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Price of Weaving Machine in Nigeria (2026): Types, Brands, Motors & Complete Buying Guide

Binoosmart

March 16, 2026

📌 Quick Answer: Weaving machine prices in Nigeria in 2026 range from ₦17,000 for a basic manual model to over ₦1,450,000 for a premium industrial EMEL overlock machine. The most popular brands are EMEL, Two Lion, SUMO, Brother, and Butterfly. Machines run on either a clutch motor or the more modern and efficient servo motor.

What Is a Weaving Machine? (The Nigerian Context)

In Nigeria, the term “weaving machine” does not refer to a fabric loom in the traditional textile sense. It is the everyday name Nigerian tailors and fashion designers use for an overlock machine — also called a serger. You will also hear it called a “weeping machine” in many markets across Lagos, Aba, Kano, and Onitsha.

The correct technical name is overlock machine or serger. Weaving machines trim and enclose the seam allowance or edge of the fabric inside a woven thread casing. This ensures the inner edges of a cloth are not unravelled, enhancing the inside look of clothes and their longevity. In simple terms: it is the machine that gives the inside of your garment that clean, professional finish. When you look at the inner seams of a well-made dress or shirt and see the neat, locked-thread edging — that was done by a weaving machine.

Every tailor in Nigeria, from beginners in their homes to large-scale fashion factories, needs one. Without it, garments fray quickly, look unprofessional from the inside, and do not last. It is not optional — it is essential.

Types of Weaving Machines in Nigeria

There are two broad categories of weaving machines sold and used in Nigeria: manual (ordinary) and industrial. Within and beyond these two categories, you also have specific machine types defined by stitch configuration and function.

1. Manual (Ordinary) Weaving Machine

Manual weaving machines are more affordable, however, they are not as fast or versatile as their industrial counterparts. Notwithstanding, many tailors in Nigeria prefer to purchase manual weaving machines since they can afford them. A manual weaving machine runs on a foot pedal stand — the same type of stand used with old-fashioned manual sewing machines. It does not require electricity to operate, which makes it a practical option in areas with unreliable power supply. It is the entry-level weaving machine and is widely used by home tailors and beginners.

Best for: Beginners, home tailors, areas with poor power supply, basic fabric finishing on native wears.

Limitations: Slower speed, less control over stitch quality, limited thread configurations.

2. Industrial Weaving Machine (Overlock/Serger)

Industrial weaving machines are more advanced than the ordinary weaving machines. They have more functions and they accommodate a wide range of fabric. Working with them is easier with faster speed. They also have settings that can provide a lot of decorative serge.

Industrial weaving machines are electrically powered and designed for professional use. Industrial models operate at speeds up to 7,500 stitches per minute, drastically reducing production time.

They are the standard choice for any tailor or fashion business that handles a consistent volume of work.

Best for: Professional tailors, fashion designers, garment factories, corporate wear specialists, and anyone handling high-volume production.

3. Three-Thread (3-Thread) Overlock Machine

The 3-thread overlock is the most common and most affordable type of industrial weaving machine in Nigeria. It uses one needle and two loopers to create a basic overlocked edge. It is ideal for light to medium fabrics such as cotton, chiffon, linen, and most everyday Nigerian fabrics.

Common use: Native wears (Ankara, lace), everyday casual wear, T-shirts, and light dresses.

Thread configuration: 1 needle thread + 2 looper threads.

4. Four-Thread (4-Thread) Overlock Machine

A 4-thread overlock machine adds an extra needle, giving a stronger, more reinforced seam. It is more versatile than the 3-thread and can handle medium to thick fabrics including denim, jersey, and heavier fashion materials.

The 4-thread overlock is a step up, offering versatility for thicker materials and decorative stitching. Common use: Corporate wears, jeans, jackets, medium-weight fabrics, and garments requiring stronger seams.

Thread configuration: 2 needle threads + 2 looper threads.

5. Five-Thread (5-Thread) Safety Stitch Machine

The 5-thread overlock is the most advanced and most expensive configuration. It combines a 2-thread chain stitch with a 3-thread overlock, producing what is called a “safety stitch” — among the most durable seam finishes available. It is used in high-end garment production and factories.

Common use: High-end fashion, uniforms, workwear, mass-production garment factories.

6. Cover Stitch Machine

A cover stitch machine is different from a standard overlock. Rather than finishing raw edges, it creates a visible, decorative stitch on the right side of the fabric — the kind you see on the hems of T-shirts, sportswear, and stretch fabrics. Some machines combine overlock and cover stitch functions. The Merrylock Overlock and Cover Stitch Machine is one such combo unit available in Nigeria.

