Wondering what a serger is and whether you need one? Here's a plain-language guide to what sergers do, how they differ from regular sewing machines, and why so many sewists swear by them.
If you've been sewing for a while, you've probably heard the word "serger" thrown around — maybe you've even wondered if you need one. The short answer? You don't need one to sew, but once you try one, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it. Here's everything you need to know.
What is a Serger?
A serger (also called an overlocker) is a specialized sewing machine that trims, encloses, and finishes the raw edges of fabric all in one step. While a regular sewing machine uses one or two threads, a serger uses three, four, or even five threads simultaneously to create a strong, stretchy stitch that wraps around the fabric edge. The result is that clean, professional finish you see on the inside seams of store-bought clothing.
How is it Different from a Regular Sewing Machine?
A serger is not a replacement for your sewing machine — it's a companion to it. Your regular machine is for constructing garments, topstitching, zippers, buttonholes, and precise detail work. A serger handles edge finishing, seam neatening, and sewing knit or stretchy fabrics with ease. Most sewists use both machines together.
Why Might You Want One?
Here are a few reasons sewists fall in love with their sergers:
Professional finishes: No more fraying edges or zigzag stitches — your seams will look like they came straight from a factory.
Speed: A serger sews, trims, and finishes in one pass, making it significantly faster than finishing edges by hand or with a regular machine.
Knit and stretch fabrics: Sergers excel at sewing jersey, spandex, and other stretchy fabrics that can be tricky on a regular machine.
Decorative edges: With the right thread and settings, a serger can create beautiful rolled hems and decorative edges on scarves, napkins, and more.
Is a Serger Right for You?
If you sew garments regularly, work with knit fabrics, or simply want to take your finishing to the next level, a serger is absolutely worth considering. They can look intimidating at first — all those threads! — but once you get the hang of threading and tension, they're incredibly satisfying to use.
Not sure where to start? Come visit us at The Wobbly Bobbin — we carry a range of sergers and our team is happy to walk you through the options. [LINK TO SERGERS] You can also check our class schedule to see if we have any serger workshops coming up. [LINK TO CLASSES]
