One of the things that can be a little confusing for beginners using sergers for the first time is that there is no backstitch available on sergers to secure stitching like on a sewing machine. If you don’t tie off the tails it can cause the seam to eventually unravel.
To avoid that, there are a few ways to can choose to tie off the tails.
1. You can tie them off–literally. Just unravel the tail make a knot at the end near the fabric!
2. Use a large need, or even a small crochet hook, to thread the ends back through the stitching.
3. Cut off the tail and use fray check on the ends, a stitch sealant.
4. Fold the tail under the edge of garment, in line with the other stitches, and serge back over the tail.
5. To use this method, it must be done before you start serging. Take you tail from the serger, lift your presser foot, and flip the threads to the front. Place your fabric under the threads, making sure the thread chain don’t go past the left needle and won’t be cut off. Serge as normal and the thread tail will be encased in the seam. This method can make the seam a little bulky so it’s not suitable for all projects.
I usually use method 2 or 3. What is your favorite way to end serger threads?
