Sergers

[AmerBeautyCreations]

Hi folks! I have been working on starting up a new clothing business (handmade, some upcycled stuff) and I'm feeling like my machine may be holding me back. From what I can gather, I think I need to consider buying a serger machine.

As you can all probably relate to, buying an expensive piece of equipment is a big deal as far as business expenditures. So I want to make sure I'm making the right purchase.

As of now, I'm trying to figure out:

1. Buy new or used? ...I'm sure there are lots of good used machines on Craigslist and such, but would I then be missing out on a warranty and maintenance/repair?

2. How to balance quality versus price? ...I want to get something worth buying that will last me a while, but need to keep the cost reasonable.

3. And of course.... Any recommendations on a specific machine to buy? I've heard threading sergers can be a nightmare unless you get a good machine.

Any help would be very much appreciated!
Thanks,
Mari @ American Beauty Creations

[AstronomyGirlDesigns]

I got mine 2nd hand from ebay about 10yrs ago and it hasn't missed a beat.
The main comment I was given by others before buying mine was to get a 4 thread, there more versatile. I love my Janome, my sewing machine is also a janome so I don't have to buy different needles or anything and can go to the one store for both.
My husband (who bought it for my b'day) researched the internet to find the best user reviews then he looked for the same item 2nd hand and he got me that. If you have a sewing machine that you love and are very comfortable using maybe look at the sergers that company makes.
Good luck with it

[TreasuredDollFashion]

My serger is as indespensable to me as my sewing machine is. You won't believe you were able to live without a serger once you actually have one and know how to use it. I have a 17 year old New Home (now Janome) 4-thread with differential feed (useful for knits) and only had it in the shop once because of operator (that would be me) error LOL!

If you do not know how to use a serger, they can be tricky at first. You will really need some training, either in person (sewing shop or other classroom/tutor environment) or with a beginner's DVD/video. My recommendation is to find a sewing machine shop within a reasonable distance to you that sells reconditioned trade-ins that will guarantee their work, and provide service and lessons. You don't need a top of the line machine, so an older reconditoned machine will be fine.

The previous poster makes a good point about machine needles. You'll want to check what kind your serger takes. My serger (17 years old) requires a special size needle, but many of the newer models take regular sewing machine needles. The special needles are not sold at the large fabric stores, and my original sewing machine store closed several years ago, so I order them on-line now and keep a supply on-hand. It's just something else to be aware of.

Also, make sure you follow the manual for care and upkeep (mine needs regular oiling), clean it after every use, and use good quality thread (I use maxi-lock).

Best of luck to you!!

[TreasuredDollFashion]

I just realized that I did not address your "threading" question. Don't be frightened about threading a machine. Follow the diagrams, and practice! There is a little threading trick that involved tying your new thread to the end of the previous color and pulling through the machine. This works for me at least 50% of the time, but the other times I have to start over with rethreading. After you've done it a few times, it is pretty easy. If you can run your own sewing business, you can rethread your own serger. Don't listen to the fearmongering! Just follow the diagrams (either in the manual, or, as mine is, printed right on the machine).

[allthingsoldarenew]

The items I make now often a serger is not the machine I need. However when my children were little I made everything. I bought my serger back then so it must be at least 27 years old. Most machines have guides that show you how to thread them. Don't be afraid just do it over and over and you will get the hang of it. I use to line up the clothing I would be making at the time and sew like on an assembly line. If I was making one shirt I know I was making 3 so no boy was left out. I could sew up to 6 sweat shirt and pants out fits that were so popular back then in one evening. Maybe 6 hours max. And that was with constant interruptions from the kids. Yes a serger can really make your sewing easier and quicker because one pass is all you need to sew and finish a seam.

[allthingsoldarenew]

Oh and that serger was an inexpensive White Super Lock with 4 threads.