MdmSew'n'Sew

Check for a class on using a serger - a not-quite-local QS had a class a few years ago, the instructor began by making us take out all the thread and re-thread the machine until we were comfortable with it, then having us practice stitching, lowering and raising the cutter, etc. There were 6 or 7 of us in the class, each with a different machine. I then took a class on how to make a quilt using the serger for every step except stitching down the binding. If you can't find such a class at a quilt shop, check out continuing education offerings, shops that sell sergers, etc., I'm sure you'll be able to find a class that will acquaint you with your machine and give you a good foundation. You will love it once you learn how to use it.

JuneBillie

Thank you everyone for your suggestions, and tips. You do make it sound less intimidating, and more of a challenge to look forward to. It doesn't take the place of the regular machine does it? I also don't know the age of this serger since my mom left it to me. It is a Kenmore from Sears. My husband found the manual for it online, because my dad didn't know where my mom left it.

khurtdvm

Sergers are wonderful! But they can be intimidating to start. I took a class on learning to use my serger at the local store where I bought it. The class was free if you bought the serger from them, or $55 if you didn't (it was a 4-5 hour class, if I remember right). Totally worth it, if I hadn't bought the serger from them. And we made samples of different stitches and techniques, which I still have. See if you can find a local store which offers classes.

Christine-

A serger doesn't take the place of a sewing machine, it enhances your sewing machine. I don't use my serger for quilting, however, if I were to use tshirt or sweatshirt fabric for a quilt I would definitely use my serger for that. Generally, in quilting we don't bother to cover the edges of the seams, since they'll be covered with batting, and then the fabric gets quilted in addition to that. Sergers are great for garment construction, or any type of sewing where the seams will be exposed, such as curtains.

Christine-
http://quiltdasher.blogspot.com/

mollysmom2004

Can anyone tell me if a cone of serger thread can be used like regular thread? I have several cones just sitting here and I don't like the serger I have. I thought I might could use the thread though in other sewing projects on my other machine.