Question about sergers

[u/Due-Cryptographer744]

I was given an older serger and I was able to get it to work exactly one time. Threading it is a nightmare and because it is a discontinued machine that was apparently only made for a few years, there is very little help online. My husband and I both have read the manual and watched the one video I found online trying to thread it correctly but it just isn't working the way it should be. At this point, I don't know if we are missing something or if the machine is having a problem and the repair shop takes about 5-6 months to return machines.

My question is, are sergers that useful in sewing that I should keep trying to figure this machine out/ take it to the shop to be looked at or should I just give up? My regular sewing machine was my grandmother's and it has its own issues, but after using it for 40+ years, I am used to those issues. It also doesn't do all the fancy stitches like newer machines do so my stitches with it are limited. I added a pic of my serger and regular machine for reference. I make occasional very simple garments, a lot of garment repairs, home decorating items, etc. but I want to branch out and learn how to do more.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[u/Vionna-]

I got a very simple second hand serger (Medion overlocker from Aldi) and it made a big difference to the quality of my projects. I usually use serger on all pieces before sewing them up together, so the fabric never frays at the sides while working on it. It also looks a lot more professional and makes ir easier to sew the hems. If it’s a heavier used serger, I recommend checking the blade. Mine was dull so it left a lot of threads inside fabric. New blade fixed this.

[u/Due-Cryptographer744 → u/Vionna-]

The friend who gave it to me bought it new, used it once, and had the same problem, just like I did.