What to Do if You Don’t Have an Overlocker
Serging-without-serger
These tricks are especially helpful when making beach kimonos with natural fabrics like linen and cotton 😍.
But first, let’s cover the basics…
What’s an Overlock Stitch and How Does it Work?
An overlock stitch is commonly made using a 4-thread or 3-thread overlocker or serger machine. This stitch goes on the edge of the fabric to prevent it from fraying and help the garments to last longer.
Can you do an overlock stitch on a regular sewing machine, you may ask?
Yes! There are 2 easy ways to create a look-a-like overlock stitch without a serger, and using just a regular domestic sewing machine!
How to do an Overlock Stitch on a Sewing Machine. Option #1: The Overcast Stitches and Overcast Presser Foot
Many of the new sewing machines come with overlock stitches and an overcast presser foot (AKA Overedge or Overlocking foot).
In the Brother sewing machines, the overlock stitches you can use with the overcast foot are the ones with the numbers: 06, 07, and 08.
If you have a sewing machine with any of these stitches, but you’re missing the presser foot, you can get it here.
This presser foot has a longer side that you can use as a guide to help you sew right up against the edge of the fabric.
By aligning the fabric with this guide you can create a perfect overlock stitch that encloses the raw edges.
Take it to the Next Level with this Side Cutter Overlock Presser Foot
If you want to save time, a serger attachment for a sewing machine like this one will allow you to create the perfectly cut and finished edges of a serger in just one step!
Yep, with this baby there’s no need to trim excess seam allowance or make sure the edges are completely straight before sewing. It will get the job done for you!
This is a Brother side cutter presser foot, but it fits most brands of “low shank” sewing machines.
- PROFESSIONALLY FINISH SEAMS: Use your sewing machine to create the perfectly cut and finished edges of a serger
- ONE STEP FINISHING: The built in blade trims away your excess seam allowance while you sew a zigzag or overcasting stitch around the edge of your fabric, all at the same time
If you have no idea if your machine has low shank or high shank check out this machine feet guide to easily figure it out.
Side cutter foot vs Serger
A side cutter foot will make your regular sewing machine work as a serger without having to spend hundreds of dollars, so it’s the perfect alternative if you are on a budget or have limited space in your home.
However, a serger can do the job faster and since it uses 3 (and some even 4) threads at the time it creates stronger seams.
If you are a beginner and do not sew a lot of projects that require serging, the side cutter foot is a great option and probably all you may need!
If you want to turn your sewing hobby into a business, then definitely save some money to eventually invest in a serger that will help you create professional lasting results faster!
Serging without a Serger Option #2: How to Use a ZigZag Stitch as an Overlocking Stitch
If your sewing machine doesn’t have any of the overlock stitches, but it has a zigzag stitch then here is another option!
Sew a narrow zigzag stitch right on the edge of the fabric using the regular zigzag presser foot.
Then, sew a straight stitch to the left of the zigzag to secure it—and ta-da! Your easy overlock stitch look-alike is ready:
Will a zigzag stitch prevent fraying?
Yes! A simple zigzag stitch along the raw edge of the fabric will secure the edges and prevent fraying, and when you combine it with a straight stitch you create an even stronger and lasting seam.
What to Do if You Don’t Have an Overlocker, Option #3: Overlock Stitch by Hand
Yes, you can overlock stitch by hand!
Of course, it won’t be as fast as the 2 previous options made on the sewing machine, but you can totally create an Overlock stitch by hand, that prevents the fabric from fraying.
All you need is: thread, needle, scissors, ruler and a marking tool.
This is a very simple looking stitch, (also called “blanket stitch”) but it gets the job done, extremely well!
Video Tutorial for How to Do an Overlock Stitch on a Sewing Machine and Overlock Stitch by Hand
In the video below, you’ll find a step-by-step tutorial on these three overlock stitch alternatives—plus my #1 hand-sewing hack for beginners.
Enjoy!
How do I stop my edges from fraying without sewing?
If you are looking for no-sew ways to fix fabric from fraying, I got you!
Pinking shears
Although the sawtooth blades don’t completely prevent fraying, they do help minimize it.
Pinking shears are a quick and easy fix when you don’t have time to hand-stitch or access to a sewing machine with overlock or zigzag stitches.
- Perfect cut, 9 inch pinking shears feature stainless steel, razor sharp blades for easy and perfect decorative cutting. The heavy duty blades ensure every cut is sharp and crisp, which makes these scissors great for any project or design.
What about scalloped/ pinking blades for rotary cutters?
I still have to try them myself, but for the reviews I’ve read these don’t do as well at deterring fraying as pinking shears. 😅
So, it’s better to use them for decorative purposes on fabrics that do not fray, think of nylon spandex fabric and scalloped panties like these.
- Package include 10pcs pinking blades,Come with a storage case.
- Compatible with any Brand 45mm rotary cutters.
Fray Check Glue
This is perfect for pieces that would look too bulky with a serged edge (like the ends of a ribbon) or designs where you want to preserve the external raw edges without your garment falling apart in 5 seconds.
Shannon from Shannon Sews did an amazing test using fray check glue and showed the results of different pieces of fabric (with and without this fabric sealant) after washing and drying it. Let’s just say, it had me adding it to my Amazon cart real quick! 🙊🤣.
- A permanent, clear liquid seam sealant that prevents fabric from fraying and secures thread ends.
- Use to finish raw edges of ribbon, trim and suitable for most fabrics.
- Dries clear and slightly stiff.
FAQS around overlock stitching
Serging without a Serger: Final Thoughts
I hope all these overlock stitch alternatives will help you to create beautiful and professional pieces that will last a long long time!
Do you have a favorite method? Let me know in the comment section below!
Keep dreaming and keep creating, the power of turning the invisible into visible lies in your hands!✨
