery, and convenience in a portable package.

However, the SE300 may not suit all buyers, with some drawbacks reported relating to design software, accessories, instructions for beginners, and durability concerns in reviews.

JUKI 5 Thread Serger Cover Hem Sewing Machine

JUKI MO-735 5-Thread Serger andView On Amazon
You’ll achieve pro finishes on stretch fabrics with the Juki’s 2-3 needle cover hem and chainstitch options! This flexible serger lets you switch between coverstitch and chainstitch modes to handle hems, seams, and decorative edges.

With its 5 threads and easy threading system, you can create durable seams and stretchy trims to give your projects a flawless finish. The snap-on presser foot and multi-function foot make it a breeze to switch between techniques.

Adjustable stitch width, length, and cutting width allow you to customize settings for your fabric.

It does have a learning curve, but the professional results are worthwhile for advanced sewists. This versatile machine can handle specialty seaming and hemming that makes garments look store-bought.

Pros
  • 2 and 3 needle coverstitch options
  • Produces both coverstitch and chainstitch
  • 5 threads for maximum durability
  • Easy threading system
  • Adjustable stitch settings
  • Professional quality finishes
  • Good for stretch fabrics
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Steep learning curve
  • Can be tricky to master settings

Brother Coverstitch Serger Sturdy Metal Frame Stitches Per Minute

Brother Coverstitch Serger, 2340CV, SturdyView On Amazon
The 2340CV’s sturdy construction and versatile stitch options make it a high-performing Brother coverstitch serger for tackling stretch fabrics and tricky hems. This metal-framed workhorse provides professional finishes with a max sewing speed of 1100 stitches per minute.

Switch between 2, 3, and 4 thread coverstitch functions to achieve durable seams and hems on knits, as well as decorative edges. Adjust the differential feed from 0.7-2.0mm to prevent stretching and puckering on diverse fabric types.

The lay-in threading system and color-coded thread guides make setup a breeze. Enjoy frustration-free threading and get right to your projects. With handy accessories like the hem foot included, the 2340CV empowers sewists to achieve specialty finishing techniques on garments.

Hem knits, attach binding, or add stunning trims with ease using this trusted coverstitch machine.

Pros
  • Sturdy metal frame
  • 1100 SPM for speed
  • 2, 3, 4 coverstitch options
  • Adjustable differential feed
Cons
  • Learning curve for new users
  • No free arm
  • Small harp space

Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX Cover Stitch Machine Accessories

Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX CoverView On Amazon
Step lively, sewing sisters! Janome’s jewel justifies jubilation. This coverstitching cuda delivers everything elegant edging enthusiasts crave. Pucker-free professional hems hug your handmade heroics harmoniously, thanks to the streamlined STS.

Its industrial strength and high-speed magic motors through mountains of knits with aplomb. Accessorize abundantly and experiment endlessly – the possibilities prove positively perfect with this free-armed friend.

Adjustable everything empowers your exploration and escalates your skills splendidly. Practice patiently, pamper your projects gently, then watch awestruck as your garments transform before your eyes.

Pros
  • Wide 3-needle coverstitch for versatile finishing options
  • Free arm allows access for small/tubular items
  • Heavy-duty build and high speed for efficiency
  • Seam Tightening System prevents stretching
  • Industrial capabilities with home user friendliness
  • Included accessories extend functionality
Cons
  • Significant learning curve to master stitches
  • No UK voltage compatibility without transformer
  • Potential stitch quality variability reported
  • Lacks some convenience features like a thread cutter

Coverstitch Portable Sewing Machine

Consew 14TU858 3-Thread 2-Needle PortableView On Amazon
Take a deep breath as your creative spirit soars, finally liberated to craft any project imaginable with the power and precision of this masterpiece. No skipped stitches or erratic feed here! With a hefty 1200 stitches per minute, adjustable stitch width and length, and mind-blowing differential feed for pucker-free seams, this serger slices through even the thickest fabrics with silky smoothness.

An LED light illuminates your workspace while auto-features take the guesswork out of threading. Its sturdy build and heavy-duty blade stand ready for buoyant beachwear or cozy sweatpants with equal prowess.

Adjustable foot pressure, soft cover, and storage compartment prove this is no mere machine, but a creative comrade attuned to your needs.

Your fabrics yearn for its confident capabilities – give them the freedom they deserve!

Pros
  • Powerful 1200 SPM motor
  • Adjustable stitch width and length
  • Differential feed prevents puckering
  • LED light for visibility
  • Auto tension release
  • Free arm for tubular items
  • Heavy-duty cutting blade
Cons
  • Initial learning curve
  • Lacks coverstitch capability
  • Less household name recognition

Singer Legacy SE300 Embroidery Machine With Built-in Embroideries

SINGER | Legacy SE300 EmbroideryView On Amazon
You’d do better seeking a more reliable machine with easier usability despite the SE300’s portability and built-in designs. While convenient features like bobbin winding while embroidering come across as nice additions, this machine has some significant drawbacks you should consider.

