Serger Secrets

Serger Secrets is broken into four main sections: (1) information about the mechanics of sergers, proper needles, thread, how to deal with thread tension, and stitch variations, (2) garment gallery showing how various serger techniques can be used in practice, (3) technique guide with step-by-step instructions, and (4) troubleshooting tips. All of the images in this book are color photographs, which can be helpful for seeing visual comparisons between different types of serger thread or seeing how a technique looks in a finished design. While I may have to point out that some of their example garments may not be the most inspiring to look at, they do do an excellent job of highlighting the desired techniques.

With this book I think what comes through most clearly is the enthusiasm that the authors have for the creative use of a serger. I think the reader of the book will definitely feel encouraged to find new and interesting uses for their serger. To me the first section of the book felt a bit cluttered - too much information laid out in a less than logical manner. The writing itself was quite comprehensible and informative, but the page layout did feel a bit crowded at times. However, I do very much appreciate the photographic comparisons of various stitches and various threads. This section of the book is quite helpful in deciding which threads and stitch functions are most appropriate for various sewing and designs. The second section of the book (garment gallery) is fine, but I did not find the designs particularly inspiring myself. I actually thought the third section (step-by-step techniques) were more inspiring in terms of ideas for incorporating the serger into my own designs. I thought the techniques section (which covers everything from simple overcasting and serging a seam to using the serger to install zippers and creating new fabric with heirloom techniques) was quite exhaustive and I think it will be an excellent resource. It did, however, leave me wishing I had a coverstitch machine, which wasn't in the original serger budget, but definitely something I must consider for the future. Overall this book is an excellent resource, and I would highly recommend it as well.