Replies

1. 
   Kiley | Jun 27, 2006 09:29am | #1

   Have you checked the reviews by owners of these models on line at PatternReview? I do know that some owners of the Viking have gone on to other machines because they are rather fussy to convert to coverhem. I have also seen praises of this model by owners.

   I have owned a Pfaff 4842 non coverhem and I know that they are workhorses and they are still made in Japan as are the Elna sergers with coverhem. Both the Elna and Pfaff coverhem models can accept many of the same feet as the feet are identical. You might also wish to check out the Elna 744 and 985. I have the 744 which is not computerized as is the 945. My 744 is a 4 thread with 16 stitch programs plus it has 3 coverhems, narrow and wide 2 seam and a 3 seam cover and chain stitch. The 744 is only a 4 thread yet has these 3 coverhems plus it has automatic tensions and a needle bar that tilts for easy changing. It is much like the Pfaff 4862 but I don't think the 4862 does all 3 coverhems. With the 744 however you do not need to change the foot or plate to do coverhem. The other Pfaff models and the Viking are 5 thread sergers and might be computerized like the 5 thread Elna 945.

   I hope you can test drive different brands and models to see which you are most comfortable using. I hope you find one that you love and use often.

1. 
   user-172042 | Jun 27, 2006 03:12pm | #2

   Thanks, Kiley for helping me. What is Pattern Review? Is it on Threads? Also, does your Elna 744 have narrow hem? If so, do you have to change the throat plate to use it? I have a Singer and hardly ever use the narrow hem, because I have to change that ole throat plate. I have a Husqvarna Viking 1+ embroidery machine and it sews wonderfully. That is why I was looking at the Huskylock. I wanted to buy a reader/writer box and software and thought I might get a deal if I bought the overlock at the same place. I do want it to be user friendly, though. Did you have to buy a lot of extra feet for the Elna or did it come with the specialty feet?Thanks for your help!

   Edited 6/27/2006 8:13 am ET by Trans Am Lady

1. 
   Kiley | Jun 28, 2006 07:14am | #3

   HI, PatternReview.com is a site with over 6000 members. They have discussion forums and classes as well as reviews for sewing machines, sergers and patterns. I believe you can also buy fabrics at a discount through the site. They also have sewing contests and email you of new events and on line chat sessions with famous instructors and designers. There is much I don't know about it because I am not a paying member but it is one of my favorite on line sites as is Threads and several others. The owner of the PR site recently had an article in either Threads magazine or Sew News. Sorry I will have to check and see which is was. I do think it is the best on line site for sewing machine and serger reviews. I like discussions more about the machines than sewing.

   As for my serger, yes, it has several narrow hems both 2 thread and 3 thread. It has 16 stitch programs and 3 coverhems and chainstitch. No I don't need to change the plate for any of the stitches. I just need to add a little table when doing Coverhems as you need to do on most coverhem models. It also has a 3rd looper a chain looper for the different types of stitch programs. It also has automatic tensions that never need adjustment when changing stitches but one could adjust them if needed to when using some special types of yarns or threads. I think it is a nice serger for being only a 4 thread and not computerized. The needle bar tilts back for easy needle insertion for the 5 different needle positions. The back two positions are used for regular serged stitches and the front 3 positions are used for coverhems and chain stitch. Besides the all purpose large coverlock foot my serger came with a clear foot for chain stitch and deco work. I was given a set of 3 large metal feet as a gift from a friend that are actually Pfaff coverlock feet. Pfaff and Elna Coverhem sergers use many of the same feet.

   I bet you love your Viking. I think they do lovely embroidery. I have a stand alone embroidery machine that I use more often for monograms and requests from my grandkids and friends than I use for myself.  

   Edited 6/28/2006 12:17 am ET by Kiley

   Edited 6/28/2006 12:24 am ET by Kiley

1. 
   user-172042 | Jun 28, 2006 04:16pm | #4

   Thanks for all the information. I'm getting more excited just talking about the overlock machines. I do love my emb. machine. This 1+ doesn't have the capabilities to hook to the internet and use the cheaper disks for embroidery. That's why I want to buy the reader/writer box and convert them to a card. I don't think I could justify buying the more expensive Designer SE (I believe this is the name). I don't embroidery enough for that. One thing I do want to get is the Monogram Wizard Plus and use it, like how you use yours. I have a few fonts, but not really big enough for monograms.I think I will go Saturday and test drive a Pfaff. To use an Elna, I believe I would have to go out of Birmingham. I want something I can get serviced close by to me.Thank you so much.

