Replies

1. 
   Crazy K | Sep 09, 2007 10:01pm | #1

   I have several.........Elna 704DEX Plus (it is nearly ten years old and that model was replaced.....maybe by the 744), Janome 234D, Janome Compulock and a Babylock Evolve.  If money is not a huge constraint, I think I would go with the Babylock Evolve because of the ease in changing stitches and the jet threading.  Also you're getting a machine that does everything from rolled him to triple cover stitch and is easy to switch back and forth.  There is a threading and setting chart that makes it so easy.  If you've never used a serger before I think that is the easiest.  I started out with my Elna and I love it..........at first it was a love/hate relationship because changing stitches or re-threading after a thread break was extremely frustrating but I did get better at it and it remains the workhorse of all of my sergers.  It's the one I go to most.........except I love the coverhem on the Babylock.

   JMHO........

   K

1. 
   user-258013 | Sep 10, 2007 01:14am | #2

   Unlike other brands, it is hard to find online prices for a Babylock. The one place I found listed it at $2400. Is it really that expensive?

1. 
   Crazy K | Sep 10, 2007 01:47am | #3

   Yes, they are.  I think I got mine at a discount because the new model (the Wave) was coming out and I paid $1600 or $1700 for mine.  If you are looking for the cover hem and various stitches you have to go with the top end to get those features.  You can get a good little 4 thread overlock that does only a few modifications of that stitch (3-thread, etc) but you won't get the coverhem.  Also some of the lower end models require more set up whenever changes stitches........some you have to change the plate, etc.  Not that those things are horribly hard but if you're working on something and time is of the essence (and who doesn't know that feeling??) having to stop and change lots of things is a royal pain in the backside!  I have my little Janome that I use just for 4 thread overlock and it is just fine ......for that purpose. 

   Good luck.  I thnk most sergers are good............it just depends on what you want it for and how much you want to spend.  Some are much easier to use, however.  If you're a beginner it would be good to get one that is the most user friendly.

   K

1. 
   user-258013 | Sep 10, 2007 03:56am | #4

   I just want the basic stitch, but one that is easy to thread & adjusts the tension automatically. The idea of self-threading is so seductive!

1. 
   Crazy K | Sep 10, 2007 05:10am | #5

   Yes, it is.......and the Babylock has the jet air and auto tension.  The Janome Compulock has auto tension and my Elna does also.  All of those machines were in the higher price bracket however.  My little Janome was inexpensive (under $300) but it is really just a basic serger........no bells or whistles with that one!  I guess you just have to decide what you want to pay for.

   Happy Sewing!

   K

2. 
   user-258013 | Sep 10, 2007 06:14am | #6

   Thanks for your advice. As I said on this post introducing myself, I feel like Rip Van Winkle. So much has changed since I last sewed-but I am determined to get my groove back! http://forums.taunton.com/tp-gatherings/messages?msg=6481.119