Singer 14T968DC Serger Review: Features And Performance
The singer 14T968dc is a feature-packed serger that promises professional results for home sewists. With its 2-3-4-5 thread capability and built-in coverstitch, this singer machine offers versatility for handling a wide range of sewing projects. In this in-depth review, we’ll take a close look at the singer 14t968dc – from unboxing to stitch performance – to help you determine if it’s the right serger for your needs.
Unboxing the Singer 14T968DC
Unboxing a new serger is always an exciting experience filled with anticipation of the features and capabilities about to be unveiled. Given the singer brand’s longstanding reputation in the sewing world, expectations were high as we unwrapped the 14t968dc.
Right off the bat, the weight of the singer machine indicates a heavy-duty build composed of metal parts. At around 20 pounds, the 14t968dc has a reassuring heft that promises stability and vibration reduction during sewing.
Along with the serger unit itself, the box contains a selection of accessories to enhance your sewing experience:
- Specialty presser feet for embellishing, hemming, elastic, and more
- Useful tools like tweezers, a brush, oiler, screwdrivers
- Spool caps, thread nets, and a trim bin to keep sewing neat
- A soft cover to protect the machine when not in use
- Most importantly – a detailed instruction manual and stitch guide
With its solid construction and generous accessories pack, our initial impressions of the singer 14t968dc were very positive. The excitement was palpable – it was time to plug this serger in and put it to the test!
Insert image of serger accessories
Key Features and Benefits
The singer 14t968dc comes loaded with features that promise convenience, ease of use, and versatility for handling a wide range of sewing projects. Here are some of the highlights:
2-3-4-5 Thread Capability
With the ability to use 2, 3, 4 or 5 threads, this singer serger provides a lot of flexibility. The 2 threads are ideal for lightweight fabrics, while 3 threads work well for stretchy material. The 4 thread overlock is perfect for medium to heavy fabrics, while the 5 thread coverstitch creates professional hems. This versatility allows you to adjust the settings to suit the type of project.
Self-Adjusting Tension
Setting the thread tension can be the trickiest part of serger set up. The singer 14t968dc makes this step easy with its self-adjusting tension system. Just turn the stitch selection dial, and it will configure the optimal tension settings automatically. This convenience feature saves time and frustration when switching between stitch types.
Speedy Stitching
With a maximum sewing speed of 1,300 stitches per minute, projects can be sewn quickly and efficiently on the 14t968dc. Whether you are constructing garments, hemming napkins or finishing off crafts, the high speed capability helps you zip through your workflow.
Built-In Rolled Hems
The singer machine comes equipped with 4 built-in rolled hem options. This adds a professional finish to table linens, delicate fabrics, napkins, scarves and more. Converting to the rolled hem feature is a breeze with an easy access lever that moves the stitch finger into position.
Diverse Stitch Selection
A generous range of stitch options allows you to achieve the right seam, hem or edge finish for your project. Choose from overlock, cover hem, chain, rolled hem, flatlock and more. The stitch mapping printed on the machine makes it easy to set up and use each type.
Insert image of stitch selection/mapping
Adjustable Stitch Length and Width
Customize your stitches with the adjustable length and width settings on the singer 14t968dc. Optimize the seam integrity and appearance by tweaking size parameters as needed. This customization ability gives you more creative freedom.
Convenience Features
From the stitch reference map to the built-in trim bin, singer included handy features on this serger aimed at enhancing the user experience. The free arm, LED light, and color-coded threading also simplify set up and sewing.
Video overview of convenience features
With this robust set of features, it was clear the singer 14t968dc would allow us to achieve professional results on a diverse range of sewing projects. But how easy would it be to actually use this machine? Let’s take a look at the usability factor next.
Ease of Use
Sergers have a reputation for being complicated, with tricky threading and a significant learning curve. Does the singer 14t968dc live up to this stereotype, or is it more user friendly? Here’s an assessment of how this machine performs in terms of ease of use:
Intuitive Controls
The controls on the 14t968dc feature clear labeling and sensibly organized layout. Adjustments like cutting width, differential feed, stitch length and more were easy to locate. For less frequently used controls like speed, rolling hem settings etc., the manual provides clear instructions on accessing them.
Handy Stitch Mapping
The stitch map printed on the front of the machine is invaluable when first getting started. You can clearly see which threads are used for each stitch, taking the guesswork out of setup. The color-coded threading diagrams are also enormously useful references.