1. 
   Kiley | Jun 29, 2006 01:47am | #5

   I never got a reader box or anything for my little embroidery machine. I haven't used my computer to download anything for it. I have just used the cards that came with it and I purchased some extra cards from the internet stores. I have several built in designs etc. including several alphabets and fonts plus an alphabet card with several more fonts came with my machine along with another card. It does an amazing job for such an inexpensive machine. I embroidered names in French and Italian on lined plastic coated canvas large out door pool furniture cushions for my daughter. I did the names in different colors and fonts. I was surprised how nice it came out. I'm glad it came out so nice because she purchased the materials and wanted the Italian and French on it to remember the places she visited in Europe on her honeymoon.

   Should you purchase an Elna coverlock probably a Pfaff technician would work on it also being the machines are so similar and seem to be made the same. I understand they are both made in the same factory in Japan. You might want to ask your Pfaff tech and see if they would service an Elna serger. I don't know how it works with the warranty etc. Elna's are distributed by Tacony and maybe distribution companies also have a say in it. One of my sewing machines is a Pfaff and I use my Pfaff dealer to purchase feet etc. for my Elna serger and he is the one that told me they are the same as the Pfaff's when it comes to parts and feet.

2. 
   user-172042 | Jun 29, 2006 05:36pm | #6

   I've just noticed that the cards for my emb. machine are around $150 and the diskettes (or whatever they are called) are $50 down to $15. I would love to see the outdoor furniture cushions you embroidered. Could you possibly post a picture? I love the idea of using another language. I could make a purse like that, maybe some cities in France or designer names. There are some great possibilities. I wonder if you could have words translated on the internet. I looked at a Pfaff overlock yesterday and they had a great deal on a 4862. This lady traded it in on a Baby Lock with the jet air threading. She had used her sister's and thought she would get one just like it. This lady really meant it when she said she hadn't used the Pfaff. The accessories box was still sealed up from the factory. All of the Pfaff's have only 1 cover stitch, though. The Viking has 3. Since I am buying it mainly for cover stitches, I will probably go with a Viking. I am going to try one out Saturday. Oh, I looked at a booklet on the Creative Pfaff overlock. It has 10 threads. Can you imagine buying ten cones of thread to match a garment you were sewing? Whew, that could get expensive.

3. 
   Kiley | Jun 29, 2006 10:31pm | #7

    

   It's good that you are testing models before buying. I would like to know what you think of them. I don't know much about the Vikings other than what posts I have read in discussion forums and also the reviews I have seen by owners on PatternReview.

   Did you get to test drive the 4862? The Pfaff 4862 is much like my Elna 744, having only 4 threads and the automatic tensions, but as I posted my Elna has 3 coverhems including the triple seam. I believe the 4862 has a few more steps in converting to coverhem than my Elna and the Viking has more steps. The automatic tensions are a wonderful timesaver and I don't know if the Viking has this, it might but something to check into.  You also might wish to check out how well the machines do coverhem..if they have good stitch quality or skip stitches. I feel my Elna 744 does excellent coverhem stitches because of the needle placement which is different than most brands.

   As for words being translated on the internet..yes, I had to go to several sites to see that I spelled the words correctly and the meanings of the words were given on the sites. Just goodle the language you want . I have no way to take a picture of the pool set at my daughters house. She is setting up a new computer and maybe soon she will be able to take some pictures. I don't have a printer or a scanner either. These cushions have ended up in her pool a few times with the summer monsoon winds last year but the threads on the embroidery have not faded and have held their color well. The long seat cushion that I made for the lounge has not been in the pool yet. It is made of foam and the covering my daughter chose for it is striped with the colors of the stripes maching the colors of the names that are embroidered on the off white plastic canvas pillows. It looks better than it sounds. I used a serger for much of the work cutting and sewing the plastic canvas, linings etc. for  seat and cushions. The serger I had at the time was a very inexpensive Janome (New Home) that I purchased new on line from a dealer for $199 and free shipping. My oldest daughter is using it now. I hope you have fun choosing your new serger and find a nice one that you love and use often.

4. 
   user-172042 | Jun 30, 2006 07:16pm | #8

   No, I didn't get to test the Pfaff 4862. I was on my lunch hour. I mis-understood you. I thought you owned a Pfaff. I called about an Elna 744 and have found a good deal on one. The store told me if I was looking for just a cover hem machine, I should consider the Janome. I don't know if I am, are not. He said it takes 20 minutes to go from serger to coverhem. He also has a deal on a Viking 1001L. I'm not sure what that is, but if its a 936 I will look at it, also. The Pfaff looked kind of flimsy. The threading looked easier than my Singer. You can pull out the looper threading part to get to it easier. Does your Elna do pintucks? This store said that the Viking has a weak needle stem and it can break easily. The Husqvarna Viking web site shows all the stitches and they look nice, but if it is aggrevating switching from serger to coverhem, I don't know if I want it. My Singer has to have the throat plate changed. I will just have to be patience and test them all. I have a stack of knits, though and it's not easy. I'm excited, also.

