A coverstitch sewing machine is a specialty sewing machine that is mainly used to give sewing projects a professional look, as well as add overall strength and elasticity to the stitches themselves.
Coverstitch sewing machines differ from standard sewing machines in that they are used primarily in addition to standard sewing machines to add decorative detailing and advanced finishing features such as advanced hem work and lace appliques.
Many avid or professional sewers working in a home-based environment will own both a standard sewing machine and a coverstitch machine. They use the standard machine to form the basic stitchwork associated with their current project and then switch to the coverstitch machine to add the finishing touches and detailed designs to their project.
Both a standard and coverstitch machine are their own entity and neither is recommended for the replacement of the other. Coverstitch machines cannot perform the same primary functions as a standard machine and a standard machine cannot apply the exquisite detailing and expert finishing functions that the coverstitch machine can.
Owning both types of sewing machines is definitely a match made in heaven. However, before you decide to take the plunge into investing in your first coverstitch machines, there are several important things to consider.
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We have researched all of the most important qualities to look for when buying a new coverstitch machine and have compiled a list of all of the best and newest models of 2021 so that you can shop for your best coverstitch machine with confidence and authority.
Carry on reading about what to look for when buying a coverstitch machine or jump straight to our #1 pick on Amazon here!
What Should I Look For When Buying a Coverstitch Machine?
Coverstitch machines are a very useful addition to any avid sewer’s craft room. However, these types of machines, due to their specialty design capabilities and unique functions, tend to be priced at quite an expensive rate.
This makes it extremely important to go into the buying process with confidence in knowing exactly what you are looking for so that you can walk away with the best coverstitch machine for your hard-earned dollar.
Here we have created a buying guide that includes a list of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a new coverstitch machine. When you have narrowed down your search to the following four factors, you will find yourself in a much more positively assured state before you make your purchase, which is always a good feeling.
Thread Count
A coverstitch machine’s thread count refers to the amount of thread that it can hold and manipulate on each occasion it is used. This is, by far, one of the most important features to consider when buying a coverstitch machine, because this fact will immediately impact the overall level of quality and strength in the pieces your machine produces.
Typical coverstitch machines come equipped to maintain 3 threads at one time with 1 looper thread attached to it as well. The thread count of your machine directly impacts the strength and elasticity of the stitches you are applying to your projects.
Before you purchase your cover stitch machine, it is important to determine your main goal for this sewing machine and what projects you are looking to produce with it. Each coverstitch machine is a bit different and will work to benefit a specific type of sewing, so it is imperative to understand your unique goals for your machine before you make a purchase.
Price
Coverstitch machine pricing can vary widely across the entire board. The price of coverstitch sewing machines tends to relate to the special features and abilities that the machine can perform.
If your budget can allow it, it is recommended that sewers purchase the most expensive machine they can afford. This is simply because, especially with coverstitch models, the more you are willing to spend on a machine, the greater level of quality and the higher number of unique functions it will be able to perform.
While it may be tempting to settle for one of those lower-priced models, many sewers often find that after just a few months of frequent use, these models become tired and worn out, leading you to then have to purchase another one before a year is even up.
High-priced models tend to be more streamlined in size and easier for sewers to manipulate and transport, as opposed to their bulkier, less expensive counterparts.
Less expensive models also do not include nearly the incredible amount of special functions that a higher-priced model can perform. Lower-priced models also tend to have poor stitch quality which can indefinitely affect the quality and longevity of the projects you are creating.
Features
Coverstitch machines come equipped with a wide variety of different features and capabilities. Generally, there tend to be four main types of coverstitch machines that each include their own unique features that benefit different types of sewers.
First, sewers can choose between 2 or 3-needle coverstitch machine models. The impact of either of these machines directly correlates with your unique goals for your sewing machine as each one will be better than the other for a primary purpose.
For example, the 2-needle model is used mainly for simpler sewing projects while the 3-needle model is equipped to be able to handle far more intricate stitching and adds its own decorative flair to pieces.
