Thursday, July 31, 2008

Okay, Now What Do I Do?


So, look what I bought today. Imagine! A Babylock Imagine! I was VERY nervous purchasing this, but I know that I have to go to the next level of professionalism if I am going to sell my sewing services. Plus, I just really want to make rolled edges for linens and have really nice finished ruffles!



I already have a simple Singer serger, bought on a whim at Wal-Mart years ago, but it has never been used. Why? Well, first because I didn't know better and pulled the threads out so I could learn to thread it. Right. I'm sure you sergers know my mistake there. Second because I just don't have the room in my brain or time to read how to use it, and I couldn't get anyone to really sit with me and teach me. Finally, after using the lovely computerized embroidery sewing machine for four years that cuts the threads and threads the needle for me, I just couldn't make myself get on with the Singer. I tried to make do, but I had seen the Babylock Imagine that sucks the threads in and automatically adjusts the tension way back when I purchased the embroidery sewing machine, and it has been on my mind ever since. I bought several feet to do cording and rolled edges on the sewing machine, but I knew that it just didn't look as good as any serged job would do.

Well, today was the day. I called the sewing machine shop checking prices and heard that today was the "last day" of the sale with six extra feet (including the ruffler and two cording feet) and six months same as cash. I get free sessions with the ladies to learn how to use it and can go to classes there and make projects.



I was too nervous to stay for a learning session, so we just did a quickie threading - whoosh! very simple! - and I serged and cut some fabric and did a rolled hem. I'm very excited about the rolled hem and linens option.

So, NOW what do I do? What is your favorite project for your serger, and what can I serge to sell that will help me pay back my six-month-same-as-cash purchase?

9 comments:

Michelle Frae Cummings said...

funny you should ask...I thought of you while driving home from a late night crop. Can you make patches? or something similiar? I'm looking to have a"sew on" memory in qnty. of our yearly scrapbook retreats. some cute design with the year. how much would you charge per? I'll need them by the end of September

calicodaisy said...

Yes, I can make patches! Go here to my flickr site and see: http://www.flickr.com/photos/calicodaisy/2478617488/in/set-72157602964787396/. There are a couple more shots in that set as well.

Depending on the design you want, I would charge $10.00 for the first one to include the design set up and then $7.00 each thereafter for the same patch design. -- Michele

MichelleB said...

I too have a Babylock serger. While I don't use it very much, I LOVE it when I do use it. And I wish I used it more. I've used it for rolled hems on dish towels. I have a GF who uses it to make face wipes for babies. I'll be watching to see what you come up with.

Unknown said...

Michele, that is so cool that you have made this huge purchase! Wow, what fun you will have. I am sorry but I have zero ideas about what to make as I am not entirely sure what a serger can do! I look forward to seeing you use it.

I LOVED the photos you sent me of your daughter's sweet 16. She is so incredibly beautiful!
More later...
~Emily xxx

Kathy - Pink Chalk Studio said...

Very fun. I have a babylock serger that my husband splurged on several years ago. I love the air thread technology. I still have to get the book out though to remember how to thread and set the machine for each stitch.

I mostly use it to finish seams which is sort of lame given all the other things it can do but I really love the professional edge it gives to clothing projects.

Have fun!

ginger said...

Good for you for getting this! You must be SO excited over all the new possibilities and ideas!!

Nanette Merrill said...

It looks lovely. I have 2 sergers but havne't used them in years. I need to get them out and USE them. So I'l be watching to see what you do and what others say.

Anonymous said...

oh I shall be watching very closely as a serger is top on my list of wants and the babylock looks amazing.
Just found your blog and its brilliant. Now off to read a few more of youe posts. Rachellex

Marmadaisy said...

I considered that one too! I got an project boom with mine, so no doubt I'll do something from that first. There's more to this than just finishing seams ...... :)