   Edited 6/30/2006 12:48 pm ET by Trans Am Lady

5. 
   MaryinColorado | Jul 01, 2006 09:30pm | #13

   Just a quickie here.  I was told that if you buy several neutral thread cones, like greys in either light or dark shades and use them in the loopers only they don't show.  You then use thread to match your fabric in the needles.  This is one way people have saved money on threads.  I have not tried this myself so don't know if it works well.

   Pintucks are one of the things I did in my test drives.  One technique is to fold the fabric in half, put the folded edge against or next to the cutter and do a narrow rolled hem.  The multipurpose foot on the 936 keeps you from cutting the fabric. This can be two or three thread rolled hem, depending on the serger's capabilities.  Some of the machines could not do a rolled hem without cutting the fabric.  Also you can do rolled hems with the chain stitch.  They look so cute using specialty threads.

   I also took a variety of fabric scraps.  Nothing fancy just some t shirt type and double  knits and fleece, a few different weights of cotton from lightweight to denim.  At some dealers I found that I had to schedule my visit when the serger experts were in.  Some employees may be new or not trained on all the capabilities of the sergers, also this is vastly improving I am sure.  Sergers have made such an incredible comeback, the word has really gotten out about the wonders of these workhorses and thier capabilities beyond the 'finished edge"   

   I can change over to cover stitch and back quickly and efficiently.  You do change the needle plate, presserfoot, and cuttercover.  Also the position of the needles. There is a large lever you move from S to C after tapping the foot control so the needles are down..  I have arthritis in my hands and loss of sensitivity in my fingers,  so the hardest part was changing the needles until I noticed in my accessory box that I have a little white needle holder, cool beans! No more dropped needles with any of my machines.  It takes less than a minute I guess but will have to time myself just for the fun of it, will let you know.

   There is a cording foot in the coverlock kit or you can buy them for regular serging or coverlock.

   It may help you to read the little operating manuals that come with the machines, I am a visual person and like to read, then have someone show me, then do it.

   I always buy the large three ring notebook manuals as they have all the stitches and capabilities and instructions for the specific machine and techniques and cleaning, problemsolving,etc..  I just download updates on the feet, etc from the website and  print them out.  That way I have info at a glance, it has been very helpful on teaching family members to sew also. 

   I did not mean to mention my first serger brand, sorry if I offended anyone.  I meant to convey the importance of test driving the machines and finding the right one for your needs.  Aren't we blessed to have choices in our lives?  I am going to pray for those less fortunate today...

   Mary

6. 
   Kiley | Jul 02, 2006 10:02am | #14

   Some of the things you described that bothers your hands is the reason I like my Elna 744. I don't need to change the plate or the foot to do chainstitch or coverhems. The needles are easy to insert because the needle bar tilts back with the needles up for easy changing. As for sergers that cut when doing stitches..their are 2 types of knife systems and placements on most home sergers. Some have a high upper knife that is near the needle and this type of knife just needs to be pushed to the side and rotated up to disengage the knife when no cutting is needed. The lower or recessed knife system is the type I have on my Elna (the same on Pfaff Coverlocks) where all that is needed is to drop the knife when you do not want the material cut. Yes, it is important to test the sergers to see which is best for you before purchasing.

7. 
   MaryinColorado | Jul 03, 2006 10:21am | #15

   Kiley, this isn't about serging but....have you tried handwaxing?  DH bought me one of those little home wax spas with lavendar scented wax.  It has given me so much relief!  My rheumatologist was amazed, no more discussions about joint replacement for now anyway.  I am so grateful to be able to continue sewing, especially since having to give up being a nurse which was so much a part of who I was. 

   I also pass along my machines.  My son and my grand children have inherited my love of creating with fabric and textiles and now my daughter in law has started sewing.  Maybe my dear daughter will decide to give it a try someday, her kids have been encouraging her. 

   The grandkids have used the serger on coverstitch.  Do you know if there is a needleguard for sergers?  After reading the posts on all the needle mishaps and injuries,  I am afraid of letting them serge with the cutting blade up!

