That day, one of my sewing students came up and asked me to teach them ‘serger stitch’. I said, ‘i have teach all of you overlock stitch before’. She said, ‘ that’s overlock right? I want to learn serger stitch on sewing machine.’
I was like, ‘Okay, I need to get into this because people are confused.’ So basically,
Sarger isn’t any kind of stitch. It’s a sewing machine that does stitching along the fabric edge to secure or lock it. That’s why it’s also known as an overlocker machine.
This info amazes them so much. So, I decided to discuss it further.
Table of Contents
Can You Serge With A Regular Sewing Machine?
No, you can’t fully serge with a regular sewing machine, because a true serger trims the fabric edge and finishes it with multiple threads in one go.
But! You can mimic the look and function with a few sewing machine tricks:
- Use an overcasting stitch (if your machine has one)
- Try a zigzag stitch near the edge. You can do it on a serger stitch on brother sewing machine.
- Pair it with an overcasting foot or zigzag foot to guide the fabric
It won’t cut the edge like a serger does. But if you want to do a real serger stitch on it you need a Serger attachment for sewing machine.
Serger Attachment For Sewing Machine
if you don’t have a serger, your regular sewing machine can still fake it—with a little help!
A serger or overcasting foot is an excellent attachment that allows you to sew right up to the fabric edge while achieving a similar overlock finish.
It won’t trim the fabric like a real serger. But it’s perfect for cleaning up raw edges and preventing fraying, especially on woven fabrics. Just pop it on, pick an overcast or zigzag stitch, and you’re good to go.
What Is A Serger Stitch On Sewing Machine?
A serger stitch is a specialised type of stitch created by a serger machine that simultaneously trims the fabric edge and wraps thread around it.
It uses multiple threads, usually 3 to 5, and loopers instead of just needles. That’s how it gives the stitch that signature wrapped edge look.
11 Types Of Serger Stitch
Serger machines can create a variety of stitches which is a fun fact. And it is usually based on how many threads they use for intense,
- 2-thread
- 3-thread
- 4-thread
And among the thread usage, you can do different kinds of stitches. For example,
- Overedge
- Flatlock Stitch
- Rolled Hem
- Chainstitch
- 3-Thread Overlock
- 3-Thread Flatlock
- 4-Thread Overlock
- 4-Thread Flatlock
- 5-Thread Stitch
- Blind Hem Stitch
- Gathering
2-Thread Serger Stitches
When I’m working with lightweight fabrics or want to add a decorative finish without too much bulk, 2-thread stitches are my go-to. They’re perfect for soft seams, simple edges, or even stylish finishes. Here’s how each type works:
Overedge / Overcast Stitch
This is your basic edge finisher. I usually use this when I just want to clean up the raw edge of delicate or sheer fabrics without adding too much weight.
It uses just one needle and one looper thread, making it light, neat, and effective in preventing fraying.
Flatlock Stitch
A flatlock seam is created by sewing two fabric layers together, then pulling the seam open. What you get is a flat, stretchy finish with ladder-like bars on one side and loops on the other. You can use it for machine stitching leather, too.
I love using this stitch on activewear or decorative seams, where I want the stitching to be part of the design. It’s soft against the skin, too, so no irritation. You can find it on a serger stitch on singer sewing machine.
Rolled Hem Serger Stitch
This one’s a classic for finishing edges on scarves, ruffles, or napkins. It literally rolls the fabric edge under as it stitches. It gives a tiny, smooth hem that’s perfect for lightweight or slippery fabrics like silk and organza.
I always use it when I want that fancy store-bought look on the edges—super clean and delicate!
Chainstitch
The chainstitch is unique because it forms a looped chain on the underside of the fabric. It’s great for seaming and is sometimes used decoratively as well.
But-
If the tail isn’t secured correctly, it can unravel pretty easily, just like pulling a loose thread on a sweater.
That said, I use it when I need a stretchy seam, such as in waistbands or temporary basting, where easy removal might actually be beneficial.
3-Thread Serger Stitches
Once I became comfortable with two-thread finishes, 3-thread stitches became my everyday serging heroes. They strike the perfect balance between durability and flexibility.
3-Thread Overlock
Overlock stitch is my favourite stitch for general seaming and edge finishing. It uses one needle and two loopers, which gives you a strong, stretchy edge. But not as heavy as a 4-thread seam.
