How to Change Needles on Your Serger
If your serger has started skipping stitches, popping thread, or making seams look “off,” the fix may be simpler than you think: a fresh needle (or two). In our video tutorial, we walk through how to change the needles on a Baby Lock serger, step-by-step, so you can get back to smooth, reliable stitching.
When should you change serger needles?
Needles are a consumable—sharp today, dull tomorrow (especially if you serge often). Consider changing your needles if you notice:
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Skipped stitches or inconsistent stitching
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Thread breakage for “no reason”
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Popping sounds as you serge
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Snags, runs, or visible fabric damage
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You hit a pin (even once)
As a general habit, many sewists replace needles regularly as part of routine maintenance—especially before starting an important project.
Choose the right needle for your serger
Not all needles are created equal, and many sergers use a serger-specific needle system (common examples include ELx705 variants). Serger needles often have features designed specifically for overlock/cover stitches, such as additional grooves and a reinforced blade.
Best practice: check your manual for the exact needle system and size your machine requires.
Before you start: a quick safety + setup checklist
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Turn the serger OFF (and unplug if you prefer extra safety).
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Raise the needles to the highest position by turning the handwheel toward you.
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Lift the presser foot.
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Have your small screwdriver/Allen tool ready (usually included with the machine).
Step-by-step: changing serger needles (Baby Lock + similar sergers)
While details vary by model, the basic process is consistent.
1) Raise the needles fully
Turn the handwheel until the needles are at their highest point. This gives you the best access and makes removal easier.
2) Loosen the needle clamp screw(s)
Use the correct tool and loosen the screw that holds the needle in place (left needle, right needle, or both—depending on your stitch setup).
3) Remove the old needle(s)
Carefully pull the needle straight down and out. If you’re changing both, remove one at a time so you don’t mix up placement.
4) Insert the new needle(s) correctly
Most domestic serger needles are “flat-backed,” which helps ensure correct orientation—typically flat side toward the back.
Push the needle all the way up into the clamp before tightening (this matters for stitch formation).
5) Tighten the screw(s) firmly
Snug is good—don’t overtighten to the point of stripping.
6) Handwheel test
Turn the handwheel slowly by hand for a full cycle to ensure the needles clear everything smoothly before you serge.
Helpful tips (that prevent headaches)
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Replace needles as a pair when your stitch uses two needles—this keeps performance consistent.
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Keep a small container nearby for old needles (safe disposal).
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If stitches still look off after changing needles, re-check threading and tension, then test on scrap.
Watch the video tutorial
If you want to see the exact hand placement, needle access points, and what “fully inserted” looks like, watch the full video tutorial here—it’s the fastest way to feel confident doing this on your own machine.
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Ready to bring home a serger (or upgrade)?
At My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe, we know a serger is the secret to professional-looking seams, flawless finishes, and stretch-friendly stitches. That’s why we carry trusted brands like Brother and Baby Lock, offering everything from beginner-friendly models to advanced sergers with cover stitch options. Whether you’re sewing garments, home décor, or quilting accents, we’ll help you choose the serger that takes your stitching to the next level.
You can shop sergers right on our website—beginner-friendly options all the way up to feature-packed dream machines.