I don't think I am saying anything controversial or new to say that a serger (an overlocker) can be scary - I fully put my hands up and say I am daunted! Katrina's book, however, is just the accompaniment to help!
This book aims to help people become more comfortable, and more confident, with their serger. To begin with, Katrina expertly guides you through learning the basics (how it works, the needles, the parts), how to thread it and choosing your stitches.
Now, the detail in this section is phenomenal. Quite often the very act of threading a serger puts many off because of how detailed and complex it feels in comparison to a sewing machine. This book, however, is incredible at providing a comprehensive guide to threading your serger with detailed instructions, photos, and digital images to help you along the way. This 'serger basics' section is lengthy (pages 7-49) but this just demonstrates exactly how detailed the book's instructions/guides are so that you, as the reader, do not feel overwhelmed or intimidated. It breaks it all down for you in an accessible and easy-to-follow format.
The book then presents a handful of projects so that you can begin to get comfortable using the serger in real-life.
At the start of this section (chapter 4) Katrina talks about accurate seams, using the differential feed and serging corners before then proffering projects to put these techniques into use: a coaster set and drawstring bags.
This layout continues throughout the book with Katrina presenting the serger techniques/stitch, setting up the stitch on your machine, troubleshooting, top tips, and a project to put-into-action what you've learnt for each chapter.
The detail in this book is incredible. I love the depth of detail that Katrina went into for using your serger so if you're looking for something informative to further your knowledge of your serger, and how to use it, then this is the book for you!
-- Naomi Clarke * naomialice.com *
If like me you have a serger or as I know it an overlocker, you probably do not use it to its full capacity. I bought my overlocker mainly to stitch my seams while dressmaking. This gives it a more professional finish
But, did you know that your machine can do so much more! I certainly didn't, so when I recieved this book I couldn't wait to dive in and see what else I could do.
There are 10 projects included and over 40 techniques. Set into sections, this is one of those books that will become an invaluable teaching book, and a useful addition to your sewing room.
There are basic techniques, skill building information and so much more. From sewing a mug rug to constructing a garment, every page guides you through each process with visual and written easy to understand instructions.
Patterns are included and measurements, where needed are given.
Serger 101 is a well written book, it has a wealth of information, and the author has been careful not to leave anything out. If you need one book to teach, inform and guide you then this is it.
-- Tracy Shephard * Postcard Reviews *
One for the hardcore sewing fan, who wants to become more confident and knowledgeable about their overlocker which is referred to as a serger in the US. 10 projects and 40 techniques. I have already referred to this book when changing the needle on my overlocker, so I would suggest it is a very handy book to keep on the shelf for future reference.
There are many tips and tricks and sensible advice along with photography to illustrate the projects and the 'how to' pages. The best thing for me are the charts with all the relevant info for the various stitches. At the end of the book there is even a Kimono project made out of rectangles and sewn with your serger.
-- Ashley Cramp * lazydaisyjones.com *
