I had this Serger for about 2 years before I started to use it. My biggest complaint is with the inadequacy pf the accompanying manual. It is not at all clear how a beginner would thread the machine. The CD that came with it just gave ideas for projects but no significant explanations about how to get started. Now that I am using it (after two friends helped me learn how to thread it) I have found it to be not only useful, but an indispensable part of my sewing routine. At times, I wonder how I got along without it. After getting past the first hurtle, I have found it is easy and practical to use. It is easy to install and remove the stitch finger. The other control buttons are not difficult to adjust, although I like the idea of keeping a thread/tension journal rather than relearning each time. The maintenance suggestions and the proper needle suggestions are important parts of the manual.