Sunnye

A serger or embroidery machine?
I really know I will get a lot of differing views, so just let me say that I am into baby quilts, wall hangings (Stupendous Stitching, Stitch and Slash, Sew Wild, Rebel Quilting kind of things) and applique.
I have two sewing machines now.
Would one or both of these machines help in my endeavors? I know you can use stitches on the sewing machines to use on the edges, although it takes more time and precision, I think. Embroidery machine might give me more flexibility in designs. I wouldn't be able to get a top of the line in either machine.
Suggestions and thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks in advance.

Tartan

I was thinking of a serger before I upgraded my sewing machine. I love how it finishes the edges of garments. If I was sewing a lot of things like baby bigs, receiving blanket, burp clothes and clothes I would have bought one.

anniehug

I have had an overlocker (I think it's the same as a serger) for about 20 years. When I used to make a large number of garments (mainly for self and children) I found it invaluable for finishing the seams. I now use it for finishing the seams inside cushion covers, I patchwork and quilt these and sell them for charity. I love it but I am considering buying an enbroidery machine as, like you, I think it would give me more flexibility in design. The big problem is that here in the U.K. they are very expensive. However, good luck to you with whatever you choose.

Sewnoma

I'd say get an overlock foot for your existing machine for finishing edges (it has a blade like a SITD foot to help guide you), and get an embroidery machine. Sounds like for the work you do that'd be the most bang for the buck. (This is assuming one of your existing machines has an overlock stitch - check your manual if you're not sure.)

GrandmaNewt

A serger is a valuable tool IF you sew garments. If you only quilt then I would say embroidery machine.

For the official record, I have a serger and wouldn't sew without one. But then again, I sew as many if not more garments than I do quilts. Next on my list of things to buy is an embroidery machine, mainly to be used to make blocks for quilts and wall hangings.

debquilts2

get a serger only if you work on clothes. It is not great for quilting.

Deborahlees

my foot would be for the Embroidery Machine.....I currently have both plus another .
Use the Serger perhaps once a year when making holiday napkins....and/or when making charity receiving blanket.
But use the embroidery machine at least once a month....once you get going on the Embroidery Machine you will realize what a great big door it opens for you....with endless possibilities.....

fairydawn

Embroidery machine! There are so many things you can embroider on for babies and children, quilts too. Have had mine for several years and couldn't do without it. Lots of free designs online also.

bakermom

I would go with embroidery. Unless you do a lot of garment sewing you won't use a serger all that much. You can use an emb machine for blocks, quilting designs etc.
when I was sewing for my kids my serger got a lot of use. i would say it's been 5-6 years since I got it out and used it.

Dolphyngyrl

embroidery machine because not too many clothes to sew