There are also two other common variations found among coverstitch machines, and those tend to include coverstitch/serger combination machines and top-cover machines. Each of these coverstitch machine variations come equipped with their own unique features.
For example, the coverstitch/serger combination model would suit a sewer looking for both the benefits of a serger and coverstitch machine in one. The only downside is that it can be tedious for the sewer to frequently switch the machine between coverstitch and serger functions.
Another common variation of the coverstitch machine is a top cover model which is known for its equally well-performing front and reverse stitching functions as well as its decorative capabilities.
There really is a coverstitch machine out there for any type of sewer. This most important factor to consider when buying a new coverstitch machine is for you to simply evaluate what you are going to be using your coverstitch for exactly, so that you can choose the model with the best functions suited to your sewing goals and aspirations.
Warranty
Finally, one of the most important details to consider when choosing a new coverstitch machine is to research the different warranty options that are available to the various brands and models that are available on the market today.
Because of the relatively large investment that coverstitch machines require, almost all of them tend to include a warranty of some sort. However, you need to identify a coverstitch machine that includes a warranty that you are comfortable with.
It is important to make sure that your investment is protected against any unforeseen malfunction or damage. Find a plan that will cover your new machine at least up to one year of standard use as this is the period of time in which manufacturer-related issues tend to most often arise.
Here’s How We’ve Determined the Best Coverstitch Machine
To positively assist you in your coverstitch machine buying journey, we have put together a list of our top brand and model choices according to different features and criteria that will be explained in the list below.
To compile this list and determine which models are the best for several different purposes, we diligently compared each coverstitch machine model and brand to the four most important features we have described above.
We also took a closer look at product reviews placed by customers from all different areas of the sewing world, from professionals to amateurs.
We hope that this comprehensive list can be a valuable asset to you as you embark upon your coverstitch buying adventure.
#1: Best Value (All-Purpose) – Singer Professional 5 14T968DC
Get the Singer Professional 5 14T968DC at Amazon
After reviewing a large variety of professional-grade, coverstitch sewing machines we have determined that the Singer Professional 5 14T968DC is the top choice for all-purpose use performed by both enthusiasts and professionals alike.
The Singer Professional is an expertly crafted and reliable machine that is manufactured by one of the world’s largest selling and most highly reviewed manufacturers – Singer. Singer is known for developing top-of-the-line sewing machines both for professional use and home-based use.
This particular model is perfect for either role. It is expertly designed and incredibly reliable making it a must-have for any business or crafting room.
The Singer Professional coverstitch machine is a 3-needle model that can accommodate 5 threads at a time. With color-coded threading, over a dozen built-in stitching patterns, and its self-adjusting tension technology, this coverstitch machine produces impeccably perfect stitches in record time.
The Singer Professional coverstitch machines hold one of the fastest stitch per minute (spm) records of any coverstitch model on the market today. This sewing machine can rapidly pump out perfect stitches at a rate of 1,300 stitches per minute making it one of the fastest models you can find.
This machine is designed with self-adjusting tension technology which allows the machine to be able to sense a change in tension and readjust itself automatically to accommodate for that tension change perfectly. This saves the sewer time and energy in having to manually adjust tension for each inevitable change that occurs throughout the sewing process.
The Singer Professional is priced at a fairly even price point for the coverstitch machine market. It also comes with an extensive warranty package which gives buyers the peace of mind they deserve when making this significant purchase.
The warranty package associated with the Singer Professional includes a 90-day full, money-back guarantee. So, within this 90-day period, if anything were to happen to your sewing machine you could return it for a full refund.
This machine also includes a 25-year mechanical warranty and a 2-year warranty on parts. Singer is one the most reputable sewing machine manufacturers on the market today and they very consistently produce high-quality and dependable machines. They are confident in the construction of their machines and have a warranty that proves that.
