What is a serger??

[KatherineM]

I mean how does it differ from a sewing machine?

[harmonyfarms]

Go to your closet and get a t-shirt. Turn it inside out and look at the seams. There is a closed zig/zag type stitch. That was done with a serger. A serger is great for quick sewing but takes some learning. I can make PJ bottoms for my ds in no time. If you have a local sewing store (usually a sewing and vacuum store) go there and ask them to show you. they are usually very low key!

[Abinsmom]

I don't have a serger, but a friend of mine does a ton of sewing and says she uses her serger more often than her ($1100) sewing machine! It apparently sews seams and finishes them off all in one step -- no pinking shears or zig-zagging necessary! Sounds like a dream.

But yes, my friend also told me it took some getting used to. Something about learning how to use the tension. Not sure what that means!

[tree_hugger]

In Australia and the UK they are referred to as "over-lockers". :)