Basics of a serger| What is a serger| When do you use a serger

Hey & Welcome! I'm Kate and this is Sewing from Scratch, where I teach you everything I know and learn more along the way! Make sure to SUBSCRIBE and hit the notifications bell so you never miss a video! There's a big giveaway coming up that I'd hate for you to miss!
Today I'm sharing a (hopefully) super valuable video for those of you with OR without a serger. It's a question I see a lot in facebook groups - What is a serger used for and do I need one?
Mentioned in the video:
Love to Sew Podcast episode about sergers lovetosewpodcast.com/episodes...
My sewing machine overview • Pfaff Ambition 610 Ove...
My Coverstitch review • PFAFF Coverlock 3.0 Re...
Machines similar to mine on amazon (affiliated) www.amazon.ca/hz/wishlist/ls/...
Related Videos:
Pfaff Ambition 610 Overview • Pfaff Ambition 610 Ove...
Can I Sew Knits on a Sewing Machine • Sewing knit fabrics | ...
Popular videos:
Pfaff Ambition 610 review • Pfaff Ambition 610 Ove...
Favourite Online Fabric Shops • 5 Favourite Online Fab...
Nursing Hoodie Hack • Create your own NURSIN...
If you're looking for some quick beginner patterns, I highly recommend Ellie and Mac. Lindsey does a great job making sure everything is "up to snuff". Their facebook community is AMAZING, too. ellieandmac.com?aff=1089 (aff link)
OTHER LINKS
Amazon favourites shop www.amazon.ca/hz/wishlist/ls/...
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PRODUCTS I LOVE (affiliate links)
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DIY kitchen accessories, sewing for the home, home sewing projects, kitchen sewing projects, easy beginner sewing projects, microwave popcorn, easy box corners, cotton fabric, how to use a reusable microwave popcorn bag, cloth popcorn bag #sewingprojects #learntosew #beginnersewing
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JOIN OUR INSPIRATIONAL COMMUNITY
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*^*My first stop for new sewing patterns ----- ellieandmac.com?aff=1089 (aff link)
Machines I use
Pfaff Ambition 610 sewing machine
Pfaff Coverlock 3.0 coverstitch/serger combo
(aff link): Serger amzn.to/2BxoIkW
Thanks so much. MUCH LOVE
xo Kate

[@TheQueenbee45825]

I bought one for $20.00 USD at a thrift store. Second one was given to me.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Awesome! Love second (or more) hand machines!

[@melissalawson3522]

Wow that's amazing

[@kcdubz]

So good! I recently started sewing again and I had to Google "serger" lol. This is also my first sewing video and I'm super impressed. Thanks for the clear, concise explanations!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thanks for watching and commenting! Always more to learn 💕

[@rosipetrov8366]

Shortest videos for the night (3rd in a row) and I wish it was the first in my list - you answered all questions I had. THANK YOU!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thank you for the kindest comment of the day 💕

[@JustMeAndMyFabric]

Hi Kate, this video was so helpful! I'm planning to get my very first serger in 2023 and I greatly appreciated your information. Happy Holidays to you!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thanks! Good luck with the serger, you're life will change forever, haha

[@mamakaka73]

I got one today. Still in the box. Can't wait to try it!

[@amelinahernandez9248]

Thank you so much! I always wondered what a serger was/did. You did a great job explaining.

[@emos513]

Very good video. All others I watched couldn't help me decide what's best for me. Thank you. I'll definitely take a different decision on what to buy

[@user-22-]

I was intimidated by them but once I got one I couldn't live without it! 😃 Everything looks soooo much neater, cleaner & more professional. I have a 3 to 5-thread Husqvarna & while threading can be challenging compared to a sewing machine I would never *need* an air-threader. It's just not THAT hard to do & to me, doesn't justify the mega-price jump. You can always make some notes to help with threading & keep it with the machine too. (A cheat sheet!)

[@seasonallyproductive]

Great points! I think air threading is great for those of us sewing for business and have to change threads so often. Is yours a coverstitch/serger combo, then?