The only complaint that reviewers tended to have about this particular model of coverstitch machine is that it can be difficult to thread at times. Threading is often the most time-consuming and frustrating part of the sewing process, so finding a machine that easily threads is important. However, if you are a seasoned sewer and have the knowledge and practice to thread different machines, the Singer Professional is unlikely to be a problem for you.
#2:Best Professional-Grade – Juki MCS 1500
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The Juki MCS 1500 is our choice for the best professional-grade coverstitch sewing machine because it is known for its incredible strength and reliability in the professional sewing world. This machine can easily take on the rigorous use and heavy-duty performance standards that are often associated with business-grade sewing machines.
The Juki MCS 1500 is sure to impress and will prove itself to be a great investment to your business with its proven longevity and dependability. Learn more about why the Juki MCS 1500 got our vote below.
Reason #1 – Speed
All professional sewers know that, to have a successful business in the textile industry, speed is a highly contributing factor to success. Orders can often come in by the dozens, and you need a set of machines that can quickly and successfully produce products at ground-breaking speed and perfection.
The Juki MCS 1500 is known for exactly that! With an incredible speed of 1,350 stitches per minute, this coverstitch machine can quickly turn around even the most intricate projects. Just a little over the speed of the Singer Professional, the Juki is a definite favorite among professional users and reviewers. It is known for its absolute perfection in producing high-quality finishes and gorgeous detailing all at a record pace.
Reason #2 – Versatility
Owning the Juki MCS 1500 can almost feel like having two separate sewing machines that are built into one. This machine is so versatile and includes several adjustable features that make it the perfect machine for just about any project.
With the Juki MCS, you no longer have to deal with the concern and hassle of transitioning projects between various machines for different uses. The Juki can easily adjust to tension changes and varying degrees of fabric thickness and can produce a product with beautiful design and intricate detailing.
One of the main adjustable features of the Juki is its adjustable presser foot pressure. This adjustable presser foot can easily lift to multiple different positions, even up to 10mm. This gives great versatility to the sewer under which types of fabric this machine can work with. The Juki MCS 1500 can maintain considerable fabric thickness changes with perfection and ease.
Another versatile feature found on this model is its adjustable differential feed which gives the sewer great command over the edge work on their pieces so that they can consistently produce a finished piece that matches their exact specifications.
Additionally, the Juki MCS 1500 cover also includes a built-in extension table which can be extremely useful to professional sewers working on larger projects. This extensive table will give the sewer more surface area to manipulate the fabric and easily feed it through the machine. The table also comes fully equipped with seam guidelines so that the sewer can maintain a seamless (no pun intended) sewing accuracy for every project.
When looking for adjustable features that can be used to your advantage as a sewer, the Juki MCS definitely cannot be beaten. While the Singer Professional may have the ability to hold more thread than this 4-thread model, the Singer will not have the same versatility factor as the Juki MCS.
Reason #3 – User-Friendly
Most likely one of the best features of the Juki MCS is the fact that it is very user-friendly which is such a great asset when it comes to sewing machines, especially for professionals. Professional sewers want a machine that is easy to set up and understand. They don’t want to waste time is user manuals or tutorial videos.
The Juki MCS is very user-friendly and allows sewers to get started on their projects in no time at all. With the machine’s superior looper threading system, threading is streamlined and very easy to complete. This is where our #1 pick differs greatly in that the Singer Professional was known for having threading issues. This MCS 1500 cover stitch can be the best friend to sewers with threading anxiety.
There are just so many excellent features that the Juki MCS includes. I could seriously write an entire article about this model itself. However, the most important features have been explained above.
This model is more expensive than the Singer Professional, however, for a professional business looking for speed, versatility, and dependability, that will be a small price to pay. The Juki MSC also comes with a 5-year limited warranty which allows buyers great peace of mind in their investment with this product.
#3: Best Design – Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX
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The Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX is a 3-needle, 4-thread coverstitch machine with impeccable performance, adjustability, and professional-grade features.
