Partner disclosure: SewingInsight.com is a participant in the Ebay Partner Network and Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We earn a small advertising fees by linking to products on Ebay and Amazon. This does not increase the price for you as a reader but you will support our small business.
Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25 Review (2023 Update)
Note from the Editor: This Husqvarna Viking Huskylock s25 review was originally written in 2013, and has been revised and updated in 2023. We have added alternatives such as Janome 8002D, JUKI MO644D, Janome MyLock 634D.
I had an opportunity to review the Husqvarna/Viking Huskylock s25.
This fully computerized 5 thread serger offers a lot of benefits to the home sewer. However, I have some reservations about this one.
Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25 Overview
Huskylock S25 is a computerised sewing machine with 5/4/3/2 thread sewing. There are many options available for utility and decorative sewing. The user interface is decently convenient and the touch sensitivity on the LCD screen is also good to work with. The sewing space is large accompanied by an extension table. Stitch quality on this machine is excellent and can render a plethora of different stitch options.
To look at it, the Husqvarna/Viking Huskylock s25 appears to be an absolutely excellent choice.
It has a monochromatic LCD touch screen, the capacity to sew with up to five threads and three needles, a total of 25 coverstitch, chainstitch, overlock and blind hem options, a safety guard, on board threading diagrams and tons of other great features.
What are some alternatives for Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25?
Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25 is one of many sergers available online. Here are some alternative serger sewing machines that we recommend.
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.
Juki MO644D is a 2/3/4 thread serger with auto-rolled hem and a color coded threading breakaway looper adjustment for stitch length and differential feed. It does not sew very heavy fabrics but can work with lightweight and medium weighing fabrics really well. Stitching speed rides up to a good 1500SPM and working with this is rather easy. This device is really quiet while working on fabrics is very smooth. It is a really good device for beginners and people who dont do heavy sewing.
Both beginners and professionals will love this sturdy, basic serger. The structure is strong enough to last for years, and the stitches are always even and smooth. The 634D is a flexible serger, but it is expensive because almost all of its parts can be changed. The Janome MyLock 634D serger includes a narrow hem stitch, a picot edge stitch, a 2-thread rolled hem stitch, 3- or 4-thread overlock stitches, and 3- or 4-thread overedge stitches. Additionally, it has an adjustable differential feed with a ratio range of.05 to 2.25. The advanced lay-in threading technology and detailed color-coded instructions for threading inside the front looper door make threading quick and easy. The Janome MyLock 634D supports 2, 3, and 4-thread overlocking stitches for maximum versatility in creating professional garments.
What are the features on Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25?
- Sew with 2, 3, 4, or 5 threads
- 1, 2, or 3 needles
- 25 stitch options
- Coverstitches
- Chainstitches
- 5, 4, 3, and 2 thread Overlock stitches
- 2 or 3 thread blind hem stitches
- Large graphic touch display
- Sewing express
- Extended info system
- Bright dual LED lighting
- Last stitch memory
- 5 sewing speeds
- Differential feed
- Tension release
- Safety switch
- Multiple languages
- Moveable upper cutter
- Built in 2 thread converter
- On board ruler
Working on the Husqvaqrna Viking Huskylock S25
Threading any serger has the potential for being a daunting task. That is definitely the case with the Huskylock s25.
When I first saw this machine, it was set up for four thread and two needles and already partially threaded. I followed the threading guide on the inside of the lower looper door to complete the process and everything looked great.
The problem came up when I pressed the foot pedal and it did not stitch. I never claimed to be perfect, so I asked the sales person on the floor to check the thread paths.
Not only could she not find my mistake, she confided that she has one of these at home and is also challenged by the threading process.
Feeling somewhat vindicated in my inability to properly thread the Huskylock s25, together, we asked the store’s technician for assistance.
It took him a few minutes to take all four threads out and re-thread the serger, but when he finished, it was working perfectly.
The touch screen displays the selected stitch option and the correct presser foot. Stitch length and width are adjusted by using the touch screen.
Buttons on the right side of the screen can be used to store favorite stitch patterns, get on screen help and manage stitch settings.
I had the distinct honor of being the first person to ever sew on this particular machine. The stitch quality is excellent.
The Huskylock s25 that I reviewed was set up with four different colors, so verifying the stitch balance was very easy. The stitches I made were even, well balanced and well formed.
