The Singer S0230 Serger Overlock is a feature-rich sewing machine with time-saving capabilities and professional results. It is designed to sew a seam and seam finish simultaneously while trimming the excess seam allowance, replicating the neat seams seen in store-bought garments. With the ability to use 2, 3, or 4 threads for various stitch combinations, this serger provides versatility for different sewing projects.
The “RDCarTech” editors make independent choices and evaluate products on their own. If you make purchases through affiliate links, we may receive commissions that assist in funding our testing efforts.
Different types ensure the perfect stitch no matter what project: blind hems, rolled hems, flat locking, finishing raw edges, and sewing seams.
Pros:
- Time-saving Efficiency: The S0230 serger’s ability to sew and finish seams in one pass saves valuable time during sewing projects, making it an ideal choice for those seeking efficiency.
- Versatility with Stitch Combinations: The option to use 2, 3, or 4 threads allows for a wide range of stitch combinations, making it suitable for different fabric types and sewing techniques.
- Differential Feed for Smooth Seams: The differential feed feature ensures smooth stitching even on super stretchy fabrics, preventing wavy distortion. It also works well with sheers, avoiding puckering on lightweight or silky materials.
- Built-in Free Arm: The built-in free arm allows for easy sewing around small sleeves and cuffs, making it a great choice for children’s clothing and other projects requiring precise stitching.
- High-Speed Stitching: The S0230 serger’s high-speed stitching capability, with 1,300 stitches per minute, helps complete projects quickly, enhancing productivity.
- Color-Coded Threading System: The serger is equipped with a color-coded threading system, simplifying the threading process and reducing setup time.
- LED Lighting: The bright and long-lasting LED lighting provides excellent illumination while sewing, ensuring clear visibility of the stitching area.
- Heavy-Duty Metal Frame: The machine’s interior frame is made of durable metal, enhancing the overall sturdiness and longevity of the serger.
- Easy Conversion for Rolled Hem: The serger’s built-in rolled hem feature allows easy conversion by simply sliding a lever, eliminating the need to change the stitch plate.
- Accessories Included: The S0230 serger comes with several accessories, including a general-purpose foot, tweezers, extra needles, cone adapters, spool holders, a screwdriver, and a foot controller, providing added value and convenience to users.
- Positive User Reviews: Many users praise the S0230 serger’s ease of use, especially for beginners. They appreciate its ability to produce professional-looking results and its helpful color-coded threading system.
Cons:
- Manual Confusion: Some users have reported that the instruction manual does not perfectly match the machine, leading to confusion about specific dial settings. This may require experimentation to find the appropriate settings for certain stitches and fabrics.
- Quality Control Concerns: A few users have experienced issues with their sergers, such as broken parts or malfunctioning components. While these instances are not widespread, it highlights the importance of thorough quality control.
Sew perfectly balanced stitches on all fabric types.
Specifications
Built-In Stitches (6)
Choose from a variety of stitches for basic sewing, decorative sewing, and more
Adjustable Stitch Length (+)
Customize the appearance of a stitch by increasing or decreasing the distance between stitches. Use this function for various stitch techniques like applique, basting, and more.
Adjustable Stitch Width (+)
The size of the stitch from left to right is adjustable, to make the stitch sew narrower or wider as desired.
Thread Capability (+)
Choose from seams finishes, hem finishes, and decorative edges thanks to a variety of stitch combinations available.
Color-Coded Threading System (+)
The threading path for each thread is indicated with a specific color to simplify the threading process. Handy reference diagrams are also included right on the machine.
Differential Feed (+)
Controls the ratio of movement between the front and back sections of the feed teeth. Use this to help remove distortion from seams in stretchy fabrics or puckers from seams in lightweight or silky fabrics.
Built-In Rolled Hem (+)
Just slide a lever to easily convert the machine for rolled hem sewing – no need to change the stitch plate
Movable Upper Knife (+)
The upper knife can be engaged to trim excess seam allowance as you sew, or it can be rolled out of the way for special techniques like flat locking or anytime when you don’t want the machine to trim
Heavy Duty Metal Frame (+)
The machine’s interior frame is metal, providing long-lasting durability
High-Speed Stitching (1300/min)
Professional speed for faster results.
Speed Control (Digital)
Set the maximum sewing speed of the machine
LED Lighting (2)
Long-lasting LED lighting provides bright illumination and stays cool to the touch
Extra High Presser Foot Lifter (+)
Presser’s foot has an extra high position available to accommodate thick fabrics.
Machine Size (14 x 11 x 11.5)
Machine Weight (13.5)
Box Size (15 x 13 x 12)
Amps (1)
Watts (120)
Volts (120)
Hz (60)
Warranty (1yr / 25yr)
While testing the Singer S0100 overlock machine, our RD editors discovered that users frequently inquire about the following queries. Here are the answers to them:
Can I use Style 2054-06 needles with this serger for sewing jerseys?
Sergers were made to give you an elastic stitch – I need ballpoint, not regular sharp needles as they are cutting and decreasing the fabric’s durability. I’m sewing elastic knits.
Is it automatic threading?
