7 – 4 Serging curves
To serge around inside or outside curves, handle fabric as you do in conventional sewing, but guide your fabric into
the knife, not the needle. Remember, cutting takes place before sewing. Also, since the long serger presser foot
holds the fabric more securely, you may need to raise and lower the presser foot several times to work.
7 – 5 Seaming
You will find that it is not necessary to finish most garments with 5/8” pressed open seams. Instead, seam with your
serger, and press to one side. The four – thread seam is strong, yet provides “give” or flexibility according to the
needs of the fabric.
1. Use the marks on the front of the serger to align
your fabric for the desired seam width (the red
mark indicates 5/8” from the left needle).
2. Keep your eye on the fabric to make sure it feeds
in aligned with the appropriate mark. Do not
watch the needle. If the fabric feeds, in
accurately, the needle will automatically seam in
the right place.
7 – 6 Locking ends
The stitch will not readily unravel, and in most instances you will find it necessary to secure ends. When you do,
though, select one of these methods:
A. Leaving a 3” chain, separate threads and tie a knot.
B. Apply a dot of seam sealant (Fray check™) on the threads at the edge of the fabric. Allow to dry and cut off
excess thread.
C. Leave a 3 – 4” chain and use a large eyed needle or crochet hook to weave chain under the serger stitches.
D. Sew over previous stitches (similar to back stitching).
* At the beginning of the seam
1. Sew 2 – 3 stitches (about 1/8”) and stop.
2. Raise presser foot and needle.
3. Smooth out the chain with your fingers, then
bring the chain around and under the pressure
foot, so that it aligns with the edge of the fabric.
4. Lower presser foot, and continue sewing,
catching the thread chain for about 1” in the
stitches. Let knives cut off any remaining chain.
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