How to Put a Needle in a Serger

Sergers create seams that won't ravel.

Sergers are a specialized type of sewing machine that typically use two needles to create seams, bind edges and cut the excess fabric away all at the same time. These machines also use special serger needles, either ball-point needles suitable for sewing knits or regular needles for sewing woven fabric. Unlike regular sewing machines, the needles in a serger are secured by small setscrews that sit just above the needles.

Things You'll Need

• Small screwdriver
• Needles

Instructions

1. Cut the threads going to the needles and push on the foot control to advance the thread beyond the needles. Sergers create chains that lie behind the needles which wrap up the thread, making it impossible to take the thread out using any other method.

2. Turn off the serger or unplug the foot control. Rotate the adjusting knob, typically on the right side of the serger to bring the needles to an upright position. Lower the presser foot.

3. Loosen the screws using the small screwdriver. If you loosen the screw too far and it falls out, put it back in and tighten it a few rounds. Pull the old screws out of the needle holder and set aside.

4. Insert the new screw or screws by placing the flat side of the screw in the back. It may take a few tries to get the screw to slide into the holder. The needles in a serger sit at different levels, and if you can't push the needle any higher into the needle slot, it's in proper position. Tighten the setscrew while holding the needle in place.

5. Thread the needles through the thread guides and through the needle eyes. Lift the presser foot and place the threads below it, turn the machine back on, and press on the foot control to advance the thread through the needles.