You’ve probably asked yourself if it’s worth getting a coverstitch machine before and did your fair share of research to know more. But now you’re feeling overwhelmed choosing the best coverstitch machine.
In an extensive review of various coverstitch machines, we’ve concluded that there are 8 coverstitch sewing machines worth your money.
And as you’ll soon find out, we’ve broken them down into different categories, including best value for money, a premium-choice, performance, and so on.
That way, you’ll find a coverstitch machine based on your preferences. That being said, ready to learn more about these machines? Let’s jump right into it!
Basics of Coverstitching
A coverstitch machine looks pretty similar to a sewing machine, but that’s it. They have different features and work differently.
For example, to use a coverstitch machine, you must adjust the differential feed, which can be found on the back.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the larger the number is, the longer your stitch will be. And by adjusting the handle, you can stretch your fabric when sewing.
Furthermore, you must adjust the pressure foot when dealing with any fabric type as this will allow you to work with lightweight and thick materials comfortably.
Finally, you should use large conical bobbins to thread your coverstitch machine.
Quick Comparison Table of Best Coverstitch Machine
Here’s a quick comparison guide if you’re having trouble choosing one:
| Features | Singer 14T968DC | Juki MCS-1500 | Janome CoverPro 900CPX | Brother 2340CV | Bernette B48 | Singer 14T970C | Juki MF-7923 | Bernette B42 |
| Sewing Speed | 1,300 Stitches per Minute | 1,350 Stitches per Minute | 1,000 Stitches per Minute | 1,100 Stitches per Minute | 1,300 Stitches per Minute | 1,100 Stitches per Minute | 4,000 Stitches per Minute | 1,300 Stitches per Minute |
| Built-in Light Bulb | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Presser Foot Pressure | Can’t Be Adjusted | Adjustable | Adjustable | Adjustable | Adjustable | Adjustable | Adjustable | Adjustable |
| Color-Coded Threading Guide | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included | Included |
| Our Opinion | Best Choice | Best for Home | Best for Beginners | Best for Thick Fabrics | Best for Knits | Best For Swimwear | Best Industrial | Cheapest Option |
| Price | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon | Check on Amazon |
Why do you need a Coverstitch Machine?
If you’ve had your sewing machine for a while, you might be wondering whether it’s time for a coverstitch machine upgrade. I mean, they’re pretty expensive, so it’s no wonder you’re having a hard time making up your mind, especially since this machine can only do one type of stitch.
Here’s the thing, hemming stretch fabrics is a living-nightmare with a regular sewing machine since it stretches out.
However, if that happens, with a coverstitch machine, you can adjust the differential feed. The device will keep the fabric straight so that it won’t lose its original shape. That’s the main advantage of having a coverstitch machine and why you should get one.
Reviews of 8 Best Coverstitch Machine
Down below, you’ll find our top picks for coverstitch machines:
1. Singer 14T968DC – Best Choice
With thousands of customers worldwide, the Singer 14T968DC is by far the best coverstitch sewing machine you can get.
The motor model of this model speaks for itself. It can sew 1,300 stitches per minute, making it fast and reliable to finish off your projects.
Apart from that, we love the self-adjusting tension system. That way, the machine will automatically determine the material’s thickness and then set the tension you need to create the perfect stitch.
This machine can be pretty overwhelming at first glance. However, this brand has included a well-written manual so that sewers could quickly catch up to it. And, there are also several YouTube videos for this model.
If something consumers have pointed out is the array of several stitches for seams, hems, and many other decorative edges. Thus, making it an excellent choice for those folks who want a flexible sewing machine.
Furthermore, we love that this machine supports up to 5 threads. So, you can keep multiple threads around to work on a vast majority of projects.
Why Do We Like It?
- Easy to operate
- 5-thread capability
- Self-adjusting tension
- Can sew up to 1,300 stitches
Our Verdict
This coverstitch machine is referred to as an all-around coverstitch sewing machine. While the machine is far from perfect, you’ll still be able to pull off excellent results in a short amount of time.
2. Juki MCS-1500 – Best for Home
In an extensive review of the best coverstitch machine reviews, we found that the Juki MCS-1500 is the perfect coverstitch machine to make your projects look professional.
This model is well respected in the sewing community, given how fast it is. For instance, this model can easily output 1,500 stitches per minute, meaning you’ll be done with your projects quickly.
We’ve also found that it’s simple to use despite it being a coverstitch machine. For example, it doesn’t take much time to thread the looper, and you can also lower it by pressing a button.
