Getting to know your serger...... Babylock Imagine

Before I moved, I sold my Bernina Bernette serger.  It was a pain to thread, and my head was being filled with thoughts of a Babylock Imagine.  I really should stay off sewing boards.  One day on ebay, I see one selling for a fraction of the price of a new one.  The vendor allowed returns, so I jumped at the chance.  It was bare bones, not even a foot pedal was included.  I picked up an after market foot pedal, had a little trouble using the air delivery system, but never having had Babylock before, didn't realize that, that could be the reason it was selling so cheaply.  I took it in to be serviced, they recommended just pulling the threads through and not using the air threader.

Off I went to Office Depot, the owner's manual printed and spiral bound.  The large cheat sheet was printed off and laminated, in color even!  Then packed it up to move.

 I had tried to use it a few times, was really not impressed with the loopy stitches.  I considered getting rid of it, the Babylock dealer, would not take it in as a trade in, they recommended that I try and sell it on my own.  I thought, darn, I'm stuck with it.  As with many things I've encountered during the home renovation, my mantra was, I own it, and I'm going to make it work.

I watched some youtube videos, and one in particular which hit all of the major issues I was having with my machine. Trouble shooting your Babylock serger, presented by Babylock.

This video was a revelation.  The reason I was getting loops at the edge of the fabric, was that I had left the settings for a four thread overlock, but wanted a three thread overlock.  I  just removed the thread from the left needle, and left the needle in place.  Apparently a no no.  Once I followed her instructions, then moved onto the Owner's manual, the machine sews all of the stitches as designed.

Since learning how to use it, I have made up samples and taped them to my lamintated cheat sheet.



The overlock,/ serger, was never really an essential machine for me.  Most of my sewing was done on wovens, and frankly, a straight stitch, and zig zag were all that I needed.  When working with knits, however, the overlock does provide a seam with a bit of stretch, and finishing off seam allowances look cleaner as well.  I'm delighted it works, and I may have to try out those decorative threads later.

Squee!!!  Look at that sparkle ;)