10 Serger Tips You Didn’t Know!

If you are someone who has bought a serger but not started using it yet, then this video is for you. It is my aim that if you watch the whole video I will demystify sergers and overlockers for you.
This video includes some demos. Please excuse my shaky hands, I have essential tremor. Its more important to focus on what I am teaching :-)
My serger unboxing video • Let’s unbox my new AFF...
How to get perfect tension on your serger every.single.time • Get PERFECT serger ten...
My serger playlist • Serger tips to help yo...
The slone sweater (lettuce hem) • Two tops, lettuce hem,...
Previous video in this series:
10 Sewing secrets you wish you knew • 10 Sewing Secrets You ...
This is my serger (this is an affiliate link, which means I get a small commission if you buy something from amazon after clicking my link, at no cost to you)
amzn.to/3OsFS7Y (the machine is not available to buy, this is for reference)
Subscribe, like, comment and share to support the channel.
If you would like to support financially I would love you foreverrrr. You can click the thanks button under my video or find me on www.ko-fi.com/penguinandpear
Thank you for watching. I appreciate each one of you!

[@Penguinandpear]

Hello friends! On a previous video you said you were not confident in using your serger, so I hope this video helps you. Its a little chaotic in places, but loads of value in there including multiple demonstrations. Please excuse my shaky hands, I have essential tremor. Leave me some love down below! ❤ You can buy me a kofi if you would like (much appreciated) www.ko-fi.com/penguinandpear 🙂 Thank you for watching! xx

[@lorraine9057]

I vote YES for a tutorial on different feet and their uses. The hem on the shirt you used as an example is so cute. I want to try it on a Laundry Day tee. Just so you'll know . . . your hair and makeup are on point!!

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you! I thought my hair was a mess lol 😂 do you mean the blue top where I stretched the seam? I’ll have to look! Have you seen my ldt videos? Not that you’d need them!

[@lorraine9057]

Yes, indeed, I watched your ldt videos! That's why I decided to get the pattern. I love it!

[@IMOO1896]

If I’ve not learned anything from KZbin in the last year, today is my turnaround, you’ve taught me how to remove serger threads! I never knew the secret was in the needle threads! Thanks!

[@Penguinandpear]

I wasted so many years of frustration trying to pull the loopers out lol it’s easy once you know how! 😂

[@mmgg9337]

Hello Claire, the biggest progress I made was to label all the knobs and dials, loopers and needle runs and order for threading. Suddenly the whole frightening machine was conquered! I now love my overlocker and use it as much as my sewing machine ❤👍🧵.

[@annblachly8068]

Great idea. I'm now going to do that, too.

[@CarJul666]

The unpicking was pure magic! Thanks for teaching us this technique. ❤❤

[@Penguinandpear]

Glad you liked it!

[@VintageVermilion]

After years of frustration with threading the serger, I traded up to a Viking Amber 600 which is an air threader and probably improved my life expectancy by the stress reduction provided. It's got so many bells and whistles that I'm still on a learning curve but I'm really enjoying the process. Definite "YES" on the different feet and how to use.

[@kathygann7632]

During Covid, after trying to thread my 25 year old Viking Huskavarna serger, I got a Babylock Victory air threader, and mind blowing!

[@paigekennedy5043]

Air threading is a game changer! No more fighting with the lower looper!

[@tanathurgaland6708]

I appreciate your videos because you speak to those of us who are new to sewing and those who have put aside the craft for one reason or another. Sewing can be useful, fulfilling, creative, and even profitable. You help make us more confident and less fearful.❤ Thanks so much!

[@Penguinandpear]

This means a lot thank you

[@KlingonPrincess]

Oh! Please do a serger foot use video!

[@josephinehogg3629]

PERFECT explanation for overlocker tension and loved the way you explained how to unpick serger stitching. I've been doing that for years and never thought to show anyone else how to do it. Good on you and well done!

[@kathleenstoin671]

I used a rolled hem edge on a ruffle on the front of a blouse. It was very lightweight fabric, and it looked very nice. Much easier than trying to turn and stitch on a regular sewing machine!!

