Gadgets

TOYOTA 3X4 Thread Overlock Machine

This is such a cool one! :)

Some background first! A Serger (or Overlock Machine, if you are anywhere other than the US) is a specialized sewing machine that uses multiple threads to complete an "overlock stitch". This particular model below has 4 needles (so 4 threads), but there are sergers that use more! The overlock stitch is sewn over the edge of fabric for hemming, edging, or seaming. It's a "finishing stich" that you will find on most commercially made clothing. A Serger cuts the edge of the fabric as it sews, which gives a very clean finish. Sergers are especially useful for stretchy fabrics because they can create seams that stretch with the fabric without breaking the thread.

Sergers are very expensive! I want to eventually upgrade my normal sewing machine (Singer 4432 Heavy Duty), so I started looking at older sergers I could do some work on. I found one of these Toyota Overlock Machines on Facebook Marketplace, which prompted me to look up the history of Toyota Industries, the industrialization of textiles, and the automatic loom. If that sounds as interesting to you as it was for me, use the links below as a starting place!

Toyota Industries

Textile Manufacture during the British Industrial Revolution

There were a couple of these old Toyota overlock machines online. I managed to find one on Facebook Marketplace in Wisconsin for $40. It didn't have a power cord, so the seller couldn't confirm it's condition. With the help of the Youtube Video below, I got the serger working faster than I expected! I was able to order a new cord, lots of thread, and some more needles.

Isn't it sick?! After cleaning it up, threading it, and messing with the tension, I was on my way. It is definitely a learning curve, but I was excited to use it for my upcoming Apron Dress project, and for clothing alterations.

Below is a closeup of the needles. You will notice 2 vertical needles where you would normally find one on a regular sewing machine. There are also 2 horizontal needles, with orange and purple threads. The scissor mechanism is not visible but you get the idea or have stopped reading by now.