Common use: Sportswear, stretch fabrics, T-shirt hems, activewear.

7. Textile Loom Weaving Machines (Industrial Fabric Production)

It is worth clarifying this separately: for large-scale fabric production (not garment finishing), completely different industrial machines exist. These include shuttle looms, rapier looms, air jet looms, and water jet looms. These are used in textile mills in Kano, Kaduna, and Lagos — not in tailor shops.

Imported second-hand weaving machines from Pakistan are also very popular among small and medium scale weaving operations in Nigeria. The most common are used shuttle looms from manufacturers like Ahmad Brothers, AP Industries, Azam Machinery and Habib Machinery. These inexpensive Pakistani machines allow smaller businesses to scale up production at affordable capital investment. Parts and maintenance services for these machines are readily available from parts dealers in markets like Kantin Kwari Textile Market in Kano. This article is focused primarily on the overlocking/serger weaving machines used by tailors and fashion businesses — the type most Nigerians are searching for.

Weaving Machine Prices in Nigeria (2026)

Prices vary based on brand, condition (new or fairly used), number of threads, and your location. Urban centres like Lagos, Aba, and Kano generally offer lower prices due to higher supply and competition.

Disclaimer: Prices listed here are based on current market research from March 2026 and reflect prevailing naira rates. Prices can fluctuate due to the dollar-to-naira exchange rate and market conditions. Always confirm with your supplier before purchasing.

New Manual Weaving Machines (Brand New)

New Industrial Weaving Machines (Brand New)

Fairly Used (Second-Hand) Industrial Weaving Machines

Prices of fairly used weaving machines may vary depending on the extent of use and the damages on it. Be more wary when buying fairly used — make sure you check and test very well before buying.

Popular Weaving Machine Brands in Nigeria

1. EMEL

EMEL is arguably the most trusted brand for industrial weaving machines in Nigeria. It has a long-established reputation for durability and performance in the Nigerian market. EMEL machines combine affordability with durability, making them a popular choice among Nigerian tailors. EMEL produces both affordable entry-level models (₦110,000–₦170,000) and high-end premium industrial machines that go well above ₦1 million. Spare parts are widely available across major Nigerian markets.

Best for: Tailors who want a reliable, long-lasting machine backed by a trusted brand with good spare parts availability.

2. Two Lion

Two Lion is a Chinese brand that has become extremely popular in Nigeria, particularly for its 3-thread and 4-thread industrial overlock models. The Two Lion Overlock Weaving Industrial Sewing Machine is suitable for garment factories and knitting mills, used to perform overlocking in sewing thin and medium-thick fabrics. The machine is simple in construction with fine performance and durability.

The brand offers a strong balance between price and quality — more affordable than EMEL but widely respected in the market. It is one of the most frequently sold brands on Jiji and in Lagos Island Cloth Market.

Best for: Tailors looking for reliable industrial performance at a more accessible price point.

3. SUMO

SUMO is another popular brand in Nigeria, known for its value-for-money positioning. It offers both entry-level manual models and more capable industrial machines. SUMO Premium Industrial Weaving Machines feature robust construction and automatic lubrication, catering to both domestic and industrial needs. SUMO’s 3-thread models are among the most popular starter machines for new tailors upgrading from manual machines.

Best for: Tailors who need a reliable industrial machine without the premium brand price tag.

4. Brother

Brother is a globally recognised Japanese brand with a strong presence in Nigeria’s professional tailoring market. Renowned globally, Brother offers compact yet powerful options for small to medium-sized businesses. Brother machines are known for consistent stitch quality, and the brand is highly rated for durability. However, spare parts can be harder to source in local Nigerian markets compared to EMEL or Two Lion, so proximity to a major city is important.

Best for: Professional tailors who prioritise build quality and international brand reliability.

5. Butterfly

Butterfly is one of the most affordable and widely available overlock machine brands in Nigeria. It is often the first machine many new tailors purchase, particularly the manual/ordinary Butterfly overlock. If you are into native wears only, a simple Butterfly overlock machine should suffice for your need.

Butterfly’s entry-level industrial models are budget-friendly and excellent for light use, though they are generally not recommended for heavy daily production.

Best for: Beginners, native wear tailors, and anyone on a tight budget who primarily handles light fabrics.

