Does anyone on here use a serger and is it worth the effort to learn how to use one? My wife has one but hasn't used it in a long time. I'm not sure she remembers how to use it - I certainly don't. I remember it would cut and hem the material edge really nicely.

I don't have one but if my wife had one I would also be all over trying to figure it out as well. I'm anxious to see the replies.

I have and use my serger regularly!

You are right, it cuts off the excess seam allowance and binds the raw edge as it goes. I have a 4 thread model and love it.

Some of the older models (20+ years) were tricky to adjust the tension but other than that, they are great depending on your need.

I use mine mostly for sewing fleece and cotton knit in T-shirts but it will secure and overcase any seam you want to try. It is not so great for very heavy fabric but experiment. I have found that if it is not sewing as nice of stitches as it should, I change the needles and it shapes up. They are tricky to thread but should have a diagram on the machine or the directions. You do have to be patient and not force things through - they bind up, break threads or needles.

I am hoping for a new on this Christmas.

Send and e-mail if I can help.