Here you can find the actual instrucion manual: LINK

Threading the machine is a precise process that is described in detail in the operating instructions. There is also a video tutorial on our YouTube channel: LINK

Incorrect threading can lead to skipped stitches or needle breakage. The threads must be threaded through the various eyelets and guides in the correct order. Tweezers can be helpful here.

Tip: First carry out a test seam to check whether the threads have been threaded correctly, the thread interlacing is correct and the thread tensions are set correctly.

On machines with differential feed, there are two separate feed dog rows under the sewing foot:

• Front feed dog: Moves the fabric forward.
• Rear feed dog: Pulls the fabric further.

By changing the ratio between these two feed dogs, you can control how the fabric is moved during the sewing process.

Adjusting the differential feed is particularly useful when sewing stretch fabrics or creating decorative effects. By making specific adjustments, you can prevent thin fabrics in particular from warping during sewing, for example. Rippling can occur particularly with stretchy or fine fabrics (e.g. jersey). The differential feed ensures that the fabric is processed evenly. However, the fabric can also be intentionally ruffled or gathered by adjusting the differential feed.

An overlock machine is a special machine that sews, finishes and cuts fabrics at the same time. It is often used in the clothing industry and by hobby sewers to create professional seams and edges.

Main functions of an overlock machine:

• Sewing and finishing in one step: the overlock sews the layers of fabric together and finishes the edges with a neat, elastic stitch. At the same time, it trims overhanging fabric edges with an integrated knife.
• Elastic seams: Ideal for stretchy fabrics such as jersey or sweatshirt material. The seams adapt to the movement without tearing.
• Decorative effects: Many overlock machines offer decorative stitches such as rolled hems or flatlock stitches that turn visible seams into a design element.
• Efficiency: The overlock saves a lot of time, especially on larger projects, as sewing, serging and cutting are done in one operation.

It depends on your sewing projects and requirements. A normal sewing machine is sufficient in many cases, especially if you:

- Sew occasionally, e.g. curtains, cushion covers or simple clothing.
- Use non-elastic fabrics that do not require special seams.
- Can overlock manually, e.g. with a zigzag stitch.

What a sewing machine can do:
- Sewing straight stitches, zigzag stitches and other utility and decorative stitches.
- Creating buttonholes.
- Sewing all types of fabric - but the edges must be finished separately.

Do I need an overlock machine?
An overlock machine is useful if you:

- Sew regularly and want professional results.
- Work with stretchy fabrics such as jersey, lycra or sweat, as the seams remain elastic.
- sew clothes that need to be clean and durable.
- want to save time as sewing and finishing are done in one step.
- need decorative seams such as rolled hems or flatlock stitches.

Overlock machines do not replace sewing machines. They are ideal as a supplement, but you will still need a normal sewing machine for many projects.

The VERITAS Melanie overlock machine can be operated with 3 or 4 threads. The machine offers a total of 12 stitch types, including 3- or 4-thread overlock stitches, flatlock stitch, rolled hem and narrow hem.

The stitch length and seam width of the VERITAS Melanie overlock machine can be adjusted individually and steplessly. Here are the setting details:

- Stitch length: The stitch length can be set using the corresponding selector button on the machine. The stitch length can be set from 1 to 4 mm. A larger number stands for a longer stitch, while a smaller number produces a shorter stitch. The basic setting is marked “N”.

- Seam width (stitch width): The stitch width can be adjusted using the corresponding adjustment wheels on the machine. The stitch width can be infinitely adjusted between 5 and 7 mm. The cutting width of the fabric can also be infinitely adjusted. The ideal knife position varies depending on the fabric and can be determined and adjusted during a sewing test. To change the knife position, the fabric support cover must be opened. Turn a screw clockwise to adjust the knife to the left (for firmer fabrics) and counterclockwise to the right (for finer fabrics).

The stitch width of the overlock seam depends on which needles are used. For a 3-thread overlock stitch of 3 to 5 mm width, the left needle is removed. For a 3-thread overlock stitch from 5 to 7 mm wide, remove the right needle.

The VERITAS Melanie has individually adjustable thread tensions for all four threads. When the thread tension is set correctly, the two looper threads meet exactly at the edge of the fabric. The needle threads should be recognizable as lines of straight stitches, making the seam durable yet stretchy. You will recognize problems with the thread tension if:

• The loops of the upper thread are pulled upwards : the thread tension of the red lower looper thread must be increased, while the green thread tension of the upper looper thread should be decreased.
• The loops of the lower thread are pulled down: the thread tension of the green upper looper thread must be increased, while the red thread tension of the lower looper thread should be reduced.
• If the right-hand needle seam is too tight and the fabric puckers, the tension of the blue right-hand needle thread is too high and must be reduced.
• If the left-hand needle seam is too tight and the fabric puckers, the tension of the yellow left-hand needle thread is too high and must be reduced.

Start with a basic setting (e.g. all tensions at 3) and adjust the tension with the adjustment wheels if necessary. Always use a test piece to check the settings and avoid pulling or pushing the fabric while sewing as this can damage the needle.

Yes, VERITAS Melanie can be used for sewing both rolled hems and narrow hems.

A rolled hem is a particularly narrow, rolled edge that hems the fabric and finishes it off neatly at the same time. It is often used on light or fine fabrics, such as chiffon, silk or organza, and is frequently found on scarves, blouses, tablecloths or skirts (e.g. flounces).

The rolled hem is both functional and decorative and creates a fine, professional look.

The foot pressure regulator determines how much pressure the presser foot exerts on the fabric. The setting is made by turning the regulator. A higher number increases the pressure and a lower number reduces the pressure. The foot pressure is set correctly at the factory

Possible causes are incorrect thread tension, bent or blunt needle or incorrect differential feed setting. Readjust the thread tension, insert a new needle and set the differential feed to less than “1”.

This is caused by an incorrect differential feed setting. Set the differential feed to “1” or higher (for knitted fabrics).

The upper blade should be replaced when it becomes blunt and the cuts are no longer smooth but frayed or the fabric is no longer cut through at all. A replacement blade is included in the scope of delivery.

Cleaning the overlock machine is important to keep the machine in good working order. Always disconnect the mains plug before cleaning the machine. Use the brush supplied to remove dust and lint from the hook area and other accessible areas. You should also lubricate the areas of the machine indicated by the arrows with a few drops of oil to ensure smooth operation. Sewing machine oil is not included in the scope of delivery. If necessary, the movable blade should be replaced. A replacement blade can be found in the accessory bag. The fixed blade is made of a special carbide and does not normally need to be replaced.

The VERITAS Melanie is supplied with the following accessories:
Manual instructions, quality needles, 4 thread spool nets, 4 thread spool discs, tweezers, screwdriver (small and large), spare blade, collecting container, 4 cones (pre-threaded), protective cover, cleaning brush

Spare parts and accessories can be ordered conveniently from home in our online stores:

• Nähmaschinen Oase (Deutschland)
• Nähmaschinen Oase (Österreich)
• Nähmaschinenshop (Schweiz)
• Home Sewing

If you cannot find the required article in our store, please contact: shop@home-sewing.com