Smooth Free Arm
We appreciate that Singer provided both a full flat bed and a free arm option on this serger. The removable storage compartment allows easy access to the free arm for hemming pant legs and other tubular tasks.
Automatic Thread Tension
Simply turn the stitch selection dial and the singer 14t968dc will configure the thread tensions automatically. This saves a lot of frustration and preserves your sanity when switching between stitch types frequently as in a complex project.
The learning curve is undoubtedly still present – mastering the threading paths takes practice, and familiarizing yourself with controls also requires time investment. However, the overall user-friendly design of the 14t968dc makes the process more approachable.
Performance and Stitch Quality
With high excitement levels, it was time to thread up and put this serger through testing. How does it actually perform in terms of stitch quality, consistency, and ability to handle various materials?
Setup and Threading
Thanks to the handy threading diagrams, getting set up was smooth sailing. Following the color coded paths, we threaded the loopers and needles in just a few minutes. The conveniently located lay-in tension system also eliminates fiddling with tension discs during this step.
Video showing threading process
Fabric Handling
We were keen to test out the singer’s ability to handle lightweight and heavy fabrics effectively. It performed admirably on chiffon and voile, producing tiny serger stitches without puckering. When serging denim, the machine ably handled multiple layers without strain. The metal interior components clearly provide the needed sturdiness.
Stitch Quality
In a word – impeccable. The stitch formation was superb across all the built-in stitches and thread configurations tested. The balanced tension resulted in even, well-formed stitches on both sides of the material. This level of consistency is invaluable for producing professional results.
Specialty Stitches
Beyond the basics, we tested out the specialty hem and edge stitches. The rolled hem feature in particular worked exceptionally well, creating that elusive tiny him on lightweight fabrics. The coverstitch also impressed with perfectly straight, neat triple coverstitching.
Image of sample stitching
It was readily apparent that the singer 14t968dc could tackle a huge variety of sewing projects with its exemplary performance. But how does it measure up to other options on the market? Let’s take a look next at some comparable alternatives.
Alternatives to Consider
The singer 14t968dc is certainly not the only option when shopping for a high-end serger loaded with features. Here are two other excellent machines worth considering:
Juki MO-1000 Serger
- Jet air threading for true 1-step threading
- Up to 1,500 stitches per minute
- Automatic rolled hemming
- Hot pink color adds style to your sewing room
- Higher price point around $1,300
Read: Juki MO-1000 Serger Review
Janome CoverPro 1000CPX
- 2 needles/loopers for basic serging
- Cover and chain stitch functionality
- Maximum 1,000 stitches per minute
- Automatic tension and threading
- More budget-friendly price under $900
The Juki offers effortless threading and extreme speeds, while the Janome is a slightly more basic machine – but costs significantly less. The singer falls nicely in the middle price-wise, while offering stitch versatility and time-saving convenience features.
Pros and Cons of the Singer 14T968DC Serger
Pros
- Incredible value for a 2-3-4-5 thread serger
- Supports a wide variety of stitch types and techniques
- Adjustable settings provide room for creativity
- Heavy-duty internal components for stability
- Self-adjusting tension feature saves setup time
- Impressive maximum speed capability
Cons
- Manual threading can be tricky at first
- Presser foot clearance is limited for very thick fabrics
- Plastic exterior makes it less durable over decades of use
- Tension may need manual override on specialty threads
- Limited needle penetration for heavy materials
Our Verdict: An Excellent Serger for Ambitious Home Sewists
For home sewists seeking to upgrade their skills and take on more challenging, professional-level projects, the Singer 14T968DC is an excellent option. The ability to smoothly transition from a 3-thread overlock to a precise coverstitch makes it incredibly versatile.
Intermediates will appreciate the array of specialty feet and stitch options to expand their range. The convenience features reduce frustrating adjustments, and the overall performance is stellar. Some minor downsides exist like manual threading, but they are easily outweighed.
While a beginner would be better served by a more basic starter serger, the Singer 14T968DC is ideal for dedicated hobbyists ready to invest in a powerful machine. The price falls around the middle of the spectrum, delivering robust capabilities for the money.
If you’re seeking to grow your skills and master advanced sewing techniques, this Singer serger can support you all the way. We highly recommend it for the ambitious home sewist taking their craft to the next level.