Which Serger Should You Buy?

by Nancy Zieman & Gail Brown

Undoubtedly our most-asked serging question is "Which serger model should I buy?" Whether upgrading to a new serger, adding to your collection, or making your first purchase, heeding the following hints should simplify your search.

* Determine your serger-user profile and shop accordingly. This is not a "one-model-fits-all" market. If you occasionally fast-finish and seam, a no-frills economy model might fit the bill. Creative types who push machines to the max should shop for full-featured models. Professional dressmakers or cottage-crafters should focus on sergers that will withstand daily use, with possible consideration of heavier-duty industrial models for rigorous piecework.

* Sort out serger sound-alikes. Often dubbed as "mini-sergers" and alluringly priced, they also differ drastically from market standards. "Serger" attachments are just that: feet attachments that trim while stitching conventionally. (Standard stitch speed and configuration are not altered.) Another mini-serger made famous on infomercials is a half-scale, lightweight 3-thread machine that overcasts but does not trim. Though the low cost and portability of these mini-sergers cannot be dismissed, don't expect the capabilities or durability of a full-fledged serger.

* Don't rule out the used market. Many good, used models are available at very affordable prices. Your best bet is to inquire at sewing machine dealerships. If you're experienced and understand the risks, then check out second-hand sources (see "Research your shopping options," below).

* Research your shopping options. A good sewing-machine dealership offers advice, new and used sales, repairs and supplies, plus classes and user clubs.

Fabric stores and departments, the only retail option in many areas, vary greatly in services and models offered, often largely dependent on the personnel's enthusiasm for serger sales and education.

Mass-merchandisers, such as Penney's, Sears, Spiegel, and others, sell, and usually rebrand sergers for sale in catalogs and stores. While "self-service," they're attractive due to competitive pricing on affordable models, revolving credit plans, and accessibility in areas void of dealerships.

Convenience and selection are the enticements of mail-order specialists. Clarify return, warranty, and service policies before buying with a major credit card. (Service will usually require shipping to an out-of-town repair center; find out who pays the charges.) Also, be sure your source is an authorized dealer for the brands sold; if not, the warranty may be invalid.

Classified ads plus estate and garage sales include as-is sergers, with prices running from rock-bottom to inflated. This shopping option is recommended only for skilled serger shoppers, or those advised by a helpful dealer or knowledgeable friend.

* Take any serger for a test drive. Conscientious dealers and retailers encourage test-serging, preferably during nonpeak store hours. For the most valid testing, bring samples of your favorite fabrics and threads. Always buy with a money-back, no-questions-asked guarantee when ordering by mail, or when testing is not an option.

* Don't let price be your only criterion. It may be wiser to pay more for a serger sold by a reliable, service-oriented dealer who teaches classes and repairs machines on-site. The savvy adage is "Buy a dealer, not a machine." You will rarely pay list price, no matter where you shop. Inquire about the grace period for upgrades, so you can trade up your model for the difference in price.

* Ask questions about repairs and parts. Find out where repairs are done. If shipping is required, determine who is responsible for the charges. Normal turnaround time? Cost of yearly maintenance? Also, do they inventory parts on-site?

* Compare models and brands. Narrow down to those models with the features you covet--differential feed, specialty feet, or the new cover stitch, for instance--then compare prices. An up-to-date "Serger Feature Checklist" is included on page 79 of the "Ultimate Serger Answer Guide." We recommend photocopying it, and filling it out for each prospective model.

For answers to other serging questions, refer to the "Ultimate Serger Answer Guide" book, by Naomi Baker, Gail Brown and Cindy Kacynski (ISBN 0-8019-8645-1), and "The Ultimate Serger Answer Guide Video" by Nancy Zieman and Gail Brown (ISBN 0-888218-12-6, Nancy's Notions, Ltd.).