No, this serger must be threaded manually, but like other Singer brand sergers, does include a color-coded map to follow.
Can this handle heavy fabrics used in authentic period costumes?
The Singer model S0230 Serger can handle 2 layers of medium-weight denim and depending on the weight/thickness of the fabric for authentic costumes with the appropriate needle and machine settings. The Singer model S0230 Serger has the presser foot pressure adjustment feature to adjust the pressure put on the presser foot to suit your fabric. That would likely help unless the fabric is too thick and raises the presser foot too high. You will have to lengthen the stitches and loosen stitches on the overedge dials so that the thread can wrap the edge.
Is there a seam guide on the front cover?
No there is not, hope this helps you, but I have no problem with mine not having a seam guide.
Does this machine do a cover stitch?
The Singer model S0230 serger does not do a cover stitch. We suggest that you look at the Singer Professional 5 model 14T968DC serger as it will do a cover stitch.
INSTRUCTION MANUAL SINGER
In conclusion, the Singer S0230 Serger Overlock is a versatile and efficient machine that offers a wide range of stitch combinations and professional results. Its time-saving features, high-speed stitching, and differential feed make it suitable for various sewing projects. While there have been some minor concerns with the instruction manual and occasional quality control issues, the overall positive user reviews and praise for its ease of use make it a compelling choice for both beginners and experienced sewers.
Here’s a comparison table of the Singer S0230 Serger and the Singer S0100 Serger, along with their respective features and specifications:
| Features | Singer S0230 Serger | Singer S0100 Serger |
|---|---|---|
| Built-In Stitches | 6 stitches | 6 stitches |
| Adjustable Stitch Length | Yes | Yes |
| Adjustable Stitch Width | Yes | Yes |
| Thread Capability | Seams finish, hem finishes, decorative edges | Seams finishes, hem finishes, decorative edges |
| Color-Coded Threading | Yes | Yes |
| Differential Feed | Yes | Yes |
| Built-In Rolled Hem | Yes | Yes |
| Movable Upper Knife | Yes | Yes |
| Heavy-Duty Metal Frame | Yes | Yes |
| High-Speed Stitching | 1300 stitches per minute | 1300 stitches per minute |
| Speed Control (Digital) | Yes | Yes |
| LED Lighting | 2 lights | 2 lights |
| Extra High Presser Foot Lifter | Yes | Yes |
| Machine Size (inches) | 14 x 11 x 11.5 | 14 x 11 x 11.5 |
| Machine Weight (lbs) | 13.5 | 13.5 |
| Box Size (inches) | 15 x 13 x 12 | 15 x 13 x 12 |
| Amps | 1 | 1 |
| Watts | 120 | 120 |
| Volts | 120 | 120 |
| Hz | 60 | 60 |
Let’s compare the warranty conditions for both Singer S0100 Serger and Singer S0230 Serger in a comparison table:
| Warranty Details | Singer S0100 Serger | Singer S0230 Serger |
|---|---|---|
| Limited 25-Year Warranty | Product Frame | Product Frame |
| Limited 2-Year Warranty | Electronic/Electrical Parts | Electronic/Electrical Parts |
| Limited 90-Day Warranty | Mechanical Parts and Adjustments | Mechanical Parts and Adjustments |
Now, let’s draw conclusions based on the comparison:
- Product Frame Warranty (25 years):
- Both machines, Singer S0100 Serger and Singer S0230 Serger offer a 25-year limited warranty on the product frame.
- This warranty covers manufacturing defects in the product frame for a period of 25 years from the date of purchase.
- If any manufacturing defect appears in the product frame within this period, both machines provide free replacement parts, but the cost of shipping and/or labor is borne by the owner.
- Electronic/Electrical Parts Warranty (2 years):
- Both machines, Singer S0100 Serger and Singer S0230 Serger offer a 2-year limited warranty on electronic/electrical parts.
- This warranty covers manufacturing defects in these parts for a period of 2 years from the date of purchase.
- If any manufacturing defect appears in these parts within this period, both machines will repair or replace the defective part, but the cost of shipping and/or labor is the responsibility of the owner.
- Mechanical Parts and Adjustments Warranty (90 days):
- Both machines, Singer S0100 Serger and Singer S0230 Serger offer a 90-day limited warranty on mechanical parts and adjustments.
- This warranty covers manufacturing defects in these parts for a period of 90 days from the date of purchase.
- If any manufacturing defect appears in these parts within this period, both machines will repair or replace the defective part without any charge for parts or labor.
Both Singer S0100 Serger and Singer S0230 Serger offer similar warranty conditions for their product frame, electronic/electrical parts, and mechanical parts and adjustments. The warranty coverage for both machines includes a 25-year warranty on the product frame, a 2-year warranty on electronic/electrical parts, and a 90-day warranty on mechanical parts and adjustments.
Considering the warranty details alone, there is no significant difference between the two models. Both provide solid warranty coverage, offering peace of mind to the original purchasers for a substantial period. Therefore, when it comes to warranty conditions, both Singer S0100 Serger and Singer S0230 Serger are on par with each other. Other factors like pricing, features, and user reviews might be the deciding factors in choosing the better option between the two.