[@user-22-]

Sewing from Scratch Sewing from Scratch You're right, I agree for 'business' sewing, for sure. It would cut down on your time & is an added convenience if you've got the money... Why not! I don't use mine often enough to remember the one tricky threading part so I just made a note (& saved thousands, literally). I was amazed when looking for mine (Huskylock s25) that Viking wasn't even in the LIST of contenders! It's computerized, does 25 stitches including cover stitch, can use 2,3,4 or 5 threads, as a bright LED light & even came with a big extension table. It's quiet & I've LOVED it. I also have a 'Husky' Emerald 183 sewing machine, also digital with MANY options, that many people poo-pooed online that I got at a garage sale that I'm equally thrilled with. (???) 🔸 I recently saw a video showing how to turn 90 degree corners & end without trailing off the edge then turning & starting again🔸. (Thank you KZbin💜)

[@helenforsythe7162]

Years ago I bought a singer serger just like yours, 14u454b, made in Japan. I gave it to my daughter along with my original sewing machine. I just replaced the serger with one exactly the same model from ebay and also bought a brother computerized regular machine. I love all the machines I've had. THANK YOU for the videos.

[@elisabethm9655]

My regular machine is a vintage straight stitch featherweight. It’s wonderful, but limited. So when I found a serger in a thrift shop that looked in good condition for $49, I snapped it up. I really had no idea what it can do, but I knew it would work for knits and stretch stuff. It’s a White superlock ? 1500...I found a manual online. I plan to be taking it to the local repair shop for a cleaning and reconditioning. Thanks for this video...it seems like my impulse buy was a smart move...maybe.

[@teesalove2489]

Thanks! This is just what I was looking for. I just wanted to see a project being finished and how the serger was being used. Thanks for the info.

[@tamconcord]

Great Video! Perfect for a complete beginner like me! Thank you!!

[@gloriacox3544]

Excellent video! I just started sewing again and this helped me tremendously. Thank you!

[@seasonallyproductive]

You're welcome! And welcome back 🙂

[@vociferonheraldofthewinter2284]

This video actually helped me a lot. Thank you!

[@andre1987eph]

A lot of useful info in this video about what exactly a serger does and doesn’t do

[@danizg9081]

I used one in school and fell in love with sewing, I sew here at home but I want a serger now

[@lizbrown]

Thank you Kate. This is really helpful!

[@marianita420]

Such a great video! Simple straight talk! Just what I needed👍😊

[@naturaleccentricity2505]

Thanks. Now I know what a serger is, which is the reason I watched the video. 😊

[@musicinmheartnsoul]

Absolutely informative video. You got my subscription. The whole time I kept telling myself I should get one, but you’ve made some very great points. I will wait until I’m a pro at sewing to invest in one. Thank you!

[@seasonallyproductive]

The outside voices can be very convincing! You'll know when you need one. Thanks for watching, commenting & subscribing

[@isobelmaccuish4324]

I bought one about one year ago...it's a Janome and I love it ....but it's quite hard to thread especially as my eyesight not great! Great video!

[@nylirama]

Thanks for this video. The Love to sew podcast recommendation was perfect for me at this point.

[@seasonallyproductive]

You are very welcome!

[@patsyrosas6330]

This video helped me soooooo much! Thank you!

[@charlotter8276]

This was very helpful! Thank you!

[@GirlArmy21]

I have an old school serger (25 years old)....still works great...work horse. I might upgrade to Babylock..and sell mine, might. LOL Great little video for the beginner.

[@2nywa2]

This is super helpful. Thank you so much for your tips!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Glad it helped!

[@gerrywarwick8477]

God Bless You!! I just need some Surger 101, and you hit it!

[@PrayNow4all]

Great video! Thanks SOOOO much!!

[@maureenamos5240]

Thank you Kate from down under, for a very articulate and comprehensive video. It's so much easier to watch a video without crazy music and self indulgent chit chat about yourself like most others. I'm afraid the English videos do go on and on and on. I wanted to know the reasons we would use a serger/overlocker(here) and the main components and you answered that beautifully. I'll be taking my lessons off you. Keep safe! :)

[@saraaronzon4562]

Me too!

[@honeyhun4785]

Very helpful, simply explained, thank you

[@seasonallyproductive]

Glad it was helpful!

