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wanting a serger machine

kaymac13 | Posted in Equipment and Supplies on

I am just getting back into sewing and I want to purchase a serger. I hear that once I have have one I will wonder how I sewed without it. My problem is what do i get/ Do i start el cheapo and work my way up or invest the big bucks? I purchsed a walmart machine before and quickly put it too the side because it was a pain. I don’t want to go through that again. Any help would be appreciated.

Replies

  1. sueb | | #1

    don't waste your money buying a cheap machine that will drive you crazy.  You'll just end up spending more in the long run because you'll want to replace it with a  better machine.  You should buy the best machine that you can that your budget will allow.  I've got the viking 910 and it's a great machine.  I do a lot of home dec with it and it's never let me down. 

  2. FitnessNut | | #2

    I agree with Sue. Buy the very best that your budget will allow. With a serger in particular, cheap machines cause nothing but headaches (tension headaches, if you'll forgive the pun!) I bought a top of the line Bernette serger back in 1990, despite the price tag that was almost more than I could afford, and I've never regretted it. The machine still sews beautifully and, believe me, I've really put it through its paces. The only thing I would like to have, but don't because the technology wasn't available at that time, is a cover stitch. I'm considering picking up a cover stitch machine to use alongside the basic serger.

    Sandy

    PS Don't forget to test drive a number of models with a selection of your own fabrics. You'll quickly be able to tell what kind of machine feels right to you.

  3. carolfresia | | #3

    I agree with the other posts, and wouldn't recommend buying an ultra-cheap serger. On the other hand, even with a limited budget you should be able to find a very good serger--it might not have all the bells and whistles, but you don't really NEED the computerized stitch advisor or automatic threading and tension. Most sergers are pretty easy to thread these days (thank goodness!), and if you look at the Basics column in issue 106, you'll find Pamela Busque's advice on setting the tension will get you up and running in no time.

    For more info., check out Threads No. 108--there's an article on choosing the right serger, and a comparison chart so you can understand the various features. This will help you narrow down your choices, but you should visit a dealer and get a walk-through (and try the machines yourself, of course).

    Good luck!
    Carol

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