Baby Lock Ovation (BLES8) Instruction and Reference Guide - Manual (Page 6)

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How Your Machine Operates
Sometimes called an overlock machine or overlocker, the serger is different from any conventional
sewing machine you have used. Awareness of its simple operation will enable you to become more
proficient in its use. Please read all instructions before using your new machine.
A serger is kind of a knitting process that loops two, three or four threads together to create a stitch.
Your Baby Lock Ovation operates with one or two needles in the overlock position and one or two
loopers to form an overlock stitch. Use one, two or three chain/cover stitch needles and one looper
for a chain or cover stitch. Uniquely independent of each other, you can use any of the overlock or
chain/cover stitch selections separately or in combination.
When fabric is placed in front of the presser foot, it reaches the feed dogs first. The feed dogs move
the fabric along as the cutting blades trim the fabric edge, creating a clean edge to be finished.
Or disengage your blade and insert the sewing table to sew a chain stitch in the center of your
fabric.
The overlock stitch is supported by one or more parallel "stitch finger(s)" that keep the fabric flat.
To form an overlock stitch, the threads become "locked" "over" the edge of the fabric encasing the
raw edge with thread to prevent fabric raveling. When forming a chain stitch, the chain needle thread
catches the chain looper to form a straight stitch on the top of your fabric and thread chain loops on
the underside. Use 2 or 3 cover stitch needles and the chain looper to form a double or triple row of
straight stitching on the top and a weave of thread on the underside of your fabric.
After setting up your machine for the first time, take a few moments to learn how it sews. Before your
machine is threaded, turn the handwheel slowly toward you several times and watch the operation
of the various parts.