What’s the Difference Between Overlockers and Embroidery Machines?
What Does an Overlocker Do?
An overlocker (also known as a serger) is used to finish the edges of fabric to prevent fraying. It trims, sews, and overcasts the edge all in one step, giving your garments a neat, professional finish.
Key Features of an Overlocker:
- Trims and sews simultaneously
- Ideal for stretch and knit fabrics
- Uses multiple threads for strong, flexible seams
- Built-in knife cuts excess fabric
- Great for hemming, seam finishing, and gathering
What Does an Embroidery Machine Do?
An embroidery machine is designed to create decorative stitching and patterns. It works by stitching pre-set or custom designs onto fabric, making it ideal for personalisation, logos, and detailed embellishments.
Key Features of an Embroidery Machine:
- Creates decorative patterns and monograms
- Often includes USB or memory function to upload designs
- Not used for standard sewing or garment construction
- Suitable for home crafters, small businesses, or gifts
- Works on clothing, accessories, and home textiles
Overlocker vs Embroidery Machine: Key Differences
When deciding between an overlocker and an embroidery machine, it helps to focus on what each machine is designed to do:
Overlockers (also known as sergers) are used to create strong, stretchy seams. They trim the fabric edge, sew the seam, and overcast it in one motion, ideal for garment making, especially with stretch fabrics like jersey or knitwear. They’re commonly used by dressmakers, fashion students, and home sewists.
Embroidery machines, on the other hand, are made for decorative stitching. These machines allow you to add names, logos, motifs, or monograms onto clothing, towels, or accessories. Many are computerised with USB connectivity or built-in patterns, perfect for custom projects and small businesses.
Key differences include:
- Functionality: Overlockers are for seam construction; embroidery machines are for embellishment.
- Skill level: Overlockers have a moderate learning curve; embroidery machines often require more setup and digital design knowledge.
- Best use: Use an overlocker for professional seams and activewear. Use an embroidery machine for personalisation and detail work.
Both are valuable tools, but they serve very different purposes. Think about your projects and end goals to decide which machine will benefit you most.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose an overlocker if:
- You sew clothes regularly
- You want strong, neat seams
- You work with stretchy fabrics like jersey or knit
- You want a faster, more professional finish
- Choose an embroidery machine if:
- You want to personalise items with text or logos
- You’re crafting gifts, homeware, or accessories
- You don’t need to construct garments from scratch
- You enjoy creative projects with visual impact
Some users eventually invest in both machines to expand their capabilities, but if you’re starting out, consider your current needs first.
Can You Get a Machine That Does Both?
While some combination sewing and embroidery machines exist, true dual-function machines are rare. Overlocking and embroidery involve very different mechanics.
However, many standard sewing machines offer decorative stitches, which can be combined with an overlocker for construction work.
If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help you choose the right model based on your sewing habits and long-term goals.
Ready to Choose Your Machine?
DC Nutt stocks a full range of overlockers and embroidery machines, including trusted brands like Brother, Janome, and Babylock. Whether you're sewing for fun, business, or learning something new, we’ll help you find the right model.
FAQs: Overlocker vs Embroidery Machines
Can I use an embroidery machine to sew garments?
No. Embroidery machines don’t perform regular sewing tasks like seams or hems. They’re designed solely for embellishment.
Does an overlocker replace a sewing machine?
No. While an overlocker enhances seams, you’ll still need a standard sewing machine for most construction tasks like zips, darts, and topstitching.
Are overlockers hard to thread?
Some can be tricky at first, but modern machines like Babylock include air threading systems that dramatically simplify the process.
What’s the cost difference?
Embroidery machines tend to be more expensive due to their technology. Overlockers are generally more affordable and entry-level models start at under £300.
Do you offer support or training?
Yes. We provide online guides and phone support and can recommend machine-specific resources based on your chosen model.