Overlocker...

Hi all, I think I really want to buy an overlocker, but I have no idea what to get. If anyone can help with brands and models that would be great. Also, where is the best place to buy an overlocker from? I've seen them in places like Spotlight, but I get the feeling they would be more expensive there, but maybe not if they buy in bulk *shrugs*.

I'm just wanting it to sew some clothing and stuff for the family, so don't have any plans to do anything commercial. But having said that, I still want something fairly decent :)

I have the Janome 644D. Also have a standard Janome sewing machine. Mine were bought from Statewide Sewing Centres. It was good as they had lessons, plus I could walk in at any time and just say what machine I had and they knew exactly what to supply me with.

It is coming up to Mothers day, so it is a good time to keep an eye out for specials ;)

i have a pfaff overlocker and its fantastic! my mum bought it second hand 10 years ago, now i have it and its still going strong, never had any problems or anything. i would steer clear of the cheep ones simply cos they arent as well made and dont last as well. i would also buy from a sewing shop simply cos the aftermarket service is fantastic and many offer free lessons to learn how to use the new machine. many also stock 2nd hand reconditioned machines that are heaps cheaper than new but are still in perfect condition.

I have a brother - I forget the model but I have seen if for sale at spotlight. It is great and simple to use.

I have a 644D too, great machine, you have to spend WAAAAY more to get better apparently.

ETA: Christmas and Mothers day are the 2 best itmes of the year to buy a sewing machine, you should easily get a great price or some extras in the lead up to Mothers day, all the sewing centres will have promos

Get a four thread overlooked (as opposed to three thread) because it sews the seam and does the edges for you.

I have a brother one which is great even after ten years

i have a friend that does a lot of sewing - when i asked her this question a couple of weeks ago, she was all for brother brand. she has had others and always goes back.

she said something about the D at the end of the model number meaning it's an easier model to use or something (she's not online at the moment so i can't ask her!)

I have an Aldi one! It's great for day to day sewing, is a 4 thread, easy to thread and works a treat! Was around $199 and is the Lumina brand - not sure if they have them all the time but even my mum who was a professional seamstress loves it and thinks it's great value for a non-industrial OL! Good luck!

Thanks everyone! I'm looking into all the suggestions at the moment.

The ladies that have the Jenome 644D, do you know how much they usually cost? I've found a site that are selling them for $500 which is supposedly discounted by $300, but not sure if you can just get them that price everywhere anyway.

I might head down to a sewing shop and spotlight (good excuse to look at fabric too hehehe) this week while hubby is still home with us :)