[@jesspeak7543]

Thank you for such a great tutorial on tensions for the overlocker. I used to write down the tension guide information, but taking a photo is so much better. I have made rolled hems on woven fabrics in the distant past and should should do so again. I would really appreciate it if you could record a tutorial using the various specialty feet please.

[@aimster2084]

This weekend I used up four serger cones that were almost gone... I definitely got my practice in, threading my machine. I think I've got it down to a science now :) ... thank you for your lesson on unpicking serger threads, that was the best explanation I've ever seen. That's going to be a game-changer for me. I finally get it!

[@conesbymaggie1469]

I love your tips and your style! So honest. I feel like I'm listening to a friend who knows what I'm going through. Keep 'em coming!

[@tishie42]

This is so very helpful. Bust out the sergers everyone! It's just fun. It's fun to watch the edge trim and get wrapped up so beautifully and quickly. I got my serger and closed the box. I made some coffee, and grabbed the handbook and some thread and just went on a coffee date with it. We spent 2 wonderful hours learning all about each other and our boundaries. 😂😂But really I threaded it and just turned knobs cuz there's a default mark on every knob to return to. Used a bunch of scraps and labeled the fabric what the settings were. Watched some KZbin and made sure the loops were good. Then went for the easy win. Made a knit dress and fell in love with the seams not stretched out (as much) as the sewing machine even with the walking foot! It was magic. I got better and I don't know what I'd do without it now. I tried the chaining the new thread and my loopers never were having it. I change my 1st thread to match and my 3rd thread to have decorative color in my seams. It's my trademark to have green of some shade in my upper looper. 😂 That's how much I love it. It just saves so much time. Just test the same way you test on the sewing machine for a new project. Make sure the serger you got is the one you need. 3,4 or 5 five threads do different things beyond the knits. Just an observation I didn't get to until after my purchase.. 😅

[@torirochleau-rice8037]

I just purchased a serger, and I am (slowly) building my confidence. I would LOVE a video on rolled hems, and I’d also enjoy seeing you use all those fancy serger feet. Thanks for fun and helpful videos.

[@rebeccaw9656]

I’ve pretty much had black thread on my overlocker for years, and learnt how to French seam for all other colours of fabric😂. I’ve tried the pull through method, but threads kept snapping… but watching your video showed me some tips that the manual doesn’t, and I think I’ll be OK next time. Thank you very much❤️

[@AnitaSouthall]

I had an experienced friend show me how to get started. Usually within 2 attempts I can get the threading done correctly. I was told learn how to do it properly early on so you don't get a phobia of fixing a problem. Yes I've tried the method of pulling a new thread colour through but really don't mind starting from scratch.

[@annblachly8068]

Explaining the left needle is the 'seen' thread was super helpful to know. I will thread accordingly, now that I watched your Tension video. I'll be serging now after over ten years. I'd made our first grandson a cute costume based on the Incredibles characters when he was four years, just for fun. But the threads kept snapping. I think he was growing, too, but still. Tension was probably the issue. Possible weak thread. He's 20 now and the costume went missing long ago or I would fix it now that tension can be remedied.

[@eileenhaskins2710]

Thank you for the video on Sergers. I have had it saved for awhile until I've had time to watch it. I took a class on sergering, but my head just spun, so much info. The lady was really trying to upsell us on one of her sergers. I actually have two sergers, both 2nd hand, one a generation newer than the other. I plan to make charity quilts and using a serger is faster, and these will be stripes or large blocks. By the time I get done on a few of them I may feel more proficient. I bought a book on serging quilts, but it is pretty fancy. I love your videos, but don't manage to watch as many as I would like.

[@jenniferlindsay6227]

Absolutely love this video! I was given a serger 5 years ago. I had it serviced and threaded and have been too scared to use it UNTIL NOW! Thank you 😘

[@rebekahcraig745]

Thank you so much for this vid. Your tips are so helpful. I hated my serger because the lower looper kept breaking which was the most fiddly to re-thread. It was more stressful than helpful. I didn't use my machine for years and felt so guilty because it had been a big purchase for me. Someone told me to make sure my looper threads don't cross when I thread the machine and presto chango, problem solved. Now I love my machine and use it all the time. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I feel confident to touch the dials now which have always been mysterious and terrifying

[@helenhart4778]

your tutorial on tension is fantastic, everyone should watch it. The threading with tying the threads together works if you get the knots to not come undone. lol ask me how i know. Great information as always, thank you for sharing

[@deborahosorio553]

I got my first serger in 1984. Three threads and no differential. Still have it and I love it on wovens. I did not know about pulling the thread through to change colors, so I threaded it the hard way every time. So much work!

