Replies

1. 
   sewchris703 | Jul 27, 2010 11:34am | #1

   Best place to begin is at your local sewing machine dealer(s).  Ask questions, watch the dealer demo the different sergers, sew on them yourself.  Then with all that information, first ask yourself 3 questions:  do I really need one; what features do I want; and how much do I want to spend.  Short answer to your question is yes and no.  All sergers perform the same basic function:  they sew a seam, trim the seam allowance, and finish the raw edge in one step.  Look at the seams in most RTW clothing.  They do not replace a sewing machine.  They have their limitations:  they don't make buttonholes or sew on buttons, top stitch (beyond the cover stitch of some sergers), sew zippers (beyond an exposed zipper on a tote bag; no dress/jeans zippers).  You can sew up a well-made garment without a serger but you can't sew one with just a serger.  There are a few exceptions:  t-shirts, knit pajamas. 

   Chris

2. 
   Crazy K | Jul 27, 2010 01:34pm | #2

   do you need a serger

   I got my first serger 13 years ago thinking I 'might' use it.  Well,  I use my serger now more than the sewing machine for many garments.  I honestly don't know why I waited so long!   As another said, you can make a garment without a serger but not totally with one..........except.........  Yes, I make t-shirts in total with my serger.........in about 15 min.

   I agree.......go to a dealer with a list of questions and ask and play with the machines.  There are low-end models for just a few hundred dollars and you can go up to over $2,000.  I have 2 Elnas now......one 12 yrs. old and still works great.......and also a Babylock Evolve that holds 8 threads and does a beautiful coverhem. 

   Your needs depend largely on the type of sewing you do.........garments, kids play clothes, home dec........I use my serger for all of those......

   Investigate and have fun!!

   Kay