Overedging explained: techniques, stitch types and thread selection

Protect fabric edges. Improve seam appearance. Select the right thread.

Intro

A well-finished fabric edge is essential for both product quality and efficient processing. This chapter gives an overview of overedging solutions and their typical applications in industrial sewing.

Short definition

Overedging is a sewing technique used to secure fabric edges against fraying while creating a clean and durable edge finish. Depending on the material and application, different stitch types, sewing thread concepts and processing parameters are selected to achieve the desired appearance, performance and production efficiency. 

Summary

There is hardly any other seam that offers as many possibilities in terms of sewing thread selection as overedging. Serging should be tailored to the material, model and area of application, as well as the desired look and function. Overedging gives the interior a attractive appearance and is a sign of perfect workmanship. It therefore makes sense to review your current sewing thread concept and adjust it if necessary.

Quick facts

PropertyValue
CategorySewing technology
ApplicationFabric edge finishing
Main purposePrevent fraying and improve seam appearance
Typical stitch types502, 503, 504, 505, 512, 514 (ISO 4915)
Typical industriesApparel, home textiles, sportswear, technical textiles
Related topicsStitch types, sewing thread selection, seam quality, thread consumption

Also known as

Technical terms
 
  • Overedging  
  • Overedge sewing 
  • Overedge seam 
  • Edge overlocking 
  • Edge finishing 
  • Overlock seam 
  • Serging  
Common descriptions
 

People often search for: 

  • How do I stop fabric edges from fraying?
  • How do I finish raw fabric edges?
  • Which overlock stitch should I use?
  • Which thread is best for overlocking?
  • My fabric edge is fraying.
  • My overlock seam doesn't cover the edge.
  • The overlock seam looks untidy.
  • Which overedge stitch do I need?
  • How can I improve edge coverage?
  • Why is my overlock seam uneven?
Alternative terminology
 

Common industry terms include:

  • Overlock  
  • Overlock sewing 
  • Serging  
  • Edge finishing 
  • Edge binding (sometimes used incorrectly but frequently searched) 
  • Overedge stitching 

International terminology

LanguageCommon terminology
EnglishOveredging, Overlock, Serging, Overedge sewing, Edge finishing
GermanÜberwendlichnähen, Überwendlichstich, Versäubern, Kantenversäuberung
FrenchSurjet, Surfilage, Couture de surjet
ItalianSopraggitto, Tagliacuci, Rifinitura del bordo
SpanishSobrehilado, Remallado, Costura overlock
Chinese包缝, 锁边, 包边缝
VietnameseVắt sổ, May vắt sổ, May khóa mép

FAQ