6. Merrylock / Marylock

Merrylock (also spelled Marylock in Nigerian markets) produces combination overlock and cover stitch machines. The Merrylock Overlock and Cover Stitch Machine is ideal for intricate designs, blending overlocking with cover stitching capabilities. It sits in the mid-range price bracket and is popular among tailors who work with stretch fabrics and require both functions in a single machine.

Best for: Tailors who sew sportswear, T-shirts, and stretch fabrics requiring both overlocking and hemming.

7. BabyLock

BabyLock is an American brand known internationally for its premium serger machines. In Nigeria, the BabyLock industrial weaving machine is available but less commonly stocked than the Chinese brands. BabyLock sergers are at the high end of most sewists’ budgets because they offer some really amazing features, including air threading systems that make setup significantly faster.

Best for: High-end fashion businesses and tailors seeking premium features.

8. Singer

Singer is one of the world’s oldest and most recognisable sewing machine brands. Their industrial weaving machines are available in Nigeria at mid-range prices (around ₦78,000–₦82,000 for fairly used models). Singer machines are reliable but their industrial serger lineup is narrower than brands like EMEL or Two Lion in the Nigerian context.

Best for: Tailors familiar with the Singer brand who want a trusted name at a moderate price.

9. Gemini

Gemini is a budget brand popular in the manual/entry-level overlock category. It is primarily targeted at beginners and home tailors. At ₦17,000–₦25,000, it is one of the most affordable options in the market.

Best for: Complete beginners and home tailors who want to learn overlocking before investing in a more capable machine.

Industrial Textile Loom Brands (For Fabric Production)

For large-scale fabric production — not garment finishing — the following industrial loom brands are present in Nigeria:

Veekee manufactures a wide range of shuttle looms, rapier looms, air jet looms, and water jet looms. Their machinery is known for being reasonably priced but still hardy and reliable for high volume weaving operations. Many large textile mills in Kano, Kaduna, Lagos, and other production hubs have invested in Veekee weaving machines for activities like cotton, polyester, and damask weaving. Toyota Industries also produces technologically advanced weaving machines — air jet looms and water jet looms — used by large Nigerian textile manufacturers. Tsudakoma is another Japanese brand with availability in Nigeria. Their parts, including shuttles and reeds, are accessible from dealers in Kano, Lagos, and Aba.

Types of Motors for Weaving Machines in Nigeria

The motor is one of the most important parts of an industrial weaving machine. It determines the speed, control, energy consumption, and noise level of your machine. In Nigeria, two primary motor types dominate the market: the clutch motor and the servo motor.

1. Clutch Motor (Traditional Motor)

The clutch motor is the older, traditional motor type found on most industrial sewing and weaving machines in Nigerian markets. It has been the standard for decades and remains widely available.

How it works: A clutch motor runs all the time the machine is turned on. When you depress the pedal to make the machine go, a clutch engages between the running motor and the belt, driving the machine. When you let off the pedal, the clutch disengages and a brake engages, stopping the machine quickly.

Key characteristics:

• Runs continuously while switched on — consuming electricity even when idle
• Loud — produces a constant humming noise
• Less precise speed control — particularly difficult for beginners
• More powerful at lower speeds, making it suitable for very heavy materials like leather
• More affordable than servo motors
• Simpler mechanics — local technicians across Nigeria are familiar with repairs

The biggest problem with clutch motors is that any uncontrolled pressing of the pedal makes the machine run at full speed. The desired speed can only be achieved by an experienced operator. Clutch motors are not efficient for short and curved seams.

Best for: Experienced operators, heavy fabrics, budget-conscious buyers, and areas where servo motor technicians are not readily available.

2. Servo Motor (Modern Motor)

The servo motor is the modern, energy-efficient alternative to the clutch motor. It has been growing rapidly in popularity in Nigeria as tailors and factories seek to reduce electricity costs.

How it works: A servo motor does not run until you press the pedal, much like a home sewing machine. The further you depress the pedal, the faster the machine runs, and when you let off, the electric power to the motor is cut, which stops the machine quickly.

Key characteristics:

• Only runs when the pedal is pressed — dramatically lower electricity consumption
• Quiet operation — almost silent when idle
• Precise speed control, from very slow to very fast
• Variable speed adjustment from 400 RPM to 4,000 RPM
• Lighter weight than clutch motors
• Servo motors consume significantly less power than clutch motors — significant energy savings of often 60–80% — a major selling point. – Slightly higher upfront cost than clutch motors

The basic advantages of servo motors are that they are much lighter and more silent than clutch motors, and the user can control the speed with which it runs. More importantly, it also consumes between 60 to 80 percent less energy than clutch motors.

