Thanks for making it more understandable. If the machine has numbered tension dials, write down the preset numbers before practicing. Perfecting Serger/Overlocker Tension We are ready for week 2 in our Relationship Rescue: ... For the most part I keep the 1034D's tension setting on all '4's' unless I'm sewing something very thick or stretchy. I really hope you can help. Persistent tension problems might simply be because you've missed a part of the threading path on one of the loopers and the thread just isn't tight enough for the stitch to form properly. Finding the right tension setting on a serger can be complicated – especially for beginners. worked a treat :) the pics make it so much easier to compare to my own stitches, only downside is the pics dont show when or if the needle threads are far too lose. This is exactly what I needed. I have to admit that I refer to my own cheat sheet every time I have to set up my serger… I sued the super stretch 3 thread stitch for a leotard last week and I have to admit that it’s a cool stitch! Any clues? Many times they are "dumped off" with no books or documentation of any type. Standard serging with 2, 3 or 4 threads Lower looper pre-tension setting slider Rolled hemming(R.H.) Rolled hemming with 2 or 3 threads STD. I have found one bit of advice which seems to help, but it's not a long term solution--that is increasing the tension of the thread at the input point of the thread--before it goes into the threading disks. Return the tension dial to the original setting.Continue to sew, turning the same tension dial to a higher number. © 2020. Any insight on how to do this would be greatly appreciated! Excellent tutorial, BTW! I got my serger last year and have used it a little. Some machines will only serge stretch fabric if going fast, others slow, can you change the speed? Typically £649. When I say needle tension, I mean the tension of the needle threads. How exactly do you adjust the needle tension on a serger? I just got my serger (the same one as you) and am trying to make a swaddle blanket out of jersey. When the overlocker stitch has poor tension, only one thread may need adjustment. Another thank you. Not sure if this makes sense, but I've actually held the thread with a finger against the machine before it goes through its first entry point to give it more resistance, before it goes into tension disk. Thank you, a good tutorial. You've made it look easy. The overlock stitch (a) uses one needle to secure the stitches, and the mock safety stitches use two needles.There are two types of 4-thread mock safety stitches; on one, the upper looper thread locks at the left needle thread (b), and on the other, at the right needle thread (c), depending on the model. Have you learned anything since you made the above comment? In the long run its cheaper than "canned air", and can be used in other places around the house.Probably more than my two cents worth, but again, outstanding job on your part. Thank you so much for all your hard work! Compare your stitches to the pictures below if you are uncertain about which tension dial needs adjusting. I am fairly new to serging (was given my grandmothers old serger). Play around n have fun while doing it. I finally got everything worked out again and fell in love once more. Setting the lower looper pre-tension setting slider and changeable thread guide STD. Yes, that is correct! I hope you don't mind but I'm pinning this and the whole series. Now it all seems much clearer. great tutorial i have no manual with my overlocker this clears up a lot .my only problem is that everything is off on the machine and once i've fixed the loopers the fabric is all wavy .when i try to adjust the needles tension it screws up the looper again going round in circles . What settings do you have your machine on for stretchy knit? Am I not feeding it in a straight line or is it something that needs to be adjusted ? :D, Your tutorials are awesome!! Cool! Any thoughts? This was so much more helpful than any other post I'd read! I looked up the manual – which you should have – and if there is a presser foot pressure adjustment, it will specify this. I've since bought a new serger, but would still like to get the tension right on the old one. If threads lock on the upper side of the fabric, either the looper thread is too tight, pulling to the upper side, or the needle thread is too loose, spilling over the edge. THANK YOU!!!! I will try this before my upcoming project (orange knit dress :-)). Any ideas? Thanks for this! I'd like to make a few additions to your tutorials.After the user successfully threads their serger, clip the thread at the bolt, pull the thread toward the needles and remove. Your post was super helpful in figuring out that my issue is actually needle tension, not thread tension...but I went to adjust the needle tension and realized that I have no idea how to do it and the book that came with it is long gone! I had no idea but it made since (my fabric rolled up right at the end of the fabric and didn't lay flat and pretty). I used to dread using my serger, but now I can't wait to use it. If a looper thread can be moved easily or if it appears uneven, the looper thread is too loose. Its gotten to the point where I LOATHE my serger, even though I used to love using it. :). Examine the sample again to see how the tension has changed. Thanks!! Leave a comment, I'd love to hear from you!There is no word verification or log in required. Have you looked at how close your cutting blade is to the edge of the machine as well? I'd like to congratulate you on the fine work you've done in putting together these two tutorials for the serger. THANK YOU!!!! not only have I needed this explained desperately for years now, you are using my EXACT same serger! I've saved this to my desktop. I am at my wit's end.The left needle on my Brother 1034D skips stitches when serging multiple (more than 2) layers. Thanks again. I just found your series on Pinterest - thank you so much!!! Best overlocker with air threading and automatic tension: Babylock Victory Typically £1149. Oh thank you so much! Hopefully I'll be able to tackle my first Serger project. I'm not going to be that helpful to you, but I've noticed that when I serge using a knit fabric that it's a whole other game to try and master. thank you so much for this !! Some consider threading a serger the most difficult part of the set-up process, but properly adjusting the tensions takes far more practice to get it right. Hi! :) So I would definitely check out which plate you are using (find out at a local,sewing store if you aren't familiar) and go from there! I can't believe what an excellent tutorial you have put together here. I have a question. If the machine has numbered tension dials, write down the preset numbers before practicing.Your instruction manual may also give recommended settings for all stitch types. If fabric puckers crosswise under stitches, one or both looper threads are too tight. Pre-tension setting for built-in rolled hem What number iis the tension be set at on my serger? It will automatically choose tension settings for you, creating (near enough) perfect stitches immediately. :) Anyway, thank you!!! Pinning so I can refer to your ever so handy chart to help me. I am doing a 4 thread overlock on a huskylock s25 (automatic tensions) and even though everything is set for a regular stitch, the fabric is being rolled to the back. Renee, I'm just now seeing this. I just tie the tips of thread and pull them through (Janome 7034D magnolia w/ differental feed)What do you do if BOTH your loops are no Where near the edge of the fabric, but all the stitches look right? a serger from a friend in exchange for making her a costume cause she never uses it....I KNOW RIGHT. Thanks so much! What a wonderful sentiment-- you are right, we should all remember to have fun experimenting with our sergers! R.H. Standard serging(STD.) I've threaded it again and again (in the right order) but it keeps knotting up and snapping. If fabric puckers lengthwise, one or both needle threads are two tight. I have an old serger that I haven't used for years and the tension is way out. If the tensions look loose no matter what you do -- try double checking that the thread is for *sure* in the tension disks, and also check that your stitch finger is engaged. Remember also that you can knot the large spool thread to the already threaded adjusting colors and pull through the loopers. I got a serger for Christmas last year and messed with it for about a day and LOVED it, then I changed out the thread and had another frustrating day.