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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: sewingnonie
Date: 06-16-2006, 12:53 PM (1 of 6)
I have the gathering foot for the serger. I have been 'playing' with it and I think I have it down pretty good. Now, the question. How do I figure how much fabric I need for the ruffle? I don't think it would be two to one.

Nonie
User: sewingnonie
Member since: 09-23-2004
Total posts: 175
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 06-16-2006, 06:09 PM (2 of 6)
Nonie,
Everything I have ever read says, use at least 2 & 1/2 times finished length to get a nice full ruffle..
Sew With Love
Libby
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002
Total posts: 2022
From: Kylnne2
Date: 06-16-2006, 08:09 PM (3 of 6)
I would say it depends on how tight your gathering is as to how much material you need.
User: Kylnne2
Member since: 07-10-2004
Total posts: 629
From: MartySews
Date: 06-16-2006, 10:17 PM (4 of 6)
From different books on serging, the rule of thumb is to set your differential feed to the highest setting and your stitch to the longest length for nice full gathers. The ratio is basically 2 - 1. However in my book Serger Secrets, gathering is explained by using twice the fabric plus 5 inches. Hope this helps.
Marty :up:
It takes one moment to change a life.
User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003
Total posts: 504
From: sewingnonie
Date: 06-17-2006, 12:55 AM (5 of 6)
Great, thank you for all your help. Yes, it does help alot. I have been meaning to get a good new serger book, which one do you recomend?

Nonie
User: sewingnonie
Member since: 09-23-2004
Total posts: 175
From: MartySews
Date: 06-17-2006, 12:50 PM (6 of 6)
For the advanced serger user, I recommend "Serger Secrets" which is a compilation of tips from industry experts. For the beginner, I recommend the "ABC's of Serging" as it covers all of the basics. Some other good books are "The Complete Serger Handbook" and "The Ultimate Answer Guide". I have numerous others which would take up too much space to list them all.
Happy Stitching!
Marty :cool:
It takes one moment to change a life.
User: MartySews
Member since: 02-23-2003
Total posts: 504
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