What number to set on the overlocker?

Question

I have a 2nd hand Bernette 334D overlocker with no user's guide. My first time using it. There are 4 threads hooked to each numbered dial. What number should I set them to? There are also 2 other dials on the side of the machine. The top one has 0.8, 1, 2, 3, and 4. The bottom with DIF on the dial and 0.7, N, 1.5, and 2. What are these dials for?

I've tried using it and seem fine except the threads are a little loose. I suspect the settings are not right. Can anyone tell me how to fix this problem?

Answer 1

http://www.berninausa.com/browse4b.jsp?F...

has the 234 manual available for download -- it may be close enough for you to get going on, but you really do need the manual for any serger -- there are usually some tricks for each model.

I cannot tell which k***s you need to adjust for your "loose stitches" problem -- it may be needle tension, it may be looper tension, or the stitches may be fine -- serger seams open a bit more than a sewing machine will.  

The two dials are the stitch length (0.8-4) and the DIF is the differential feed control, used to control the stretch of fabric.

If you can't find a copy of the manual right away (as in today or  tomorrow), find a book with good diagnostics so you can see what the stitches should look like.  I'd suggest either Ultimate Serger Answer Guide or Chris James' Complete Serger Handbook.

Answer 2

confusing

Answer 3

If you do not have the instruction pamphlet, try going to a store that sells sewing and vacuums only and they will look up the model for you and probably tell you where to order the users' guide, if they are helpful.  Otherwise - on an old piece of cloth try different setting numbers to see which one is tight enough for the fabric in use. Be careful not to make it TOO tight as the threads will break. Ask someone you know who already owns an overlock to help with the treading of this machine, or go to a sewing centre - most people who sew like to help others.   Good Luck