Sewing has become an incredibly popular hobby in the last few years, with more and more people wanting to dive into the craft. But one of the biggest questions for newbies is whether or not they can add a serger to their sewing machine. The answer is yes – and it can be a great way to take your sewing skills to the next level.
A serger is different from a normal sewing machine in that it is specifically designed to add professional finishing touches to garments. It uses several spools of thread to loop together two pieces of fabric with an overlock stitch. This produces stronger, more durable seams that don’t unravel easily, making them a great option for items like t-shirts, leggings, and even jeans.
Sergers can also be used to add decorative touches to fabric, like lace and fringe. Because they sew two pieces of fabric together at the same time, they’re much faster than a normal sewing machine. As a result, sergers are the perfect tool for busy sewers who want to finish their projects quickly.
Adding a serger to your home sewing setup can be a bit tricky, though. Most sergers require a separate motor, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that the motor is compatible with your sewing machine, otherwise it won’t work. And if you’re looking to buy a serger from a different manufacturer than your sewing machine, you’ll have to make sure that the two machines have compatible needle sizes and threading systems.
Once you have all the right pieces, you’ll need to make some additional adjustments to your sewing machine. Sergers work differently than regular sewing machines, so they need to be set up in a specific way in order to be used properly. It’s also important to know that most sergers don’t come with instructions, so it’s best to consult with a professional beforehand.
Now that you know the basics of adding a serger to a sewing machine, here are four key topics experts recommend you consider.
Adjusting the Feed Dogs
Before adding a serger to a sewing machine, you’ll need to adjust the machine’s feed dogs. Feed dogs are what help move fabric through the machine, so it’s important to make sure that they are properly aligned and not in the way of the serger. Otherwise they’ll interfere with the serger’s movement.
Threading the Serger
Threading the serger is the next step. Most sergers come with detailed instructions on how to do this, so make sure to follow those closely. Additionally, make sure to use the right type of thread for the project you’re working on – for example, if you’re making stretchy fabric, use a polyester thread that won’t break under strain.
Mounting the Serger
Once the serger is threaded, it’s time to mount it to the sewing machine. Different models have different mounting techniques, so be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the specifics. Generally, you’ll just need to line up the serger with the machine, attach it with screws, and plug in the power cord.
Testing the Serger
Finally, it’s time to give the serger a test run. Start with a simple project – like a small piece of muslin fabric – to make sure the machine is working correctly. As you’re running the fabric through the machine, pay close attention to the tension, stitch length, and stitch width. If everything looks good, you’re all set!
Pros and Cons
Before investing in a serger, it’s important to consider the pros and cons. On the plus side, sergers are incredibly versatile, allowing sewers to create a wide variety of fabrics and textures with ease. Additionally, because sergers are so fast, sewers can drastically reduce the time it takes to finish a project.
However, sergers can also be quite expensive, particularly when compared to regular sewing machines. Furthermore, adding a serger to an existing setup isn’t always as simple as it seems, as there are a number of pieces that must be purchased and adjusted before it’s up and running. Finally, sergers need to be serviced more often than regular machines – meaning that the costs will likely add up over time.
Maintenance and Care
When it comes to adding a serger to a sewing machine, maintenance and care is essential. Beginners should take the time to familiarize themselves with the basics of serger maintenance – such as cleaning the machine and adjusting the tension. Additionally, it’s important to regularly check the machine’s manual to make sure it is being used correctly. Taking the time to properly care for the serger will help ensure that it continues to perform its best.
Safety
Finally, sewers should take special care to ensure they’re sewing safely. This includes wearing protective gear, such as goggles and gloves, and being aware of the speed at which they’re working. It’s also important to make sure the machine is properly grounded – otherwise, it could malfunction and cause serious injury.
Educational Resources
If you’re considering adding a serger to your home sewing setup, it’s important to do your research. There are many helpful guides and tutorials available, and learning from an experienced sewer can be incredibly helpful as you get started. Your local fabric store will likely have classes and workshops about serging, or you can peruse the internet for video tutorials and other helpful resources.
Finding the Right Model
Once you’ve worked through the basics of adding a serger to your sewing machine, it’s time to find the right model. When shopping for a serger, consider factors like cost, size, and features – and make sure to read plenty of reviews to get a better idea of how it works.
Making the Most of Your Machine
Finally, it’s important to make the most of your machine. Take the time to learn how to use it properly – and if you’re stuck, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Additionally, you can look into attachments and accessories to expand your machine’s capabilities and make sure that it’s always running efficiently.
