How to Do Serger Crochet: Add Ruffles with Decorative Thread
If you love the look of a crochet trim but want the speed (and consistency) of a serger, serger crochet is such a fun technique to have in your toolkit. In this video tutorial, we’re creating a lace-like, ruffled edge using decorative thread and a simple repeatable stitch sequence.
This is a great finishing touch for tea towels, scarves, baby blankets, and the hems of lightweight garments—anywhere you want the edge to feel a little more special.
What is “serger crochet”?
Serger crochet is built by stitching a base row that intentionally leaves loops hanging off the edge, then stitching into those loops over multiple passes to build a soft, scalloped trim.
Supplies
You don’t need much—just the right thread combo:
Item to be edged (tea towel, blanket, dress hem, etc.)
2 spools of decorative thread (examples include Sulky Blendables or YLI decorative options)
1 spool of all-purpose serger thread
Clear Foot (optional but very helpful to ensure you're stitching in the right spot!)
Decorative threads are what make the edge look “crochet-y,” so feel free to choose something with color variation or a little sheen.
Machine setup (Baby Lock serger crochet setup)
This technique is typically done as a 3-thread overlock wide stitch with the blade locked, because you want those loops to form off the fabric edge.
A common setup used for this technique includes:
Stitch length: 2-4
Width: 7.5
Stitch Selector: A
Upper Looper: UP
Differential feed: N (neutral)
Blade: locked
(Always do a quick test on scrap—decorative threads can behave a little differently.)
Step-by-step: the “rows” that build the crochet edge
Row 1: Create the base loops
With the right side of the fabric up, position the fabric so you’re stitching very close to the edge—about 1/8" to the right of the needle—so loops can form off the edge.
Serge along the edge, making sure you can see loops hanging off the fabric.
This is your foundation row—don’t skip it.
Row 2: Stitch into the loops
Start again at the beginning and serge along the loops, catching each loop about in the middle and keeping the loops as flat as possible.
Row 3 and beyond: Build the trim
Repeat Row 2 as many times as you’d like. More rows = a fuller, wider crochet look.
Final row: Make it scalloped
Set your stitch length to 1 and serge along the edge of the loops on your last row. This is what gives that pretty scalloped lace finish.
How to customize the look
Want a smaller crochet edge? Do the final scalloped row directly on the base row.
Want a bigger trim? Add more middle rows before the final scalloped row.
Want it to stand out? Play with thread weight, color changes, or contrasting decorative threads.
A couple quick success tips
If you’re not seeing loops hanging off the edge in Row 1, double-check that your blade is locked and your fabric placement is correct.
Keep your loops flat as you stitch into them—this helps the trim look even and lacy.
Watch the video tutorial
If you’d like to see exactly how this comes together, watch our video where Cheri walks you through the setup step-by-step and shows you how she stitches each row to build that crochet-style edge. Seeing the fabric placement, loop formation, and final scalloped pass in real time makes the whole technique click quickly.
Come hang out in our Serger-Obsessed Corner of the Internet
At My Girlfriend’s Quilt Shoppe, we know a serger is the secret to professional-looking seams, flawless finishes, and stretch-friendly stitches. That’s why we carry trusted brands like Brother and Baby Lock, offering everything from beginner-friendly models to advanced sergers with cover stitch options. Whether you’re sewing garments, home décor, or quilting accents, we’ll help you choose the serger that takes your stitching to the next level.
