Sooner or later every sewist comes to the point to ask a question: is it time to buy a serger machine? If you still don’t have a serger and want to buy one, Singer 14CG754 may be the best choice for you. It is a low-cost serger machine, yet it performs much better than most of the entry-level models.
But, before I take a closer look at this machine, I’d like to clarify some common dilemmas about serger machines. First of all, do you need it at all? Most handbooks will tell you that it is not necessary to have one. And that is true. One way or another, you will finish your projects with your regular sewing machine. So, do you need this upgrade?
Let me put it like this: every sewist that owns a serger can’t imagine going back and sewing without it. This may be a slight overstatement, but when it comes to sewing garments or sewing knits, it is an absolute truth. The reason for this view is simple. A serger machine will provide professional results, way more durable seams and greater working speed. So, you will be fine without one, but if you want to raise the quality of your work, a serger will be very useful.
I am a proponent of having a serger machine. However, in some cases, you really don’t need it.
If you sew only once in a while it is not necessary to have a serger as it is not a small investment. Also, if most of your work is about quilting, you don’t need a serger.
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Who Is This Machine Best For
If you are new to serging this is a great machine for you. Even though I believe that every good sewist should own a serger machine, I think that you need to have some sewing experience first. So, if you are buying your first overlocker, this machine is an excellent choice. Besides beginners, it is probably the best budget machine you can get. The features of this machine exceed its price by far. While it is rare nowadays, you will get more than you paid for.
It comes with the great number of both standard and special features. It is pretty small and lightweight. So, it is portable. Moreover, it comes with a built-in carry handle, to take it to classes or wherever you need it to. By the way, CG in the title stands for ‘commercial grade’. It means that it is durable and designed to take on a variety of projects. You will be using it for a long time.
While this machine doesn’t have all fancy features like some high-end models it is a real bargain. Its speed, precision, durability and versatile features make it the best budget machine. It takes some time to become familiar with serger machines, especially when it comes to threading. Singer 14CG754 has a color-coded threading system to help you out. Features and functions are quite easy to understand. So, overall it is user-friendly to allow beginners a good start.
Features of Singer 14CG754
Let’s dig deeper and find out about the most important features.
2-3-4 Thread Capability
This machine has a 2-3-4 thread capability providing a wide selection of stitch options. These are standard thread formations. They allow you to experiment and be creative. Using two, three or four threads and different colors will give you a wide array of options. You can take on very different projects and give it your own finishing touch. Most likely you will use four threads most of the time. But, you will use 2-thread and 3-thread formations, too. Many modern machines lack two thread option. It is a shame because it is useful for some projects and it can deliver a beautiful finish.
Speed
Singer 14CG754 serger can sew up to 1300 stitches per minute. Singer’s machines are famous for their speed, among other things. This one is no exception. 1300 stitches per minute for a budget machine is nothing short of impressive. It takes some time and practice to sew at full speed. But, once you get there, finishing your projects will become a breeze.
You will highly appreciate how much time you can save with this machine. It is not just fast, but very strong and accurate. There is a great sense of satisfaction when you complete your project at lightning speed, while the result is perfect and professional.
Stitches
This Singer 14CG754 machine has a variety of stitch options. It has four built-in rolled hems. It is very simple to use them. You just have to pull the lever from S to R. Rolled hems are great to create clean hems on lightweight materials. Besides rolled hems, there are four thread mock stretch stitch, three thread mock stretch safety stitch, and two thread overlock stitch.
Rolled hems, blind hems, and flatlocking, this machine does it all with ease. With many options, you can be creative and enjoy while creating different designs.
Adjustable Stitch Length and Width
You can adjust stitch length and width to get a better result depending on the project. This is a nice feature because different projects need different stitch length and width. And it allows you more freedom. You can choose the size that you find satisfactory. It is very simple. You just have to turn the dial on the side of the machine.
As a general rule of thumb, use a more narrow seam for lightweight and thin fabric. Naturally, use a wider seam for heavy materials. Just make sure to test it on a test patch first.
Adjustable Thread Tension
Working with stretchy fabric can be a nightmare if you don’t get your tension right. However, with this machine, it is easy to adjust the tension. Still, you are the one to choose the tension. So, be careful and test your tension first.
Differential Feed
Adjustable differential feed is another lovely feature of this machine. It ensures even feed for perfect seams on every fabric. You can forget about puckering and bunching. It also prevents stretching out of loose fabrics.
Color-Coded Threading System
Threading multiple needles can be tedious and annoying. Color-coded lay-in system is really convenient. It makes the whole process much easier. If you are not fully focused it is easy to get confused. This system allows you to do it quickly and easy. Moreover, there is a diagram to follow right on the machine. These small conveniences actually help a lot. They are not crucial for your projects, but they save some time. And you can focus on your work with a smile.
Free Arm
This machine has a free arm for free sewing. This allows you to take on cylindrical tasks. You can easily attach cuffs to sleeves, hem pants legs or work on collars. It is also convenient in restricted or hard to reach areas.
Movable upper knife
Serger machines come with knives. The knife cleanly trims the fabric just before it is stitched with threads. This creates a smooth finish. However, sometimes you don’t want to cut the fabric. It is easy to put it away when needed.
Pros
- Speed and strength – Singer Pro Finish serger sew with ease and precision. This allows you to use high speeds and get your projects done in no time.
- Sleeves and Cuffs – This machine really stands out when it comes to sleeves and cuffs.
- Overall performance – Whichever technique you use, this machine performs well and makes sewing a breeze.
- Portability – It is small and lightweight. So, it is easy to carry it around or move it from one room to another.
- User-friendly – While sergers, in general, have a learning curve, it is a steep one with this machine. It makes it a great choice if you don’t have serging experience.
- Small conveniences – Color-coded threading, feed, adjustable tension, stitch length, and width are useful and helpful features.
- It is affordable – While it is not the cheapest serger, it is amazing what you get for a quite low price.
Cons
- Noisy – Actually, this machine is pretty quiet while working at lower and moderate speeds. But, when it reaches a full speed it gets a bit noisy.
Honestly, I couldn’t find any other shortcomings. Of course, improvements are always possible and this machine has its limitations. It can’t offer some high-end features, but I can’t count that as a negative.
Conclusion
Singer 14CG754 is a best-seller, and it is so for good reason. It is an absolutely fantastic machine for beginners. Actually, it goes way beyond beginner’s needs. Advanced sewists always need better, stronger, faster machines and maybe some bells and whistles. So, this machine won’t fit the bill for them. But, considering the price it is a real bargain. This machine was designed to suit beginners, but great performance and variety of features will allow them to use this machine for years.
- SINGER SEWING MACHINE: The SINGER ProFinish 14CG754 Serger has 2-3-4 thread capability providing a wide selection of stitch options for all types of projects with professional results every time
- ADJUSTABLE STITCH LENGTH SEWING MACHINE: Adjustable stitch length and width, differential feed and color-coded lay-in threading provide ease of use