8. 
   Kiley | Jul 04, 2006 01:50am | #18

   Mary, thank you for the info about the wax spas. I am also a retired nurse. I actually had to retire from nursing earlier than planned because of being paralyzed in both legs from surgery done by spinal. It only lasted for 3 mos. which was hard with 6 kids and it left me with no relfexes and some nerve damage. Then much surprise to all, 9 years later and single, the same thing happened after another surgery with gen. anesthesia. I was able to work ok after the next rehab on my own doing commission sales ..sold machines and sergers for several years and did a term of service for my country in Americorps but I have never been up to par since with multiple probs with nerves and reflexes etc. but only in the past 3 yrs developed much pain and exhaustion. I never post about this so about the spa's..I thank you for the info. I can say I am a bit ticked off by the many Dx's from Dr's. I just ignore it all and enjoy going to DD's to babysit one of my DGS's every day. I have a motto..Life is an attitude and attitudes are more important than circumstances.

   As for needle guards for sergers..I don't know of any. My sergers are such that it is hard to get the fingers near the needles because of the way they are built. My Elna has a large foot with the needles set way behind and of the 5 needle positions if using the back 2 positions for regular serging the fingers do not get even close and there is a guard that comes up from the looper cover door. The knives on the Elna are recessed too so there is no danger of getting the fingers in the way. However on my other serger..there is also a guard that comes up from the looper cover door but this serger has a high exposed knife that would be more dangerous for little fingers if they got near. When the DGK's are serging just tell them to feed the fabric from a distance and the serger will gobble it up and to keep their hands far from the knives and needles..so they won't be cut and serged like the fabric.

   Edited 7/3/2006 6:56 pm ET by Kiley

9. 
   MaryinColorado | Jul 04, 2006 10:41pm | #19

   You've really got spirit girl!  Wow!  I love your motto and will try to remember it when my "pitty pot" surfaces.  You are a strong woman with a big heart. I am sorry that you have been through so much pain and strife.  You have overcome so many obstacles and come out a winner.

   I know what you mean about docs, once the trust is lost you feel so betrayed and violated wether they work for us or with us.  I finally found a wonderful primary care doc who is perfect for me.  He is an MD who has been practicing wholistic and Chinese Medicine for decades in addition to western medicine.  He is straightforward too and doesn't patronize or coddle me so I respect him.  Trust may develope as time goes by........Mary

    

10. 
    Kiley | Jul 05, 2006 02:14am | #20

    Mary, good for you on your choice of Dr's. That's the way to go. You will probably b more pleased with him over time than any other.

2. 
   MaryinColorado | Jun 30, 2006 09:21pm | #9

   Hi!  I love my Husqvarna Viking 936 Huskylock!!!  I have had it for many years and I really researched it before buying it.  I am sorry to say I recently threw away the spiral notebook I made up with all the different brands pros and cons but that was several years ago.   I test drove many brands.  I use it more than my 3 sewing/emb machines combined and am so glad I made the investment.  Check the websites for specials!  I was able to get a box of accessory feet and a box of coverstitch accessory feet at no extra charge, that was great. 

   I do all types of sewing/serging.  You can make lace using water soluble stablizers, do heirloom work, heavy duty, denim, canvas, velvet, silk, fleece,whatever on this machine.  I love to use specialty threads and cords, etc in the loopers.  Art to wear is my favorite.  You can serge on beads and embellishments and make bias binding, etc.

   A local dealer that is available to work with you is important.  I have only taken my machine in for check ups and had no problems with it.  It is computerized which I love.  You follow the bouncing ball, much like using your mouse on the computer.  Fabric type, stitch choice, etc.  It tells you what tension settings to use, which needle locations to use, it presets the stitchlenth and differential feed for you but you can alter them.  It is very easy to change the settings but I rarely have done this, you can even save these to memory.  It took me awhile to learn to switch to coverstitch but it is not difficult.  It will even "tell you" on the infodisplay if a stitch is not recommended for the fabric type you entered.  That is about the only time I have changed from the presets and recomended settings. 

   I bought a compact size mirror and set it under the presser foot so I could see the little holes where the needles go in for the different settings.  That really helped me understand it better.  They are clearly marked on the machine but I have one of those "visual" hangups and have to understand everything in depth.  I mostly use Schmetz Universal or topstitching needles, they go in just like on the other Vikings with the flat tothe back.

     I tried a less expensive Janome serger and it drove me crazy with the learning curve and complex adjustments.  I only used that one for finishing seams.  After a year I traded up to the 936.  Within months, I could do everything I could imagine and more with this magical machine.

   Some good books are:  Serger Secrets by Rodale press which is like a bible for serging!  It tells many cool techniques.  If you do the chainstitich or coverstitch from the wrong side of the fabric and put metallic or Decor or Madeira Glamour, or Perle Crown Rayon, etc in the loopers it is just beautiful.  You can make your own trims, I use seams great.  Faux smocking, etc.  You are going to have so much fun!

