Serger & Seam Allowance Question!!

[BlingBowtique]

Hi,

I just got my new serger!!!!WoooHoooo But I am a little confused about how I keep on my seam allowance and know that I'm still at the right measurement after the fabric is cut??? It seems once my fabric gets cut I sort of loose sight of the original seam allowance? Am I making any sense??

In short what I am asking is how do I know that I am for sure getting a 5/8" seam allowance once the serger takes off?? Do I need to keep my eye out or just let it go??

Thanks!!

Edith

[Tonya]

I always sew first and then serge. I only keep white or black thread on my serger, so sewing first with matching thread keeps the thread from ever showing in the seam. Plus, I never 'lose' my seam allowance on my sewing machine. Serging is easy-peasy after that!

p.s. - Sewing first also gives that whole 'professional' look that most people look for, and it gives a very durable finish too since the threads from just serging can stretch a bit over time and you'll see the threads pulling in the seams.

[Princess Babies Bowtique]

I almost didn't read this because I don't have a serger...yet. One of my dreams. I would of never thought about sewing first and using the black and white thread. Thanks, ladies!

[BlingBowtique]

Ok Ladies...so my next question is....how many threads on your serger?? I have 4 would that change the fact that you need to straight stitch first or is the same concept stand for 2,3,& 4 thread sergers??

Thanks again!!

Edith

[BlingBowtique]

Originally Posted by Princess Babies Bowtique

I almost didn't read this because I don't have a serger...yet. One of my dreams. I would of never thought about sewing first and using the black and white thread. Thanks, ladies!

OMG!! A dream indeed!! It is a fantastic piece of equipment...I don't know how or why my mother never owned one she would have just loved it!!!!!! I am having a blast with it!!!

Ladies anymore advise would be wonderful and greatly appreciated!!!!

Edith

[Rene R]

Originally Posted by BlingBowtique

OMG!! A dream indeed!! It is a fantastic piece of equipment...I don't know how or why my mother never owned one she would have just loved it!!!!!! I am having a blast with it!!!

Edith

I agree. I got one for Christmas and love it. I used to be intimidated just by the way they looked, but I had no idea what I was missing out on.

[jennygoff]

Looove my Babylock! I also sew first! I still use all four threads, but I always leave the knife disengaged. I always end up makin a big mess with that thing!

[Tonya]

I use 4 threads because it seems sturdier to me and looks nice too.

[JenniCA]

Another one who sews first! It just makes a very nice finish.
I use 4 threads and rarely change from either black or white.
I can't imagine not having a serger. If mine broke today I'd have another one before daylight.