Best for: New tailors learning speed control, operators who want to reduce electricity bills, businesses running machines for long hours daily, and anyone sewing delicate fabrics where stitch precision matters.

3. Direct Drive Motor

The direct drive motor is the most advanced type and is found primarily on high-end industrial machines in larger factories. Direct-drive motors connect directly to the sewing machine’s drive shaft, eliminating the need for gears or belts. This direct connection increases efficiency by reducing mechanical losses and providing high torque, resulting in more stable and consistent sewing performance. These motors are known for their quiet operation and minimal vibration.

Direct drive motors are not commonly found in ordinary Nigerian tailor shops — they are primarily seen in large-scale garment manufacturing facilities. They are the most expensive of the three motor types but offer the best precision and lowest maintenance over time.

Best for: Large-scale garment factories and high-end fashion production facilities.

Clutch Motor vs. Servo Motor: Which Should You Choose?

Bottom line: If you are buying a new machine in 2026, strongly consider the servo motor option. The additional cost of the servo motor can be recovered through energy savings alone in approximately 4 years.

The electricity savings are real and significant in Nigeria’s high-cost power environment. Many suppliers in Lagos and Aba now offer servo motor upgrades at the point of purchase for an additional ₦15,000–₦35,000 above the standard clutch motor price.

Factors That Affect Weaving Machine Prices in Nigeria

Several factors determine exactly how much you will pay for a weaving machine in Nigeria in 2026.

1. Brand reputation. Established brands like EMEL, Two Lion, and Brother command higher prices due to proven durability and efficiency. Unknown Chinese generic brands may cost significantly less but often break down quickly.

2. New vs. fairly used. A fairly used machine can cost 30–60% less than a brand-new one, but comes with risks. Always inspect and test a second-hand machine before paying. Where possible, bring an experienced technician along to assess it.

3. Thread configuration. 3-thread machines are cheaper; 4-thread and 5-thread models cost more but offer greater versatility and stronger seams.

4. Motor type. Clutch motor machines are cheaper upfront. Servo motor versions of the same machine will cost more but save money on electricity over time.

5. Location in Nigeria. Prices fluctuate due to location — urban centers like Lagos and Kano often offer lower rates — and the dollar-to-naira exchange rate, which impacts imported machinery costs. Rural areas may incur additional transport costs.

6. Exchange rate. All weaving machines sold in Nigeria are imported — primarily from China. When the naira weakens against the dollar, prices go up. This is one of the key reasons prices have risen significantly over the past two years.

7. Availability of spare parts. Machines from brands with readily available spare parts (EMEL, Two Lion, SUMO) tend to hold their value better and cost more upfront because buyers know maintenance will be manageable.

Where to Buy Weaving Machines in Nigeria

Physical Markets

Lagos Island Cloth Market is a hub for sewing equipment, offering brands like Two Lion and EMEL at competitive rates. Kano Textile Market is known for affordable prices and a wide selection of both new and used machines. Aba Fashion District is ideal for tailors in the Southeast, with access to durable industrial models.

Other key physical markets include:

• Kantin Kwari Textile Market, Kano — one of the largest textile markets in West Africa, excellent for both garment machinery and loom machines
• Balogun Market, Lagos — wide range of brands and price points
• Onitsha Main Market, Anambra — very competitive pricing, especially for Chinese brands
• Wuse Market and Garki Market, Abuja — good for both new and fairly used machines

Online Platforms

• Jumia Nigeria (jumia.com.ng) — new machines with delivery and warranty options
• Jiji.ng — both new and fairly used machines, listed by individual sellers and dealers across Nigeria; over 660+ industrial sewing machines listed at any given time
• OA Nigeria Limited (oaltd.com.ng) — a Lagos-based importer of industrial sewing machines including the JK747 four-thread overlock model, with after-sales support

Specialist Importers

Companies like OA Nigeria Limited in Lagos import directly and provide after-sales support and spare parts — a worthwhile consideration for businesses wanting a warranty and technical backup.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Weaving Machine in Nigeria

1. What type of tailoring do you do? If you are into native wears only, a simple Butterfly overlock machine should suffice for your need. But if you are into making corporate wears and vests, you surely need one of the industrial overlock machines in order to achieve the high-end quality finish that is required.

2. What is your budget? Your budget determines whether you buy new or fairly used, and which brand tier you can access. Do not stretch your budget so thin that you cannot afford maintenance or spare parts.

