Has anyone made serged dipes without a serger?

[TOmomma]

It sounds like so little work to make dipes with a serger (compared to turned ones) so I wonder if I could do it with my regular sewing machine. Just use the zig-zag stitch like a serger. Would this work?? I've made doublers like this and they seem to be ok.

Any experiences? Thanks!

[AinNJ]

i have. before i got my serger, i made some diapers this way. whether or not it works depends on the fabric that you use. flannel or terry cloth - no way. you really need a serger to keep those edges from fraying. but i've used hemp fleece and made some great serged diapers that are still holding up perfectly. i just used a really tight zigzag and fell off the egde a little bit.

[cyncyn]

Many regular sewing machines also have an overlock stitch which is similar to serging. It works better than plain zigzag IMHO because it also puts a straight stitch on at the same time. Usually not as adjustable as a serger, and with only 2 threads you can still get some fraying with woven fabrics. Works pretty well for knits though.

[auntieM]

Using the overlock stitch on my sewing machine to sew diapers was one of the things that finally prompted me to buy a serger. I love they way they came together & they have held up well. It does take a lot longer than sewing a straight stitch, though. For that reason, I'm not sure it was any faster than turning & topstitching. Also, without the blades to trim, you have to be more diligent with your cutting in order to get an even edge.

[TOmomma]

Here's my update. I tried this yesterday and it took just as long as T&T, I think. It was a PITA to get the elastic in (although it does look very good - like FCB elastic, go figure!) and the edges are too crunchy for my liking - I was making a PUL AIO and I don't like the hard "serged" edges.

I think I'll stick with an all-pocket diet. PUL pockets and pocket fitteds. Easy, fast and totally customizable. Oh well. nothing ventured, nothing gained.