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American Home AH 100 Review (2023 Updated)
Note from the Editor: This American Home AH 100 Review was originally written in 2014, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternatives such as Brother 1034D, Lumina Sienna, 3-4 Thread Serger, and Janome 8002D.
When we reviewed the new American Home AH 100 serger, we were pleasantly surprised to discover how utilitarian it is. This no frills serger is an interesting machine. It is quite capable of getting the job done without any of the bells and whistles that lots of home sewers have become accustomed to.
American Home AH 100 Overview
The American Home AH 100 serger is a user-friendly machine that offers a range of features to help sewers achieve professional-looking finishes on their sewing projects. With a 3/4 thread overlock capability, this serger can produce a variety of stitches for different types of fabrics. It also features an adjustable stitch length and differential feed, allowing users to fine-tune the stitch quality based on the type of fabric they are working with.
The AH 100 is equipped with an easy-to-follow color-coded threading system, which simplifies the threading process and saves time. The machine also includes a built-in rolled hem feature, which allows users to achieve a neat and tidy finish on edges and hems. Additionally, the adjustable presser foot can be raised or lowered to accommodate different fabric thicknesses, ensuring consistent stitch quality on all types of fabrics.
Other useful features of the AH 100 serger include a safety switch that prevents accidental start-up, a removable stitch finger for easy cleaning and maintenance, and a built-in accessory storage compartment for keeping accessories organized and within reach. Overall, the American Home AH 100 serger is a reliable and versatile machine that can help users achieve professional results on their sewing projects.
To look at the American Home AH 100 serger, one would think that it is one of the simplest to operate sergers available.
In fact, that guess isn’t far from right. True to its appearance, this is one of the least complicated sergers we have ever reviewed. It is quit simply a basic serger with absolutely no frills, bells or whistles.
What are the features on American Home AH 100?
The American Home AH 100 is quite simply a serger that is capable of sewing with two, three or four threads. That’s all.
It is equipped with a color coded threading chart inside the looper cover that is probably less than half the size of the threading charts seen on other sergers. It has a differential feed, a built-in carrying handle, suction cups on the base to prevent slipping or shifting while it is in use, a swing out extension table that reveals a convenient free arm, giving the user extra flexibility and functionality when working on sleeves, cuffs, and hems.
It also offers an adjustable stitch length feature, which comes in handy when working on different serging projects, putting in flatlock seams, gathering and creating decorative stitches. The American Home AH 100 is capable of rendering overlock and overcast stitches, a rolled edge blind hem stitch, flatlock seams as well as gathering and decorative chain stitches.
While many other machines offer an adjustable tension adjustment, this one does not. The owner’s manual includes a section instructing the user on how to adjust stitch width and length and set the tension for each of the available stitch options. The American Home AH 100 is protected by a limited warranty that covers the machine casting for 25 years; guarantees the replacement of defective mechanical parts for ten years; protects the electrical system for one year and covers labor costs for 90 days.
The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear or the replacement of expendable parts such as loopers, cutting blades, needles, needle plates or light bulbs. Nor does the warranty cover acts of God or work performed by an unauthorized technician.
Working on the American Home AH 100
Threading this machine is a bit of a challenge. Not only is the color coded chart reduced to the size of a large postage stamp, it is affixed with adhesive, not permanently stamped inside the looper door.
It is easy to see how this decal can peel off and get lost over a period of time. The tension dials are easy to read and simple to set. Combine that with the fact that when threading the machine, the actual process seemed to us to be far more tedious than one might imagine. When someone is not familiar with the inner workings of a serger, trying to navigate four different strands along their own individual paths in such close quarters, they could easily be intimidated. For people in that situation, it is helpful to have a little extra guidance – which is almost nonexistent with this machine.
Once it is threaded, the American Home AH 100 runs smoothly. The suction cups are an ideal addition. Not only do they prevent the possibility of sliding or shifting, they make for an extremely stable working surface.
When actually sewing on the American Home AH 100, we found that it is fast, smooth and easy to operate. Clearly the differential feed is one of the best available and does its job quite well.
The process of adjusting the stitch length and width is uncomplicated and simple to execute. The 0.7 to 2.0 range for stitch width adjustment makes the machine ideal for a multitude of serging projects, including beading and decorative stitching.
The accessories did not include a catch bag or any kind of receptacle to collect the fabric trimmings as they are cut while serging.
Therefore, it is necessary to either improvise, sew with a small trash can at your feet or be prepared to clean your floor every time you use your American Home AH 100.