One nice thing about this coverstitch machine is that it has a differential feed, meaning you’ll be able to get gorgeous stitches without compromising quality.
Moreover, we love that you won’t feel like this machine holds you back since the presser foot pressure can be adjusted. That way, you’ll be able to feed through most types of fabrics you plan on dealing with.
And to make things even better, they’ve also included a thread cutter. That feature alone is enough to make your life so much easier since you can quickly finish any stitch.
And last but not least, this brand has also included a color-coded threading guide on the machine. This way, users can have a much easier time sewing.
Why Do We Like It?
- Super easy to use
- Includes differential feed
- Sews stitches nicely
- Presser foot pressure can be adjusted
Our Verdict
This brand is all about making your life easier, and they indeed achieved so with this coverstitch machine. If you’re sewing at home and need a reliable machine, this one is for you.
3. Janome CoverPro 900CPX – Best for Beginners
If you don’t want to spend several hours playing with the tensions and other features, then the Janome CoverPro 900CPX is the perfect coverstitch machine for beginners.
The feature that makes it stand out from others is the comfortable working area. For instance, you get a 4-inch by the 5-inch working area. So, if you’re a beginner, that’s more than enough for your projects.
Another attractive feature is that you can sew 1,000 stitches per minute. While this is somewhat slower than the previous machines, that’s not a dealbreaker since it’s pretty fast even for a beginner-oriented sewing machine.
Apart from that, they’ve included a very bright LED bulb, so you’ll still be able to sew perfectly at night or in any room with poor lighting.
Upon doing research for this review, we’ve noticed just how much user control this model provides. That way, users can have an easier time getting tighter and firm stitches.
Why Do We Like It?
- Large working area
- Has a vertical drop needle
- 1,000 stitches per minute
- 3-thread capability
Our Verdict
Even though this model is aimed at newcomers, you’ll still get a well-made coverstitch machine. It’s pretty easy to use, has a large working area, and can do 1,000 stitches per minute. Overall, it won’t let you down.
4. Brother 2340CV – Best for Thick Fabrics
Heavy fabrics require specific coverstitch machines compared to other types of materials. As such, your best option for this challenging job is the Brother 2340CV.
Known as a workhorse in the sewing community, this coverstitch machine can easily sew about 1,100 stitches per minute, meaning you can work on most projects without wasting time.
Better yet, they’ve printed a color-coded guide on the machine so sewers can quickly figure out how to thread the machine.
Besides that, consumers have expressed how much of a game-changing feature the two needles are for most sewing projects.
Using the gear selector on the coverstitch machine, you can easily select both the stitch length and width. For example, the stitch length can be set to 2mm and 4mm, whereas the width can be set anywhere from 3mm to 6mm.
Finally, this is a three-needle coverstitch machine, meaning you can work on various projects.
Why Do We Like It?
- 4-thread capability
- Color-printed guide on machine
- Includes differential fabric feed
- Can hem most stretchy materials
Our Verdict
The aspects mentioned above make this coverstitch machine the ideal model for stitching thick fabrics without compromising quality.
5. Bernette B48 – Best for Knits
Knit is often considered the most challenging fabric to sew with a regular sewing machine. If this is not handled correctly, you’ll end up with a terrible result. But that’s why you need the Singer 14T970C.
Like most coverstitch machines, this model also includes a color-coded threading guide, so sewers know how to use the machine.
Apart from that, this model also has a bright LED bulb, meaning you’ll have a well-lit working area even if you’re sewing at night.
Featuring a robust motor, this model delivers a maximum sewing speed of 1,300 stitches per minute. Not only is this the ideal speed for most sewing projects, but it’s also convenient for more demanding sewing projects.
The sharp knife it comes with makes trimming fabric super easy. And since it operates from below, you’ll get even better cuts. And you can safely adjust it by calibrating the handle.
And finally, after trimming your fabrics, you can throw them at the clean pocket this machine includes.
Why Do We Like It?
- Has 23 stitches
- Built-in LED light
- Includes a sharp knife
- Can sew 1,300 stitches per minute
Our Verdict
There’s no doubt that this model is expensive compared to others. However, it offers several stitches, is easy to use, and has a bright LED light for those nighttime sewers. Overall, it’s a well-built machine.
6. Singer 14T970C – Best For Swimwear
If anything, choosing the best coverstitch machine for swimwear can be tricky — you wouldn’t want to wear a half-assed swimsuit. That said, the Singer 14T970C is an excellent machine for this job.
The most enticing thing about this machine, which made countless consumers buy it, is that it’s easy to use. Like previous models, it has a color-coded threading guide, which sewers can use to instantly thread the machine.
