I just called Viking to ask about their new serger — Huskylock S-21. The only complaint some people have is that it does not have a free arm. Is that a problem — to all the sergers out there? Instead they have a very nice plexiglass table-top that attaches to the machine, that I thought was a plus? Is it?
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Do sergers come with free arms? I have owned several and none had that. I suspect it is because of the complicated mechanisms required to make it function. The extra table would be nice to support your project and keep things from puling away from the needles and end up distorting the finished stitching. Its important to keep what is under the needle well supported. I am always surprised by the number of people who keep things piled in their laps and only the needle is holding fabric.
My very old Singer serger has an actual free arm. Part of the bed just flips down so that I can slide a tiny garment sleeve up it...just as I do with my sewing machine. I absolutely love it. I can easily work on very small, delicate objects as they rotate around the arm.. I'm not seriously looking for a new serger, but the few times I shopped for a new one with a free arm I was told how unnecessary they are. I suspect that the people who say that, have never actually used one...and more importantly..don't have one to sell me. Eventually someone will realize how great they are and will start making them again.
P.S. Does anyone know where I find spellcheck on this new format?
The plexi extension does have merit. It allows for keeping the fabric from "dragging." i.e. the fabric moves forward in unison.
As to the "free arm", my wonder is what is meant. I have yet to see a serger with a "free arm" as known to me on a straight/zz machine.
nepa
Thank you all for your comments. Since I called Viking directly, they were comparing their 900 series (rated quite high in Pattern Review) with the new s-series models....the 900 series had the free arm, which helps with small cuffs, etc. In other words, they were comparing a Viking to another viking. From your feedback, I think the plexi bed is a big plus. I am almosst ready to jump in and buy the s-21. I love my Viking Designer II which always draws me back to Viking. Thanks again for taking the time to offer your comments. Much appreciated!
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