What Does a Sewing Serger Do?

Sergers make the sturdy binding stitch known as the overlock stitch that is found on the seams of store-bought garments. Many home sewers use sergers in conjunction with their sewing machines.

Overlock Stitches

Sergers use anywhere from two to five spools of thread to generate the overlock stitch. Using only two spools creates a narrow and more delicate finished edge, while five spools may be used on heavy fabrics, such as upholstery and denim.

Threading

Because the serger uses multiple spools or cones of thread, threading the machine can be complicated. Always sew several test samples to ensure the thread tension is set correctly.

Using the Serger

Sergers, like sewing machines, have a needle, presser foot, feed dog and a pedal that adjusts the sewing speed. Sergers also have a small blade that runs parallel to the needle; it trims off excess seam allowance as the fabric is run through the machine. A small tray on the front of the machine will collect the scraps and threads.

Maintenance

Dust, small threads and bits of fabric may get stuck in the area near the blade or under the feed dog. Use a small brush to clean these out. Use a sparing amount of oil on the inner workings of the machine to keep it running smoothly.

Sewing vs. Serging

A serger can be used to sew an entire garment, as long as the fabric being sewn is a seam of two unfinished edges. Serge all the raw edges of fabric that frays easily to make it easier to work with as you sew. For slippery fabrics, sew first before serging raw edges.

References

• Serger Q&A