The motor of this machine is mighty and efficient. To put it into perspective, this model is capable of sewing 1,100 stitches per minute.
As we said, this machine is super easy to use since it features an adjustable tension, which keeps your stitches nice and clean.
To top it off, this machine also includes a differential feed. This way, you’ll be able to feed through most fabrics you have at home.
This is often overlooked, but this coverstitch is pretty quiet to the point you won’t notice the noise. This is super helpful if you sew at night but don’t want to disturb anybody at home.
And finally, this model includes a bunch of standard accessories—including needles, tweezers, an oil dispenser, a screwdriver, and so on.
Our Verdict
This machine has it all, including insane sewing speed, a bright LED light, 4-thread capability, and an intuitive design. All in all, we can safely say that your money is being put to good use with this model.
7. Juki MF-7923 – Best Industrial Option
Let’s face it. Industrial machines look pretty intimidating. But they are fast, durable, and pretty much ready to tackle most sewing projects. And that sums up the Juki MF-7923.
As you might expect, the motor of this machine is super-efficient. For instance, it features a powerful clutch motor instead of a servo one. That way, the machine will constantly run as soon as you turn it on without relying on the pedal.
Another nice feature is that you can sew fragile materials without compromising the quality. Simply raise the presser foot, and you’ll be able to sew any delicate material.
You can also sew thick fabrics with this model. This is done by adjusting the needle bar stroke along with the thread tensions. For instance, you should be able to fit fleece and blankets.
This model excels when it comes to sewing speed. If you don’t want to feel frustrated, consider getting this one. It can sew up to 4,000 stitches per minute, which is insane.
Why Do We Like It?
- Clutch motor available
- Can sew up to 4,000 stitches per minute
- Easy to thread
- Adjustable presser foot pressure
Our Verdict
Final thoughts about this excellent industrial coverstitch machine, it's an outstanding and reliable high-end machine. By no means is this model suitable for beginners. But if you're past that stage, get this one.
8. Bernette B42 – Cheapest Option
The cheapest coverstitch machine is the Bernette B42, but don’t let the word “cheap” discourage you from getting this model — it’s actually terrific, and you can pull off some good stuff with it.
Being cheap is not the only good thing about this machine. In fact, it’s one of the most trouble-free coverstitch machines out there. It’s easy to thread and does not look intimidating like some high-end models.
They’ve also made it so sewers could have a large and comfortable working area for most projects. For instance, you get 3 inches of working space.
Better yet, this model includes an adjustable differential feed. Even though this feature is pretty useful, not all coverstitch machines have it.
Furthermore, they’ve been nice enough to add a small LED light to the machine. And while it might be small, it’s bright enough to uplight your project if you’re sewing at night.
Considering the price tag, you still get plenty of speed. The machine can quickly sew 1,300 stitches per minute, so you won’t feel held back by the speed.
And finally, this machine has three needles, which gives you plenty of room for future projects instead of one with two needles.
Why Do We Like It?
- Adjustable differential feed available
- Comfortable & large working space
- Built-in LED light
- Has three needles
Our Verdict
Sometimes consumers find it hard to wrap their heads around cheap machines since they're looked down upon. But this model has truly surpassed our expectations. It is fast, easy to use, and gets the job done.
How to Choose the Best Coverstitch Machine to Buy?
The best coverstitch machine is often considered to be the one that makes your hems look professional. But the coverstitch machine can do more than that. That said, here’s how to choose the perfect model:
Needles
The first thing to consider is how many needles your coverstitch machine should have. Here’s the thing, if you know for sure that you’ll never create a flatlock stitch or pretty much anything that needs a three-needle machine, then get one that has two needles.
However, if you can get a machine with three needles, then go for it. It’s always nice to be able to do 2-thread hems. Then again, it might be overkill if you’ll never use it.
Sewing Speed
One helpful feature sewers must consider is the sewing speed. While you can get by with a slow machine, it wouldn’t hurt to pump up the speed a little bit. After all, you’ll probably spend a lot of time working on your sewing projects.
That being said, you shouldn’t settle for anything below 1,000 stitches per minute. Anything below that might be too slow for most sewers.
Free Arm
Another feature you should consider, which is often overlooked, is whether your coverstitch features a free arm.
Most machines do not have a free arm, which is rather inconvenient when cuts and circular seams. Still, you’ll be OK without it. Just keep that in mind if it bothers you.
