What is it: rolled seam on an overlocker

You can make a rolled seam using a sewing machine, but if you have an overlocker, then experts definitely recommend that it is better to use it. You will save time and the quality of processing will be much better.

What is a rolled seam?

Dense stitching made with small stitches is called a rolled seam. It is used to create a light wavy edge of the material. Can be used to process sections of curtains, tulle or clothing.

An overlocker is a type of sewing machine designed for overcasting sections of any fabric. The main advantage of an overlocker is the high quality of processing. This is obvious if you compare stitches made with a regular sewing machine and overlock stitches.

Main types of rolled seams

A rolled seam on an overlocker, a video of which can be found on the Internet, can be of different types. Its types depend on the number of threads used. There are four in total:

• Double thread;
• Three-strand;
• Four-thread;
• Five-piece.

Let us consider each type in more detail below.

Double thread used in most modern overlockers. It can also be done on a sewing machine if a converter is present. Use 1 needle and only the lower looper. The seam comes out small and thin, ideal for processing transparent, thin fabrics.

Three-strand is considered the simplest type.It is performed with 1 needle and 2 loopers. With their help, the thread is fed over the fabric. A three-thread seam can be used to overcast the edges of items made from any fabric.

Four-strand is a more complex option. Performed using 2 needles and lower loopers. Of course, the three- and four-thread options are similar to each other, the only difference is the additional line in the second option. The advantage of this seam is its strength.

Five-thread stitch is a classic seam for overcasting. Ideal for processing fraying fabrics, such as denim, as it simultaneously hems and overcasts edges. It is a combination of three- and two-thread threads, between which an overcast stitch runs at a short distance. To process such a seam, you need to use 2 needles and 3 loopers.

Thread tension levels

When using a rolled seam on an overlocker, the photo of which you see in the article, the degree of thread tension is very important for overcasting fabric sections. By adjusting the tension, stitches of different appearance and quality are obtained.

Adjustment is carried out with a special wheel. Some models of overlockers in a more expensive price category are equipped with an automatic adjustment system. She independently sets the parameters based on the desired seam.

In simpler overlockers, tension regulators (wheels) are located on the plane or on one of the axes, which allows for uniform tension on all threads.

Advice from experts

So, now you know that this is a “rolled seam on an overlocker”. First of all, experts recommend deciding whether you really need an overlocker. It may be worth purchasing if you use it frequently.For example, if you do custom tailoring and, accordingly, the quality of work should be at a professional level.

Important! You must understand that just as a sewing machine cannot replace an overlocker, and vice versa. Each has its own advantages. Only a machine can sew straight stitches. At the same time, the sewing machine only imitates an overlock stitch. The difference is very noticeable.

When working with rolled seams, experts advise following the following recommendations:

• First, you should check the operation of all mechanisms: lifting the foot, turning the flywheel, etc.;
• When making a rolled seam, as a rule, only one needle is used - the right one. Accordingly, the left one should be removed;
• Make the necessary adjustments to the thread tension, etc. If you do not always adjust the overlocker according to the instructions, you will get the desired seam quality. Therefore, it is recommended to try it on a small scrap of unnecessary fabric;
• Hold the fabric while processing to prevent it from slipping.

If you do not have enough experience, try to keep your movements slow and careful so as not to damage your product.

One of the most tedious tasks of a seamstress is rethreading the overlock threads. There are 2 tips to make this process easier:

1. The easiest way is to initially purchase a machine model with an automatic threading function. It will cost more, but will be worth it.
2. To avoid passing the new thread through all the thread guides, you can use the following trick. We cut off the old thread closer to the spool. Then we tie the tip of the old thread with a knot to the new one. Next, as you probably already guessed, we pull them through the needle, and when the new thread passes through all the elements, we cut off the unnecessary end.