Editing Overlock (section)

{{short description|Multi-thread stitch produced in a single production step with an overlock sewing machine}}
{{More citations needed|date=March 2008}}

[[Image:Pearl Stich Sample.jpg|thumb|right|The purl stitch.]]

An '''overlock''' is a kind of [[Stitch (textile arts)|stitch]] that [[sewing|sews]] over the edge of one or two pieces of [[cloth]] for edging, [[hem]]ming, or [[Seam (sewing)|seaming]]. Usually an overlock [[sewing machine]] will cut the edges of the cloth as they are fed through (such machines being called '''sergers''' in North America), though some are made without cutters. The inclusion of automated cutters allows overlock machines to create finished seams easily and quickly. An overlock sewing machine differs from a [[lockstitch]] sewing machine in that it uses loopers fed by multiple thread cones rather than a bobbin. Loopers serve to create thread loops that pass from the [[Sewing needle|needle]] thread to the edges of the fabric so that the edges of the fabric are contained within the seam.

Overlock sewing machines usually run at high speeds, from 1000 to 9000 rpm, and most are used in industry for edging, hemming and seaming a variety of fabrics and products. Overlock stitches are extremely versatile, as they can be used for decoration, reinforcement, or construction.

Overlocking is also referred to as "overedging", "merrowing", or "serging". Though "serging" technically refers to overlocking with cutters, in practice the four terms are used interchangeably.

[[Image:Singer 14U344B overlock sewing machine.JPG|thumb|right|An overlock machine.]]