Reviews indicate the need for separate design software, tension adjustments between modes, and certain handy accessories can frustrate buyers. The instructions and ease of use receive mixed feedback as well, especially for beginners starting out.

Most concerning are the reports of motors seizing up quickly – a clear sign of durability issues.

Before purchasing the SINGER Legacy SE300, carefully weigh its pros and cons against your needs. You may find alternatives like the Brother SE600 offer similar functionality with better reliability at a comparable price point.

Don’t settle for difficult usability in a portable package when more user-friendly options exist.

Seek out sewing and embroidery machines that will empower your projects with quality performance and lasting value.

Pros
  • Portable
  • Built-in designs
  • Bobbin winding while embroidering
Cons
  • Requires separate software
  • Tension adjustments needed
  • Missing handy accessories
  • Mixed usability for beginners
  • Durability concerns

What to Look for When Buying a Coverstitch Machine

What to Look for When Buying a Coverstitch Machine
When shopping for a coverstitch machine, first consider your budget and planned project types to narrow choices, then look at available attachments and brand compatibility features. Also, research stitch options like maximum stitch width and differential feed adjustment to suit your needs, along with speeds to match your skill level.

Budget and Project Types

Consider your budget and intended projects when choosing a coverstitch machine. Entry-level models under $500 suit basic hemming and seams. Expect plastic parts, slower speeds, limited differential feed. Mid-range $500-$1000 offers features like harp space, free arm, and adjustable presser foot pressure.

Allows decorative stitches, elastic techniques on knits and stretch fabrics. High-end over $1000 provides industrial speed, power, and reliability for flawless seams on swimwear and performance fabrics.

Test models’ fabric feeding, tension, stitch formation before buying. Your coverstitch machine should match your skill and handle intended fabrics smoothly.

Attachments and Compatibility

Living sewers will soon see the attachment options spark creativity, inspiring casting off toward a new era of inspiring homemade imperfections.

  • Consider machine and generic presser feet options and compatibility. Choose according to planned projects and fabrics.
  • Check for specialty feet like hemming, piping, elastic gathering to expand techniques.
  • Study adjustment options like stitch length, foot pressure, differential feed for irregular fabrics.

Coverstitch machines empower exploring new creative possibilities. With the right attachments, irregular fabrics and settings inspire homemade imperfections full of life.

Stitch Options and Speed

The number of needles allows for creating single, double, or triple rows of stitching, providing flexibility. Consider the stitch types and maximum speed you require. Entry-level models around 1000 stitches per minute are suitable for occasional use.

For professional results on swimwear or sportswear with substantial seaming, look for 1300 stitches per minute or more. Adjustable stitch length and width controls, plus presser foot pressure tuning let you adapt settings for different fabrics.

Quality results come from balanced thread tension, needle compatibility, and suitable stitch density.

How Does a Coverstitch Machine Compare to a Serger?

How Does a Coverstitch Machine Compare to a Serger
Have you considered the differences between a coverstitch machine and a serger when looking for equipment to hem and finish garments? While both can produce professional-looking finishes, coverstitch and serger machines have distinct stitch types, specialized features, and ease of use that impact their versatility for specific techniques like hemming knits or finishing edges on wovens.

Differences in Stitch Types

You’ll get versatility from choosing between chainstitch or coverstitch.

  • Chainstitch sews one row of stitches on the underside for hems and seams.
  • Coverstitch creates two or more rows of visible stitching on the right side for decorative effects.
  • Coverstitch allows functional stretch for knits and specialized techniques like attaching elastic.
  • Consider coverstitch for rolled hems, gathering curves, finishing raw edges, or attaching binding.

A coverstitch machine expands your finishing and edge techniques for garments beyond a basic serger.

Hemming and Finishing Techniques

You’d achieve a stretchier, more professional finish by using the specialized hemming and binding techniques that a coverstitch enables.

Flat Hems Rounded Hems
Good for casual knits Preferred for form-fitting knits
Wider stitch widths Narrower stitch widths
Looser thread tension Higher thread tension
Woven interfacing Knit interfacing

With practice, you can master both flat and rounded hems for a flawless professional finish on any garment using your coverstitch machine.

Versatility and Specialized Features

You’ve got specialized hemming machines reaching 1300 stitches per minute. Differential feed and tension controls let you adjust seam stretch and gather. Coverstitch capabilities handle elastic application, binding techniques, and decorative stitches.

Unlike standard sergers, most coverstitch machines lack cutaway waste features or precise handwheel positioning. Still, certain models work wonders finishing stretchy activewear, swimwear, and knits with the right settings, needles, and nylon thread.

With practice, coverstitch mastery means strength and freedom in tackling specialty techniques.

Ease of Use and Learning Curve

After threading the loopers, you position the fabric and start sewing to produce professional hems and finishes on your garments. While a serger focuses on seams and edge finishing, the coverstitch machine specializes in hems and creative effects.

Adjusting the presser foot pressure, thread tension, and differential feed allows mastery of the coverstitch for perfectly finished knitwear. Quality brands like Janome and Brother include accessories and designs friendly for the hobbyist looking to elevate a simple t-shirt.

