The Complete Serger Handbook

This book is the perfect book for a beginner serger owner. Serger manuals are useful for getting to know the mechanics of your serger, but leave off after listing the basic stitches and settings. Serging really is different than sewing, and this book of Chris James' teaches you everything else you need to know to become very adept at using your machine. The close-up photos really illustrate what the stitches should and shouldn't look like. Her book also helps you understand how the machine works, which in turn allows you to master your machine (rather than merely follow the settings in your manual). She offers many, many tips and how-tos, and her samples are inspirational. I have noticed several small mistakes, such as a mismatch of needle sizes (she says 80/14 and 90/16 rather than 80/12 and 90/14, and at least one of her rolled hem close-ups is mislabeled.) Don't let that stop you from purchasing this book however. I teach serger classes to new serger owners and much of what I discuss comes from this book. I also have the "Serger Secrets" book. It shows more specific applications; very useful as well. I also refer to my "Polar Fleece Adventures" series by Nancy Cornwall often as I serge with fleece frequently.

This told me EVERYTHING to begin serging, practically from taking it out of the box. It discusses everything from turning the machine on and off, to threading for different stiches, the differences between stitches, good fabric to use versus good fabric for regular sewing, etc. I cannot recommend this book highly enough for the complete novice.

Having just bought a serger and quickly realizing I had very little idea of what to do with it I went hunting for a book. This one was a great choice.....It is comprehensive, easily read and understood, and has great visuals. I am positive that I will be referencing it constantly as I try and learn to use my new machine.One thing: In hindsight I wish I had bought the spiral bound version...The soft cover version does not stay open on its own (nor does it lie flat) which means I either have to give up a hand to hold the book or read some and set it down and go back to it again.Also, I would not recommend this book to an experienced serger. It definitely sticks to the basics (which is still a lot to say to a novice), and I have seen more creative and comprehensive books for the more advanced. This book is definitely for the person who has never serged before!!And if you are a novice, this will be a wonderful resource!! (regardless of which brand or type of serger you have)

I have checked out almost every book on serging at my local library. I decided to purchase this book after comparing them all. This book is straight forward, easy to understand and, I think, the best book on serging that has been printed to date.