   At the Martha Pullen website, I bought these books:  French Sewing by Serger and Serging for Babies both by Kathy McMakin and lots of fun.  Martha often uses the serger on her pbs program.

   Linda Lee Originals. com is the home of the happy serger, Linda Lee Vivian.  Her book is Make Friends With Your Serger.  She has serger specific patterns on her website.  She also co wrote the Serger Secrets book.

   Nancy Zieman's website from Sewing With Nancy on PBS also has serger info, as does her tv show.  You can also buy video tapes on serging.

   Hope this helps. I am very excited for you!  Keep us posted on your adventure!  Mary

1. 
   user-172042 | Jun 30, 2006 11:21pm | #10

   Hi Mary,
   I am so glad for the information. I love my Viking 1+ embroidery machine. I am getting a reader/writer box and software for it. I lean toward the 936 because of this little machine. I love it. Thank you for the info. on the books, also. I love sewing books, anyway. The techniques you talk about is the the kind of serging I like to do. I love the look of piping. I'll keep you posted.
   Marcy

   Edited 6/30/2006 4:43 pm ET by Trans Am Lady

2. 
   user-172042 | Jun 30, 2006 11:36pm | #11

   By the way Mary, Martha Pullen is from Alabama, also. I am a big fan of hers and also Nancy Zieman. I watch any sewing shows I can find on regular t.v.How long would you say, it takes for you to swap to cover hem from regular serging?
   Marcy

1. 
   Kiley | Jul 01, 2006 01:23am | #12

   I hope you get to test all the brands you are interested in. Different brands of sergers even sound different. I had to get a quiet one because I sew at night and live in an apt. Yes, my 744 does pin tucks. I posted before it is only a 4 thread and not computerized like the Viking 936. I never have to set tensions no matter what stitch I choose from the 16 stitches or 3 coverhems etc. The front of the serger has a graph on it with a wheel type lever on the right to dial the numbered stitch you want and it changes the graph with each turn. The graph then shows if to drop the knife, where to set the stitch length and width to set differential feed etc. It is very easy. I agree with the salesman that said the Janome would be a good coverstitch only machine. Janome just came out with their 2 CoverPro models after I purchased my Coverlock. The owners of the Janomes give them high marks and there is a thread about 36 pages in the PatternReview forum where owners discuss all the binders and other feet they have purchased for their models. If I was to buy a Coverhem only I would buy the Janome model that does the 3 coverhems like my Elna 744. The Janomes have a wide area to the right of the foot even wider than my Elna. Some sergers have hardly any room.  The Vikings are very large machines. I prefer a combo serger/coverhem that is an easy switch over like my serger and when I use another model now I miss the automatic tensions and tilt needles of my machine. It is best for my fading eyesight and aging hands.

   I never try to influence a certain brand or model on somebody making a purchase..it is a personal matter like buying a car. You might prefer a Mercedes over a Ford etc. One has to be comfortable in the serger and sewing machine they use as in the car they prefer to drive. I sold sergers and sewing machines and taught classes long ago and I know the customer cannot be happy unless they like the machine and know how to use it and like the results. I am interested in what model you prefer. I hope you love it. I have owned 5 sergers of different brands and loved them all. I pass down my machines and sergers to DD's and DDIL's.

    (edited to say) ..you thought I owned a Pfaff..yes I owned a Pfaff 4842 non coverhem serger before I purchased my Elna 744 but DDIL now has the 4842,. One of my sewing machines is a Pfaff and the other is a Janome made computerized Kenmore.  

   Edited 6/30/2006 6:28 pm ET by Kiley

1. 
   user-172042 | Jul 03, 2006 05:02pm | #16

   Hi Kiley,You mentioned your aging hands and fading eye sight. You sound very young in your e-mails. I bet you are young at heart. I just turned 50 and became a grandmother all in one year. It is hard for me to think of myself as fifty when I still have thoughts of, for example, playing on my serger. I went to my father-in-law's 88th birthday Saturday, and my aunt's 80th birthday, yesterday. They don't seem that old. They have health issues, but that is about all.Well, I ended up buying the Viking 936. I will pick it up Wednesday or Saturday. They ordered it for me. I went crazy and bought the Designer SE, also. She said I might want to trade in my 1+ and she was showing me the updated machine like mine. Well, she gave me a good deal so, I asked about the Designer SE. I can't believe I did it. My mother passed away so, I had some extra that I inherited. I still felt guilty for spending so much. It always hits me at night when I am trying to sleep. I know my mother would be happy for me, though. That is just the kind of person she was. Believe me, I have a lot of studying and learning to do. I still think the guy in Huntsville had a good deal on the Elna 744. It was used in a class and probably sewed on for one hour,total. Thank you so much for your help and being my friend.