Ease of Use
Getting stuff done on the spot is priceless, but not all coverstitch machines are easy to thread, therefore adding unnecessary time. That said, the best coverstitch machine to buy should be easy to thread.
Keep in mind that when you’re hemming and flat locking, you’ll inevitably have visible threads. So, switching out colors instantly is super important and will determine how fast you can get your project done.
Adjustable Presser Foot Pressure
Finally, you should also make sure that your machine has an adjustable presser foot pressure.
If you’re not quite sure what that is, it’s simply a dial that allows sewers to determine how tightly the material they’re hemming is being clamped.
This is especially useful when dealing with stretchy fabrics as it’ll help you prevent wavy seams and other imperfections.
Types of coverstitch machines
If you’ve ever tried to buy a sewing machine, you probably know that there are various types of sewing machines. But that’s not really the case for the coverstitch machine.
That said, there are specific coverstitch machines that only have two needles on them. But other options have three needles.
There’s also a coverstitch machine, which is often referred to as a top cover. And finally, you can also find a serger/coverstitch machine, which is just a hybrid version of both a serger and coverstitch machine. This usually a great choice if you have a limited amount of space at home.
Overlock vs Coverstitch
Both the overlock and the coverstitch can look pretty similar. But depending on both the brand and the model, the differences tend to go unnoticed.
However, the main difference between these two is that the overlock machine is generally bought for construction purposes. Sure, you can do other things like flatlock seams and pintucks, but you’re probably going to be working on knit garments for the most part.
On the other hand, the coverstitch machine is mainly used for topstitching and hemming. And last but not least, coverstitch sewing machines tend to come with more advanced stitches.
Difference between Coverstitch and Serger
The most notorious difference between the serger and coverstitch (commonly referred to as the overlock machine in the (United Kingdom) is that the serger has a sharp knife, unlike the coverstitch. This means that the coverstitch machine won’t trim your fabric while you’re sewing.
Another subtle difference is that the serger is perfect for attaching elastic to a garment’s edges. The coverstitch can also do that, but it takes more skill.
In many cases, most people start out with a serger. The overlock machine tends to be used mainly for constructions since they are more versatile than their counterpart, whereas the coverstitch machine is an excellent choice for creative hems.
Serger with Coverstitch
While there are some differences between the serger and the coverstitch, the coverstitch machine is still far superior to the serger since it handles coverstitches with ease.
Some serger machines come with a coverstitch option, but pulling it off is not as easy as it is on the coverstitch machine.
Some manufacturers sell a coverstitch serger machine. As the name suggests, this is a combination of the serger and coverstitch machine. However, sewers tend to stay away from this model since they are not as efficient as a dedicated coverstitch machine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Need to know anything about coverstitch machines? Here’s some helpful knowledge about it:
If you don’t sew knits that often, it’s not worth the money. But if you frequently sew baby clothing, which requires knits, spending some money on a coverstitch machine will speed up your workflow, especially if you do this for a living.
The main difference between the coverstitch and the serger is that the former does not have a cutting blade, which can be annoying when cutting edges. Other than that, serger machines are considerably cheaper than a coverstitch machine. Finally, either machine will make your projects look more professional.
Coverstitch machines are designed to make your projects look more professional. While sewing machines are great for most projects, they will hold you back when doing knits. So, if you’re working on a knit project, you should save all the stitches part for the coverstitch.
If you want to score a great deal, get the Singer 14T968DC. After reviewing countless coverstitch machines, that model is the best for anybody with a sewing machine but wants to get a coverstitch machine.
Unfortunately, the 1034D cannot coverstitch. Even the manual does not mention anything about cover stitches. Instead, get the Brother 2340CV. This model might be more expensive than the 1034D, but you’ll be able to sew knits nicely.
To coverstitch using a sewing machine, turn up the hemline to the desired length and then add a stabilizer. Now feed it through the machine. Next up, start sewing on the right side of your garment. When doing this, make sure to keep it straight.
The flatlock stitch is used to sew seams. This type of stitch is commonly found on athletic wear since it’s less bulky than other stitches. In contrast, a coverstitch is used to make your hems look professional.
Conclusion
The best coverstitch machine is any machine that can get through any project you want to work on. However, finding one takes some skill and time since not every machine is capable of doing coverstitches.
There are some ways to get around those limitations, but the results are nowhere as professionals as a coverstitch machine. Meanwhile, the machines we chose for this review are perfect for coverstitches.
That said, which one should you ultimately purchase? Well, there’s no concrete answer to that. However, any of these machines were chosen based on price, performance, and flexibility. So, any of them will get you far in your journey.