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Member since 3/20/09
Posts: 1
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Posted on: 3/20/09 3:17 PM ET
Hi, I'm totally new to all of this. I was recently given a Pfaff 262 that seems to operate well. I've been asked if it is a Serger, and I don't know how to answer that question. I've read about Sergers, but don't know enough about my machine to answer. I was wondering perhaps if Pfaff sells a special attachment that makes the 262 a Serger? I'd appreciate any help. Also, if anyone has the manual and threading guide for my machine, that would be very helpful! Thanks again!

John Gibson
Port Angeles, WA
  
Member since 10/1/06
Posts: 4518
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Posted on: 3/20/09 3:27 PM ET
there are several sources for manuals on the internet $5-10 range. If you do not have a manual, I strongly recommend getting one. Sample Manual Source

These are samples of what sergers look like Sergers
-- Edited on 3/20/09 3:29 PM --
  
Member since 6/18/03
Posts: 2145
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Posted on: 3/20/09 3:42 PM ET
Is this your machine? Not a serger, but looks like a very fine sewing machine. A serger operates on a very different model where instead of having a bobbin underneath the foot it has two looper arms that loop thread around the fabric edge after cutting. There are "serging" feet you can get for various sewing machines but they don't convert it to a true serger, rather they just approximate the look. I don't know that I've ever known anyone who's really pleased with them. You can sew knits on a sewing machine with a few easy tricks and you can finish the edges of all types of materials with a sewing machine so you don't NEED a serger ... they're just a great extra to have in your arsenal, like a rotary cutter and mat. Or extra feet. Or any other of the many sewing toys that do make life easier.
------
Kit
"Never underestimate the power of the right dress!" - drsue
"Hyu gots to know how to sveet tok de costumers, dollink" - Girl Genius, 11-24-08
  
Member since 9/18/04
Posts: 2373
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Posted on: 3/20/09 3:52 PM ET
If your Pfaff 262 looks like this: Pfaff 262 (manual seller - download for $5) then, no it is not a serger, it is a lockstitch sewing machine. Lockstitch refers to the fact that two threads are used to form the stitch (see this handy-dandy lockstitch animation on Wikipedia).

A serger (also referred to as an overlock) machine uses 1 or more needles and several loopers to basically KNIT a seam and cover (overlock) the edges of the seam allowance. Types of overlock stitches (Wikipedia)

A lockstitch machine and a serger are not interchangeable. A serger is a handy ADDITION to your sewing tools, but you will always need your regular lockstitch machine. And no, you don't NEED a serger to sew.

CMC
  
Member since 3/4/05
Posts: 5265
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Posted on: 3/20/09 5:35 PM ET
The 262 is the flat-bed version of the 362:

Pfaff 262

Sometimes the top part of the machine is white. Here's one on craigslist:

Pfaff 262 white top

ETA: I just noticed a picture was already posted.
-- Edited on 3/20/09 5:36 PM --
  
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