Should You Buy a Serger and What Can Serger’s Do for You
Aside from the sewing machine that you can buy in any local market, a serger can be a great tool for those into the craft. A serger, or casually termed as an overlock, is quite similar to sewing machines yet very useful for piecing two fabrics together and other functions such as rolled hems, adding cords, attaching laces, sequins, beads and other embellishments are made possible.
Sergers specialize in straight seams and hems, especially those found in tablecloths, clothing and curtains. It lacks the basic intricacy of sewing machines, yet its ability to go over 1000 stitches per minute makes it fast and convenient for a professional seamstress.
What sergers can't do
Sergers are in a category all by themselves and work hand-in-hand with your basic sewing machine. It lacks the intricacy and flexibility of a normal sewing machine, especially when it comes to curve stitching and design/pattern stitches. So before you consider buying a serger, you better make sure you really need one.
Things to consider before buying a serger
Before you consider purchasing a serger for your profession, you need to look into a couple factors that will determine your decision in purchasing one:
1) Ease of use and functionality
2) Cost, since serger units are quite expensive especially with more accessories
3) and type of sewing or stitching used.
Once you have made up your mind regarding the need of a serger in your profession, then its time to go shopping.
Different sergers on the market today
When you are out trying to look for the perfect unit for your serging needs, you might notice that most models are tagged with brands like Singer and Brother. These two sewing machine manufacturing titans hold the title for durability and functionality among others. Listed below are some of the popular models distributed by these two companies, as well as its specifications, functions and price ranges:
Singer QUANTUMLOCK 14T967DC has an automatic self adjusting tension system that is designed for heavy duty serging/overlocking performance. It can accommodate a maximum of 5-thread capability. It has a capability to perform chain-stitches, rolled hems and flat-lock stitches. The price ranges from $550 to $600.
Singer CG-754 has the capability to reach a total of SPM with a maximum of 4-thread capacity. It is capable of 6-stitches as well as a high-presser foot lifter. It has a built-in rolled hem feature and has a price of $250.
Brother 1034D Serger costs around $240 - $300 and is considered cheap for a serger unit. It has a 2/3/4 thread overlock feature and can go up to 1300 stitches per minute. It can accommodate up to 4 different needles as with the thread used.
Brother 3034D Segver by Brother can accommodate up to 4 threads and can create precise seam finishes with any known fabrics. It has 2 needles which has a total stitching speed of 1300 per minute. It has snap-on presser foot attachments as well as a built-in foot pressure and is available for a price of $210 -$250.
Brother V61-95-5 is a 6-thread 3-needle high performance serger which costs a huge sum of $2000. This unit has a high speed sewing capability of 7,500 SPM and creates attractive and accurate seams from start to finish. Well known for its capability for not damaging the fabric during sewing, this machine is self-sustaining with built-in cooling and lubricating functions.
Considering the cost of sergers on the market, having one can be considered luxurious, and will definitely add to the professionalism and creativity of your sewing craftsmanship.
By: David Riewe
