Q. I am interested in taking your May 18 – June 1 serger class.  I have a basically unused 25 year old Pffaf hobbylock 776 which was given to my daughter by her mother in-law, who took classes on how to use it but never used it.  Do you think this machine is worthy of my investment in time and classes (for use in making my granddaughters’ clothes) or would you suggest that I look to trade it in for a different machine–easier to use or whatever?   Also, what is your favorite basic serger machine?

I have never used a serger but want to learn how to use one so that I can show my daughter, who  presently has a young baby in arms.  I value your judgment and look forward to hearing from you.

A. Pfaff Hobbylocks are notoriously hard to use (difficult to thread, change from stitch to stitch, get consistent results).  My suggestion, if you have the $$:  Trade it in for a Babylock Imagine.  These run around $1699.  I know that’s a chunk of change, but I use them as “student” machines and, except for periodically changing the knives as they get dull, they run beautifully despite all the abuse students can give them.  They are easy to thread, easy to use and will make your serger life a very happy one.

We just had a good time at the serger speed dating class yesterday, but there still are openings for the May 18 – June 1 sergery classes.  Hope to see you there!