The Janome Cover Pro 1000CPX coverstitch machine includes a unique blend of features found both in professional-style machines and home-based machines which makes this particular model an excellent choice for home-based crafters and small businesses.
The Cover Pro 1000CPX is significantly larger than our first two choices which is where its professional-style features are best shown. This machine will be able to easily accommodate large cuts of fabric and serve for several different types of projects.
Fitted with adjustable foot pressure, a uniquely long arm, and a chain-stitch machine option, the CoverPro 1000CPX shows excellent reliability and professional-grade results.
Janome has become one of the industry’s most premier leaders in design innovation and technology in their sewing machines. The CoverPro 1000cpx includes one of their latest innovations called the seam tightening system that can instantly detect loose seams and tighten them automatically which gives the sewer a perfect stitch every single time.
The machine’s arm is also made to be easily manipulated and configured by the sewer so that exact stitch placement and consistency are perfectly gauged.
One important thing to consider about this particular model is that it will have a stitching speed that is quite a bit slower than our other two models featured above. The Janome can produce about 1,000 stitches per minute, making it perfectly designed for a home-based environment, however, it may not be able to match the time constraints of a professional business as well as the other models we have mentioned.
Overall reviews of the Janome Coverpro 1000cpx were very positive. Users praised the machine’s color-coded threading guide and boasted of its easy threading capabilities.
Potential buyers need to be aware of the fact that several product reviews spoke of the machine’s tendency to skip stitches on a fairly regular basis. Please keep this in mind when you are looking to purchase. However, be assured that this machine comes with an excellent warranty package that includes a 25-year mechanical warranty, a 2-year electrical warranty, and a 1-year labor warranty which would allow this issue to hopefully get resolved.
#4: Best Compact Machine – Bernette B42
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The Bernette B42 is our first choice pick for sewer’s looking for a machine that will take up less space in their working area, yet still perform at a high level when it comes to speed and stitch quality.
This coverstitch machine’s cost sits on the lower end of the typical $500-$1,000 selling range for these types of machines.
The Bernette B42 is a 3-needle, 4-thread basic coverstitch machine. It can perform all coverstitch functions with perfection and ease as well as some more complicated, professional-grade functions making it a very versatile machine for both professional and home-based sewers.
Don’t let the small, compact design of this coverstitch machine fool you. This machine can certainly pack a punch when it comes to speed, reliability, and design. With a 1,300 spm rating, this small yet mighty machine is right up there in speed with our first two model choices.
It is quite rare to find a machine that is both compact in size but fast in stitch production, so this is definitely an asset when you are considering the Bernette B42.
The B42 comes equipped with a color-coded threading system as well as a specialized loop threading system that makes threading very straightforward and user-friendly for the sewer.
It also includes several unique features which I like to call amenities because they have been designed specifically with the sewer’s comfort and ease of use in mind. Even with the small stature of this machine as a whole, it includes a significantly large working space which allows for extra working room for the sewer. The 87mm working base of this machine is larger than that of our other, more expensive models mentioned above.
Another unique feature of the Bernette B42 is its chain-stitch option and LED light. This machine can seamlessly switch between stitches, including chain-stitch which allows for excellent versatility for the sewer. It also includes an LED light that projects onto the working space of the machine which gives sewers a higher degree of accuracy in their work.
An area in which the Bernette B42 lacks in comparison to our other three choices mentioned above is in the status of its warranty. Most likely due to the decrease in the cost of this model, the warranty that it comes with is nowhere near as generous as our other three choices. This model only offers a 5-year mechanical warranty and a 2-year electric warranty. So, keep in mind, when you are looking to purchase that even those this machine is less expensive, its warranty is not as inclusive as that of the more expensive models.
#5: Best Low Cost – Brother 2340CV
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The Brother 2340CV is a 2-needle, 4-thread coverstitch sewing machine that has received our top choice for the best low-cost coverstitch machine option on the market.