The carrying handle folds down and is completely out of sight when it is not in use. However, transporting the American Home AH 100 by the built-in handle is cumbersome at best when it is threaded.
Consequently, it is virtually impossible to use the handle to move the machine without first removing the thread… which means going through the dreaded threading process once again.
The DVD is helpful, especially when it comes to threading and adjusting tension and stitch length and width. But how many people keep a DVD player in their sewing rooms with an instructional DVD permanently cued up for quick reference?
When it is necessary to change the light bulb, simply loosen the screw on the light cover to remove it, take out the burned out bulb, and pop in a new one. The manufacturer suggests that the new bulb be the same size and wattage as the one being replaced.
The upper blade should not need replacing because of the hard material it is made from. If, however, it is chipped or damaged in any way, it will be necessary for you to take your machine to a certified sewing machine repair specialist to have it replace.
When you find that you must replace the lower blade, you can easily do it on your own by disengaging the lower blade then loosening the screw and slipping it out.
Putting in the new blade is as simple as sliding it into the groove of the blade holder. Just make sure the tip is lined up with the needle plate. Then tighten the screw, re-engage the blade to the cutting position and close the front cover.
Don’t forget to turn off the power and unplug the machine before attempting any of the maintenance tasks described above. Trying to perform these tasks while it is still plugged in could result in a power surge that could damage the machine or a severe electrical shock.
What are some alternatives for American Home AH 100?
We have reviewed several sergers similar to the American Home AH 100 and here are some that we highly recommend.
The Brother 1034D Serger stands out as a high-performance companion for beginner sewing enthusiasts. With a robust metal frame, it effortlessly handles multiple layers of denim and other heavy materials. Offering a 3/4 lay-in thread system and versatile stitch options, including overlock, narrow hem, and more, this serger provides professional finishes. Operating at 1,300 stitches per minute, it ensures efficiency without compromising precision. The F.A.S.T. lower looper threading system simplifies thread changes, while the color-coded guides make threading a breeze. Equipped with three snap-on feet, including standard, gathering, and blind stitch, the 1034D offers versatility and ease of use.
The Lumina Sienna Serger proves to be a straightforward device, making it simple for users to grasp and operate when finishing garment edges. Ideal for beginners, its user-friendly design boasts a color-coded threading system and factory pre-threading, ensuring hassle-free setup. This semi-industrial serger excels in heavy-duty overlocking, achieving 1250 stitches per minute. Its adjustable stitch length, ranging from 1/8'' to 1/4'', provides control and versatility for various projects. Crafted with a robust metal frame, the Lumina Sienna remains stable during use, making it perfect for sewers seeking durability in a compact serger. With LED lighting and automatic fabric trimming, it proves to be a comprehensive solution for making one-of-a-kind garments.
The Janome 8002D serger is an easy-to-use serger device with the ability to perform really fast. With its high-speed and precision, you can create professional-looking edges and seams in minutes. The machine features a 3 or 4 thread overlock stitching capability, allowing you to finish raw edges, create rolled hems, and add decorative edges to your projects.
The Janome 8002D also has a differential feed system, which helps prevent puckering and stretching of the fabric. It allows you to adjust the ratio of the differential feed to suit different types of fabrics. The machine also has an adjustable cutting width and stitch length, allowing you to customize your sewing to fit your project.
The Janome 8002D is also easy to use, with color-coded threading guides and a built-in thread cutter. The machine comes with a range of accessories, such as spare needles, screwdrivers, and tweezers, making it a complete package for your sewing needs.
Overall, the Janome 8002D is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile serger that can handle a wide range of sewing projects. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, this machine is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Which fabrics work on the American Home AH 100?
| Fabrics that work | Fabrics that don’t work |
|---|---|
| Natural fibers/cotton-linen-wool Fine fabrics/silk-satin-taffeta/velvet Synthetic fabrics/blends-rayon-polyester Knits(Medium to heavyweight only) Upholstery | Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Leather/suede |
What are the accessories that come with American Home AH 100?
When you remove your new serger from its original carton, you will find a compact plastic accessory case that contains :
- two snap on presser feet
- blind hem
- elastic
- a rolled hem needle plate
- a package of replacement needles
- four spool caps
- four nylon mesh thread nets
- a pair of tweezers
- an extra lower blade
- a subsidiary looper to facilitate two thread sewing
- an oil dispenser
- a screwdriver
- four spool caps
- a hex key
Other accessories include two owner’s manuals, four cone thread supports and a 36 minute instructional DVD and a dust cover.
