Singer 14U?

[Think of Winter]

Anyone know anything about these? I might actually break down and get a serger, and my local sew n vac has one used for $150.

[sewchris2642]

14U what? I use a 14U64 at work (I do alterations at a bridal shop) and have it set up for 3 thread. It's a 3-4 thread that uses standard Singer needles. It does a fantastic rolled hem on tulle and chiffon. Many years ago when I taught serger classes at House of Fabrics, we had the 14U34 in the classroom. I've also sewn on the 14U354 (I think that was the model #); the differential feed version of the 14U34. And there was the 14U32 which is the 3-thread version that the 14U34 replaced. All of these sergers have been out of production for at least 11 years, some of them longer. But they are workhorses that last and the parts are still readily available.

[Think of Winter]

Thanks Chris. That was really helpful. A workhorse that is repairable is what I want. The $150 price tag seemed high, though. I will find out more about it before buying.

[sewchris2642]

That might be high. The 14U64, used, was blue booked at $215.50 in 1988. I believe I sold the last, used, 14U32 for about $150 back in the 80's. But, if the machine has all the orginial assessories and the owner's manual and is in great condidtion, it could still be a good deal. A new serger can run $300 for a basic one at a discount store (Wallmart, Sears, JoAnns, etc.) or $400-500 at a dealer's. Will they teach you how to thread and sew one it? Can you take it for a test sew in the store to see if you like it? That can be just as important as the price.