[@mrseder2]

Love your style! I just got my serger from a thrift store. Taking her in for some R&R before I take her for a spin!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thanks Sarah! Love that you bought yours second-hand, too! And yes, always a good idea to get it tuned up

[@margaretWestminster]

Thank you very much. This information is just what I was looking for. ❤️

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thank you for watching

[@steigauffamily8542]

I knew nothing about sergers except they can sew on stretch fabrics. Thank you for the kindergarten level explanations and the closeups of the mechanisms. SO helpful!

[@seasonallyproductive]

You are very welcome!

[@3DayGoat]

This was very calming! Mine arrives tomorrow and I’ve been panicking, not so much now, thanks!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Glad to help!

[@canoneyes]

I'm a new subscriber to your channel and I'm very happy I found you! I'm brand new to the craft of sewing, I got a 20 year old sewing machine and just threaded it last week. I made a little fabric box on the weekend, that's it! But I really like knit fabrics and found this video very informative. TY!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Wonderful! And welcome! Thanks so much for watching and subscribing. I look forward to seeing what you create

[@mariebrand8827]

Huge help! Nice plain talk with great details. Thank you so much. Subscribed.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thank YOU!

[@rhondalove1047]

This was VERY helpful. Thank you.

[@seasonallyproductive]

You're welcome!

[@paulinemcleggan7585]

Loving the yellow thread, beautiful colour. Great video to! Lol

[@58Raini]

This is the first time I have looked up videos on sergers, and this video is the first one I clicked. I am so glad that I did! You make sergers seem less intimidating, and clearly explain how they work. My next-door neighbor (and the sweetest Friend!) has FIVE sergers, and wants me to learn how to use one. You, my dear, made me want to learn more about them! Thank you for sharing!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thank you so much for the kind words 🥰 best of luck with your serger journey!

[@marielknowler8701]

Thank you I'm sure glad I ran across your video sure made up my mind to get me one Thank You

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thank you

[@Shellnbaby]

Thank you for mentioning the need to get an old one tuned up!!

[@seasonallyproductive]

You're welcome 😊 we don't always need to run out (or online tap) and buy things brand new because it's more convenient

[@wembleysmama7899]

Thank you! I really appreciate this info. I have been told a serger is essential for anyone who loves sewing but I could never figure out what it does if my sewing machine could do stretch/zig zag stitches. This give me more clarity and tells me to wait and see if I need one due to sewing with more knits.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thanks for watching. Definitely not essential to own a serger. You'll know when you need one 🙂

[@nettiea9384]

Thx very informative

[@sarahdouthit1567]

Thanks for the info! Super helpful 😊

[@seasonallyproductive]

You're welcome! Thanks for watching

[@bstr3000]

thank you for your explaination

[@seasonallyproductive]

You are welcome!

[@videogamesare1]

Thanks so much for the video!

[@seasonallyproductive]

You're welcome. Thanks for watching

[@BudgetSew]

I love your channel!

[@lamoskgr]

Very good video. Pretty insightful

[@seasonallyproductive]

Glad it helped!

[@Shamargveitch]

Very helpful thank you

[@seasonallyproductive]

🥰 you're welcome!

[@StephRenee812]

My mom bought me this as well as a brother embroidery machine, a vinyl machine and a sewing machine.. I haven't use the serger yet. I have no clue what it even is. I want to start making my own everything. So here I am.. lol

[@seasonallyproductive]

Wow! Mom of the year, right there! Good luck with all those new toys

[@AsheaonC]

Super helpful video! You share so much information and options in your videos to prevent issues if you're new to it. Thanks!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Oh no! I was intimidated, too, but once I took the time to figure it out I never looked back

[@w6263]

Thank you, Kate. You helped me make a decision on buying a new machine. I was considering a serger but seems I wouldn't use it as much as a sewing machine.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Glad to hear!

[@sarahbrown6637]

Thanks 😊

[@dauser4]

very detailed explaination, was looking for sth like that. thanks!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Glad it helped! Good luck and thanks so much for the comment

[@marigoldmirror5194]

Very helpful info🧵🧵thank you

[@Denvercoder]

Literally every KZbinr I’ve seen has this exact Serger so it must be good.

[@seasonallyproductive]

That's an interesting comment! It must have been a popular model (budget friendly, I'm guessing) when it came out.

