How can I replace the overlock?

Edging is an essential sewing process. Its implementation is performed using overlock. Craftswomen are so accustomed to using this equipment that sometimes they don’t know how to refine the edges differently. Unfortunately, some do not have such a machine in their arsenal. What can replace the overlock with? In the article we will talk about some methods of processing edges without his help.

How to do without an overlock using a sewing machine

With the help of a sewing machine, a primitive assistant to the craftswoman, you can not only grind parts, but also process their edges. There is a proven method - a zigzag seam. This line allows you to perform any modern sewing machine. This processing method is not as easy as on overlock, but with the help of dexterity you can achieve a good result.

The length and width of the stitch should be determined based on the dimensions of the part. By the way, this method is stronger than overlock because sewing stitching is extremely difficult.

Note that with this method, a seam should be laid at a certain distance from the edge of the part. This is done to ensure that he does not become pulled. Leftovers should be cut off after finishing work.

We carry out a manual trimming of fabric

For hand-edged edges, several seams are used:

  1. Loop-like - "back to the needle." A primitive seam holds the material together for a long time.
  2. Cross-shaped - the same oblique stitches, only on both sides. The result is a cross. This seam has other names: “goat”, “foot”.
  3. Oblique stitches - received the name according to the technique of their execution.

More detailed implementation techniques can be found on YouTube videos. By the way, all these seams went to school!

If you want to get an even and neat seam, then sew a line at a distance at the edge comparable to the width of the manual stitch. This will ease the tension, the fabric will not wrinkle. Also, this line will be a guide for getting even stitches. After finishing work, the machine seam is easy to remove.

Of course, this technique of processing the edge from shedding will take much longer than that made on the machine. However, carried away, you can not notice the time spent and get a good result.

Crochet the hook

The hook can also be an assistant in the processing of the edge of the product, knitted with your own hands. It is easy and short to complete the “Eyelet to Eyelet” strapping. The average duration of work is 30-60 minutes; it all depends on the skills and experience of the craftswoman. Weaving requires skills of crocheting columns, as well as primitive air loops. The execution technique is as follows:

  1. Make one air loop for lifting, and then knit a single crochet.
  2. Sew another air loop.
  3. Front loops; enter the hook under the first and third. These loops have their own names. The first is the “cap” of the column, the second is its vertical part. In the photo the described loops are marked.
  4. The loops remain on the hook; it is itself inserted into the product into the next loop.
  5. Pull the thread through the fabric and two loops on the hook.
  6. Knit a single crochet, again make an additional air loop.
  7. Re-insert the hook into the canvas, knit as a single crochet.
  8. Make an air loop.
  9. Repeat the above items until the end of the product.

The result is volumetric weaving. You can watch the training on YouTube videos. Performing it is quite easy if you show your best qualities.

NOTE! This method can only be applied to knitwear.

We use adhesive tape

This method is also often used to process edges. Before applying adhesive tape, align the edges of the product. Apply adhesive tape to the canvas, pressing it with your fingers. So you can check that the edges of the product do not crumble.

An alternative to adhesive tape is a special adhesive.

As you can see, there are a lot of ways to process edges without the help of an overlock. Each of them is simple, but also requires ingenuity and patience. We wish you success!