How to Do a Serged Seam

Use matching thread in your serger for a less noticeable finish.

A sewing job is not complete until you've finished the seams. One of the best and easiest ways to finish a seam is to use a serger, or interlocking sewing machine, to create a serged seam. You can do this before or after you sew the garment. A serger creates a tough enclosed seam that has two to five threads interlocking the edge of the fabric. Serged seams are professional-looking and long-lasting.

Things You'll Need

• Serger
• Thread
• Yarn needle
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Thread your serger according to the manufacturer's directions. Many sergers are available with different options for the number of threads used.

2. Turn your serger on and place the fabric to the left of the needles. The thread should wrap the edges of the fabric.

3. Press down on the foot pedal to begin serging the seam. Continue to gently move the fabric to the back of the machine while sewing. "If the loops hang off the fabric edge, move the fabric slightly to the right," advises the Sewing and Craft Alliance.

4. Cut the thread tail once you have serged down the entire seam. Leave 2 inches of thread hanging. Instructions on What the Craft say to use a yarn needle to thread the tail down into the serged seam. Thread the tail through the eye of the needle and push it under the serged threads. Once the tail is under the threads, remove the needle and trim off any ends that are showing.

References

• Sewing and Craft Alliance: Serged Seam Finish
• What the Craft: Serger Basics