Must Have Features For Your First Serger

Must have features for your first serger - and those you can do without.  Great tips if you are thinking of getting one.

Hi there! I'm Irene and I usually blog at Serger Pepper; today I'm here sharing with you all I know about one of my favorite topics: sergers!

Yes, I'll do my best to help you choose your first serger (or overlocker, depending on where you come from)… aren't you excited? I am!

Let me start by saying that the perfect model does not exist! It's all relative!

Read what you should consider before you start evaluating the models/features:

What is a serger sewing machine?

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Maybe you already know what a serger is/does, maybe not: let's define it!

A serger is a fast sewing machine that produces professionally finished seams because it trims away seam allowances and encases raw edges with an overcast stitch…. wow!

Can you guess how much it reduces the boring time spent trimming and zig-zagging seam allowances? One step does everything!

Do I really need a serger?

Well, technically you don't, but you should consider

  • why you are sewing
  • what kind of fabric
  • how much do you usually sew

A serger isn't going to replace your sewing machine: some tasks are unachievable with the serger alone (topstitching, for example).

One of the advantages of using a serger is that it's fast!

Not only it do multiple actions in one only time, but it also sews so many stitches per minute (they're around 1300 for a domestic serger… more than 20 each second, while a sewing machine usually stitches 600/minute).

If you have decided it's time to take your sewing up a notch… it's time to buy a serger!

If you're not a professional sewer (and probably you aren't, if you're just considering buying a serger), you will hardly need so many fancy options: do not spend that extra money for features you are not going to use!

serger sewing machine tips

What will you use it for?

To help you decide which features are really important for you, one of the most important things to consider is what you think you're going to use your serger for no need to have a cover stitch feature if you don't hem knits!

  • A serger can help you a lot in sewing knits (also without a cover stitch feature); let's think about it: our wardrobe nowadays is filled with knit garments so, why do we have to sew woven and wear knits?
  • Also if you can perfectly sew knits with a regular sewing machine, a serger will make things easier, way faster and tons neater!
  • Even sewing wovens can be faster and neater with a serger: no more seam allowances fraying!
  • A serger can be the right choice also if you don't sew garments, but do lots of bed skirts, pillows, curtains and things like this: again, more work done in less time!

That said, you should take into account that your plans may change, as time passes by: once you climb the first steep part of the learning curve (problems threading anyone?) you will almost certainly fall in love with the endless possibilities your serger gives you.

When you start playing with your serger, you'll see that it's perfect for adding decorative details (like edgings and pintucks), for adding strength while keeping the flexibility to your seams: just start playing with the various stitches (I even have created a useful Cheat Sheet for all the settings!).

serger sewing machine tips

How much are you going to use it?

Another perspective to consider, to define must-have features for your first serger, is how many hours a week (or a day…) you're going to use it: if you sew for yourself and your family, probably you're not going to overuse it and wear it down as much as if you have a sewing business.

Not all of the domestic sergers can withstand extensive use and saving some bucks now could probably lend you to spending more in maintenance later.

Maybe you're planning to jump into the growing wagon of crafty women who sells handmade garments on Etsy or local fairs: seams finished with an overlocker will look much more professional to the buyers, helping you in increasing your sales.

Let's talk about money!

Everything is relative, in this field! Just honestly consider your budget: everyone has one, high or low, and the price range for an overlocker is between $ 200 to several thousand dollars.

Often, you're going to get what you pay for but:

1) For the average home sewist, a good entry-level machine will cost you around $200; there's no need to spend too much if you're not going to use it intensively!

2) It's not always true that more expensive equals better. Sometimes you only pay for extravagant features you'll never use (and sometimes you pay for the brand too!)

Choosing a serger is a very intimidating choice because there are so many brand and models in the market and nobody really wants to make a mistake and end up paying for it twice!

Where should I buy it?

When you will have tried a lot of sergers at local dealers and narrowed it to a selection of your favorite models (within your budget and based on must-have features listed below), try to wait and search for sale prices on Amazon/eBay/Google… you could save a lot from your local retailer's price!

TIP: Check how maintenance will work: some won't service your serger if you've bought it elsewhere…

Buying new/used

In my humble opinion, it's ok buying used sergers but only from trusted sources: you should ideally be able to check a used machine before you buy it (even better: let someone experienced test it for you, someone who can spot problems just hearing the sound of the engine, or note some warning signals you could even miss!).