Which fabrics work on the Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25?
| 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) | Leather/suede Fur Reptile skin Canvas/Twill Plastic/Rubber Extra thick fabrics or multiple layers Upholstery |
What are the accessories that come with Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25?
- 13 snap on universal/standard presser foot
- Accessory box
- Screwdriver
- Knife blade (for upper cutter)
- Thread unreeling discs (5)
- Thread spool nets (5)
- Oiler
- Allen key
- Tweezers
- Lint brush
- Cone holders (5)
- Coverstitch table/Cutter cover C (for Cover/Chainstitch)
- Needle threader
- Dust cover
- Waste tray
- Extension table
- Extra needles
- Instructional DVD
- Owner’s manual
Optional presser feet available for separate purchase include:
- Elastic foot
- Blindhem lace foot
- Beading foot
- Piping foot
- Taping foot
How to maintain the Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25?
| 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 | Yes |
| Service by sewing machine repair professional | No | No | Yes | No |
Summary: Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25 Review
If all the stitch options result in stitches as beautiful as the chainstitch I sampled, then perhaps some people may feel that the hassle of threading the Husqvrna/Viking Huskylock s25 is worth it. The touch screen and all the other features are great add ons.
It is quite understandable that someone who has never before touched a particular machine – especially a serger – might have difficulty threading it; but when someone has had lots of time to master the technique at their own leisure continues to have problems, then I must come to the conclusion that operating the Huskylock s25 is a huge problem.
However, when I consider the fact that a woman who has a Huskylock s25 complains that she, too, has difficulty each time she re-threads her machine gives me pause.
In my opinion, there are advantages to having a serger that has a touch screen and is capable of rendering so many different stitch options, but most sergers offer the same options without having such challenging thread paths. There are, no doubt, many, many people who do not have the same challenge that the sales clerk and I encountered. One person’s challenge is another person’s treat. You will never know whether or not you are one of those people who can master threading the Huskylock s25 in a few minutes without first trying it out for yourself.
Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25 Review
Summary
The Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25 is a basic sewing machine that is easy to use and affordable. It has 13 built-in stitches, including basic utility stitches, decorative stitches, and stretch stitches. The machine also has a one-step buttonhole function, a needle threader, and a top-loading bobbin. The Husqvarna Viking Huskylock S25 is a good option for beginners or sewers who want a simple machine that can handle basic sewing tasks.
Recommended Posts
If you are an advanced sewist, have a look at our best sewing machines, best sewing books and best sewing magazines posts and if you are looking to get a mechanical, heavy duty, quilting or industrial sewing machine, have a look at some of our great articles. If you are a beginner sewist, review our best sewing books for beginners, best sewing machines for beginners and best sewing machines under $200 to get started.
For brand related articles, check Best Bernette | Best Bernina | Best Brother | Best Husqvarna Viking | Best Janome | Best Juki | Best Singer |
For best accessories, check Best Chairs | Best tables | Best tracing paper | Best machine oils | Best scissors and shears | Best presser feet | Best needles | Best sewing kits |
Happy Stitching.
Just wanted to second your opinion and maybe save someone from wasting their money.
I got a great deal on this machine on ebay from a dealership that was closing. This was more than a year ago, and at the time there were not any reviews online.
I wanted to share that threading is VERY DIFFICULT. I am selling or trading mine in for something else, because I have several small children and cannot be spending this kind of time and frustration. When I did get it right, it was a great machine. But to me, not worth the tears. Yes, it drove me to tears.
I’ve had this machine for just 2 days but have tackled the task of threading from scratch. I did find it challenging…however, I expect the threading to get easier with more practice. I am left left handed and need to work through using both hands to manipulate the thread through the various hoops. I used the instructions in the manual which was far easier than the instructions on the machine’s panel. There is a tricky part of getting the last loop of the lower looper threaded, but the sales lady explained it to me and the book showed it as well. I would est that it took me 30 minutes to thread..but once I made it thru all the loops and out thru the needle, I did not have to re-thread any from scratch. I am not a beginner serger user. I have a brother 1034d which is fine for a beginner but I am now wanting a more professional look to my seams that includes being able to construct with the confidence of strong seams…I do not get that with the brother. One last thing about threading…once it was threaded, actually starting the sewing was FAR easier than on the brother. I have had numerous occasions on the brother when I’ve had to re-thread from scratch once I’ve started sewing. So, on a frustration level, I’ve had plenty on a “simpler” threaded machine.