   Edited 7/3/2006 10:10 am ET by Trans Am Lady

1. 
   Kiley | Jul 04, 2006 01:21am | #17

   Oh my lucky you, congratulations on your 2 new lovely machines. I hope you got a special deal for buying both. And don't feel guilty..I almost typed quilty LOL. Yes do feel quilty but not guilty. I bought my machines a few years ago as a retirement gift to myself. It's nice to know that I seem young in my posts but I am not,  I am expecting my 26th grand child in Sept and my 6th great grand in December. I do most of my sewing for the grands.  I hope you enjoy your new machines and I hope they give you pleasure for many years to come.

    

2. 
   user-172042 | Jul 05, 2006 04:39pm | #21

   I am sure I will enjoy the machines, but I have a lot of reading and studying to do with this embroidery machine. Studying this file management and downloading, uploading, etc. It will be fun, though. Twenty six grandchildren. I can't imagine that much love. My granddaughter is a big ray of sunshine. It's great being her grandmother.

3. 
   Kiley | Jul 05, 2006 11:45pm | #22

   Yes, it truly is great being being a grandma. I lost my first DG to open heart surgery when he was just an infant and now having 26 plus the 6 grt grands shows how we never know what blessings the future holds. It is also great to sew for all of them, I love it.

4. 
   MaryinColorado | Jul 07, 2006 02:53am | #23

   congratulations!  WOW!!!! You must have been breathless!  I walked out of the store in a daze after buying the Designer I.  Did you wake up the next morning and think it was all a dream?  Just think of all the beautiful things you will be able to do with your complete set!  I think your mother is smiling down at you because of all the joy she knows this will bring to you.  Everytime you walk into the room your machines are in you will think of her.  "follow your bliss..."  MaryL

5. 
   user-172042 | Jul 07, 2006 03:44pm | #24

   I think my mother is happy for me, because we shared the love of sewing and beautiful things. Now, I just have to study about how to get the computer files correct. I'm not very clear about how the whole computer works with the machine. I don't have the internet at home and I bought the Monogram Wizard Plus. I was looking at it last night and it says that I have to go on line to get the updated part of the program. I am going to see if the dealership will help me with this. If not, I might have to get the internet at home. It made such a mess of one computer I had that I am scared of it. At work they keep up to date on all the virus protection, but I just don't understand enough about it to be secure in it for myself. Saturday, I will pick up my 936 and have a class on my embroidery machine. I understand it pretty well, since I studied the books. I wonder how many books comes with the 936. I need some time off work. I've got a new cell phone that I have not programmed as of yet, because I have not had time. I am very excited, though. I did pick up some serger thread in gray and beige that was on sale at Hancock. Happy sewing!

6. 
   MaryinColorado | Jul 07, 2006 07:24pm | #25

   I know what you mean about the internet.  It is such a shame that the internet providers don't keep us safer!  Alot of people feel that way and have been burned too.  I have Norton Antivirus and keep it updated, there are several out there that you can buy.  That is one reason I didn't want a machine that hooked directly up to my computer when I bought the D1, then I didn't want to go online for fear a "bug" or "worm" would get into the software and be transferred to the machine.....now I am getting more comfortable.  It is too bad there are sick people out there creating these computer viruses isn't it?

   One thing you might want to do is make sure your insurance covers the machines.  I use serge protectors on all my machines also, and my steam generator iron and computer. 

   I hope your dealer will be able to help you with the upgrade!  Especially since they sold you the original that needed the upgrade.  I have my dealer upgrade my software that goes directly in my machine because I am afraid I'll mess it up.

   Did you see Sewing With Nancy yesterday?  Bumper sticker wisdom "quilt till you wilt"......MaryL

7. 
   user-172042 | Jul 07, 2006 08:43pm | #26

   I have the Norton AntiVirius, also, but I am not on the internet so I can't use it because it works off the internet. I know I will if I get the internet. Since I already have it on my computer, does that mean that it is already paid for, or will they start billing me for that? See, I don't understand the way all of this works. I very new to e mails. I do have to call my insurance company. Glad you reminded me. I called AL Power to ask for the surge protection and they said they don't offer that, anymore. It hooked to the meter. I need to go to the hardware store and get some, I guess. What kind did you get for yours? Are they all hooked to one or separate?
   Sewing With Nancy and Martha's Sewing Room only comes on Saturdays over our public television station. I don't have cable, either. I feel very behind the times. I just didn't need an extra monthly bill. I think her bumper stickers are cute. She could sell them.
   Thanks for all the information1

8. 
   MaryinColorado | Jul 07, 2006 09:06pm | #27

   I just have regular tv also, we tried cable tv for years then switch to satellite but the price went up on that too.  With all the junk on tv we don't really care for it but thought we needed it for reception.  Turns out we can live without it as we like the public broadcasting station the best and it comes in just fine.  Now I am watchin Oprah and Dr. Phil from time to time besides the sewing shows that are on once a day here.

