What To Ask When Buying A Serger

The world of online shopping has completely revolutionized how we shop- that includes how we shop for sergers and sewing machines. There are many options out there when it comes to purchasing an overlocker, and just as many opinions on what machine is the best for you.

We all know what they say about opinions, don't we? Using the internet and trusting your friends online is a fantastic place to begin your serger journey- but the most valuable asset you will have when buying a serger... is visiting your local shop.

Pennington Quilt Works, NJ - sergers there just behind the cupcake! 

Your local shop, and by shop, I don't mean Joann Fabric. I'm referring to a specialized sewing machine store or quilt shop. Did you know many quilt and fabric shops also carry sergers!? Here you have a knowledgeable staff who are ready and willing to answer all the questions you have and help you make a purchase that fits both your needs and your budget.

WHAT TO ASK WHEN BUYING A SERGER

1. Bring along several different weights or scraps of fabrics you want to sew.  Ask the store staff demonstrate using these fabrics
2. Ask the dealer to explain the stitch width and length adjustments; these will vary from one model to the next
3. Have the serger specialist explain the stitches that are available and adjustments needed for changing from one stitch to another
4. Have all the features, such as rolled hem and differential feed explained and demonstrated (And find out what other accessories may be available as add ons)
5. Use a striped fabric to practice cutting exactly on the line with the knives; then stitch so that the needle runs along the line to help you get comfortable controlling the machine

Last year I published a complete post Shopping For A Serger: 9 Questions to Ask on WE ALL SEW check it out to see what other questions you should be asking.

Are you currently shopping for a serger or overlocker machine? What features are most important to you? Leave a comment below.

Join #LoveYourSerger on Instagram all month long- tag your serger and serger projects! I'll be featuring my favorites. Read: my intro post to Love Your Serger Series and find out what the difference is between a serger and an overlocker and find out How A Serger Actually Works here.