How to maintain the American Home AH 100?
| Maintenance activities | After each use | Monthly | Once each year | As needed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clean race hook and feed dogs | Yes | No | No | No |
| Wipe head with soft dry cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Wipe head with soft damp cloth | No | No | No | Yes |
| Lubricate | No | No | No | No |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
American Home AH 100 Summary
When we sat down to sew on the American Home AH 100, we were impressed with the number of stitch selections and the overall quality of the stitches produced.
The machine is clean, fast and quiet. We like the idea of the suction cups. While we have not run into a machine that shifted while we were working on it in quite a while, this feature is a great idea, and one that we appreciate.
Aside from the fact that we don’t think the threading process is particularly user friendly, this machine is very easy to use and maintain. The placement of the carrying handle is a bit cumbersome.
If you purchase this machine and find it necessary to move it from one place to another, your fingers will get tangled in the threads when you try to use the handle.
It’s easier to simply lift it from the bottom. If you feel that you absolutely must use the handle, be prepared to remove the threads and put them back when you are ready to sew.
By the way, the American Home AH 100 is light weight and easy for someone with a wrist or back problem to lift without any physical stress or strain.
The American Home line is manufactured and distributed by US based Tacony Corporation, which also manufacturers a full line of sewing machines and floor care equipment. Tacony also distributes many other sewing machine brands manufactured outside the United States.
Because the color coded threading chart inside the front cover can fall off and get lost, we do not recommend this machine for someone who has not been using sergers long enough to have mastered the threading process before acquiring this machine.
Therefore, as good as it is, we do not believe the American Home AH 100 is a good choice for the home sewer who is in the market for their first serger.
If you want a serger with lots and lots of bells and whistles, then this machine is not for you.
If, however, all you want is a good, study machine that gets the job done efficiently and does it right, then by all means you should consider purchasing the American Home AH 100. At $400, this machine is not only affordable it’s a great deal for the right person.
To sum it all up, if you have been using a serger for several years and are in the market for a new one, then by all means, give the American Home AH 100 a second look.
Bear in mind that this is a no frills serger. It does not have any of the bells and whistles that come with a lot of other sergers, but fewer bells and whistles also means fewer things that can go wrong. It doesn’t even have a built in thread cutter.
We do not recommend that someone who is new to serging start out with the American Home AH 100 unless they have access to lots and lots of hand holding while they master the art of serger threading.
Aside from that one drawback, we believe that this serger is an ideal choice for the home sewer who is comfortable with a basic machine that offers a genuine hands-on serging experience.
Although it comes with an instructional DVD that gives step-by-step instructions on the treading process, we think it is challenging to watch a DVD and thread the machine at the same time.
If they are lucky enough to have a ‘threading coach’ nearby, this machine is also an excellent option for the person with lots of experience on a traditional sewing machine, but little or no experience working on a seger.
The American Home AH 100 could even be a good choice for the person who is brand new to the world of home sewing… providing once again, they have someone close at hand to help them learn to thread the machine.
A perfect candidate would be a young person who lives in the same house with a home sewer who is proficient on a serger, and has the time and patience to give the novice sewer the attention and coaching they will need to become proficient at threading it for themselves.
American Home AH 100 Review
Summary
The American Home AH 100 serger is easy to operate and has many features to assist sewers produce professional-looking results. This serger can stitch many fabrics with its 3/4 thread overlock. Its adjustable stitch length and differential feed let customers customize stitch quality dependent on fabric type.
The AH 100’s color-coded threading system simplifies and speeds up threading. The machine has a built-in rolled hem mechanism for precise edges and hems. The adjustable presser foot may be raised or lowered to fit varying fabric thicknesses, maintaining consistent stitch quality on all textiles.
A safety button prevents accidental start-up, a removable stitch finger makes cleaning and maintenance easier, and a built-in accessory storage compartment keeps attachments organized and accessible. The American Home AH 100 serger is durable and adaptable, helping users produce professional sewing results.
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Happy Stitching.
Hi, I recently purchased this American Home Serger machine. Everything is going well as I use it BUT I am confused about the dial related to the lower blade despite the fact that I have read the instructions and watched the video. There is a “4” and a “5” setting to which the dial can be adjusted and I see this moves the lower blade. What exactly does moving the lower blade do to the fabric? Both settings seem to look the same when I pull out the fabric. Thank you very much.