Replies

1. 
   marymary | Sep 20, 2007 05:10pm | #1

   A coverstitch is the kind of stitch you see on the hem of your tee shirt.  On the right side it looks like two rows of straight stitching.  On the wrong side it will look sort of like a bunch of SSS.  This stitch can be produced from a cover stitch only machine or a serger that has a cover stitch.  Not all sergers do.

   A coverlock stitch is produced by a serger.  It looks like a ladder on one side and similar to the SSS on the other.  It is usually used to join flat seams.

   Many people confuse the two terms, but they are separate stitches.  Either can be used for decoration.

1. 
   Kathee | Sep 21, 2007 01:21am | #3

   Thank you, Mary. I didn't know that. I always wondered how they got that double line of stitching on t-shirts. I didn't know it was a special machine.  Thanks again for the information. I love this web site. I think I will become a regular! :)

2. 
   Gloriasews | Sep 21, 2007 01:10am | #2

   If you don't have a serger, you can still get the same effect as Kathee is mentioning by using a double needle (if you have a zigzag machine - but don't put it in zigzag mode, or you'll break the needles.  You need the zigzag throatplate for this).  I use it all the time for T-shirt hems, etc. when I want the double stitching, as I don't have a serger.

   Gloria

1. 
   Kathee | Sep 21, 2007 01:22am | #4

   Thank you, Gloria. I will definitely try that. I don't know why I never thought of that before.

1. 
   marymary | Sep 21, 2007 02:40am | #5

   If you use your sewing machine and a double needle to create the coverstitch look, and are having trouble with the fabric tunneling use a piece of washable stabilizer.

   You might also see a reference to overlock.  It means the same thing as coverlock.

3. 
   stitchagain | Sep 22, 2007 10:19pm | #6

   I just wanted to add that not all sergers have coverstitches and not all serged stitches stretch so well as a coverstitch, which makes it a great hem for T-shirts.

   I have used twin needles lots and sometimes the stretch stich on my sewing machine but I still longing look at the coverstitch for doing what it does.