How to Serge Outside Corners Like a Pro

Outside corners look innocent… until your serger gets there and suddenly you’ve got a little thread beard, a wobbly turn, and a corner that’s more “lumpy square” than “chef’s kiss.” 😅

In our Serging With the Girlfriends video, we walk you through the simple, confidence-boosting way to serge clean outside corners so your projects look crisp and professional.

Why outside corners can feel tricky on a serger

A serger is doing a lot at once—stitching, looping, trimming—and when you hit a corner, you’re asking it to pivot while the loopers and knives are still in “go-go-go” mode. The trick is learning a tiny little pause-and-pivot sequence that keeps everything tidy.

The “Clean Corner” Method (Step-by-Step)

1) Serge right up to the corner

Keep your fabric edge aligned where you normally serge (your usual seam allowance). Go steady—corners reward “slow and sure.”

2) Take a couple extra stitches

When you reach the edge, take one or two stitches past the corner.
This is what gives your threads enough “wrap” to cover the corner nicely (instead of slipping off).

Girlfriend Tip: If you want total control, use your handwheel for those last stitches.

3) Presser foot up, gently “free” the threads

Lift the presser foot and gently pull the fabric back just a smidge—you’re not yanking, you’re just helping the stitches disengage so the fabric can pivot cleanly.

4) Pivot the fabric 90°

Rotate your fabric so the next edge you’ll serge is lined up and ready to go. Make sure the new edge is positioned so the serger will trim and wrap it evenly.

5) Presser foot down and keep going

Lower the presser foot and continue serging down the next side like a pro who totally meant to do that. 😉

What to practice first (so you nail it fast)

Grab two fabric squares and practice corners like a warm-up drill:

• Cotton quilting fabric (easy, stable)

• Cotton + batting (a little thicker)

• Knit (once you’re feeling brave)

Do a couple of corners in a row and you’ll feel the muscle memory click.

Quick Troubleshooting

My corner looks bulky.
Try fewer extra stitches (sometimes one is enough), and slow down at the pivot.

My corner isn’t fully wrapped with thread.
Make sure you stitched just a hair past the edge before pivoting.

My fabric shifts when I turn.
Pause with the needle down if your machine allows it, and pivot calmly—no rush.

Come hang out in our Serger-Obsessed Corner of the Internet

If you want serger tips, troubleshooting help, settings chats, project inspo, and that “oh good, it’s not just me” feeling—join our private Facebook group all about sergers!

Ready to bring home a serger (or upgrade)?

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.

You can shop sergers right on our website—beginner-friendly options all the way up to feature-packed dream machines.

Watch the full video tutorial

If you’re a visual learner (same), watch the corner method in action right here.

Happy serging, girlfriend. Your corners are about to get real cute. 💚