With a speed of 1100 spm, the Brother 2340CV still has excellent speed despite its lower cost. While it may not have the same speed capabilities as our #1 and #2 options it still is an excellent contender for speed and efficiency making it ideal for both professional and home-based work settings.
Equipped with color-coded threading for easy threading capabilities, this machine is very user-friendly and performs at a level just about as high as our more expensive models.
Customers’ favorite feature found on the Brother 2340CS is the advanced serger that is built into the machine itself. This serger allows the sewer to use a wider range of fabrics based upon thickness and texture. It also includes a wide range of specialty cover stitches that can easily be applied to previously stitched fabrics.
The Brother 2340CV also included several adjustable features including adjustable dials that allow the sewer to change the stitch length and speed of stitching based upon their specific preferences for certain projects.
Probably the best feature of the Brother 2340CV, besides its attractive price tag, is the warranty package that this machine includes. This coverstitch machine includes a 25-year limited warranty which is on the top end of warranties when it comes to sewing machines. It is important, however, for buyers to carefully review the warranty itself as it does have some basic limitations.
Overall, the Brother 2340CV is an excellent, lower-priced option for both professional and home-based sewers. One important thing to note, however, is that several users complained of frequent stitch skipping with extended use. This is definitely something to look out for when using this particular model.
Budget Options
The coverstitch sewing machine price range tends to be very much on the high-end, and this is mainly because this type of sewing machine is most often used in professional settings by business owners that have the funds to promote their business through this machine.
However, for the crafter or home-based sewer who sews more for pleasure and their own family, one of the high-priced models may just not be in the budget.
While the price range for coverstitch machines tends to stay pretty steady in the $500-$1,000 range, there are several options on the lower end of this range that are very dependable and would make an excellent addition to any home-based crafting room or family sewing collection.
#1 Best Budget – Janome Cover Pro 900CPX
Our first budget choice is the Janome Cover Pro 900CPX. This machine is very similar to our #3 choice listed above. It is designed by the same company and is relatively the same in almost every way. The greatest difference lies in the machine’s overall size.
The Cover Pro 900CPX is a smaller, more compact version of the 1000CPX. This makes the 900CPX model more portable making it a great choice for the home-based sewer. It can be easily stored and transported from room to room.
The Janome Cover Pro 900CPX has a 1-needle, 2-thread chain stitch capability and a 2-needle, 3-thread cover stitch capability. While it is not able to accommodate nearly as many stitches as our #1 and #2 choices, it is a great option for crafters not looking to use this machine professionally.
The Cover Pro 900CPX stitches at an even rate of 1,000 spm which is an excellent range for this machine’s size and price tag. Despite its size, it also has a relatively large working space to accommodate larger projects.
The only complaint that reviewers tended to have with this model is its difficulty in threading. This is likely due to the reduced cost of this model. However, for an experienced sewer, threading shouldn’t be too much of an issue.
#2 Best Budget – Juki MO-623
The Juki MO-623 is the smaller and less expensive version of our #2 choice mentioned above. This machine is perfect for the beginner sewer or enthusiastic looking for a machine that can accommodate several large projects.
With its 1-needle, 3-thread design it is perfectly suited for the avid crafter or home-based sewer. Craft sewers that sew primarily for pleasure often do not need the numerous needle and thread capabilities that the more expensive models have. So, going with a machine option that has a lesser needle count and thread count can be a great money-saver that doesn’t impact overall quality.
The Juki MO-623 may be small but it sure is powerful! With its 1,500 stitches per minute capability, this machine can produce beautifully intricate stitching in no time.
This particular coverstitch machine also includes a unique feature rolling hem feature that is built into the machine itself. This frees sewers from the tedious task of having to attach and detached the rolling hem feature to the machine thus saving time and energy in the process.
The Juki MO-623 can also switch capabilities between regular sewing, cover stitching, and other specialty capabilities which makes it an excellent all-purpose sewing machine for the home.
While this model may not have the same speed and power as that of our higher-end models, it is certainly a great and very affordable choice for any home-based sewer.