If I was in the market for a new serger, and I was thinking to buy a used machine, I would try asking local dealers first: usually, when someone decides to change her machine, sells her old basic model to the dealer, who often re-sells spare parts and can recondition the serger for a fraction of cost, then he will re-sell it to you.

Be sure it comes with a sort of warranty, better if it's written (you never know…).

It's all fun but… which features do I *really* need?

I have to admit that, also if I'm really amazed by all those fancy features I see on high-end expensive machines, I'm not easily suggestible.

I'm a frugal mom, the kind of woman who plans any expense since I'm not swimming in money… so I must carefully evaluate the cost-effect ratio of a purchase.

Also if this seems to be a huge list, most of the features I'm mentioning here are included in most (if not all) the modern home sergers; you can even carry this list with you when you're visiting your local dealers: you'll look less like a newbie if you already know what to ask for!

  • Adjustable differential feed (this is a must-have for sewing different types of fabric and creating gathers). Most modern sergers have this feature, better check with the seller that it's included when the price is at the low end!
  • adjustable stitch length and width

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - differential feed and stitch length

  • adjustable sewing speed by foot control on the pedal: exactly like with your sewing machine (and your car), the more you push the foot on the pedal, the faster you sew (or drive);
  • easily removable presser foot: it helps when it's time to thread (or even change) the needles! A snap-on foot is the best choice.

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - release presser foot

  • sewing light (I've never seen a serger without one, but I haven't seen all the sergers for sale in the world and a bright light is a must-have)
  • colour-coded threading paths and/or threading chart, better if it's pasted on your serger

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - color coded threading and threading chart

  • thread tension released when you raise the presser foot
  • adjustable presser foot pressure, for sewing different fabric thicknesses
  • easy seam width adjustment: turning the dial you can cut more or less fabric on seam allowances, sewing closer or farther from the edge

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - cuttig width

  • removable stitch finger (and even better if it comes with 2 different width stitch fingers)

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - two fingers

  • high-quality blade you can disengage, sharpen or even easily replace

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - blades

  • each needle is secured by its own screw (or Allen wrench): if they're both attached with one only screw, they will likely fall inside your serger when you decide to change them

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - two screws needles

  • dials with numbers stamped on, to help you adjust settings
  • tweezers, manual, dust cover, spool nets (to keep consistent feeding of bulky nylon, wear those nets on the spool), spool caps (to be able to use domestic spools and reels of thread), screwdriver(s)
  • seam gauge (either built-in or removable): this will ensure the fabric is cut and sewn consistently

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - sewing gauge

  • check if the serger is easy to open for threading it or cleaning it
  • it can sew with regular home sewing machine needles
  • built-in thread cutter

Serger Pepper - Contributor - Must have features - thread cutter

Other features that can be really useful, but not mandatory, are:

  • bag to carry it around if you don't have a sewing room
  • free arm/flat-bed convertible sewing surface: useful feature for when you need to sew on small cylindrical portions of garments (read: collars, cuffs, armholes, especially when sewing for small kids)
  • serger classes either in person or DVD/video (also if you can find plenty of them on YouTube)
  • built-in storage. This will help you get organized and keep all your sewing tools.
  • cover-stitch convertible (better two separate machines, usually the conversion isn't that easy to do and you'll end up paying for a potential feature you won't use that much)
  • different feet (maybe on the low-end models you won't have them all in your box, you should check if they are available to be added later and how much they cost if bought separately) – blind hem foot, elastic foot, piping/cording foot, chain stitch foot are the most common.

A couple of words about the number of threads/serger stitches:

Home sergers come with 3, 4, or even 5 threads: if you're an average sewer/crafter, better choose a 4 (3 is for finishing seams only, 5 is for added cover stitch and chain stitch).

