Posted by
mary11
17 yrs ago
I like to buy a sewing machine for elastic materials, like swimwear and delicate T-Shirts. I think these machines cut as well the material and then leave the edges like the T-Shirts from the shop are cut.
Does anyone know how they are called and where I can buy one?
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Hi mary11,
It is called an overlocker. Make sure you get the right type. You will need a 4 thread overlocker or a 5 thread. They make all sorts of them for domestic use. Really compare models and brands.
When sewing any stretch fabrics, the most important thing is the needle. I needs to slip through the knit and not cut through it. it needs to have a ball point tip.
To be honest, you can still use a regular machine to sew any knit wear like swim wear. I had to make leotards for an entire dancing school x 4 - 5 routines each. I used a regular machine (no computerized gizmo's) and it worked out really well.
Fabulous tools are great but learning/using particular techniques for your project is what will make a difference.
Good luck.
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Thank you. One more question. Do you use elastic thread for Tshirts or could you still work with cotton.
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You work with cotton still. It is the type of stitch that will allow for the give/stretch.
On an overlocker, however, you can buy spools that have the thread spun differently. If you look inside some of your T/shirts (not all) you can notice some of the overlocking is "fluffy" - it is not so tightly wound. This too allows for give/stretch but it is not stretch thread itself.
I am unsure as to how it will be labeled & sold domestically in HK. If you do buy an overlocker, you should ask about the different thread options they may sell as well. I can ask a friend where she buys it from for her factory and I will get back to you.
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