[@lmcsquaredgreendale3223]

Thank you for a great video. My friends keep telling me to buy a Serger but I have a good Singer that can even do embroidery and I wondered if I truly needed a Serger because all I make are household items like drapes, Roman shades, comforter covers etc. I think I can put it off for now as grandbabies are a few years into the future and given the price of children's clothes I think that a Serger would be a good investment in the future unless I come across a good one on Craig's List. Thanks for your help in saving me money in the short term and giving me time to wait until someone gives up on using a Serger and sells it cheap as you were lucky enough to find.

[@seasonallyproductive]

I would have to agree with you - wait a bit before finding a serger, though keep your eye out for a second-hand one if you think you'll sew for your future grandbabies. Those tiny knit garments go together SO fast

[@lmcsquaredgreendale3223]

@@seasonallyproductive Thank you for the response. I haven't been looking for one but someone has been hinting that they may be trying for a child. I will now check all websites and what better time to learn a new tool than winter. So excited!!!!

[@lesleymcneill1403]

Thank you for answering the basic question - do I overlock seams or sew them first. I have been sewing for years but only just got an overlocker. It is like learning to sew again.

[@seasonallyproductive]

This is a loaded question, so I'll try to summarize. Keep in mind these are generalizations. There's always exceptions. With knits - serge only With wovens - stitch 1st then serge to finish raw edges together OR finish raw edges of pattern pieces then stitch together to keep seam allowances open Hope that helps and enjoy your new serger!

[@lisaobermeit1569]

The moment you took off a binder clip instead of a pushpin 😲🤩

[@seasonallyproductive]

I've since upgraded to actual sewing clips, but, yes, mindblowing!!

[@AMidnightGardener]

Do you have a more in depth video about sergers? I am in the market- never owned one and I am curious to know the things you said you weren’t going to talk about right now. I’ve looked through your video list and couldn’t find anything! This video was informative; thanks so much! 😊

[@seasonallyproductive]

Hi Christina. I have one on coverstitch vs serger, one on threading a serger, and one on serger troubleshooting

[@chloelambert3015]

this was so helpful do u have anymore vids of absolute basics i love how in deth u explain

[@seasonallyproductive]

I have a couple super old ones. You'd have to scroll through my channel. Is there anything in specific you're looking for?

[@themulti-coloredcanary5795]

I've been using a sewing machine my whole life and now I find myself making things where I need to have a crisp seam and it needs to look professional since I am selling my goods. Someone mentioned to me a surger and I had no idea how helpful they could be. So I think I'm going to be buying one in the next couple of weeks.

[@seasonallyproductive]

They really are life changing, though not always necessary

[@dianeseay8016]

Thank you for sharing. Can you talk about threads?

[@karlafaithmangaoang3013]

Got a serger just today!

[@seasonallyproductive]

Awesome!

[@aw3277]

Thanks so much. My biggest problem or worry was getting needles which I thought were not interchangeable with those of my sewing machine. Yet they are. And lucky enough I keep everything I find, old buttons etc in my sewing box. And I found a red tip type that was a-ok. You might want to give your opinion on what works regarding needles and how often to change them. Thanks for the links.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thanks! I recommend changing after every larger project, or 6-8 hours of run time.

[@paulinemcleggan7585]

What is the best thread for an overlocker?

[@deebeldumbo6257]

I am glad that I found you, because you have the exact machine that I have. I have had mine for about 18 years, bought new. The first thing I made was 80 chair bows for my grand daughters 16 year party.I have been using the 3 threads, but recently added the 4th needle, and since that time, it makes these loops on the bottom of the fabric,so I have been watching all the videos on stitching, and it seems that I have to adjust the left needle. Since you have the same machine, what do you think? I am thinking of just removing the left needle and going back to 3 threads. Then I have to go to my regular sewing machine and do a straight stitch, to make the seam more durable.I figured, since I have the capability of the extra thread, I might as well try to get some use out of it.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Cool! I've only ever used it with 4 needles and love it. It sounds like it could be tenstion. I would suggest checking out the manual. If you don't have one, I was able to find it by googling. It might also be worth taking in to the repair shop if you can't get it set yourself

[@deebeldumbo6257]

@@seasonallyproductive Guess what!!!!!The thread was kind of in the wrong place. It had gotten stuck right beside the left thread tensioner, so after I fixed it, it now makes a nice seam...(I watched your video again)

[@seasonallyproductive]

@@deebeldumbo6257 oh that's wonderful! Great job

[@brianneledrew3453]

Janome also has a serger that has air threading, it's a very expensive unit. Also, I have the same serger :-)

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thanks! I figured it couldn't be exclusive to baby lock but wasn't sure of the others doing it.

