I sewed for 35 years without a serger and I didn't miss it. I finally bought a basic Singer that was on sale for $149. It was difficult to thread the bottom loopers but I used it constantly and I even did Heirlooms sewing with it. I upgraded to a Janome with all of the bells and whistles and I can't remember the last time I used it. I think simple is better; at least for me.