I have really enjoyed reading this thread. There are many things that I had "wanted" to purchase but after reading some of the comments I am sure glad that I didn't waste my money. As for sergers, I love mine and it has paid for itself over and over. I will check out the "thimble lady" thimbles as I have not found one that would last very long. I found one that is leather (deer skin) with the elastic inside and a pocket with little plastic discs inside the pocket. I bought several at about 6 bucks each. I sometimes put a nickle inside the thimble and it helps to prevent the needle from going through the leather and pricking your finger. I have a hint too...I use surgical gloves and cut off the fingers for my index finger to grab the needles. It works and fits snug and doesn't fall off and can be used many time over.