[@ping9178]

When buying a machine, you have to remember that you are sewing, not a machine, but a tool and you have to think about whether you need it. I personally bought an Elna 264D not to make money, but I like to sew.

[@lindahawsey1970]

Very informative! Thanks!

[@dicksonjenwhite3641]

Is the a video on how to sew a garment with ur serger

[@patrolcats]

Thanks Kate! Has there been a recent serge of new serger-ists since the unnamed virus hit? Looking to get my baes serger out and tune it up today.

[@hummerzdca]

I am looking for a stitching matching that can stitch vinyl banners. I have a regular heavy duty HD 6380M Singer, but the HD0400S seems heavier duty. Also I hate doing the bobbin reloading thing. A tiny bobbin doesn’t hold a lot of thread, but I like the idea of the 4 big spools on the back like you have. That’s why I’m drawn to the serger… Let me know…thanks

[@seasonallyproductive]

No, sorry, I don't believe a serger will work for banners

[@papermoon4129]

Hi, thanks for this video ! Was very helpful for me. ! I am new to sewing and also have a serger that I have absolutely no idea how to use, lol. Can you please tell me what an ‘air threader’’ is ? Also, what’s the difference in using 3 spools of thread or four ...Thanks again 🌹🇨🇦😷😷

[@seasonallyproductive]

Hey! Air threading is an amazing luxury invention on some machines where you simply place the threads in a certain spot then hit the air pump button thing and it THREADS ITSELF! Sorcery. As for 3 vs 4, that will just change the amount of needles (1 vs 2). I don't have personal experience with a 3-thread, but just remember the more stitching you have the more secure it will be, in genersl

[@papermoon4129]

Sewing from Scratch well now I wish I had known about an air threader before I bought my machine, oh well, I just need to learn how to use the one I have. As for the threading 3 vs 4 it still confuses me but I’ll get through it. Thank you so much for your reply . Stay safe and be kind. 🌹😷🇨🇦

[@racheat]

Question: For a fabric like bullet liverpool, would you recommend a serger for the seams? It seems like it would be the appropriate stitch. thank you!

[@seasonallyproductive]

I haven't personally used it, but if my brain is working right then I think it's a stretch knit. So then yes, I would use a serger

[@doggydoc4uinnc]

I just got one tonight for Christmas but I'm not even sure what to do with it! I've been sewing some cotton woven and quilt cotton scrub caps and they have raw inside edges. Will this help those or did I just get something I can't use?

[@seasonallyproductive]

Sure will! Anywhere a pattern tells you to "finish raw edges" you can use a serger in place of zigzag or overlock stitch on your sewing machine. They're also the handiest for sewing knit fabric. You don't need to sew on your seeing machine first - just zip through your new serger! They can definitely be a learning curve. Get to know your manual and join some fb groups to help you out. Merry Christmas! 🎄

[@signingwithMrsRachel]

Thank you for this!! Detail question, do I sew a seam first then serge it? Or just run the two pieces of fabric together through the serger to sew&serge them together?

[@seasonallyproductive]

If you're using stretchy fabric (ie. knits) you can just serge. If its wovens, then the instructions of the pattern will tell you to construct on the sewing machine and then finish raw edges either together or separately. Sometimes you'll serge woven pattern pieces before constructing (pockets, esp)

[@signingwithMrsRachel]

Thank you, that helps! I'm getting ready to make my girls the Peppermint Swirl dress from Candy Castle Patterns and definitely want to serge it!

[@dosha21]

Heyhey!! So0 self-taught beginner here..was given a serger from a friendly coworker, but it's been sitting(in its own bag)..I haven't used yet and looks like I should clean b4 using.. ANY tips on cleaning/ upkeep so i dont destroy?!? Please & Thanks for the video!!

