You are a lucky wife.
Don't be afraid of your serger. If you have the top of the line one it should be easy to use. Your dealer probably gives free classes. I have even done quilting with mine. Almost all commercial clothing construction is done with a serger. I recently upgraded mine which I have had since the late 80's . I broke one of the loopers. It was repairable but the technology has improved since I purchased that one. They gave me a generous trade in and this one is easier to thread. I worked for a year for a Bernina dealer who made ends meet by doing custom dressmaking and alterations. I used a serger almost everyday in her shop. I use mine at home a lot. You can even make lace with the machine.
Enjoy