Discover what a cover stitch machine is for and the features you should look for when thinking about buying one to make professional-looking sewing projects.

When browsing for your next sewing machine, there are many choices available, from standard sewing machines to embroidery machines and overlockers. Each has its own uses and benefits for enthusiastic beginners to professionals. 

Among the more specialist sewing machines is a cover stitch machine. Unlike some sewing machines, these are not designed for the beginner. 

What is a cover stitch sewing machine used for?

Cover stitch machines are often used alongside a sewing machine and an overlocker. They can elevate your sewing projects to the next level.

While an overlocker is useful for creating neat edges and hems, utilising several applications at the same time, a cover stitch machine is more specialised. It can be used to hem fabrics and create parallel stitching, but also be used to create patterns and join panels. 

The diversity of fabric types and uses includes:

• Stretch fabric and elastic because it doesn’t use a traditional lockstitch, which allows for more movement
• Woven fabrics where lines of stitching can be added for decoration
• Knitted fabrics where a chain stitch can be used to join sections together
• Hemming on various fabrics, including a classic t-shirt hem

Another advantage is the versatility of the machine. You can choose between one and three lines of stitching at different interval widths. It provides a professional-looking hemline while also giving the option of decorative top stitching with a loop-stitched underside. 

At some point in your sewing journey, you will want a machine that allows you to produce high-quality sewn products that look like they are shop-bought. 

That is when purchasing a cover stitch machine can close the gap between homemade threads and professional finishing. 

What features should you look for on a cover stitch machine?

When choosing a cover stitch machine, there are particular features and benefits that you will want to look for. 

A quality-built machine

Well-known, trusted brands such as Bernina, Brother and Janome sewing machines will guarantee quality and often come with a manufacturer's warranty. 

Multiple needle positions

Although a two-needle machine might be a smaller and cheaper option, the more needles you can have, the more variety of uses a machine can have. Besides, a triple cover stitched hem provides both stretch and is much more robust. 

Number of threads

Machines might come with fewer than the standard three threads and a loop thread, so this is worth checking before buying. That said, the Brother CV3550 comes with options of up to 5 thread configurations, perfect for practical and decorative stitching.

Automatic threading

Not featured on every machine, but useful if you struggle with it or if threading is your least favourite part of sewing. The high-performance L 890 Coverlocker includes the exclusive One-Step BERNINA Air Threader to save your fingers the work. 

Thread tension mechanisms

Check if the machine can adapt thread tension when sewing over seams as well as standard settings. That way, you are less likely to break the thread in the middle of the line.

Free arm 

A free arm is used for hemming sleeves and small rounds, so it is vital for shirt makers. The Janome 2000 CPX Cover Stitch comes with a free arm configuration included.  

Differential feed

A feature on most cover stitch machines, this allows you to ensure that stretch fabrics stay evenly tensioned so you’ll get straighter hems. 

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