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So many sewists are apprehensive about trying Serger and Cover Pro machines. Part of the reason is that they don't understand how to achieve some of the specialty stitches. We are letting the cat our of the bag right here, right now. (Refer to the owner's manual for suggested guidelines and instructions on how to make adjustments.)

Decorative Threads
For 4 thread sergers most heavy decorative threads can be used in the loopers. Threads such as Pearl Crown Rayon, Polyester Serger Floss, Jeansstich, Heavy Metallics, Wooly Nylon and Cotton quilting threads word beautifully in the upper looper and some in the lower looper. Thread tensions may need to be adjusted to accommodate the thickness of the thread. (This means to adjust the tension to a slightly lower number.) For 5 thread sergers (1200D Professional and the Compulock) or the Cover Pro series it is suggested that 25wt or 50wt. Cotton Quilting thread or Jeansstitch be used in the chain looper. Both types of thread create an exquisite decorative cover stitch. Please refer to the owner's manual for suggested thread tensions when using decorative threads. Other threads may be introduced to the chain looper for decorative stitching. Be sure to test the stitching on a sample of the fabric you will ultimately be using for the project.

Blanket Stitch
With the 1200D Professional serger you can edge your quilt with a delightful Blanket Stitch!

You no longer have to try to simulate a mock blanket stitch with water soluble stabilizer.

To achieve this stitch it is necessary to bypass the needle tension disk. The instructional manual recommends using wooly nylon thread in both loopers. But as an alternative clear nylon thread can be used in both loopers. Either way you will be very impressed with this exciting new stitch!

Pintucking
For the 4 thread serger pintucking can be created by using rolled hem settings. Fold the fabric with wrong sides together and then stitch on the fold without cutting the fabric. If desired adjust the stitch length to a slightly higher number.
(1 1/2 - 2) For the 1200D Professional there is an accessory you can also do reverse couching. This is stitching over cording or rat tail using decorative thread in the chain looper. Please refer to owner's manual for suggested adjustments and threading sequence.
Hemming Stretchy Fabrics
Often times when hemming stretch fabrics using a rolled hem or picot edge, the fabric starts to wave. There are several remedies. You could try to adjust the differential feed to reduce the amount of stretch depending on the stretch ration of the fabric. Another option is to use ribbon or bias binding as a stabilizer. This means feeding the fabric and the ribbon/ bias binding simultaneously. That will prevent the fabric from stretching or waving. One more option is spraying the fabric (hem area) with sizing or starch and then pressing. Certainly there are more than just these few suggestions for this application so it is suggested that you test and determine which works best for the fabric being hemmed.

Edging Curves or Circles with the Serger
If your fabric ends up with waves instead of lying flat then I have some suggestions that may help. First of all it is recommended that you notch to start. That means to cut a notch in the fabric about 1/4" deep and 1" in length. Place the notch under the presser foot just before the upper knife. Start stitching. When you get to the curve make sure the needle(s) are in the fabric and slightly lift the presser foot to release the fabric. Do not lift the presser foot all the way because that will release the thread tension disks and result in skipped stitches. When you approach where you began stitch directly on top of the previous stitches about 1/2", lift the presser foot, gently pull the fabric away from the presser foot (about 1/2") and then continue stitching about 4". Do not cut thread tails. Dab with seam sealant, let dry and then clip as needed.

Skipped Stitches on the Serger
If you have inconsistent stitching, also known as skipped stitches, here are a few suggestions.

1. First and foremost make sure the needle(s) is inserted all the way up into position and the screw is tightened.
2. If you are not serging on knit type fabrics then do not use ball point needles.
3. Move the thread spools to different positions.
4. Clean the tension disks. Often snips of thread or lint get into the tension disks and cause irregular stitching. (Put alcohol - rubbing not drinking on a 4" square of cotton fabric. Fold in half and floss between the tension disks, let dry and try again.)
5. Check thread guides to see that threads are passing through them and not tangled around them.
6. If using heaving decorative threads and the stitching is loopy, slightly tighten the looper tensions. Be sure the stitch is balanced and both threads are meeting at the edge of the fabric.

2 Needle Cover Stitch with Decorative Thread
The CoverPro is a wonderful machine not only for hemming knit garments but also for embellishing! You can stitch on drawn lines on the wrong side of the fabric and the beautiful decorative stitching will be on the right side. This stitch is great for embellishing ready to wear or re-constructed garments, your choice! Super Secret - the Clearview foot is a must have, you see everything.

Here are some suggested settings:

1. Left needle - removed
2. Centre needle polyester thread - 6
3. Right needle polyester thread - 6
4. Looper 12 wt Blendables* - 7
5. Stitch length - 2
6. Differential feed, 1.0

Note: - *25 wt. Cotton quilting thread may be used but thread tensions may need to be adjusted.

CoverPro Binder Attachment
The directions for using this attachment are inside the folded base of the blister pack. I have had the best results with this attachment when I use only 2 needles, the centre and the right. In addition it is suggested that the stitch length be set at 4. You many need to adjust the presser foot pressure. (The white knob on the top of the machine head). Realizing that you will be stitching at least 5 layers of fabric a little more presser foot pressure may be needed to help the fabric advance. I have also placed the nose of the attachment a little bit further to theleft that is recommended. Remember practice makes perfect.