So once I got it threaded, it has sewn beautifully. It’s not even comparable in quality. I haven’t tried out all the stitches but am HIGHLY impressed. I do not agree with the prior poster that this machine is a waste of money. Juki has air threaded sergers but you will be paying close to this machine for the air threading with the quality of the brother 1034d….unless you she’ll out a lot more $$$. In the future, I will attempt to thread using the cut and tie method, which I purposely didn’t do first time since I want to learn how to do it.
And now to the reason I chose this machine. I HATE fiddling with all the tension knobs and testing and testing until I finally get it right. On the brother, I was always having to look up the stitch settings. This machine has the Sewing Advisor. You pick the stitch and fabric type and it will automatically set the tensions for you (you can fine tune of course) and it will tell you all the adjustments you need to make on the machine. The time saved here will far exceed any extra time spent on threading. There are 5 different needle placements to get the perfect stitch..with the brother there are 2. 25 stitches will give me more than I could ever need. The cover stitch feature is great as well and converting is so easy. I am looking forward to starting my first project today.
Susan B, thank you! I wanted a review on the automatic tension feature, because this is what I want to eliminate. I waste so much material on experimenting. I was glad you addressed the elimination of the guesswork. The threading I can deal with. I am sure there is something on Youtube. I will now shop for a good used S25.
Downsizing my machines have one like new 2-3 hours of use.
I thought this 25S threads itself? I must be looking at the description of another machine. It is though quite a challenge to weed through all that’s available out there. I’ve research Baby-Lock and Bernina and now the brand you have chosen. I not in the market to spend over $2K for a machine, as the other brands are so expensive!! I’m an avid life long sewer and I’m getting depressed thinking I should have had one of these 15 years ago!! and all the time I could have saved!!!
Any thoughts are greatly appreciated.
Do you still have your machine for sale?
Hello, Martha.
Thank you for visiting Sewing Insight.
For starters, the 25S is not a self threading serger. I strongly encourage you to NOT give up on finding the right and perfect serger for you. I, too, delayed acquiring a serger for a long, long time. In fact, I got my serger as a gift. Until then, I had no real desire for one and now I can’t live without it. Many of the newer basic 3/4 thread sergers I have reviewed are much easier to thread than their predecessors and they are economically priced as well. Take a look at my reviews of the Juki 644D or the Baby Lock Imagine.
Happy stitching.
Hello, I am looking into getting a huskylock s21 or a janome 634d. They are the same price on Craigslist but I am not sure about what will best serve me. I have been sewing since I was 5 and am not looking for my first serger at the age of 23. I would like to start a sewing business so I need something that will work for me. I also have seen your recommendation of the Janome 8002d and consider it and option also. any opinions on what is the best to get?
Sara
I am going to get my s25 today. I will be sure to thread the one at the store before making my final decision. I have watched the videos at Sewing Mastery and they have several videos showing most of the pages of the instruction manual. They have it for most Hysqvarna Viking machines. I know that it is months since anyone posted on here, but I thought I would share anyway.
http://www.sewingmastery.com/videos/husqvarna-viking-huskylock-s25/
I just bought mine and never owning a serger i had no difficulties in threading the machine. Just remember to thread everything before the needles. the color spots makes it very easy to follow.
I’m trying to decide between the Huskylock S25, the Pfaff Coverlock 3.0 and 4.0. The Huskylock s25 and the Pfaff Coverlock 4.0 seem almost identical to me. The threading is the same, the stitches are the same, only the digital screen is different, with the Huskylock s25 having the Sewing Advisor. These two are the same price also. I see your review of the Pfaff Coverlock 3.0 which is very favourable, yet this review isn’t so favourable when it comes to the threading. As far as I can see, that part is identical on the two machines. I didn’t have any trouble threading them and they stitched beautifully the first try. What is your reason for the difference in opinion on the threading? Did it have to do with the salesperson’s opinion? Both the salespeople I dealt with had used the machines before and both owned the Pfaff, however didn’t have anything negative to say about the Huskylock. At this point I am wondering if the only reason to choose one over the other is personal preference. The only negative comments I’ve had from salespeople are from the ones trying to sell me the Babylock which costs more than twice as much and is out of my budget. Does anyone have any advice for me? Thanks
I agree that threading the s25 is not especially challenging if you thread in the correct order and follow the instructions in the manual. I also found the Sewing Mastery videos on youtube to be very helpful, since they cover EVERYTHING about this machine – from taking it out of the box to threading to sewing and more – with a lot of tips thrown in. After watching all the videos, I felt I knew the machine well even before I bought one! I was lucky enough to get an almost new machine for about a third of its retail price, and I absolutely LOVE it! The Sewing Advisor and the automatic features really save time, and the stitch quality is fantastic.
