A one-day workshop for beginners only. Let our tutor show you how to get the very best out of your overlocker. Estimated cost of materials $20. BYO overlocker in good working order and all materials. Materials are not included in the course fee. Please bring printed manual (not downloaded on on phone or tablet), fabric, threads and sewing box. Detailed list of requirements will be on your receipt of purchase.

Your tutor is Shirlz Cook

Shirlz Cook has been teaching at WEA since 1994. 

Shirlz is passionate about teaching and quilting and has taught fabric crafts and papercraft at both WEA and TAFE for many years. Being creative, she is also a published author and freelance editor and ghostwriter.

She has a Certificate of Fashion Design from TAFE, is an experienced quilter of 35 years, and ran her own business as a Bridal Dressmaker for 10 years.

Overlocking for Beginners

Course Description

If you have an overlocker sitting at home and you're not quite sure how to use it- or want to learn how to get the most out of it – this one-day workshop is for you. 

Designed especially for beginners, this hands-on session will take the mystery out of threading, tension settings, and the many features your overlocker offers. 

With expert guidance from your tutor, you’ll explore the basics and build your confidence in using this powerful sewing tool.

You’ll learn how to thread your machine (the long way and the shortcut!), adjust tension, use different threads, and try out techniques like rolled hems and flat locking. 

You’ll also discover how differential feed works, when to use decorative threads, and even how to undo overlocking stitches without damaging your work. 

By the end of the day, you’ll be much more comfortable using your overlocker – and inspired to keep experimenting at home. 

Course Structure

This one-day workshop is a blend of demonstrations, guided practice, and supportive instruction. 

The day will begin with an introduction to the parts of your overlocker and the order of threading, followed by hands-on time practicing threading both from scratch and using the shortcut method. 

As the day progresses, you’ll work through adjusting tensions, experimenting with decorative threads, and exploring key features like rolled hems and differential feed. 

Notes and handouts will be provided, and there will be plenty of time for questions and individual help.

Course Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, students will be able to:

• Identify the main parts of an overlocker and understand their functions
• Thread an overlocker using both standard and shortcut methods
• Understand the importance of threading order and how it affects performance
• Select suitable threads and decorative options for various finishes
• Adjust tension settings effectively for different fabrics and techniques
• Use the differential feed and know when to apply it
• Create rolled hems and flat lock seams
• Remove and replace needles correctly
• Safely unpick overlocked stitches without damaging fabric.

Course Requirements

The estimated cost of all materials is $20. Please bring:

• Your overlocker, which must be in good working order with foot control, cords, the kit that comes with the machine which includes extra needles (this is essential) and the PRINTED manual (NOT a downloaded copy on phone or tablet).
• Different coloured threads – if you have a 4-thread machine you should bring 4 different colours, if you have a 6-thread machine you should bring 6 different colours, etc.
• Sewing box with essentials such as scissors, tape measure, pins, etc.
• A variety of fabric types (approximately 20cm of each), so you can see the different effects produced. For example:
• Cotton
• Calico
• Poly/cotton
• Fleecy
• Rib trim
• Chiffon
• Satin
• Stretch materials
• Notepad and pen