[@helenc4228]

Wonderful tutorial! I just found you today and subscribed. I have to say you are the very first KZbinr that I can watch the entire tutorial through to the end. Most KZbinrs just do not hold my interest or the content is not great. Your videos are truly amazing! Thank you!

[@lesleywatkins1172]

I’m so pleased I found your channel! When I first got my overlocked I couldn’t understand why the cotton kept breaking, I must have re-thread it about 6-8 times! Then I realised I didn’t have the cotton rod raised up! 🤦🏼‍♀️

[@tishie42]

I just did that this morning after moving it to clean and put the rod down so my cat wouldn't see the threads. 😂🎉And I use it at least once a week for 2 years now... 😅

[@lw3396]

oh my goodness, how did you know about me and my serger in a box? I'm so glad you're back. You are fearless, and I am going to pull that beast out, recycle the box, and give it another go. Thank you again!

[@Penguinandpear]

Happy to help! Once you get used to it you will not look back!

[@lw3396]

@@Penguinandpear thank you! By the way, my name is Lita =)

[@koolkatss4854]

Thank you Claire. I really appreciate your efforts in creating and sharing your videos.🌸

[@lucilledaub5991]

I love your tips for the serger.

[@traciesperrin7548]

Thank you for your easy to understand tutorial. I have my overlocker, still in the box (2 years now), but I feel after watching your video I am ready. Thank you so much.

[@shannonlaubert9822]

Awesome video, Claire! Thank you soooo much! I'm guilty...I have a serger that was a gift from my mother. She had one for years as she was a professional seamstress but is now only focusing on knitting...she is a master knitter as she has been knitting since she was 5...and she's a Brit! Anyway, I love your amazing tips and plan to start using my serger after a craft show I am getting ready for in November. Lots of sewing on my regular sewing machine, as it's quicker! But, I WILL be learning and using my serger after the craft show....if I don't melt from our Texas heat wave! Bless you and I'll be catching up on your prior videos and watching your new ones! 😊 I love your personality and videos!

[@lorrainelee597]

I’m so glad I found your channel. I’ve been thinking I should get an overlocker, but it’s been so intimidating I’ve been put off. I’d love an airthreading machine but they are hella expensive, now I don’t feel so scared and will reconsider buying, probably next month or two.

[@Penguinandpear]

Happy to help. For me a serger is an essential but that’s also a privilege. Once you use it you won’t look back. If you get one that is popular there will be lots of tutorials on how to use that specific one.

[@pamelaweekes385]

So so good , I sure your videos will make me a better sewer , honest down to earth tips , not one bit pretentious thank you , Pamweekes

[@christinehyslop7105]

Don’t apologise for tremors, you are not alone I have tremors too following brain surgery . I’ve only just started to use my overlocker again and was a bit daunted but started dressmaking so using it

[@Penguinandpear]

I didn’t apologise for them I said please excuse them because I know they can be distracting. I mention them because when I don’t I get comments concerned about me or pointing out I shake which I find hard to deal with. So a bit of self preservation 😊

[@TheEvie202]

I only use the serger for finishing garments. Sergers are also good for containing raveling fabrics. Love my regular sewing machine!

[@TheEvie202]

Thanks for your tricks and secrets with sergers.

[@ellencrooke7927]

Thank you for sharing "how to unpick" the serger threads. It will definitely save me so much time and stress in the future. Not that I intent to make mistakes. 23:10

[@2020Dumpsterfire]

I just bought a used juki serger from the 80s and it was seized to hell and back so took it into the repair shop. It's so very smooth, just a beautiful machine. The sewing machine mechanic advised me that it's just for woven because it doesn't have a differential feed....but I tested it with the thinnest drapy knit I had and it still worked as long as I go slow and careful. I mostly got it for seam finishing because not every seam can be French or felled lol. But I'm looking forward to some knits because I'm still struggling with my regular sewing machine and knits. I haven't gotten stretch stitch to work but that might be my fault for not reading manual fully.