[@seasonallyproductive]

If it hasn't been used in a year or more, I would take it for maintenance with a repair person. He or she can give you loads of advice and teach you how to take care of it 🙂

[@elizabethdazell4426]

Used a gift cards I got from co-workers when I retired. Just came in last night.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Awesome! All the best

[@skinnydee1886]

I'm always intimidated just hearing the word Serger! I had a 4 thread Singer Serger but it was very difficult for me to thread so I sold it after a few months.

[@LL-zk2ny]

Thanks for giving the basics. What do you mean by "construct" ? It would have been helpful to see how the threads work if they are in DIFFERENT COLORS. I'm a beginner at sewing. Your explanations are useful.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Constructing meaning putting seams together, not topstitching or decorative details

[@booksandreams2543]

I just bought a used Kenmore 385 (model # 12612090) does anyone know if it's any good? I'll be trying to make skirts and use stretchy (jersey) fabric but I guess this model is an old sears one and that has me worried on the quality.

[@blueghost4121]

What if I strictly want to seam edges or hem. I print signs and banners using an HP Latex 360 and just started to print on fabric. But when I cut it frays. I thought about a hot knife but hemming looks more professional. What would you recommend a sewing machine or serger?

[@seasonallyproductive]

I personally prefer a finished hem, which would mean sewing machine. Depending on the shape of your banners, both could get tricky, but serging is far more noticable

[@colynettecoutu5389]

I just bought a second hand Singer serger for 125$ canadian and it looks brand new, with hardly any dust/fuzz inside. It seems to me an older model as it came to me in it's original box, and it's video is VHS. It also has the 4 tention buttons facing me instead of at the top, like yours does. Do you have a Utube video that shows how to thread it? Not knowing anything about sergers except that it sews and cuts hedges, I went and removed the threads the lady had left in. But from what you said, that might be a good thing, as I really like to learn how things work and are done. Thank you in advance for your answer.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Hi! Thanks so much for watching and commenting. And congrats on your awesome score! I have this recent video on threading 🙂 kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4OWmZWBertneLc

[@georginekeeling6063]

Could I use a serger for quilting? I'm thinking it may not work for piecing or any free motion quilting besides straight line free motion. But what about for sewing long seams together, like for strip quilts, and for binding, what do you think? Thanks a bunch!!!!

[@seasonallyproductive]

I don't think it's worth the extra machine or the frustrations. Stick with a straight stitch machine

[@clarrissia002]

This is the first video I have watched about serging, thank you. Can I ask… a server can or cannot see zippers?

[@seasonallyproductive]

I would not recommend purchasing a serger with the intent to do zippers. While, technically, it could work, it's not the best practice

[@clarrissia002]

@@seasonallyproductive thank you

[@Avotts]

I've been using a sewing machine for almost 60 years. I have been told that surgers are used for the beautiful smoocking on especially infant wear and peasant blouses. Is that correct. You did not mention that. My son has given me a used Brother Lock 929D. What do I now own and have no idea how to use?

[@seasonallyproductive]

I haven't heard of using sergers for smocking. I would think you would just use elastic thread in your bobbin of your regular machine to create the shirring

[@hummerzdca]

Hi, you mentioned “construction” as a use for a serger. What I’m interested in is NOT having to keep dealing with the tiny bobbins to always have to refill sometimes midway in a seam project. I use my current Singer HD machine for seams on vinyl banners. I hate midway through a 4-ft to 8-ft banner zig-zag seam running out of thread. I like the having the big filled spools like on tier machine. This way I can do a bunch of seams without refilling bobbins. Is a serger good for this? Cost is not an issue. Hope you can help. Thanks for your great videos.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Hi, I'm not sure the exact look of your projects, but my guess would be to stick with a zig zag. I'm also looking for a way to have direct-feed for bobbins! Even my industrial straight stitch uses a regular size bobbin

[@hummerzdca]

@@seasonallyproductive Hi, yeah, those little bobbins just are enough when you can have a whole spool on top, but the little bobbin below. When I do banners, they are from 4-ft-8’or 10’ long. That’s multiple bobbin refills…Thanks for the reply

[@MissHargraves1]