   I don't know much about computers either, dear hubby is pretty knowledgeable.  We have had Norton for years, this year we had to buy a new one then we had to pay a fee to upgrade it and download the new virus definitions!  I also go to one button check up on Norton Utilities and clean it up and remove URLs and cookies that show up because of going online.  We really need it as we are all online alot and the three grandkids use the internet with supervision of course.  DH goes in and checks to see where they have been online also, guess what?  The fifteen year old boy had been going to a site with scantily clad ladies his friends told him about.  Boy was he embarrassed to find out he was busted!!!  No matter how many precautions you take, somehow the evildoers figure out how to get around it.  I worry about child predators, it is so sad that we have to interfere with children's innocence to protect them these days.

   I have different brands of serge protectors.  They look like extension cords with an on/off switch and several outlets.  I use one per machine or only for one machine at a time but at the classes several are plugged into one serge protector so I don't know if it matters really.  Just that house current is probably lower than the stores and they may have stronger serge protection anyway.  You can buy them at hardware stores and office supply stores and discount stores like Target I think.

   Mary L 

9. 
   user-172042 | Jul 07, 2006 09:32pm | #29

   Oh, I have one of those on my computer and on my machines already. I didn't know that is what they were. Don't you have to switch it off for it to protect during a storm? This is weird, I love Dr. Phil's program and Oprah. I was just trying to convince my daughter to be careful what her baby watches on t.v. She is watching this cartoon that I don't care for and daughter says, lighten up, mom. I just don't know how GD is going to be able to act respectfully, if that is what she sees all the time. I'm not a prude, but she is young and has to learn these things.

   Edited 7/7/2006 2:39 pm ET by Trans Am Lady

10. 
    Becky-book | Jul 09, 2006 04:26am | #33

    About electricity:

    YES, unplug from the wall during thunder storm!!!!! NO SURGE protector on the planet could totally protect from a lightening hit near your home.

      Lightening struck a tree in the neighbor's back yard ACROSS THE STREET from us and took out our modem but thankfully not the whole computer!   When you hear thunder UNPLUG everything you want to keep!

    Becky

11. 
    user-172042 | Jul 10, 2006 03:44pm | #34

    Hi Becky,So, turning the surge protector off won't do it during a thunderstorm. I didn't think anything could protect against lightening. I guess that is why Alabama Power quit the surge protector on the meter, too many lightening strikes.

12. 
    Becky-book | Jul 17, 2006 03:14pm | #35

    You were correct to think that a surge protector will not protect against the large surge of electricity that lightening generates!

    UNPLUG everything electronic even the phone line to your computer's modem.  We unplugged the power cord but forgot the phone wire and lost the modem when the neighbor's tree was hit (underground utilities including phone cable).

13. 
    JeanEsther | Jul 20, 2006 07:23pm | #41

    Norton AntiVirus usually comes with a 3- to 12-month subscription, beginning from the day you activate it (the first time you set it up and download the current virus definitions). Once a week or so, NAV checks the Symantec website for updates that will protect you from the latest viruses and automatically downloads that protection. After your subscription runs out, NAV will still protect you from old viruses, but not from all new ones created after your last download. A month or so before your subscription runs out, NAV will ask you if you'd like to renew your current subscription or upgrade to a newer version of NAV. Either option will give you continued virus protection; the upgrade will have bells and whistles you may or may not care about.

14. 
    user-172042 | Jul 21, 2006 04:11pm | #42

    Jean,
    Thank you for the information. I will copy it so that if I do get the internet at home, I will know what to do.

15. 
    MaryinColorado | Jul 07, 2006 09:15pm | #28

    I bought the three ring binder with the 936 serger manual seperately from the machine.  It is very helpful.  I did the same thing with the Rose and the Designer 1, also seperately.  They dont' come with the machines but are like taking classes so I felt are a great value.  As we speck, DGD is going through the binder for the Rose and making test samples on everything from satin stitches to buttonholes, etc.  Also if you go online to Viking USA you can download and save or print instructions on the different new feet, etc.  Mary

16. 
    user-172042 | Jul 07, 2006 09:37pm | #30

    The Designer SE came with about 4 different books and a bunch of CD's. I bought the binder foot, lace foot and piping foot for the 936. I don't know what else I might need. Do I need the pearl foot do you think? I will ask about the binder.

