Seam and Seam Finishes

A seam finish lends a professional touch and an improved appearance to any garment. How to choose the right seam and what to consider before you start sewing your garment! Listen to find out!

A plain seam is the basic element in all garment construction. It is created by stitching two pieces of fabric together, usually 5/8 inch from the cut edge using 10-12 stitches per inch. It is used with a variety of fabrics and found in all areas of a garment. Unless noted differently in the pattern instructions, the seam allowance is pressed open and an appropriate seam finish is used. For fabrics that ravel excessively, consider finishing the edge of the fabric before sewing the seam.

A seam finish lends a professional touch and an improved appearance to any garment. Finish seams to prevent woven threads from raveling and knit seams from curling. Seam finishes also strengthen seams and help them stand up to repeated washings and wearing, making the garment lo...