I reach for it when I’m working with:
- Knit fabrics (like jersey, rib knit, or spandex)
- Woven fabrics that need a fray-proof finish
- Projects where I want neat edges without too much bulk
It’s super versatile—I’ve even used it for decorative edges when I switch up the thread colors.
3-Thread Flatlock
Yes, flatlock isn’t just for 2-thread setups; you can also do it with 3 threads. When I use the 3-thread flatlock. I get a seam that lies flat against the skin, which is awesome for things like leggings, athletic wear, or even kids’ clothes.
What’s cool is that I can control how it looks by adjusting the needle position and tension:
- A wide flatlock shows off the loops and ladder stitches. It is great as a design detail
- A narrow flatlock gives a sleeker, more subtle finish
And like the 2-thread version, once you stitch it, you just pull the fabric apart to flatten the seam. Super satisfying!
4-Thread Serger Stitches
When I want extra durability without sacrificing stretch, I go for 4-thread stitches. They’re perfect for heavy-use seams, especially in activewear or fitted garments, where you need both strength and flexibility to coexist.
Here’s how I use them:
4-Thread Overlock
This one’s the heavy lifter in my serging lineup. It uses two needles and two loopers, giving you a secure, stretchy seam with an overlocked edge all in one go. It’s like a double overlocker.
I use it when I’m sewing:
- Knits that need to stretch and bounce back—like t-shirts, leggings, or dancewear
- Seams that get a lot of stress, like armholes or crotch seams
- Woven fabrics, when I want extra seam strength and a clean edge
Basically, it sews and finishes your seam in one pass. And it’s strong enough that you usually don’t need a second stitch for reinforcement.
4-Thread Flatlock
This is like the tougher sibling of the 3-thread flatlock. It gives you the same flat, open seam with the decorative ladder on one side and loops on the other. But with a little extra stability thanks to that second needle.
I turn to the 4-thread version when I’m working on:
- High-stress areas in activewear
- Heavier knits or thicker fabrics
- Or when I just want that extra secure feel without adding bulk
It still pulls open just like the 3-thread version—flat and comfy against the skin. But it’s a bit more robust, which I appreciate for long-lasting projects.
Other Notable Serger Stitches I Love To Use
Besides the usual 2, 3, and 4-thread setups, some sergers come with extra tricks up their sleeve. If you’ve got a machine that can handle these, you’re in for some serious versatility. Let me walk you through a few cool ones:
5-Thread Stitch
Some sergers let you combine a 2-thread chainstitch with a 3-thread overlock. Which basically means you get a strong seam + a finished edge all in one go. I use this when I want factory-level construction quality.
It’s great for:
- Heavy fabrics like denim or canvas
- Garments that need reinforced seams
- Or when you want that pro-finish and durability all in one swoop
Blind Hem Stitch
This one’s for when you need your hem to disappear. The blind hem stitch is perfect for dress pants, skirts, or any garment where you want the hem hidden from the front.
Many sergers have a setting or foot attachment for it, and once you get the hang of folding the fabric just right. It’s a total time saver!
Gathering / Ruffling Stitch
Did you know that your serger can also gather fabric or create ruffles? Yep! With just a few tension tweaks or a ruffling or gathering of the foot. You can create beautiful gathered edges or even apply elastic in one pass.
That’s why it’s perfect for Sleeves, skirts, and baby clothes & Adding elastic waistbands.
So, yes, that’s why the serger machine is so popular and the talk of the town. And all those combined stitches are called a serger stitch on a sewing machine.
Types Of Serger Stitch Pdf
I bet you found the serger thing interesting. So why not download it and save it for later?
Serger Stitch On Sewing Machine Youtube
Top 5 Serger Stitches & How to Do Them
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a sewing machine and a serger?
A sewing machine is made for general stitching, like straight seams, buttonholes, and decorative stitches. A serger (also called an overlock machine) specializes in edge finishing. It trims the fabric, overlocks the edge, and sews the seam all at once
What is the best serger sewing machine?
The best serger depends on your skill level and budget. For beginners, the Brother 1034D is a fan favorite—easy to use, affordable, and super reliable. If you want something more advanced, the JUKI MO-654DE or Baby Lock Victory.
Overall
That’s the deal with the serger stitch on sewing machine.
I hope you now know the difference between the normal stitch and the serger machine stitch.
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