If I was in the market for my first serger, these are the stitches I'd like to be able to work with it:

  • 2 threads overlock (for finishing seam allowances on lightweight and sheers)
  • 3 threads overlock (for finishing seam allowances on medium-weight fabrics)
  • 4 threads overlock  (for finishing seam allowances on heavy-weight fabrics and for seaming)
  • flatlock
  • rolled hem (with 2 threads, for lightweight fabrics)
  • rolled hem (with 3 threads, for medium-weight fabrics)
  • narrow hem
  • super stretch stitch (perfect for dancewear, swimwear, leotards…)

Another important thing to check with your dealer (better ask him/her for a demonstration) is how easy is to convert your serger between stitches. Some sergers have a quick way to covert (like leverage you turn to switch between rolled hem and overlock, or a two-thread convertor), while others may require you to unscrew the throat plate… and you know that you're not going to convert between stitches if you need to pull apart your serger, isn't it?

Fancy features you CAN do without on your first serger

(but you should look for them if your budget is a little bit wider)

  • Automatic threader (for loopers and needles)
  • I've seen some Bernina overlockers have the “micro thread control” that gives you the perfect seam at the turn of a knob: with this feature, tensions are adjusted automatically… at a huge cost for you! If tensions are a problem for you, you may be interested in reading (and maybe pinning) this post I wrote about it!
  • LCD screen (fun, but not more useful than knobs and dials… that costs a lot less!)
  • Waste collector (I have it, somewhere! Never used it…)

My conclusions

When I've bought my serger, my needs were to stay within a really small budget without buying a “cheap” machine: I'm highly satisfied with it (it's a Necchi Lock 181, which I don't think you'll be able to spot anywhere in the US) and I don't plan to change it with another (unless I find one that makes me the manicure while I sew): it's such a sturdy and durable machine, all built with metal mechanisms inside (just try to lift it and you'll notice it by its weight!).

I hope you'll make good use of my suggestions about must-have features for your first serger, maybe you've been a good girl and you'll find a new one under the tree…

If not, here are my little pearls of wisdom for helping you to choose one, at the local dealer:

  • try one of the cheaper and one of the more expensive… and see if you can spot a difference
  • try threading it trying before you choose – maybe twice!
  • choose the brand/model try it live, then buy online and spend less
  • if you are unsure between two brands/models, compare ease of use and maintenance/cleaning
  • be sure to get any sort of training and access to support after the purchase

Wanna know more about your serger? Follow my “Serger Obsession” board on Pinterest!


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Hi! I'm Irene "MammaNene" and I blog about anything sewing on Serger Pepper. I love designing my own patterns, I have a thing for refashions and I am Pinterest addicted! My favorite sewing muse is my almost 6 years old daughter... but sometimes I sew for me too!

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Linda
Linda

I have had my Brother 1034D serger for many years. It was very easy to learn to use it; read the manuals; watch YouTube videos; practice various stitches. It has been very handy for me to have this machine. I found mine at Walmart years ago for under $200.

Pam
Pam

Hello! Can you recommend a serger for me? I would like to make dinner napkins. I have never served before. Thank you!

Mayra Cecilia
Admin
Noble Member
Reply to  Pam

I can recommend the 8002D. I have had this machine for several years, and it has never let me down easy to use and maintain. Almost any four thread serger will do as long as you clean it before you use it.

Tish
Tish

I love my elastic foot. Takes a good bit of practice. When you get it right, it’s heavenly.

Vlierbloesem
Vlierbloesem
Reply to  Tish

Me too. 🙂

Sarah
Sarah

Hi, I know these posts are older but I’m just wondering… I am totally new to sewing and don’t have a sewing machine yet, but I honestly think I just want to sew knits and not deal with zippers and buttons. I love wearing knits- super comfortable and love the fit with them since I’m an oddly shaped petite. Does it make sense for me to just get a serger and not a sewing machine? Are there parts of a finished knit garment that I won’t be able to make without a sewing machine (like the neckline, ends of sleeves, etc.) Thank you!

Mayra Cecilia
Admin
Noble Member
Reply to  Sarah

You can create many things just by using a serger but eventually you will want a sewing machine. I can promise you that.

Laura Waterfield
Laura Waterfield

Good advice. Thanks.
I shared it with some of my groups.
Laura

Dorothy Deighan
Dorothy Deighan

I can’t believe that you encourage people to ‘try out’ various models at their ‘local retailer’ and then watch for a ‘deal’ online. Those shopowners are small businesses and are not there for you to use without supporting them. Wow. That is kinda like stealing. Just sayin’…

Andrew Mark

Thanks Deby for giving this tutorial. This article is really helpful for my fabric labels business.