17. 
    MaryinColorado | Jul 07, 2006 11:21pm | #31

    I have only used the pearl foot to play with once.  I would hold off and see what you use.  I don't change my "feet" that often for the serger.  I think you will really like the cord, binder, and lacing feet that you have.  I also like the elastic foot.  Mary

     

18. 
    user-172042 | Jul 07, 2006 11:41pm | #32

    I thought it would be nice to have the elastic foot. It wasn't in stock.

19. 
    MaryinColorado | Jul 17, 2006 08:02pm | #36

    Hi!  I forgot to mention the "Bob 'n Serge" by Sew Dear, they have a website, http://www.sewdear.com , I got mine at the Viking Dealer.  It holds up to five bobbins and fits on the serger.  Easy to use and saves on thread.  You can also run more than one thread through the loopers using this.  Hand winding bobbins with the really thick threads or ribbon works with this also.  Hope this is helpful.  Mary L

20. 
    user-172042 | Jul 17, 2006 11:03pm | #37

    I have something like this from Nancy's Notions. I was serging the end of a velvet skirt in teal and couldn't match the thread with cone thread. I kept running out on the bobbin, though.
    I bought the book, Serger Secrets and it is fabulous. Thanks for recommending it. I just picked up my 936 Saturday. It serges so smoothly and I can tell it is a strong, sturdy machine. It has a great feel to it. I bought some extra feet for it. Wow, what a difference from my old serger.
    If you think of any more tips or books, please let me know. I truly appreciate all of your help.

21. 
    MaryinColorado | Jul 18, 2006 12:32am | #38

    I am so glad that you are pleased with your Huskylock 936! It is truly one amazing machine!!!  I rarely sew with a regular sewing machine since getting mine.  It does such beautiful work, doesn't it?  So quickly too! 

    Serger Secrets is my favorite book for the serger.  I am glad you like that too.  Linda Lee Vivian who did the heirloom serging in that book (not to be confused with Linda Lee, another sewing expert) also has a website.  http://www.lindaleeoriginals.com  She sells patterns and books and you can download the embroidery design of the happy little serger for free!  It is really cute. They call her the serger lady.  Her sight mentions home of the happy serger, which is true of any of us that have gotten addicted to these incredible machines.

    I just know you will have many happy hours creating beautiful things.  sew lovely, MaryL

     

     

22. 
    Kiley | Jul 19, 2006 11:57am | #39

    Hi again all. I have been reading the discussion on what I have missed and I have been dealing with everything you have been discussing. We have been having some pretty bad monsoon storms and I have been hoping my serge protector is working when I am away from home. Plus you discussed Virus protection and I had to renew my Norton this past week and had some problems with it because when I upgraded to the new program I didn't delete the old one and I had to delete both and start over..long story and it took forever. But I'm glad you are enjoying your machines and sergers.

     As for some books on serging..I love Serger Secrets too. I have given away so many of my older books on serging. Others that I own and highly recommend are The Complete Serger Answer Guide, The Complete Serger Handbook, Serger Shortcuts, Singers-Sewing with a Serger, ABC'S of Serging and I kept one of my oldest if not the first book I purchased on serging called Know Your Babylock. I have one of Nancy's Zeimans booklets on serging ..forget what it is called and my newest book is Creative Serging that has more to do with decorative work especially using chain stitch and cover hem.

    Edited 7/19/2006 5:03 am ET by Kiley

23. 
    MaryinColorado | Jul 19, 2006 09:53pm | #40

    Hi all! Isn't this forum super?  I appreciate Taunton Press and Threads for providing this incredible service for us!  My DH has worked in building management all his life, now semi retired.  For many years they have dealt with "brownouts" and such.  This is when the system gets bogged down with heavy use, etc.  Many companies have contracts with the Public Service providor to go to "generators" or what they call UPS systems, etc during these times.  Which are alternatives to the Utility Companies power.  During these times is when I have noticed through the years, that we have what we call "power bumps" where power is interupted for a short time, sometimes just like a hiccup.  In the Denver Metro and surrounding areas we have them alot.  That is the purpose of the Surge Protector.  During storms I do not use my machines.  I unplug everything! 

    Every time I sew or serge or iron my "Protocol" is: turn off the machine, unplug it!, put the presserfoot and plugs on top of the table, usually cover the machines to protect from dustbunnies.  If it is time to change the needle, this is a good time to do it.  I put them in used pill bottles labeled "dirty needles" for grins like at the hospital. I put all of my "tools" away.  This little "ritual" helps keep me from worrying if storms come when I am away from the house. 

    Serge on..........Mary