Singer Tiny Serger TS380 Sewing Machine

I borrowed a Tiny Serger to sew stretch knit fabrics, thinking it worked like a regular serger. While it does sew through the fabric just fine, there are some things that should be known about the machine that haven't already been stated:

1. This machine does not join two layers together like a regular serger. Trying to do so resulted in the top thread showing in the seam on the right side. No amount of thread tension adjusting will fix this. However, the flatlock it does is decent for quick projects.
2. The stitch width is wide and fixed. So yes, it's great for finishing raw edges of fabrics, but when using it for flatlock, edges must be cut and sewn perfectly so that the raw edges do not show through the stitches.
3. Only very short, small spools of thread will fit.

In short, I would recommend this machine for finishing edges only, and flatlock in a pinch. It does a good, basic stitch. If you will be sewing stretch knit fabrics like t-shirt jersey, get a real serger or use the zig zag stitch on your single needle machine.

I love the Tiny Serger. It makes beautiful stitches. I have a full size serger that has a knife to trim seams, and I was wondering if I would be able to control the fabric so it did not get caught, and the serger stitched right on the edge. I found there was a guide, and the fabric went through evenly and did not get stuck. It is necessary to follow the directions carefully--every detail is important. And it takes patience to thread it, but that becomes easier each time it is done. Since I shall be using it lying down, due to a disability, it is a perfect size. It has a fast and a slow speed; neither is as fast as a full size serger, but for its purpose, it is great. It would also be perfect for anyone who wanted to put some decoration on their crafting and scrapbooking. The machine does use Style 2020 needles. I do not know what the availability of this style needle is. I was glad to find some on ebay. Also, I imagine that by setting the tensions correctly, one could do some of the decorative serging that can be done on a regular serger. However, it does not have differential feed. Overall, for its purpose, an excellent little machine, Again, I love it.

This little machine does an overlock stitch, which most latter model sewing machines can do. It can not be changed to do a rolled hem and does not have a blade to trim fabric as you sew. While the machine had not been used and was in the box it was marketed in, it is a model that is over 15 years and had long ago been pulled from production because of its limited functions. While there was a warrenty card in the box, Singer said it was void. This maybe a good machine for a beginner.

This used, but like new, machine worked quite well - even, well formed stitches, on one layer of fabric for about five seconds; then the motor drive gear broke. Apparently all TS380's do this or soon will. Singer doesn't support this machine by stocking spare parts. I wrote Singer a letter; they did not respond. This is a three thread, one needle lock stitch machine that doesn't serge (no cutters, not a serger). It would be a nice little machine, like the Singer 20, if it did what it is supposed to do: finish fabric edges. But it can't do anything with a broken drive gear unless you want to turn the crankshaft by hand. This thing is not even a good toy - toys, at least, work. I gave it a one because there is no zero. DON'T BUY THIS MACHINE!!! I bought a used Elna L4 for $67 afterward - 4 threads, 2 needles, trims edges, pretty good manual; This Elna is the one to get if you're on a budget and need a serger.

This is not a full size, high speed, Serger. It does overedge. About 250 SPM. But, it does not do a straight stitch. If you intend to join two pieces of cloth, you might be let down. Check the Singer web site, I got the book downloaded for free.