Hilary
Hilary

I bought a Necchi ProLock from my neighbour last year and I love it. I was in the market for one and had looked briefly online when she asked if I knew anyone who wanted one. Isn’t it lovely when things work out like that? I love my machine – it’s been a big help for my sewing projects.

Daryl

This was very informative, however I don’t think it was wise to tell people to test out several sergers at local dealers and then to look for online sales. First of all you take sales away from the dealers and nearly all dealers offer free classes for using your serger if you purchase from them as well as your first maintenance service is free too. Plus you get support from your dealer when you need it and most usually give you 10% can off any tool, accessory, notion whenever you want to purchase those items. so in the long run it’s worth paying a little more from a dealer. You usually can only find prices online for the low end machines. The mid-high end machines you can only get a price for them from the dealer itself, even online stores ask you to call them for a price. This is typical because those brands do not allow you to mention price online. Not to mention that to test out machines at a dealer and then buy elsewhere is rather unethical too. Other than that I think your article was great.

yvettechilcott
yvettechilcott
Reply to  Daryl

Thank you for voicing your comments. I am a retired dealer, (sold my business to my daughter, so I’m still active in it). We include a free project class almost every month for those who bought from us, and help is always available, even over the phone. For those who support us; the local dealer. If you bought online, or at a local big box store, we will help, but certainly not for free.

MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
Reply to  yvettechilcott

Awesome job you had! As I said, it’s not always the same here where I live… and to buy the same machine from a local shop, I had to spend 200 euro more than from online… 250 $ more or less! I can pay more than one manteinance with it (also if in the online price I had 3 years of pick-up and check-up warranty included, as well as free sewing classes for free)… If I lived near you, I would have bought from you (or from your sister!!) for sure 🙂
It’s a matter of “choose wisely”, as always in life!

Thank you so much, Yvette!

Deby at So Sew Easy
Active Member

Same for me Irene. I can order online for less than half the price I can buy it for locally. For me, thats the difference between getting a machine or not. I’m sure we all really appreciate the service that local dealers provide, especially on the higher end machines and brands, but for those of us on a tight budget or in an area not served by a dealer or reasonably priced alternative, sometimes buying online is the only option.

MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
MammaNene (@mamma_nene)

Happy to hear I’m not the only one, Deby! I must save as much as I can, if I want to be able to afford my sewing activity upgrade!

MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
Reply to  Daryl

Hi Daryl! I think you are lucky to have this great experience with your dealer, but I have to add they are not all equal! Here in Italy you can find a serger dealer only in very big towns and other regular sewing machine dealers usually don’t keep sergers in their shop (they make you choose from a catalogue…). If you are so lucky to live near one of them, you must check for all those facilities you mention (10% off accessories ususally means you spend double price of the web price…) because they’re not the rule, here!
I have bought my serger from a real shop who has an online presence (it’s far from me and I would heve never bought from them if it wasn’t for the web) and they gave me 3 years free pick-up and check-up warranty and free lessons in a big fabric shop (which is one hour and a half by car from me, by the way… and there’s nothing nearest!).
Happy to hear you have a better experience, maybe there are more sewers living here: I’m the only one I know in person who have a serger at home… and I really know a lot of people 😉
Thanks for sharing your perspective, I appreciate it <3
Irene

Misha C

I’m contemplating getting an overlocker … purely because I’m lazy and dislike having to finish seams when sewing with my machine.
Deby – what SEWING machine do you have? It always looks so nice in the videos you make

Deby at So Sew Easy
Active Member
Reply to  Misha C

I have a Brother. The exact model is discontinued but its very similar to this one – the Brother CS6000i.

Marcela
Marcela

Absolutely love this article!!!! Really helped me a lot when choosing my serger 🙂 I ended up trying 8 different models and fell in love with the Bernina 1300MDC! I love my new serger and this article was really helpful 🙂 Also I love the micro thread tension option on my machine and couldn’t serge without it….makes sewing fast a lot easier without messing up with the tensions. Thanks for a great article!

MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
Reply to  Marcela

Thanks Marcela for liking my article and congrats for your new BFF, I’m sure you’ll have truck loads of fun with it… the micro thread tension option sounds really cool!

MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
MammaNene (@mamma_nene)
Reply to  Anne

Thanks Anne for sharing! I always love writing something useful <3