Brother 1034DX Serger Review: Pros, Cons, And Comparison
The Brother 1034DX serger is the latest model in Brother’s popular 1034 serger line. In this comprehensive Brother 1034DX serger review, we’ll cover all the features, benefits, drawbacks, and alternatives to help you decide if this affordable serger is the right fit for your needs.
Brother 1034DX Serger Review
Brother Industries started as a sewing machine repair company in 1908 before moving into designing and manufacturing their own sewing and serger machines. Today, Brother is known for making user-friendly, affordable equipment packed with features usually only found on more expensive models.
The Brother 1034DX is their newest 3/4 thread serger in the enduring 1034 product line. It builds on the popularity of the 1034D with updated convenience features and capabilities. Keep reading this Brother 1034DX serger review to see how it compares to its predecessor and whether it’s worth the upgrade.
The Brother 1034DX Serger
Main Features and Benefits
The Brother 1034DX comes with several features and benefits that make serging projects easy, convenient and professional-looking.
Heavy Duty Metal Frame
The machine has a heavy-duty metal interior frame that helps it run smoothly even at high speeds. The metal construction also makes the 1034DX extremely durable for years of serging projects. The exterior has a sturdy plastic housing.
Speed
This Brother serger can sew up to 1,300 stitches per minute, allowing you to breeze through projects quickly. The included foot pedal gives you control to slow the speed down as needed.
Easy Threading
Threading any serger can be complicated, but the 1034DX simplifies it with several helpful features:
- Color coded guides printed directly on the machine show the recommended path for each thread.
- The lower looper has a threading lever that moves it into an easier-to-reach position.
- Threading goes from right to left in sequence, following the guides.
- An instructional threading DVD is included for visual guidance.
Stitch Width Control
A convenient stitch width adjustment knob allows you to set the width anywhere from 5mm to 7mm without tools or adjustments. This helps produce flat seam finishes on all fabric weights.
Trim Trap
The built-in trim trap collects fabric scraps as you serge. This removable container keeps trimmings contained for quick and easy disposal.
Differential Feed
The Brother 1034DX has a differential feed ratio ranging from 0.7 to 2.0. This feature prevents stretched or puckered seams on knits and lightweight wovens. It can also be used for gathering and decorative effects.
Retractable Knife Blade
The serger comes with a retractable knife that trims fabric edges as you sew. When disengaged, the knife slides out of the way for safety and non-cutting projects.
Affordability
While not the cheapest serger available, the 1034DX offers excellent value at around $200-300. It has features found on more expensive models at a fraction of the price.
Stitches
This 3/4 thread serger can produce a variety of overlock, rolled hem, ribbon and decorative stitches using 3 or 4 threads. The number of built-in stitches has increased from the previous 1034D model.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Machine Type | Mechanical |
| Threads | 3/4 |
| Color Coded Threading | Yes |
| Number of Needles | 2 |
| Max Sewing Speed | 1,300 stitches per minute |
| Stitch Length Range | 2mm – 4mm |
| Stitch Width Range | 5mm – 7mm |
| Needle Threader | No |
| Retractable Cutting Knife | Yes |
| Free Arm | Yes |
| Dimensions | 13″ x 15.25″ x 14.5″ |
| Weight | 16.4 pounds |
| Warranty | 25 years limited |
Ease of Use
Brother designed the 1034DX serger to be user-friendly for both beginners and experienced sewers. Convenience features that set it apart include:
Pre-Threaded
The serger comes partially threaded with all 4 threads in place. This allows new users to visually map out the threading paths before threading it themselves.
Threading Levers
A small lever moves the lower looper out for easier access when threading. This simplifies one of the trickiest aspects of serger threading.
DVD and Manual
Clear multilingual instructions are provided on a threading DVD and in the printed manual in English and Spanish.
Free Arm
The removal of the extension table exposes a free arm to more easily serge sleeves, pant legs and other tubular items.
Presser Foot Pressure
Users can adjust the presser foot pressure as needed for various fabric types and thicknesses. Lighter pressure works best for delicate fabrics.
Drawbacks
The Brother 1034DX has a few drawbacks to consider before purchasing:
- It only handles 3 or 4 threads. Specialty techniques requiring 2 or 5 threads aren’t possible.
- There is no built-in rolled hem setting. The stitch finger must be set manually.
- Oiling is required before first use but oiling steps are not in the manual. This could damage the machine if missed.
- Controls being on the right side may be less convenient for left-handed sewers.
- It costs $50-100 more than the similar Brother 1034D model.
Alternatives and Comparison to 1034D
While we think the Brother 1034DX is an excellent affordable serger, there are alternatives to compare at a similar price point:
Singer Making the Cut SO230
- Extremely budget-friendly at under $100
- Includes 2 thread capability missing on the 1034DX
- Basic features but quality construction
Juki MO644D
- More heavy duty all-metal interior
- Faster maximum speed at 1,500 stitches per minute
- Includes a built-in rolled hem
Janome 8002D
- Known for very high build quality expected from Janome
- Fewer convenience features but excellent serging ability
- Comparable speed and stitch count to the 1034DX
The Brother 1034DX improves upon its predecessor, the 1034D, in several ways:
- Brighter LED lighting instead of incandescent bulb
- Updated threading for easier lower looper access
- Auto thread tension release when presser foot is raised
- Stitch width knob for adjusting 5mm-7mm without tools
- Right side controls improved from left side controls
- Extra stitches added including rolled hem options
For a relatively small price bump, the upgrades on the 1034DX are worthwhile for the added convenience. But the 1034D remains a good choice if you want basic 3/4 thread serging at the lowest price point.
Conclusion and Recommendation
After reviewing all of the pros, cons, features and comparisons, we give the Brother 1034DX a positive recommendation as an affordable introductory serger.
The combination of useful capabilities, convenience features and low price point make it an excellent value. It provides a quality serging experience without breaking the bank.
The Brother 1034DX best suits beginner and intermediate sewists looking for an easy-to-use machine. It handles common projects but lacks specialty features needed for advanced techniques. Upgrading to a more heavy duty or specialty serger is recommended once skills progress.
Overall, the Brother 1034DX earns its popularity as a top choice for getting started with overlock sewing. Busy seamstresses will appreciate the fast speed and simplified threading when finishing a high volume of projects. The durable construction also ensures it will last through years of frequent use.
If you’re looking to buy your first serger or replace an older model, we think you’ll be satisfied with the Brother 1034DX. It delivers noticeable upgrades over previous versions at a minimal cost increase. Check the latest price and availability on Amazon using our affiliate link below.