3. How reliable is your power supply? All industrial weaving machines need electricity to power them. If you cannot get a sure and constant source of power supply, think twice before going for an industrial machine. Ordinary overlock machines can still work with manual machine stand.

If you are in an area with poor NEPA supply, budget for a generator (starting from ₦250,000) alongside the machine.

4. Availability of spare parts. Generally, brands like Brother, EMEL, and Butterfly are well known for durability and high efficiency. Beware of buying Chinese brands whose name you have never heard of in the market. Most give in within a few months of purchase.

5. Complexity of the machine. Threading an overlock machine is more complex than threading a regular sewing machine. Some machines are easier to thread than others. Beginners should start with a 3-thread model before progressing to 4-thread or 5-thread configurations.

6. New or fairly used? New machines come with warranties and full efficiency. Fairly used machines are cheaper but carry risk. If buying fairly used, always test the machine thoroughly before paying, and check for worn parts, uneven stitching, or unusual noise.

Tips for Maintaining Your Weaving Machine

A well-maintained weaving machine can last 10–20 years. Here are practical care tips to extend your machine’s life:

1. Oil it regularly. Weaving machines have many moving metal parts. Use sewing machine oil on all specified lubrication points at least once a week for daily-use machines.
2. Clean the lint and thread debris. After each day’s use, brush out lint from the throat plate, tension discs, and looper area. Lint buildup causes skipped stitches and tension problems.
3. Use quality thread. Cheap, low-quality thread causes tension problems and increases wear on the machine’s internal components.
4. Check and replace needles frequently. A dull or bent needle damages fabric and strains the machine. Replace needles every two to three weeks under regular use.
5. Keep it covered. When not in use, cover the machine to prevent dust accumulation which affects stitch quality over time.
6. Have it serviced professionally. Even with good home maintenance, have a qualified technician service the machine every six months if it is in daily commercial use.
7. Do not force thick fabrics. Pushing fabric too aggressively causes timing issues and can bend or break the looper — an expensive repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a weaving machine and a sewing machine? A weaving machine (overlock/serger) trims and encloses the raw edges of fabric to prevent fraying. A regular sewing machine joins two pieces of fabric together. They are complementary tools — most professional tailors use both.

Which weaving machine brand is best for beginners in Nigeria? For beginners, SUMO 3-thread, Butterfly, or EMEL 3-thread are good starting points. They are affordable, widely available, and spare parts are easy to find. As you grow, upgrade to a full industrial EMEL or Two Lion.

Is servo motor better than clutch motor for a weaving machine in Nigeria? Yes, in most cases. The servo motor saves 60–80% more electricity, operates quietly, and offers precise speed control — which is especially valuable for beginners who are still learning. The extra upfront cost is recovered through electricity savings over time.

How much does a fairly used weaving machine cost in Nigeria? Fairly used weaving machines start from as low as ₦11,000 for basic Butterfly/SUMO models and can go up to ₦120,000 for a used EMEL 3-thread industrial machine. Always inspect before buying.

Where is the cheapest place to buy a weaving machine in Nigeria? Onitsha Main Market, Balogun Market Lagos, and Kantin Kwari in Kano are known for competitive pricing. Online platforms like Jiji.ng also offer competitive rates, especially for fairly used machines.

Can I use a weaving machine without electricity? Manual/ordinary weaving machines can run on a foot pedal stand without electricity. Industrial weaving machines require electricity to power their motors.

What causes a weaving machine to skip stitches? Common causes include a dull or incorrectly installed needle, wrong thread tension, incorrect threading of the loopers, lint buildup in the tension discs, or a timing issue that requires professional adjustment.

Summary: Quick Buying Guide

Final Thoughts

The weaving machine remains one of the most important investments a Nigerian tailor or fashion designer can make. Whether you are just starting out or scaling a production business, there is a machine at every price point — from a ₦17,000 Gemini for a beginner to a ₦1.4 million premium EMEL for a high-volume factory.

The key decisions are these: choose an industrial machine over manual as soon as your budget allows, opt for a servo motor to save on electricity, stick to brands with strong spare parts availability like EMEL, Two Lion, and SUMO, and always test a fairly used machine before parting with your money.

Nigeria’s fashion industry is growing — and with the right machine, you can grow with it.

Prices updated March 2026. Always verify current prices with your local supplier or on Jumia/Jiji before purchasing, as exchange rate fluctuations affect imported machinery costs.