Successful Serging From Setup to Simple and Specialty Stitches

This "at your fingertips" reference contains hundreds of techniques and tips for making the most of the serger, or overlock, machinea versatile and speedy tool for stitching garments and home decor. Readers will learn how the serger works, the many styles available, and the variety of functional and decorative stitches possible. There are also easy-to-find-and-follow charts-of thread choices, must-have accessories, and best stitches for a range of fabric types. This book is an easy-reference collection of basic techniques, tips, and helpful information for anyone who is learning about or already owns a serger.

Beth Baumgartel (Madison, CT) has written for Vogue, Butterick, the Home Sewing Association, Family Craft Circle, and others. She is the author of SINGER« Simple Sewing and SINGER« Simple Decorative Machine Stitching.

WHY CHOOSE A SERGER?
 
About the Serger
WHAT IS A SERGER?
The Serger and the Sewing Machine
Serger Capabilities
Anatomy of the Serger
Needles
Knives
Presser Feet
 
SERGER THREAD
Buying Thread
Color and Weight
Decorative Threads
Working with Decorative Threads
 
THREADING MADE EASY
Threading from Scratch
Threading by Tying
Rethreading Looper Threads
Threading Success
 
Serger Stitches
THE PERFECT STITCH
Stitch Length
Stitch Width
Adjusting the Stitch Width
Differential Feed
Presser Foot Pressure
 
BALANCING THREAD TENSION
Tension Controls
Adjusting for the Overlock Stitch
Perfect Stitch Tension
Tension Adjustments
 
BASIC SERGER STITCHES
Stitch Types
Edge-Finishing Stitches
Rolled-Edge Stitches
Seaming Stitches
Combination Stitches
Cover Stitch
Starting to Serge
PREPARATION
Safety First
Test Sample
Starting and Finishing
Stitching and Trimming Fabric
Securing Thread Tails by Machine
Securing Thread Tails by Hand
Removing Serger Stitches
 
STITCHING TECHNIQUES
Edge-Finishing Conventional Seams
Basting
The Basic Serger Seam
Preventing Puckered or Stretched Fabric
Serging Corners
Serging Curves
Serging Circular Edges
 
CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES
Gathering
Specialty Seams
Applying Elastic
Hemming
Inserting a Zipper
Rolled-Edge Techniques
Cover Stitch Techniques
Flatlock Techniques
 
Embellishments and Specialty Fabrics
DECORATIVE SERGING
Beading
Couching
Chain and Braid Trims
Decorative Edgings
Heirloom Serging
Shirring
Topstitching
Ribbing Bands and Edges
 
SPECIALTY FABRICS
Knit and Stretch-Woven Fabrics
Sheer Fabrics
Lace and Other Textured Fabrics
Heavyweight and Bulky Fabrics
Fake and Real Fur
Slippery and Satin-Finish Fabrics
 
Quick Fixes and Tips
Top Ten Secrets to Success
Troubleshooting Guide
Machine Care and Maintenance
Buying Guide and Considerations
 
INDEX