#3 Best Budget – Brother CV3440
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Do you do most of your sewing in a small workspace? Are you then looking for a machine that is compact in size, but also is strong enough to accommodate larger projects? If so, the Brother CV 3440 may just the best coverstitch machine for you.
This 3-needle, 4-thread machine gets the job done expertly and efficiently for you with several different features such as an expansive workspace to accommodate larger pieces of fabric and a free arm to allow for easier fabric maneuvering.
The Brother CV3440 also includes a LED light that illuminates your workspace safely by not adding the extra heat that a regular bulb would. A special tension release lever that is built into the presser foot makes for a seamless transition and even greater efficiency.
This particular model is a great machine for beginner sewers looking to learn and expand their craft with a coverstitch machine while not breaking their budget.
Overall, the Brother CV3440 is a high-quality and dependable sewing machine with several capabilities that compare to that of the higher-end models. However, this particular model will not contain the same tension awareness that the higher-priced models have and are prone to tension issues altogether.
Is a Coverstitch Machine Worth the Money?
For a professional or business-based sewer, the answer would a resounding yes! A coverstitch machine is fitting with so many different capabilities and functions that a regular machine just cannot do. With a coverstitch machine, the sewer can produce pieces with unmatched efficiency and quality.
For intricate detailing and finishing work, a coverstitch machine is worth its price tag given the impeccably perfect and consistent stitchwork it produces. Coverstitch machines also give pieces an elegantly professional look that is very difficult to achieve with a standard machine. So, for professional sewers wanted to maintain a very professional style in their work, a coverstitch machine is a must.
However, for craft sewers, while a coverstitch machine is certainly not necessary, it is a wonderful and very useful addition if you have the budget to accommodate it. For most crafting projects, a standard sewing machine will have the exact features you need.
What Can I Do with a Coverstitch Machine?
Coverstitch machines are most well known for their beautiful, edge stitching abilities. They produce that signature, professional stitch that is often seen on the hems of professionally sewn pieces.
The stitch that a coverstitich machine produces allows for something that a regular stitch cannot maintain which is covering fabric edges while maintaining the fabric’s elasticity. This makes a coverstitch machine an excellent choice for those that work primarily on knit fabrics and is looking to produce clothing worn by children or in exercise activities in which stretchability is very important.
Coverstitch machines also combine the use of several needles and several lines of thread to create stronger and more elastic stitches that will be much more durable against the wear and tear of everyday life and the laundry.
Can My Serger Do a Coverstitch?
In many cases, yes! If your serger machine includes a coverstitch option, all that you have to do is switch on the coverstitch function and begin sewing to create that elegant, professional-looking stitch.
However, if your serger machine does not have this function, it will definitely be more difficult, but not impossible, to accomplish. It entails a very long process of manually inserting and removing the thread from the needle of your serger and precisely positioning the fabric to achieve that coverstitch look.
While the process is not impossible, it will definitely be very time-consuming for the sewer. So, if you are currently searching for a new serger machine, look for a machine with coverstitch capabilities.
>> Related: Best Serger Machines
Verdict: Your Best Coverstitch Machine
Coverstitch sewing machines have so many different uses for both the professional and home-based sewer and we have identified a wide variety of machines that, we hope have helped you in your purchasing decision and journey. Below you will find a summary of our overall findings.
If you want the best value for your money, pick the Singer Professional 14T968DC.
If you need a particularly professional-grade machine, pick the Juki MCS 1500.
If you want to keep the spend under $500, pick the Janome CoverPro 900CPX, or any of our best budget options.
Our best piece of advice to give you when you are researching and shopping for the best coverstitch sewing machine is to first identify your exact goals for your new machine. Write out the specific projects you want to use your machine for and all of the different features of the machine that hold the most importance to you. This will greatly help you to streamline your choices and lead you to the exact machine that is perfect for you.
After you have identified your goals for your machine and have found the one that best suits your needs and desires, you are sure to have many years of successful and happy sewing!
