Workshops Know Your Overlocker

Know Your Overlocker

Get to know your overlocker properly and discover how to use it to its full potential. This practical, confidence‑building workshop will transform your sewing and help you finally understand your machine instead of fearing it.

Overlockers are powerful tools — they stitch, trim and neaten seams in one operation, create rolled hems, finish jersey garments beautifully and add decorative effects to clothing and home furnishings. Yet many owners only use them for edge‑finishing because threading and tension feel overwhelming.

This friendly, hands‑on workshop will change that. You’ll learn exactly how your overlocker works, how to adjust it for different fabrics, and how to achieve professional results at home. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to get more from their machine, whether you’re a complete beginner or you’ve been avoiding re‑threading it for years.

What You’ll Learn at ‘Know Your Overlocker’

Through clear demonstrations and guided practice, you’ll learn how to:

• identify all the key parts and what they do
• thread your overlocker confidently (loopers and needles)
• set and adjust tension for perfect stitch quality
• sew woven and knitted fabrics
• use 2‑, 3‑ and 4‑thread stitches for different applications
• create flatlock seams and blind hems
• sew rolled hems for scarves, evening wear and lightweight fabrics
• add decorative elements to garments
• troubleshoot skipped stitches, thread breaks and fabric puckering

These skills will help you sew jersey, activewear, children’s clothes and home décor projects with ease.

Is This Course for You?

This workshop is perfect if:

• your overlocker is still in the box
• you struggle to thread it or avoid changing the threads
• you’re unsure how to get the correct tension
• you want to use your overlocker for more than just neatening edges
• you want to sew stretch fabrics neatly and confidently

If you’re ready to stop feeling intimidated and start using your machine properly, this class is for you.

What Students Say

“Obliterate Overlocker Overwhelm! Jen is an excellent and patient teacher… I never once felt rushed and she genuinely enjoys helping even the most nervous students learn. Don’t be afraid, fellow procrastinators — sign up for the class you’ve been putting off. You won’t regret it!” — G. (May 2025)

Superb class! I recently purchased an overlocker and had managed to thread it myself but wanted tuition in order to use it confidently. Jen provided exactly that – the class was extremely informative and full of useful tips. Jen is a patient and helpful tutor and I now have the knowledge and skills to use my overlocker with confidence. I highly recommend this class. – M. (June 2026)

Course Arrangements

Please bring your own 4‑thread overlocker, including:

• power cable and foot control
• instruction manual
• spare needles
• long‑nosed tweezers
• small screwdriver or Allen key for needle changes

Also bring:

• 4 reels of thread in different colours
• fabric shears
• notebook and pen
• pre‑cut fabric samples (pairs approx. 3″ × 8″ / 8cm × 20cm):

• • midweight cotton (calico, sheeting, curtain lining)
  • heavier cotton (sateen curtain fabric)
  • jersey knit (old T‑shirt)
  • silky polyester (old scarf or blouse)

You’ll need at least 30 pairs of fabric pieces.

Level: Improvers — you should already be confident using a sewing machine and have basic dressmaking experience.

Why Learn at Artisan Stitch?

Artisan Stitch is Edinburgh’s award‑winning sewing studio, recognised for:

• Best Sewing Classes in Edinburgh
• Outstanding Customer Experience
• Excellence in Creative Education

You’ll learn in a bright, fully equipped studio at St Margaret’s House with expert, patient tuition and small class sizes.

Continue Your Sewing Journey

If you’d like to explore garment construction, sustainability or creative techniques, you may enjoy the Upcycled Style workshop — a great next step after mastering your overlocker. Or try our Dressmaking courses to whizz up those jersey-knit garments.

Important

Tickets are non‑refundable. Please read the T&Cs before booking.

 Still looking to buy your overlocker?

Read my review of the Juki MO644D overlocker

I highly recommend Pembertons Sewing Machine Centre for trusted advice to find the best model for your needs and budget.

Must be booked in advance here: 

Enquiries to jen@artisanstitch.co.uk

 

 

Location details

St. Margaret’s House – Sixth Floor
St. Margaret’s House, 151 London Road
Edinburgh EH7 6AE

How to find St Margaret’s House

Directions