Overlock machine is a machine made to make stitches on the edges of clothes.
The stitches on the edges serve as fabric reinforcement and also to smooth the edges of the fabric. In contrast to ordinary sewing machines, this overlock machine is equipped with a cutting knife that functions to cut the fabric at the edges.
The main function of this overlock machine is to tidy up lint, but many people also use this machine by using colorful colors as decoration.
There are many types of overlock machine on the market such as 3 thread overlock machines, 4 thread overlock machines, 5 thread overlock machines, and 6 thread overlock machines.
When you are going to use the overlock machine, there are several things that need to be considered first, such as setting the thread tension which will affect the overlock result and also you should try the overlock with patchwork or unused cloth first.
This is done so that you know how the results are, whether it is in accordance with your wishes or not.
To operate the overlock machine you need a tool called tweezers. This tool is a sewing machine tool that serves to insert the thread into the needle hole, because the needle hole is quite small so many people have difficulty inserting it.
In addition, you also need small pliers to remove the overlock needle. As well as overhang thread as needed.
The overlock machine has several parts, of course, each part has its own function. You can see the image below to see each part that is on the overlock machine. For a further explanation, see the discussion of the parts of the overlock machine and their functions below.
1. Telescope Thread Guide
This is the section for the thread groove to be sewn into the fabric. With this, the thread will move easily according to the existing groove in the overlock machine so that the thread will not easily fall apart and become tangled.
2. Stitch Length Dial
The stitch length dial is the stitch length setting on the overlock machine to determine how much fabric is pulled and sewn on the machine between each stitch.
This setting is almost always measured in millimeters, although you may sometimes see it referenced as stitches per inch.
3. Differential Feed Dial
The differential feed dial is the part of the overlock machine that regulates the feed of the overlock machine. The feed will move at the required speed.
When the differential ratio is set to less than 1.0 the front feed moves more slowly than the rear feed and can stretch the fabric when sewn.
4. Power Cord Attachment
The power cord attachment is a hole to connect the power cord. To start the overlock machine, you need to connect the power cord to this section first.
5. Power Switch
The power switch is the power button to turn on or turn off the overlock machine. The power switch is located on the bottom side next to the overlock machine’s power cord attachment.
6. Balance Wheel
The balance wheel is a part to balance the needle with the fabric to be sewn so that the thread that will be inserted into the fabric is appropriate. The balance wheel is located next to the overhang machine with a fairly large size.
7. Looper Cover
The looper cover is a cover for the overhang machine hole. Serves to protect the part from the impact of blunt objects. Or it could impact other hard objects.
8. Side Cover
Side cover is a cover on the side of the overlock machine. Serves to protect the side of the overlock machine from the impact of blunt objects or other objects that can damage the overlock machine.
9. Needle Plate
The needle plate is where the needle is inserted into the fabric, the cover is serrated so that the fabric can be moved, making it easier for the sewing process.
10. Presser Foot
The presser foot is the part of the overlock machine shoe that serves to clamp the fabric to be sewn with the overlock machine so that it does not change its position.
And also with this presser foot, the clamped fabric will automatically run on its own making it easier for the sewing process.
11. Left Needle Thread Tension Dial
The left needle thread tension dial is a part of the overlock machine that regulates the tension of the thread or thread. Its function is of course to tighten or loosen the thread tension on the left side of the overlock machine.
12. Right Needle Thread Tension Dial
Right needle thread tension dial is part of the overlock machine that regulates thread tension or thread.
Its function is the same as the left needle thread tension dial to tighten or loosen the thread tension, but this is on the right side of the overlock machine
13. Upper Looper Thread Tension Dial
The upper looper thread tension dial is the holes where the thread is hooked for the upper loop forming part.
14. Lower Looper Thread Tension Dial
The lower upper thread tension dial are the holes where the thread is hooked for the lower loop forming part.
Those are the parts of the overlock machine and their functions that you need to know. There are basically many types of overlock machines, but the components above are common components found in overlock machines.