My new serger :-)

Having gone through some serious serger envy lately, I've spent a lot of time researching serger features and particular models online. PatternReview.com has been particularly helpful in this regard, as many members have posted extensive reviews of their machines. It took me a bit of time to overcome my fear of threading and determine just what I plan to *do* with the serger, but eventually I narrowed my list of desired features to 2/3/4 thread capability, differential feed, and rolled hem - preferably one that did not require replacing the stitch plate.

The goal was to find a machine that I wouldn't outgrow in the next several years, but definitely not one that would cost in the thousands and have more features than I would probably ever use. Also, I decided to shop for a used machine rather than a new one so that I could get a better quality serger in the same price range. My favorite local sewing store always has several used sergers available and the owner thoroughly inspects each machine before selling it, so I headed over there today. My sewing machine was due for its yearly inspection and there was a Bernina foot sale this weekend anyway, so it was a good day to go serger shopping.

The first reconditioned serger on the shelf was a Bernina 800DL, which is the make and model that I'd been most heavily leaning toward while reviewing machines online. The price was great as well - roughly $100 less than I expected a used 800DL to cost me although I wasn't expecting to find a used one at all. This machine has exactly the features that I wanted (not to mention that I was really hoping to find another Bernina - I love my sewing machine). After some quick discussion we decided to purchase it, and it came home with us today. I'm thrilled :-)



This sewing store has a 2 hour basic serger class the week of the 16th which will cost a fee since I purchased my machine used (free classes came with my sewing machine since it was new), but would definitely be a great way to become more acquanted with my machine. If they're already booked for the class I also found two serger classes at another local Bernina dealer that would occur before the start of school next month. I'm going to call on Monday and see which date is available.