Serger Tips: Thinking & Serging outside the box

Using a Serger to it's fullest potential is always a goal of mine. Taking advantage of all of the latest feet, and how to  incorporate them into your projects somewhere, somehow................this is what you need to do to become confident. 

When you select a sewing pattern to work with, think of all of the places on this project that you can use a serger foot. Blind hem, finishing edges, taping and embellishment on inside seams, maybe a rolled hem on the scarf that you make to wear with it. A decorative or functional cover stitch for hemming or embellishment. Maybe a gathered/ruffle attached to your hemline. Try the elastic foot for your waistband. 

The next step to take is to look at your pattern steps, and plan on how you can make it simpler by using the feet to save time and eliminate extra work for yourself. If you plan on finishing edges,  plan for that first. Particularly with the taping foot, a great foot for embellishing edges, giving edges a couture like seam finish. The second is to embellish any pieces before construction. You can do this later as well. Start construction keeping in mind that serger construction will replace sewing machine construction in some way depending on the pattern choice. Maybe a mock waistband, I love doing these. 

Plan always to do a technique sample first of each technique to keep for future use. This will always save you time. Technique samples are a must. This is where you can look at your work ahead of time, and make any adjustments before you actually start  on your fabric. Think of all of the decorative threads you can be using for embellishment.These work very nicely on upper and lower loopers. 

Chainstitiching as decorative shows up very well. Practice sewing in circular motion with your serger using your chain stitch. Your extension table is terrific for this. Practice serging in straight lines with your chain stitch and then create a gingham look. The list really is endless. A favorite is making tassles with chainstiching, and creative buttons  featured in my article for Sew News pillows this past April issue using decorative thread. I love to use the serger. Practice, practice practice.

 Make your own embellishment fabric using chainstitch, and then cut your collar or cuffs, or yoke out of the fabric you just created. The best place for your serger is beside you in your sewing room.  Take your owners lessons, as soon as you get it, you will become more confident, and pursue classes. Choose serger sewing patterns which actually make it easy for you to follow.The steps have already been arranged for you in the right order to keep your serging quick and easy. Make a list of all of the feet you can use and have a trial run at a pattern with a simple fabric. 

Allow yourself the extra time to try, understand and accomplish the steps. You will definitely come out a winner  if you have worked at these little hints I have just shared with you. 

Happy Serging everyone..........................Cheryl