What is a French Seam?
This DIY tutorial will show you how to sew a French seam, a wonderful finishing technique. French hems are really useful for creating a clean, enclosed seam and works really well on sheer, silk, and delicate fabrics. French seams are really easy to make, and they look great on both the outside and inside of your garment. The raw edges are completely enclosed within the seam, so it’s completely neat and tidy. Use this seam on lightweight fabrics and delicate items, like a slip or nightgown.
How to Sew a French Seam
Step 1
Take the 2 fabrics that you need to sew together, matching the raw edges up, with the WRONG sides together. Pin along the edge. Stitch along the edge with a short stitch length (this is about 2-3 setting on your machine), using a 3/8″ seam allowance.
Step 2
Trim the seam that you just created to 1/8″.
Step 3
Open up your fabric, and press your seam to one side. This will ensure that your seam is opened up fully.
Step 4
Now fold your fabric along the seam, with RIGHT sides together. Now your raw edges are encased inside. Press flat.
Step 5
Stitch 1/4″ away from the edge of the fold. Your seam should now be fully encased in the stitching. Press the encased seam to one side. Now you’re done!
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