I know this may sound a little strange, but I have never used a serger but am considering purchasing one. My questions are this, can anyone please tell me pros and cons of sergers. Im not necessarily looking at brands at the moment, just if this would even be a good investment. I only make quilts..not clothes (yuck!) Any input from you will be greatly appreciated!! Thanks in advance! :-D

if all you make is quilts i would not get a serger

I am not sure you would use it enough for it to be a "good investment". If you decide to purchase one, I would be sure it is easy to thread.

If you only make quilts, I second the opinion that you don't need one. Although there are some quilts made by serger, it is very limited and not worth the investment just for that.

For clothing, a serger is invaluable though.

I've seen many nice quilts made with a serger, and have done one myself. Here are some patterns to give you an idea:

http://www.sewvac1.com/Library/Quilt...structions.pdf
http://www.lindaleeoriginals.com/spatterns.htm
http://www.babylock.com/ftp/projects...er%20Quilt.pdf
http://www.husqvarnaviking.com/ca/en...r_Quilting.pdf

Also, a serger is great if doing charity quilts, as they can be made very quickly.

Some pros:
•Quick, especially when using a quilt-as-you-go method
•Works well on simple shapes
*Fun!

Cons:
•Seams are bulkier
•Seam width can vary (instead of all being 1/4" )
•Ripping out stitches is time consuming.

I would purchase a serger with coverstitch and chain stitch capability for more versatility.

My mom just bought a book on making quilts with a serger. It's a quilt as you go type of technique. Book was written by Nancy Zeiman and it's a newer publication.

I used my surger all the time when they boys were small. Made all their pjs, t-shirts and sweat shirts. Loved the finish edges. Have a bernina 2someting DC. Now that I quilt, I RARELY use it unless I have to edge fraying towels.

I don't think a serger would be your best investment if you just quilt. Just MHO

I am a HUGE proponent of having a serger....BUT..if you are only going to quilt, it would be a poor choice. The only caveat is if you are going to do some of the serger quilting that Sewing with Nancy is now showing. And you better make a lot of those to justify the machine. A serger is a necessity for me, but I do a lot more than quilt. One more thing...you need an easy to thread machine and that likely means a Babylock, which is not the cheapest machine on the market.

Thank you all so much. I will definately take your advice and put it on the back burner. :)