How to Make French Seams
Easy-to-follow, Step-by-step Instructions for making a French Seam.
A French seam is often used when the fabric is too delicate to overcast the seam allowance to prevent raveling. The construction of a French seam provides a clean, finished, professional look to the inside of the garment, such as concealing pinked edges.
The use of a French seam is not restricted to any particular clothing style or type. There are instances, however, where it is impractical (such as a set-in sleeve) because of its complexity. Until the seamstress (or tailor) is proficient with this procedure, using a French seam on curves (such as placing a sleeve into an armhole) should be avoided.
Generally speaking, French seams are not suitable for bulky fabrics.
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Making a French Seam Tutorial Usage Rights and Requirements
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What You Will Need for this French Seam Tutorial
- Sewing Machine
- Iron
- Pins
- Scissors or Pinking Shears
- Thread
Procedure
Before you begin, we encourage you to read-through all the steps, as well as the safety information at the bottom of this page.
STEP 1. Make note
of the of the difference between the “right” and “wrong” side of the fabric you are using. The nature of a
French seam's construction requires that you be aware of the difference during construction so that they
are properly oriented in each step
STEP 2. With the
right sides facing out, pin material together, pinning entire length of edge where the French seam will
be.
STEP 3. Stitch
a 1/4" seam allowance along the entire length of the edge pinned in Step 2. Remove pins after the seam
allowance has been sewn.
STEP 4. Cut
seam allowance (sewn in Step 3) to within 1/8" of stitches. Although you may use pinking shears, they
are not required. The cut edges will be protected (and hidden) by the completed French seam.
STEP 5. Unfold
with the right sides up. Press entire length of trimmed seam allowance, pressing both edges flat and to
one common side. DO NOT press seam open! Be sure to use a setting on your iron that
will not damage the fabric.
STEP 6. Fold
material along newly created seam with wrong sides out. ---------- ------
-- - ------ --- ---- - ------- ---- ------ ---
STEP 7. Press
entire length of seam flat at fold on wrong side. Be sure to use a setting on your iron that will not
damage the fabric.
STEP 8. With
wrong sides out, pin folded material together, pinning entire length of pressed seam created in Step
7.
STEP 9. Stitch
a 3/8" seam allowance along the entire length of the edge pinned in Step 8. Remove pins after the seam
allowance has been sewn.
STEP 10. Unfold
with the wrong sides up. Press entire length of seam flat to one side. Be sure to use a setting on your
iron that will not damage the fabric.
STEP 11. Give
yourself a pat on the back. Note that the right side of the seam is neat and flat. On the wrong side,
the cut (or pinked) edges of the seam created in step 4 are now concealed. You're done!
Safety First, Always!
Our tutorials utilize methods, equipment and tools that can be dangerous. Never proceed with a tutorial without first carefully reviewing and understanding all of the instructions that accompany the equipment, tools or any other product used in the project, as well as providing yourself a safe working environment. Be aware of your own limitations and factor in your own good judgment and common sense.
Eye Safety is No Accident. Always wear safety glasses!
NOTICE: SewNeau intends our tutorials to be reliable guides, but realizes working conditions, equipment, skill level, and safety issues can vary greatly. As a result, SewNeau does not guarantee the applicability, completeness, or accuracy of the information and does not assume responsibility for the results, or any damages, injuries or losses that occur as a result of using the information provided herein.