Were did you buy your machine at and how long have you had it and how is everything going for you
my cover stitch want to skip when I go over seams especially and I try to hem a rayon stretch top and it would skip too I checked the threading and also changed needles and it still didn’t work. Can you use any other needles beside the Inspira brand I haven’t but just wondering
I’m glad you tried using the cover stitch over seams. That’s the problem I had with the Juki, it would NEVER feed over a seam, it would push the seam out of the way or not move at all and break needles EVERY TIME. I bought it when they first came out with home sergers and I’ll NEVER own another one. The repair person could not get it to work. I was going to take it to another person when to try and fix it but my house was flooded and it did not survive.
I am an advanced beginner on a Bernina 350SE sewing machine and I’m on the second day of taking a Serger class. I have never used a Serger before and chose to go straight for the s25 (using the store model). I can’t begin to explain how much I love this machine. Threading is different and more involved than a regular sewing machine, sure. But in my class there are other sergers – Brother, Singer, Janome, etc. – and I can tell you from my experience that my stitching not only looks a million times better than anything from those other machines, but all the ladies come around me to see my work and gush about the quality. The threading is color-coded, the book is great, and sewingmastery.com has videos. I will be buying one!!
On sale 30% off through 11/30/2017. I paid $1199. for mine. They did have to order it and I have no idea how long that takes.
I’ve been sewing for 40 years and had a Viking 1Plus embroidery sewing machine and loved it – had had many years of quality sewing. Purchased a S25 – have had nothing but problems with it. Had to be returned to factory for repair when still new – when returned to dealer had been dropped by UPS and had to be returned to factory yet again to be replaced. It has never properly sewed! I have a newer Viking quilting edition machine I love! Would never purchase another Viking Husqvarna serger ever! It never works. Was searching for help on threading for 4 thread safety stitch when I found this. I will go back to my Brother 1034D like I usually do. Just hate having an expensive serger that is useless!
Tengo esta máquina y la pantalla tactil no se activa. Esta muerta. no me da cambios ni puedo mover para ningun lado.
El botón de calibrar tampoco responde
Por favor. Es urgente
Bonjour. Merci pour votre article sur la surjeteuse recouvreuse mais je ne vois pas ce sont vous en penser en recouvrement….merci
One year ago I got this serger/coverlock machine, and I love it! Before this, I had a Juki 734. That is a fantastic machine. So strong, so smooth and quiet for a serger. Most of the threading is done with a “lay in” type of thread path – super easy, and it always produces a perfect stitch. If so happy, why did you change, you may ask. Well – tension. Juki has perfect tension, but changing fabric or stitch type, you have to consult your manual or a cheat-sheet for a lot of numbers. Too many numbers for me to remember as I don’t use them every day.
So I got this Husqvarna Viking S25. And since I have a HV Sapphire 930 regular sewing machine much was the same. Especially the wonderful creation of “Sewing Advisor”. Threading this machine is easy: just follow the color dots. One principle can do all sergers: Start with the cone from middle going right, then from middle going left. Now, Sewing Advisor is a simple system of telling the machine what kind of fabric and which stitch (or task) you want to perform, and the machine adjusts all tensions, stitch length and differential feed. Then a window pops up on the screen showing you what you have to do: knife up or down, cutting width and so on. And it will not sew until you click OK. Push the Info-button and you get a description of the use of the technique and best fabric choice.
So, it is not quite as strong as the Juki, and not quite so capable with super thick material, but it is smooth, quiet and a breeze to work with. Plus converting to coverlock is also quick and easy. All in all, I am so happy I changed to this machine. It is perfect for me.