Serger Basics and Beyond

Do you own a serger or serger/coverstitch machine and are unsure how to really make use of it?  Or have you considered buying a serger and want to "test drive" one first?  Then this class is just what you're looking for.  Mary will teach you the basics of using a serger, then will help you complete a small project on the serger.  If you don't own your own, you're welcome to use one of Mary's during this class.   

SUPPLIES: 

•        Serger machine or combo serger/cover stitch machine, power cord and foot pedal (No serger? - come and test drive mine.)
•        User’s manual, extra needles, and all tools that came with your machine
•        Scissors for trimming threads and cutting fabric into smaller pieces
•        Fabric scraps in various weights to include denim, knits, batting, cotton, fleece etc.  Some should be long strips for test sews.
•        These instructions and a pencil to write notes
•        4 spools of thread in 4 different colors, serger cones recommended
•        Various decorative threads such as embroidery thread, 12 weight cotton or rayon, metallics
•        1 square of lightweight cotton fabric cut to a napkin size square (14”-20”) and coordinating thread
•        Concord T-shirt pattern in your size, view C with long or short sleeves and no sleeve tabs.
•        Knit fabric yardage for your size as indicated in the pattern
•        4 spools of serger thread in a color to stitch the T-shirt
•        Fabric scissors, sewing pins, tape measure, and other general sewing supplies
•        If you do not have a coverstitch machine, you may want to hem your sleeves and shirt bottom on your conventional sewing machine.  You may bring your sewing machine to class or you may finish the hems at home. 

Pre-class Homework:  It is imperative that you cut out your shirt before coming to class!

Purchase the pattern, determine your size and purchase the appropriate amount of knit fabric yardage.  The knit fabrics at KC Maker Studio are extremely stable and make construction very accessible.  If you purchase fabrics elsewhere, be aware that the lighter knits are often quite stretchy and can be difficult to work with.  Prewash and dry your fabric in the manner in which you will be laundering your finished garment.  (I do this on every garment I make.) Then cut out your shirt.