Seam trimming

10/17/2013

I strongly feel that proper seam trimming, clipping and grading really make a difference in how a garment looks when finished.

And, I notice that this is something many people don't take the time to do ...
AND, when I was writing about seam finishes a few weeks ago I ran across this excellent series of pictures that explain exactly the way I was taught to trim seams. This is what I do to this day. It was hard to figure out who made this, but I finally found out it is published on the website for the East Aurora School District in Aurora, Illinois. No author is listed, but Thank You, whoever you are!

I have nothing to add ... enjoy!

1 Comment

Sarah Strong

10/17/2013 03:06:03 am

You're absolutely right that these are all really important for the finished look of the garment.
I'll add one modification to the clipping thing: your seam will stay stronger (and you are less likely to cut your stitching) if you alternate the clips from one seam allowance layer to the other. In other words, the clips may be 1/2" apart, but they are also staggered by 1/4" from each other. Use your thumbnail to separate the layers, and let the snips bump into the 'valley' of the seam between the allowances, without going further which would cut the stitching.
Actually I thought of one other thing: sometimes in very close-quarters, if it's a fabric that isn't too loosely woven, and there won't be a lot of pressure on the seam, I have used pinking shears to notch a seam allowance... like, along the curve of a peter pan collar, that sort of thing.

Your comment will be posted after it is approved.

Seam trimming

Leave a Reply.

From Andrea

Archives