Difference Between A Serger And A Sewing Machine?

[BuzznBelle'smom]

Lisa's right--most decent machines wil handle denim no problem, but you might have difficulty with a cheapo machine--I would steer clear of the "mini" ones like you see on TV. As you learn to sew, you learn about the different types of needles and so forth, for different fabrics. It's not complicated, but lessons definitely help. Also, it seems like knitting and crocheting are quite the vogue now--you might find classes in those, also, in your area.

In all of the above, I recommend starting small, and practice, practice, practice. One reason I'm not good with my serger is I only haul it out for Halloween costumes, so I don't stay "up" on how to thread it and all (it uses 4 threads at a time).

 

[LisaTx]

I think I'm a better "doer" than teacher.

Can you pick things up from books? I've gotten knitting books at the library. Start with something simple like a scarf. They have some really cute yarns at JoAnne fabrics right now.

Believe it or not, I've only had one very basic sewing class in my life. Most of it I just pick up from books or trial and error.

I think not being afraid to try something is half the battle.

 

[100%Disney]

MY grandmother taught me to crochet, she can just look at a stitch and figure it out. Knitting looks hard though. As for sewing, it looks easy, not sure if it is. I just want to be crafty. Also, I am bored, been trying to go to work part time, it hasn't worked out. My grandparents are very sick and I need to be available to help them, so working isn't in the cards for now. I thought that I could try sewing, maybe making baby blankets.

 

[100%Disney]

I just found a knitting class at Michaels it's only $15 for a 3 hour class. I am going to try that until I can get a machine, I think that a sewing machine would be a good Christmas gift from DH.

 

[bobcat]

I'm a Home Ec teacher so I'll give you my vast wisdom LOL

If you want an easy machine that will last a lifetime go for a solid name brand. I am partial to Husqvarna Viking and they make less expensive models for the beginner. In fact the first machine I bought as an adult, after getting frustrated with my hand me downs, was a Husky brand made by Viking and it cost me about $200. I'm not sure they still make this brand but I do know they still have less expensive models.

I agree with LisaTx about going to a sewing machine store. They can help you find the best machine for your skill and budget. Most won't over pressure you to buy more than you need because they know if you like the machine and the service you will continue to come back. Many good sewing machines companies will allow you to trade up within a certain amount of time and get some of your purchase price back. You can even ask the store if they have trade ins for sale. That's how I traded up to an embroidery machine. Most will also offer classes for free. Husqvarna has awesome educators and well worth the classes even if you buy another machine.

Sergers are a little more complicated to use but add a nice variety to your sewing. Again buying a good model is worth the frustration you will save.

It depends on how you learn on what is the best style for you. I am visual so I like to see someone make an item as well as seeing the finished item in detail. Books with pictures also work very well for me as well. There are a couple of great books by Sandra Betzina, hope I spelled that right, and she used to have a shop on HGTV. Sue Houseman is also wonderful and she has a show on some PBS stations. Your local library may have these books as well as some videos to get you started. You really just need to jump in a get started. Buy a good seam ripper and look at mistakes as learning experiences.

 

[Oh Kay!]

Originally posted by 100%Disney
I am also interested in learning to knit. I can crochet a little and do cross stitch, but cross stitch hurts my eyes. I just think of all the wonderful things that I could do if I could sew.

You sound just like me! I've got fed up hemming my two boys' karate uniforms by hand and finally bought a Singer from Amazon. I've just shortened the curtains for kitchen. It looks like a drunk person sewed it, but I am proud of it. Good luck with your pursuit.

Kay

 

[100%Disney]

We have a Bernina store in town that offers classes. I am having to get a friend to sew on my son's cub scouts patches on his uniform and my DH always needs his police uniforms hemmed, it would be nice to do those things for them.