How to Use an Overlock Machine
- 1). Prepare the fabric by placing two fabric scraps of approximately the same size on your work table. Place the yardstick close to one edge of each piece. Draw a straight line along the edge of the yardstick with the tailor's chalk. Cut, using the scissors, carefully following the chalk line.
- 2). Set the stitch length according to the type of fabric being sewn. For fabric that frays easily, set the machine on a short, tight stitch, while fabric that does not fray takes a wide stitch.
- 3). Position the fabric under the front edge of the presser foot, with the fabric's raw edges aligned with the seam allowance guide.
- 4). Press down slowly on the machine's treadle, and guide the fabric while keeping the raw edge straight along the seam allowance guide. Sew at least 3 inches after the fabric goes out of the back of the presser foot, so the thread will be knotted and will not unravel easily.
- 5). Secure the ends by tying a small knot in the thread ends right against the fabric's edge.
