Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Sewing tip - French Seams

     Have you ever made something that looked like this after you wore it?


       So sad looking. Some fabrics just don't handle stress on seams very well. One way to avoid the  above tragedy, is to do a french seam when you first sew the garment. Being the hasty person I am, I balk at the thought of an extra step, but, it will save you time repairing a garment over and over again in the long run.
     Start with your fabric RIGHT sides out, and sew down the sides. You'll have to ignore the inner voice screaming at you to stop sewing on the right side...habits are hard to break.


      Now flip it wrong side out, and sew along the seam you just made. It will enclose the seam so no raw or sewn seams are visible.


      Just a few extra minutes makes it so much sturdier and well made. Just for the record, I fixed the skirt above by serging along the side, and then dousing the whole seam line with fray check. I have since worn it with no problems. If you have some doubts on the ability of your fabric to hold a seam, sew two scraps together and try to pull them apart. That should help indicate if a french seam is needed.
     Don't forget to add a little extra seam allowance if you plan on doing this!


"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive. "
Matthew 21:22

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