You said they're not good for hems. What about on silk? I have double layer silk skirts and I think they have a serged hem. Does that sound likely? It's one of the reasons I bought a serger (other than wanting to create knit garments). One of my silk skirt layers is way too long. I need to shorten it with a matching hem. It looks like my regular sewing machine would eat up the fabric.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Sergers cannot do regular hemming. Your RTW shirt is likely done with a coverstitch machine (I have a video on the differences). What I would do is first serge the edge to prevent fraying, then do a single fold hem and stitch down with my regular machine. You'll want a new sharp needle - something that matches the weight of the silk. Microtext or universal would be my pick. I would guess 7-9 for size. Try on the scraps that you cut off first. If the machine is eating the fabric, put a piece of paper underneath

[@michellemasters8341]

What type of serger is heavy duty enough to finish raw edges on 2 layers of denim, fur, canvas or light leather /vinyl?

[@seasonallyproductive]

Great question! You may have to go to an industrial or some heavy duty needles

[@darlenepersinger798]

I’m new so when you do a corner do you cut the edge so when you turn right side it lays flat ? Or will it unravel? Ty

[@seasonallyproductive]

Hi Darlene! I like to serge one side all the way off, leaving the thread chain long enough for the fabric to reach back to under the presser foot from the front, then rotate the piece of fabric 90degrees and do the other side. You'll be left with a little nub of serge chain at your corner

[@darlenepersinger798]

Sewing from Scratch , so no need to trim that so it lays flat ? Ty

[@amirabal10]

I was given a serger from my aunt and I’m sure I could figure it out but could I use it for making dog bandanas?

[@seasonallyproductive]

I guess that would depend on the pattern. If it's one triangle of woven fabric, you could just serge the raw edges and add snaps. If you're doing a double layer of fabric sewed RST and turned out, I would still use a straight stitch machine for topstitching

[@lisacobb7525]

One big thing I had to learn. When I sew a lot on the serger then switch to the sewing machine, I have to remind myself not to keep sewing when I’m done with the seam. When sewing with the serger you have to run that chain stitch. On the sewing machine you just stop. My brain wants to keeps going. 🤪

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thanks for sharing! Great to remind new sewists, too.

[@jasonstocks6460]

Appreciate your video. Thanks!

[@seasonallyproductive]

I appreciate your views and comments 🙂

[@teresainil2904]

So I bought a serger but I’m scared to use it. You have to give some extra room to finish rough ends because of the knives?

[@seasonallyproductive]

I'm not sure I'm fully understanding the question. In terms of seam allowance, most sergers allow for a 1/4" without trimming the fabric. If your pattern calls for more than that, you will need to be trimming the fabric with the knives as you go. Hope that helps!

[@ccodc7803]

Could you show us how to thread a serger

[@seasonallyproductive]

Great suggestion! That one might end up on instagram only, so make sure you're following over there 🙂 instagram.com/sewingfromscratch2019

[@BeatitudeSoul]

Hi, you mentioned that the serger does not sew two parallel lines. Do you know how it's done?

[@seasonallyproductive]

Hi Antonio. The serger does sew 2 parallel lines, but with looper threads through them. If you're looking for a "hem" look, you may be thinking of a coverstitch machine. This is mine kzbin.info/www/bejne/rarMcpV5gsiah5I You can achieve a similar look with a double needle on a regular sewing machine, too kzbin.info/www/bejne/r4DdgWiNnLqcsLM

[@BeatitudeSoul]

Ahhh! Thank you so much. Great info! :)

[@troy3456789]

This video is fantastic! Thank you!... .However, I cannot imagine listening to a podcast about sergers since it seems like talking about a machine that manipulates fabrics would be best communicated alongside accompanying video.

[@seasonallyproductive]

Thank you so much. Yes, podcasts about practical, visual and applied arts aren't always the best learning media for everyone, but I do think there are points we can all find

[@Sophie_kent]

Does it sew two pieces together or just sew edges of cloth ?

[@seasonallyproductive]

It does join 2 or more pieces together. However, it can only be along an edge.

[@lyndawilliams4570]

Do I need a serger for cotton fabrics?

[@seasonallyproductive]

No. For woven fabrics you'll still want to use a straight stitch for construction. A serger will give a nice finished edge, however there are other seam finishing techniques that don't require the extra machine