Top Reasons to Have a Serger
A serger is a versatile machine, helpful in creating professional-quality garments at home. They stitch fabrics while simultaneously cutting the fabric edge and may include automated features and numerous stitch options. Those that wish to expand their sewing ability may use a serger in conjunction with a traditional sewing machine or replace it entirely.
When considering whether or not to purchase a serger, there are specific questions to consider first.
Do you sew garments often for yourself, or do you sew them to make a living? Do you wish for your garments to have a more professional look? Do you need your pieces to stand up and remain reliable in critical situations?
If any of the questions above apply to your situation, your sewing space would benefit significantly from the addition of a serger. It’s also helpful if you sew with heavy, thick fabrics or work with knits often.
Get the Job Done
Most people decide to purchase a serger to use when making clothing. Whether used for personal or professional sewing tasks, sergers provide versatility for garment construction and help get the project done quickly and efficiently.
A serger finishes fabric edges with strong overlock stitches to create a more durable seam than can be made with straight stitches on a standard sewing machine. They also cut the excess fabric edge while sewing, improving efficiency while constructing a professional-looking finished edge.
The versatility of a serger allows you to create a variety of stitch styles, work on different material thicknesses, and sew a range of clothing items. Sergers can seam fabrics together or create decorative hems, whether they are heavy knit fabrics or light and thin like satin or chiffon. All of this allows the user to create formal wear, sports apparel, costumes, children’s clothing, and much more.
Upgrade and Decorate Your Surroundings
When not creating garments, sergers are extremely useful for home improvement tasks. You can make your own curtains, beddings, cushions, and other upholstered items with a professional finish and durable stitches, regardless of the fabric type. Many sergers offer a chain stitch pattern for sewing denim and the ability to create cover stitches to hem curtains.
One of the best aspects of using a serger for home décor projects is the stitches can be sewn for decorative purposes, enhancing the item’s aesthetic instead of just sewing functional stitches. This is all due to the capability and functionality of these versatile machines.
Enhance Your Productivity
Even if you are not prepared to make the jump from a sewing machine to a serger completely – and not everyone does – you can use a serger to enhance or touch up stitch work from your sewing machine. You can sew the majority of seams on your sewing machines and then use your serger to create the classy look of rolled hems on delicate fabrics or ruffled wavy hems on knits.
What to Look for in a Serger
When looking for a serger, start by determining the features on machines that best suit your sewing needs and budget. Stop in at local shops to test drive different brands or models to get a personal feel before buying. If you have never used a serger before, check around your area to see if places offer classes on basic use or advanced techniques.
Buying a serger is a significant investment for your home sewing needs. Thus it should meet your needs and be reliable enough to garner a return in the form of increased quality in your products.