Alfa Alfa Overlock 8703

This is a basic serger for someone sewing regularly: it overlocks and finishes edges with 2, 3 or 4 threads, with differential feed helping to keep seams flat on jersey. Stitch length runs from 1 to 5 mm, and cutting width is set with a dedicated control.

The upper knife is mobile and disengages when you only need to overcast without trimming. Threading follows a colour-coded path, and a needle threader is included among the accessories for anyone who would rather not thread by eye; tension for each thread, needles and loopers, is set with four separate dials. It reaches 1,300 stitches per minute.

It suits someone finishing everyday hems and seams, not someone looking for the automatic threading or self-setting tension of pricier models: every adjustment stays manual, a direct dialogue between dials and fabric.