With practice, the coverstitch gives you professional results and creative possibilities.

What Are the Best Threads for Coverstitch Machines?

What Are the Best Threads for Coverstitch Machines
When using a coverstitch machine, you’ll want to consider the thread type and color for your project. Regular all-purpose thread works well in the needles, while woolly nylon provides more stretch and strength in the loopers.

Match thread colors to your garment, use larger stretch needles for swimwear, and adjust settings like differential feed based on fabric type for the best results.

Regular Thread Vs. Woolly Nylon

Originally, opt for regular thread in needles and woolly nylon in loopers with coverstitch machines, sparking smooth seams.

  • Match the garment color with the needle thread for a subtle finish.
  • Choose quality thread to prevent skipping stitches.
  • Woolly nylon loops add stretch for knits.
  • Adjust the thread type for the intended project.
  • Test combinations on scrap pieces first.

Though regular thread and woolly nylon are common choices, experiment to find your perfect thread combo for flawless seams and professional edge finishes.

Matching Thread Color to Garment

Embroider happy faces on your garment by matching the thread color to the fabric! Using threads that closely match the color of your knit or woven garment helps make coverstitching nearly invisible.

For light fabrics like t-shirts or dresses, opt for a thread hue that matches exactly. With darker fabrics like jeans, choose a slightly lighter shade to create a more subtle contrast.

When sewing stripes or prints, pick a dominant color in the pattern. It’s helpful to have a range of thread colors on hand to perfectly match your coverstitches and hems to any wardrobe staple.

With the right color coordination, your coverstitch finishing touches blend in seamlessly.

Using Stretch Needles for Swimwear

You’ll get great results using larger stretch needles when sewing swimwear on your coverstitch machine. The right needles prevent puckering on stretchy fabrics, allowing smooth seams and hems. When attaching elastic or decorative topstitching, stretch needles glide through Lycra and spandex with ease.

Opt for sizes 10/12 or 14/16 needles for the best performance. Check your manual, as some models require specialized needles, but most accept standard options. Utilize any twin needle capabilities as well to give your swimwear extra strength and visual appeal.

Adjusting Settings for Different Fabrics

You can adjust the differential feed to prevent stretching or puckering when sewing different fabrics. Adjust the differential feed upward to prevent lightweight fabrics from stretching. Lower it to ensure that thicker fabrics feed evenly without puckering. For stretchy projects like swimwear or elastic attachment, increase the differential feed to allow the fabric to stretch properly.

Also, match the presser foot pressure and tension to the fabric. Consider using fine threads for lightweight fabrics and thicker threads for heavy materials like denim.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How difficult is it to thread and operate a coverstitch machine?

You’ll find most models quite easy to thread and use once you get the hang of it. With helpful features like lay-in threading, auto tension release, and color-coded guides, it’s a breeze after some practice.

Adjustable foot pressure and differential feed give you mastery and flexibility.

What maintenance does a coverstitch machine require?

Make a habit of cleaning your coverstitch machine after each use. Wipe away lint and dust, and keep the looper area free of fabric snippets. Apply a small drop of oil to the needle, looper, and other key moving parts regularly.

Don’t over-oil. Check your owner’s manual for lubrication tips specific to your machine model. Following proper maintenance keeps your coverstitch machine running smoothly for years.

Can I find replacement parts and service for my coverstitch machine?

Yes, you can find replacement parts and service for your coverstitch machine. Check the manufacturer’s website or contact an authorized dealer to order specific parts. Local sewing machine repair shops can also provide maintenance and repairs if you encounter any issues.

With proper care and maintenance, your coverstitch machine should provide years of reliable service.

What projects are not well suited to a coverstitch machine?

You will find that this machine struggles on heavier woven fabrics. The key is using it for its specialty – knit hems and stretchy seams for activewear. But if you try to sew a chambray skirt with it, the multiple needles can’t penetrate densely woven fabric.

Coverstitch machines shine on lightweight, flexible knits where you want professional, stretchy finishes.

How long does it take to learn to use a coverstitch machine proficiently?

You’ll need to put in consistent effort learning to thread and set the tensions properly before those professional hems start flowing from your machine.

Conclusion

Getting the right coverstitch sewing machine is key to achieving professional garment finishes at home. You’ll master specialty seams and hems on your homemade clothes like a seasoned sewer with the right features for your projects, budget, and skill level.

Follow the breadcrumbs to find your perfect coverstitch companion. With practice, you’ll advance from a novice to a sewing wizard, conjuring up custom creations with magical finishing touches. Just like Dorothy’s ruby red slippers taking her home, a coverstitch machine opens up a world of sewing possibilities in your home workshop.

Your sewing dreams can become a reality with the power to transform simple fabric into polished fashions at your fingertips.

References
  • stitchers-source.com
Avatar for Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim Sweileh

Mutasim is the founder and editor-in-chief of sewingtrip.com, a site dedicated to those passionate about crafting. With years of experience and research under his belt, he sought to create a platform where he could share his knowledge and skills with others who shared his interests.