Grama, I have a serger and absolutely love it!! It is a real time saver when making clothing! There are several books, generic, that will help you learn all of the various things that you can do with it. If you are interested, I will get the names of them and PM you the information.
I have also used it to piece quilts, especially baby ones that will be used and washed. They will not come apart.
After I am done quilting, before I put on the binding, I serge all the way around my quilts. It cuts off all of the lose thread, and tidy up the edges and the binding goes on really smooth.
Once you have it threaded, it should be really easy to use. Did you follow the directions in the manual? The tension is based on the fabric and the stitch function you are using.