How to Choose a Serger

Sergers are ideal for sewing and crafting aficionados who want their garments and sewing projects to have professional, finished edges. In addition to finishing raw edges, sergers can also be used for everything from reducing fabric puckers on stretch fabrics to creating decorative edges and making rolled hems to adding decorative trims and sewing elastic.

Instructions

1. Decide which type of serger best suits your needs. If you only want to be able to finish edges on occasional sewing projects a basic three-thread economy style serger would be an appropriate choice. However, if you frequently work with knit fabrics, plan to use the serger on a regular basis or need a commercial quality machine for a sewing or tailoring business, it's best to consider a higher end or heavy-duty 4 or 5-thread serger.

2. Determine how much money you can budget for a serger. Sergers can be range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on the features, brand and model. While it is a good idea to have a general price point in mind, try to remain flexible in the event that you find a machine that is slightly more expensive but offers all of the features that you want.

3. Go to a fabric or sewing store and test drive a few sergers that appeal to you. When trying out the various models be aware of the features that you like and be sure that the machine is easy to thread and use. Whenever possible experiment with the different feet and attachments on a myriad of fabrics, especially those that you will typically be sewing with.

4. Compare and contrast the sergers you've tried at the store and choose one that best meets your needs and price point. If the model that you like best is beyond your budget, bear in mind that fabric and sewing stores are not the only places to buy a serger. Major department and discount stores such as Sears and Walmart also carry sergers. Sometimes these stores have sales where you may be able to get the model you want or a comparable serger at a much better price.

5. Purchase a serger that appeals to you and learn as much as you can about the various ways it can be utilized. Many fabric, sewing and craft stores offer free and low cost classes that detail everything from basic serger uses to using your serger to create embellished garments and craft projects. Check the stores in your area to see if such a class is available.