Serger Review: Singer 14U52A

Singer 14U52A

Price paid:  $80

How long have you had this machine?  Less than a year

What do you like about this machine?  This is an oldie but goodie.  The more I use it, the more I like it.  It makes a strangely soothing sound as it serges, unlike any other serger I’ve ever owned, and I’ve owned several.  The stitches are great, and I really like the free-arm feature.  I never realized how useful a free arm is on serger before I had this model.  It saves me the trouble of having to turn sleeves and pant legs inside out to serge on the right side, inside of a loop.

Things you DON'T like about this machine:  The major drawback to this model is the lack of a light.  I use a clip-on light, but it would have been nice to have one built in.  It also lacks a tray to catch scraps.

Serger Review: JC Penney Model 7015

Price paid:  $250

How long have you had this machine?  Since 1987

Would you recommend this machine to others?  Yes. 

What do you like about this machine?  This was my very first serger and first sewing machine purchase.  At the time I bought it, the dominant brand was Babylock, which was going for twice as much.  A fellow student in my Fashion Production class had bought this model and recommended it to me.  Over the years, I’ve bought many other sergers, which were more expensive and sophisticated, but I’ve always gone back to this one.  I like its compact size and the streamlined functions.

It has mostly metal parts yet is very lightweight.  The stitches are wonderful, and I can adjust the tension knobs all I want.  It also has adjustable presser foot pressure, but I haven’t found a need to adjust that.  What I like most on this serger is the narrow presser foot.

Most newer sergers have a much wider foot, which I find difficult to maneuver, especially around curves.

Things you DON'T like about this machine:  The only thing it’s lacking is a tray to catch the scraps.