Sewing machines have always been an integral part of the fabric crafting process – no matter the scale of the project, a machine can make it easier, faster and more efficient. But when it comes to different types of fabric and projects, not all sewing machines have the capability. That’s why many fashion and quilting enthusiasts turn to the Brother brand of sewing machines, which are specially designed for a variety of fabrics including serging materials.
Serging uses multiple threads to stitch together two or more pieces of fabric. It’s a more secure and reliable form of stitching, which can be useful in items like clothing and quilting. Serging with a Brother machine requires a few extra steps, but the end result is often worth the effort and considered a superior level of stitching.
Brother sewing machines use a serger blade attachment, which works together with the machine’s thread tension and stitch control mechanisms to properly finish a serged edge. The blade acts like a cutter, working to trim the fabric and secure the serged edge. But unlike other machines, the serger blade must be set up and adjusted correctly to work with the Brother machine.
To begin, it is important to make sure that the machine is threaded according to the pattern diagram. This will ensure that the stitches come out uniform and evenly placed. Then, the serger blade must be adjusted for height – each Brother model has a different recommended height, so consult the manual for exact instructions.
Once the height adjustment is complete, the serger blade needs to be aligned with the needle plate. This is done using the serger blade adjusting screws near the needle. Once aligned, the blade should be parallel to the needle plate and cutting exactly along the center line. This is essential for producing the desired serging results.
The next step is to adjust the tension of the threads. Consult the Brother manual for exact tension settings, but generally the tension should be moderate and should match the type of fabric being serged. Care should always be taken to make sure the tension is even across all threads. Too much tension can cause uneven stitching and too little can cause the serging to come undone.
The last step for serging on a Brother machine is to test the machine before beginning a project. Set up a small piece of fabric and run the machine for a few stitches to ensure that the blade is cutting correctly and the tension is correctly adjusted. Once satisfied, stitch according to the pattern diagram and enjoy professional, serged results.
What type of fabric can be serged?
When it comes to types of fabrics, Brother sewing machines are suitable for most materials. Knits, organza, chiffon, and cottons are just a few examples of materials that can be serged with a Brother machine without any hiccups. However, heavier fabrics such as velvet, twill and canvas may require more intense adjustments and may require a different blade.
Are there other attachments that can improve the results?
The serger blade attachment is the only required attachment for serging on a Brother machine, but there are other attachments that can be used for specific types of fabrics. For example, the needle plate can be changed for thicker fabrics, or a different needle can be used for delicate fabrics. Also, to create a professional looking finish, overlock feet are recommended for extra control.
How to use a serger to hem a garment?
Serging a garment is much faster than sewing a hem by hand or with a regular machine. To do it, all the seams of the garment should first be stitched together. Then, the edges of the garment should be trimmed with the serger blade. Next, the edges should be pressed flat and the hem of the garment should be ironed in place. Finally, the edges can be stitched with the serger machine. This will create an even, consistent hem and will secure the garment against fraying at the edges.
Tips for efficient use of a Brother serger
When using a Brother serger, it is important to take the time to set up the machine correctly for the desired project. This can often take longer than expected as it is important to get the settings just right. It is also important to make sure the machine is threaded correctly and the tension is properly adjusted. This will ensure professional, consistent results every time.
Common mistakes when serging with a Brother machine
One of the most common mistakes when using a Brother machine is to leave the tension settings too loose. This is especially true when dealing with thicker fabrics and can cause the serged edge to unravel and come undone. Another mistake is cutting too close to the needle. This can cause the serged edge to be too weak and may cause visible thread loops.
