Overlock Needles

Overlock Needles are machine needles for overlock and coverlock machines that sew chain stitches at high speed. Many overlock and coverlock machines require the ELx705 needle system, which an ordinary sewing machine needle cannot replace. Here you will find Schmetz ELx705 CF needles in a universal version and with a point for knitted fabrics, alongside Schmetz HAx1 SP Super Stretch needles for highly elastic fabrics. They come in packs of 5 in sizes 75, 80 and 90, with some packs combining two sizes.

Which Overlock Needles does your machine need?

The machine manufacturer specifies the needle system in the manual. ELx705 needles are intended for overlock and coverlock machines that specify this system, and Schmetz warns that they are not interchangeable with other needles. HAx1 SP needles use the 130/705 H system found in household sewing machines and, according to the manufacturer, also fit some overlock machines.

You can recognise ELx705 needles by their black colour marking; the second marking lower down the needle indicates its size. Super Stretch has a white ring on its shoulder. You can find the machines themselves in the overlock and coverlock machines category.

How does an ELx705 needle differ from an ordinary machine needle?

The Schmetz ELx705 CF needle has a second thread groove. This helps the machine form overlock and coverlock chain stitches, so only low thread tension is needed to produce a neat stitch. The specially shaped blade prevents needle deflection at high speeds, reducing needle breakage and helping to form straighter stitches. CF stands for Chrome Finish: the chrome-plated surface withstands higher sewing speeds for longer.

A universal needle, a needle for knits or Super Stretch?

• ELx705 CF has a slightly rounded point and handles most woven fabrics, such as linen, poplin, corduroy, fleece, velvet and thin leather.
• ELx705 SUK CF has a medium ball point that pushes the knitted loops aside instead of piercing them. It is intended for jersey and sweatshirt fabric.
• HAx1 SP Super Stretch has a medium ball point, a larger eye and a wider groove, allowing you to use thicker thread. Schmetz recommends it for highly elastic fabrics, such as those used for lingerie and bras.

You can find stretch and jersey needles for sewing machines on the Jersey and Stretch Sewing Machine Needles page. The sewing machine needles category includes needles for denim, leather and other needle types.