[@theresevella8844]

I too have a serger I've never used for a decade! It's daunting.

[@fay8233]

Just binge watching a lot of your vids. My overlocker sat in the box for a month, then when I did take it out the box the flipping thing was pre threaded🤦🏾‍♀️ . For the first time I did the tie off method and it worked. I've had the overlocker a few months now and still haven't learn to thread it 🤷🏽‍♀️ BUT I've tweaked the tension and my goodness it makes my garments look fab. I'm so glad I got it though. This vid was brilliant

[@auntiefishy17]

I love your videos, you’re so easy to watch and listen to, you’re also super talented sending you love xx

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you!

[@saraaronzon4562]

Thank you so much. I’m new sewing and you’ve helped so much.

[@Knittynatter]

Loved to see how you do shirring on an overlocker 😊

[@jennifermaddock4382]

You can gather using your differential feed on 2. It's so even and can be adjusted necessary. Yes please to a rolled hem tutorial. Great tips!

[@Penguinandpear]

That’s what I said in the video.

[@BSWVI]

Thank you! So straightforward! This will be saved, downloaded and emailed and Pinned!

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you!

[@thokomdakane5419]

You video gave me confindence to use my overlocker I had a lot of. fear now Im very clear.Thank you so much❤❤❤

[@deeinkersole2315]

Thanks, a great video. I’ve used a server for a while and encountered all the frustration of threading a d tension but I never knew how to unpick like this. Top tip! I really love your approach and, having grown up in Southsea, just love hearing your accent. I recommend you to sewing friends and acquaintances.

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you ❤️

[@pattiann8477]

one thing I found with my serger was that my project would pull off to the left side throwing my stitches off. So I invested in the acrylic table and that really helped me. I have seen/watched other sewers on line that use a serger on a tiny little table! I don't know how they can get good results working like that!

[@viraga2168]

Thank you for the great tips! I'm interested in watching a video on the other serger foot as well.

[@shannonamell7102]

I would love to see more video's on sergers and what else you can do with them and also the presser foot's. I have a Brother Lock 1034D and it came with 3 presser foot's which are Blind stitch foot, Tape presser foot, Gathering foot. Thank you for showing how to pick the threads out! 🥰☺😊 Love your channel, just found you the other night :)

[@lulub8600]

Love, love, love your videos. I have enjoyed and learned so much. I would love to see the different fee, their purpose and results. Thank you 🌹🌺🌹

[@grumpy_poo]

My machine threads from right to left and will not work if it's out of sequence... each machine has it's foibles so I would say read the manual thoroughly... it will make it so much easier... I had a threading problem for a while and lost patience. I eventually realised the thread hadn't gone into the tension discs properly and.... I had missed one tiny little threading hole on the Lower looper.... My machine doesn't react well to the knotting new threads... tends to jump the tension discs. Love the way your machine completely opens up , game changer. The differential and stitch length knobs have always foxed me... as did the feet. ( demo? yes please! )

[@nuriagiralt617]

Thanks for this video. It has inspired me to get my serger out of storage and give it another try. I'd definitely watch a video on how to use the serger feet--which BTW I already have because I love tools.

[@jandimarco3113]

Yes please to video on overlocker presser feet. I’ve got extra feet with mine but never used them (10 years)

[@ZeldaSews]

I pulled mine out, after 2 years, and used it.😊😊 I pulled the thread through because I wasn't ready to thread it yet, but as soon as I am more comfortable with it, I'm going to thread it. This video was extremely helpful, and thank you so much for making it.

[@jojomontgomery7119]

Thank you for this video. I bought my serger and a sewing show, so I don't have a shop to ask questions. Will watch your video on tension issues. Thanks for displacing my fear!!

[@lisafi159]

Thanks for this video. It is a shot of confidence. I inherited my mother-in-laws server about 8 years ago. Never had the nerve to try it. Going to show it who's boss. Love your honest content.

[@pambeus9271]

Great basic serger video. Thanks Claire!

