Hey, I Won A Serger! (what's a serger?)

So during my first visit to Fabricland (fabric outlet with stores across Canada) to buy supplies for my first sewing project, I noticed a box and ballot forms on the front counter. I didn't pay much attention to what the prize was but I figured it had to be good, so I filled one out while the clerk was ringing through my purchase.

Anyway, Fabricland called yesterday. I won a Janome Model 9102D Serger! WOOHOO!!! I was so excited, and told the woman that I never win anything! What I was tempted to ask but didn't: "What's a serger?"



Here's a Googled description I found from a store that sold the same model: "The 9102D is our most advanced MyLock serger, with speeds up to 1300 stitches per minute. The 9102D has 2 needles and 3 or 4 thread stitching capabilities. Equipped with differential feed, which is adjustable from .05 to 2.25 mm, the 9102D provides increased control for handling all types of fabrics and is essential for creative serger techniques. Features include adjustable cutting knife up to 7.3 mm, upper knife release and electronic foot control for precise speed control, also included is an instructional video that will help you get started quickly and get professional results in no time."

Whoa. And I thought computer techspeak was unintelligible.

I called Ginny and Luisa immediately (I've been talking to both about sewing), to proudly announce that I had won a serger and to ask what it was. They were both highly amused that I was going to be a serger owner after having sewn for just over a week. :-)



Thanks also to those who responded to my question on Livejournal. Apparently a serger finishes off edges with an overlocking stitch (no, I don't know what this is, either :-) to keep them from fraying, and is apparently mandatory for professional production-work sewing. It can also do decorative seaming and some other interesting stuff.

Here's the Wikipedia entry on the Overlock/Serger (apparently another word for serger is "overlock"), along with images of sample overlock stitches.

Anyway, Jeff and I are picking up my new serger tomorrow! I realize that it may be a little while before I'm using it; I should probably become better acquainted with my sewing machine first. But I've already found a one day serger workshop in Toronto, so I may sign up for that.

Serging ahead...

On Dr. Who

Jeff and I saw the "Blink" episode and LOVED it. However, it became clear to me partway through the episode that I've missed a bunch of episodes somehow ("Where's Rose?!?"). The last episode I saw was "Age Of Steel" in the second season.

On aging

I enjoyed reading your comments in response to my last post. A few excerpts...

From scs-11:

"Every time I think I'm getting used to the changes since I turned 50, something else comes along and slaps me upside the head. The most recent was seeing a photo of a friend and thinking "who's the greybeard with Giza?" Damn, it was me! It doesn't help working in an office where I'm the oldest by about 20 years. Don't get me wrong, the office folks are great - and I'd much rather be around them than a bunch of old guys. :-) But a few months back I was at a co-workers party and someone asked if I was his father. Harrumph! Get offa my lawn, ya damned hippie punk.

On the other hand, I did get invited to drive down to Louisville to party in someone's dorm and had to inform her I was babysitting my granddaughter that day. She was reportedly redder than I am gray."

From mdlbear:

"Not too happy about getting old, either, but it beats the alternative."



Livejournal comments

Comments

[Petra A. Bauer]

Hi Debbie,

I know it's an old post, but now I'm curious: How's your sewing / serging is going on? Did you find the time to get more experienced?

Greetz
Petra
(writingwoman)