Why Every Quilter Needs a Serger

If you’ve ever wondered ‘does a quilter need a serger’, the answer is a resounding YES! While sergers are famous for clothing construction, these powerhouse machines offer quilters professional finishes, time-saving tricks, and creative possibilities you won’t get from a domestic sewing machine. Think perfectly piecing quilt blocks without bulky seams and joining batting scraps, when used for quilting a serger can revolutionize your workflow. If you’re looking for tips for quilters to streamline projects or curious about what a serger can do beyond basic seams, this guide will show you exactly why a quilter needs a serger and how to use one like a pro!

Piecing Quilt Blocks with a Serger

One of the most surprising (and useful) features of a serger is its ability to piece quilt blocks. Many quilters assume that the multiple threads in a serged seam would create bulk, but that’s not the case! When comparing a traditionally pieced block (sewn on a standard sewing machine) with one pieced on a serger, the difference is nearly indistinguishable.

The key is consistency. Just like traditional quilting, you’ll want to maintain a quarter-inch seam allowance (or as close as possible). As a bonus, the serger’s stitches naturally flatten the seam, eliminating excess bulk. Note that you can’t press serged seams open, but they easily lie flat to the side and stay secure.

Joining Batting with a Flatlock Seam

Have you ever heard the term Franken-Batting? Quilters often have leftover batting scraps that are too small for a full project but too big to throw away. Instead of overlapping pieces (which can create lumps and ridges in your quilt), a serger can join them with a flatlock seam.

For best results, we like to use a matching thread (like white or cream for light batting) and adjust the stitch length for a smooth finish. 

Decorative Stitching & Quilting Techniques

 

Sergers can do more than construction, they can also add beautiful decorative touches to quilts. Add specialty threads with sheen or variegation, and you can create tons of eye-catching details to make fancy edge finishes for quilt bindings, decorative topstitching on appliqué or patchwork, or embellished seams for modern quilt designs and bags.

 

If you’ve been intimidated by your serger, consider taking a class or joining a Serger-Along to build confidence. And if you’re in the market for a new machine, Quilting Mayhem has the best in BERNINA, Baby Lock, and bernette sergers to fit every budget and skill level. Visit us in our 17,000 square foot shop in Snohomish, Washingtonor check out our online classes. Quilting Mayhem is full of experts waiting to help you sew, serge, and quilt everything you’ve dreamed!

Check out this video from Mindy and Debbie about how every quilter needs a serger.