[@nancylorenz5082]

Hi! I just came across your video today and really enjoyed how you teach and are caring. I subscribed so I can come hang out with you. I don’t presently have a serger, but I’m really interested in learning about them. Perhaps I’ll buy one. I’m just getting back into sewing. I’ll see you on more videos as I will be binging them. ❤️

[@kerfuffle9312]

Thank you soooo much! This very helpful, straightforward and informative! Catching up on all your previous vids and appreciate the time you’ve taken to link your other related videos on the topic of sergers. I’m taking the plunge…I’m going to dust off my serger!👏👍☺️🇨🇦

[@marywagner5088]

Always great content! Thank you!

[@jenniferclifford4669]

Hi great video. Could you consider doing a video about using the different overlocker feet please? Great tip about undoing the stitches.

[@annstephens4518]

Loved this video. Thanks so much. Love your channel. I'm going to master my Serger this week. 😊

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

Excellent. Thank you! And we've all sewn sleeve to hem? Bwahaha. Yeah, I prolly have. 🤣🤣

[@valhogue7870]

I love your videos! You are so down to earth. Thanks for this video.

[@patwalker2501]

I divert in two ways from your thread preferences: First, I typically use only three threads on my sergers for seaming. My garment seams don't fall apart with only three threads, and this makes serger threading easier. Knit seams can stretch a bit more. Just make sure your tensions are adjusted properly. I serge the seams of all my garments (from thin filmy fabrics to knits, and denim) using only three threads. I have owned several different sergers, and using only three threads works well on them all. Give it a try - the world won't come to an end. Second, I usually use serger thread on my sewing machine. Again, my seams don't pop or fall apart. I prefer the larger serger cones because they are thinner than most thread on spools, and I prefer the effect of a finer thread line. A cone of tread is very economical, and lasts a long time. I just use a separate cone stand behind my sewing machine. I use the serger thread for both thin and thicker fabrics. I save the smaller thread spools for when I am taking my machine to a workshop, as it is easier to travel with small spools. But I always use serger cones when at home. I challenge you to give serger thread a try on your sewing machine. You may have to do some minor tension adjustments for this thinner thread, but you may, like me, become spoiled by the aesthetic, convenience, and economic benefits of using serger thread on your sewing machine.

[@Penguinandpear]

We all do sewing differently, there’s a multitude of ways to do most things. You have too do what suits you best. Please don’t assume because I don’t do something I’ve never tried it. I’ve been sewing for over 10 years, I’ve tried most things. What I share is what I’ve found to work best for me. You can take or leave the advice.

[@gretabrown1408]

[@dawnjeffersramstad8401]

Bless you for this video! 🎉

[@sunflowersammee1994]

Thank you for the great tips!

[@seahorse3571]

Thank you. That was very helpful

[@Dizzycow-Tina]

This was a FLIPPING AWESOME video …. Thank you so so much 💖💖💖

[@kathleenstoin671]

I forgot to mention that this was a very helpful video! These tips going to help me a lot! Thank you!

[@magdaw1844]

Witam, super porady, super tłumaczysz, pozdrawiam z Polski.

[@teresahammett2200]

Thanks!

[@legaleagle4947]

Great Serger tip! 🙏

[@AnitaSouthall]

New owner of a serger/overlocker in Australia. Bought a Brother 2504D. I'm making headway in my first month. Reading the manual is essential no matter what machine you own. It came with a DVD. My only issue is is the fabric puckering or gathering. It's probably practice needed

[@Penguinandpear]

You probably need to adjust the differential feed. If it’s gathering it’s probably set too high. Also have a look at my serger tension video.

[@airfry-syn-it]

Hi, I would love to see a video of using the different serger feet, I use my serger only for stretch garments and overlocking, the accessory box containing extra feed are still in the box, unused, around 10 years now. I use my sewing machines extra feet,piping feet, gathering ect for those uses but would be nice to see another way using my Toyota serger. X

[@blufaerie]

Your original video inspired me to use my serger two years ago and I haven’t looked back! ❤

[@Penguinandpear]

So happy to hear this!

[@marcienuber]

Great video! Would love to see more serger videos!

[@Penguinandpear]

I have more on my list so they will be sprinkled in.

[@kathleen7849]

Thank you.

[@annfhallahan4347]

Excellent vlog. As a user (badly) of my babylock for yrs and yrs this is so informative. I certainly don't use it to it's max. Thanks for your tips

[@jennyedmiston6930]

You are so encouraging Thank You 👏👏👏 So Glad to Find Your Channel.

