A serger is a specialized sewing machine that works to cut fabric and encloses its edges in loops of thread to prevent fraying of fabric.
It allows for clean finishes on handmade projects and improves the longeivity of garments.
It is best to familiarize yourself with the machine by reading the manual which is available at the end of the page.
Please watch the video for a general guide on how to thread the machine.
Note: The video will take some time to load, please be patient.
There are 11 possible stitches available on this machine. The most commonly used ones are detailed below. Please refer to the manual to determine starting conditions (needle position, threaded knobs, fabric starting point, ect.)
Cuts and secures fabric. Great for normal, thick, and stretch fabrics. Secures the edges of fabric so it does not fray or fall apart.
Sews, cuts, and secures fabric. The lower chain stich allows you to connect pieces without using the normal sewing machine.
Rolls the edges of fabric inwards and secures it. Best for finishing the edges of lightweight fabric like silk, chiffon, and thin cottons.
Start with a long tail of threads.
Place the fabric under the needles of the machine.
Sew your edge seam.
When the seam is finished, sew for about 7 inches more then cut the threads.
Please leave a long tail connected to the machine as well, so that the threads do not unravel.
Use a small hook or small-eyed needle to pull the thread tail through some of the serged stitches (atleast an inch), then clip excess.
You may also tie then ends close to the fabric to make the ends more secure.
It is better to have a long tail than too short of one. A tail cannot be too long.
Please see common tension issues on the left/above graphic and how to fix them below.
Start by turning the dial(s) in the directions of the arrows and use some scrap fabric to test the new seams.
Description of common tension issues on seams:
A- If the upper looper thread meets on the underside on the fabric
B- If the lower looper thread meets on the upper side of the fabric
C- If the right-hand needle thread forms loops on the underside of the fabric
D- If the chainstitch needle forms loops on the underside of the fabric
E- If the fabric puckers during sewing
If issues still occur, rethread machine to ensure proper thread placements.
Please feel free to ask staff any other questions or to make an appointment with staff for specialized help.