Serger vs. Coverstitch Machine – What’s the Difference?

🧵 Serger vs. Coverstitch Machine – What’s the Difference?

🔧 Serger (Overlock Machine):

  • Main Function: Trims, sews, and finishes seams in one step.

  • Stitches: 3-thread or 4-thread overlock, rolled hem, flatlock, etc.

  • Perfect For:

    • Clean seam finishing

    • Stretch and knit fabrics

    • Preventing fabric fraying

  • Includes: Knife blade to trim fabric edge as it sews.

Example: Baby Lock Victory or Janome AT2000D


🧵 Coverstitch Machine:

  • Main Function: Creates professional-looking hems and topstitching, especially on stretch fabrics.

  • Stitches:

    • Narrow or wide cover stitch

    • Triple cover stitch

    • Chain stitch

  • Perfect For:

    • Hemming T-shirts

    • Activewear and knitwear

    • Decorative topstitching

  • Does NOT trim fabric – no knife blade.

Example: Baby Lock Euphoria


🔄 Can One Machine Do Both?

Some high-end machines are combination serger/coverstitch machines, but most sewists prefer separate machines for smoother operation and fewer setup changes.