Brother 1034D Overlocker Review: A Beginner-Friendly Serger That Delivers

Brother 1034D Overlocker Overview

If you’re shopping for your first overlocker or just want a fuss-free machine that gets the job done, the Brother 1034D is well worth a look. It’s known for being approachable for beginners, but it still offers solid performance and features that more experienced sewists can appreciate. It’s fast, dependable, and simple to set up – making it one of the more accessible sergers in its price range.

In this review, I’ll walk through the features, how it handles different fabrics, what’s in the box, and everything else you should know before buying.

Specifications

• Unit Dimensions: 11.73″ (W) x 10.98″ (D) x 13.19″ (H)
• Unit Weight: 13.45 lbs
• Carton Dimensions: 13.0″ x 15.2″ x 13.2″
• Carton Weight: 18.1 lbs
• Threads: 3 or 4 threads
• Stitches: 22 stitch functions
• Max Sewing Speed: 1,300 stitches per minute
• Stitch Width: 5.0–7.0 mm
• Stitch Length: 2.0–4.0 mm
• Overlock Seam Width: 5.0–7.0 mm
• Needles: 2
• Threading System: Color-coded with underlooper threader
• Lighting: Bulb
• Voltage: 110V
• UL/CSA Listed: Yes

Stitch Options – 3 or 4 Threading System

The Brother 1034D uses a 3- or 4-thread setup and offers 22 built-in stitch functions, giving you a good range for seam finishing, edge work, and even some decorative techniques. It uses Brother’s color-coded threading guide, and the underlooper threader is a nice touch – it saves time and frustration during setup.

With a sewing speed of up to 1,300 stitches per minute, this machine is surprisingly fast for its category. The adjustable stitch width (5–7 mm) and stitch length (2–4 mm) make it easy to fine-tune results depending on fabric type and thread.

Differential Fabric Feed

This model includes a differential feed with a 0.7 to 2.0 mm ratio, which helps prevent stretching on knits or puckering on delicate fabrics. It’s one of the features that gives the 1034D a more polished, professional finish – even when working with tricky materials like jersey, fleece, or silk.

Free Arm and Flat-Bed Conversion

The convertible free arm is great for more detailed work like sleeves, cuffs, and hemming pants. It gives you better control over smaller or tubular projects. When not in use, the extension bed provides a stable, flat surface for general sewing.

Thread Tension Control

Each of the four tension dials is adjustable, allowing you to individually fine-tune the tension of each thread. This is particularly helpful when changing thread weights or switching between fabric types. It works well in tandem with the differential feed to give you balanced, consistent stitches.

Presser Foot Pressure & Knife Blade

The adjustable presser foot pressure is a helpful addition, especially when working with fabric thicknesses that vary from project to project. It helps prevent fabric slipping or uneven feeding.

The lower drive knife blade is sharp and efficient, easily cutting through thick fabrics like denim. It’s retractable too, so if you want to serge without trimming, you can tuck it away and avoid accidental cuts.

Lighting and Usability

The 1034D uses a standard sewing bulb rather than LED lighting. It’s functional and bright enough to illuminate your work area, though it may run a little warm during longer sessions. Colors are accurate under the light, which is helpful when matching threads.

The stitch selector uses a simple dial system, keeping it straightforward to use even if you’re just getting started. There’s also built-in accessory storage, so your tools stay close at hand.

Accessories Included

Brother includes a generous set of accessories with the 1034D, so you won’t need to buy much to get started. Included:

• Standard Foot
• Blindstitch Foot
• Gathering Foot
• 4 large spools of serger thread
• 4 thread nets
• 4 spool caps
• Accessory bag with:
  • Needle set
  • Tweezers
  • Cleaning brush
  • Hexagonal driver
• Trim trap
• Foot controller pedal
• Soft cover
• Instruction manual

These accessories are useful and practical, especially the specialty feet, which allow you to explore more techniques right out of the box.

Rolled Hem Capability

The 1034D includes a built-in rolled hem function. You can switch to it without changing the presser foot or plate – just remove the stitch finger and adjust your settings. It’s a convenient way to finish edges on lightweight fabrics like chiffon or organza.

Warranty and Manual

The 1034D is backed by Brother’s 25-year limited warranty, which is a strong sign of the machine’s durability. This includes 1 year on parts and labor, 5 years on electronic components, and 25 years on the chassis. The included instruction manual and DVD provide a good walkthrough for setup and maintenance, especially helpful if this is your first overlocker. You can also access the manual online here.

Final Thoughts

The Brother 1034D strikes a solid balance between beginner accessibility and practical features. It’s fast, consistent, and offers enough versatility to grow with you as your skills improve. While it lacks a few premium touches like LED lighting or 2-thread support, it nails the fundamentals and does so at a very reasonable price point.

Whether you’re brand new to serging or just want a reliable second machine, the 1034D is a smart choice.

Other very popular overlockers can be found in our article What Are The Best Overlockers – Buying Guide.

Feature Table

The table below gives a clear snapshot of the main features of the Brother 1034D. It’s a handy way to see what the machine offers – whether you’re focused on everyday sewing, looking for time-saving tools, or interested in features that support more detailed work.