[@maringrachart]

Thk you for sharing, I know I am sewing too but seeing you demnstrating your serger make s me more want to sew. I say this because sewing can be frustrating sometimes so Thk you for sharing your video,it’s inspiring🙏😁❤

[@margaretlupo4267]

Thank you for this!! Reallyyyyyy needed it my poor over locker looks so lonely waiting for me to find it use. Not it’s fault just my fear 😂

[@AbigailLamb]

Great video thanks, I bought my first overlocker a year ago - it is a combination machine (Bernette b48). I have heard negative things about combination machines but I’ve been really happy with this one - I guess they must have improved these since the original machines.

[@yetty4032]

Thank you for sharing it is very helpful voor me .❤

[@paulinemcleggan7585]

That video on tension Claire saved me a lot of hassle. Thanks so much! I have been trying to gather on my serger, its not been 100% I KEEP SEEING HOLES 🤔🤨

[@klbybee69]

I would love for you to do a video on using surger feet for different edges. Your videos are so very useful. 😊

[@annslimmingandcraft8683]

Hi just found you yesterday really enjoyed thank you. Getting it back out today xxx❤

[@animallover4955]

Thankyou❤

[@kewikid68]

Thank you vor your tips and tricks eben it comes to the serger!! 👍💕 I've got the Gritzner 788(?) as a present for christmas. Never want to miss it anymore 👍

[@Penguinandpear]

Great present!

[@marybull3715]

Thanks Claire, I do not have a serger as yet found this very informative

[@stellam2521]

Ευχαριστούμε!

[@victoriahannah1633]

My sewing skills are improving quite a bit . A few things have really been clicking in the old brain. I think there for awhile I was just in a brain fog from back to back surgeries . I do plan on going one but I’m ok for now with out one. I just use my side cutter presser foot which is like a overcast foot only it has a blade & cuts off the excess fabric like a serger does.

[@lesleyharris525]

Yes please can you make a video on serger feet, I need to make clothes for myself as standard aren't any good anymore.

[@pharbottle]

Thank you so much for this very well done post; very informative! I like your brand of serger, love how it opens up so well. I live in Hawaii so not sure I’ve seen it here. Thank you again!❤

[@Penguinandpear]

Thank you. I don’t think my serger is widely available any more but there’s a link (it’s sold out) in my description if you’re interested to read about it.

[@joeyl695]

Stay safe! All of you are in our prayers.

[@Emmelina1203]

Yes, please 😁 a video on serger feet would be so helpful! I don‘t have any other than the standard foot and I am considering to buy a few but I don‘t know which are available and which would be useful for me 😅 I have recommendations on the tension in my manual, but I needed to set them completely different. Is this normal? Do they ever fit? I love to watch your videos, because you‘re explaining things so well, even I understand them (and somehow you take away my fear of mistakes) 😂 so thanks for that ❤

[@carlabinnix8802]

Awesome! and YES to serger feet please!

[@gillianwoods8610]

Thankyou x

[@suzanmarie5374]

I needed this so much!

[@Penguinandpear]

Happy to help!

[@suzanmarie5374]

@@Penguinandpear I have such fear of my darn serger!

[@suzanmarie5374]

I hope you explain the seam allowance cause I just guess and hope for the best

[@Penguinandpear]

I didn’t but I think that’s something we all struggle with. What I do is find something on the foot that is about the distance I need and line up the sewing machine stitching to that. If sewing straight from the serger I’d measure from the needle and put some tape down. It’s not an easy one though!

[@qormi1000]

You have motivated me to do something on my serger Claire. It just needs threading (which I was dreading). Thank you. xxx Yes I would like to see more tips on serger sewing and different feet.

[@Penguinandpear]

You can do it! Good luck let me know how you get on!

[@littleangel9531]

I use my overlooked thread from Lidl on my sewing machine all the time and I've never had a problem with it snapping.

[@Penguinandpear]

It’s not just about snapping. It’s about the integrity of the garment over time. I sometimes use cheap threads it’s not the end of the world but as an intermediate sewist I will aim for quality where I can esp if I pay a lot for the fabric.