4 Easy Ways to Finish a Seam
Whether you’re sewing your first garment or putting together a patchwork masterpiece, a tidy seam finish can take your make from homemade to handmade-with-pride.
Here are 4 simple ways to finish your seams:
1. Pinking Shears
The quickest fix of all — pinking shears or zig-zag scissors! These magical blades cut your fabric edge in little triangles, which helps prevent fraying. Perfect for stable fabrics and projects that won’t see heavy wear. No extra sewing needed!
Top Tip: Pinking shears work best on cottons and mid-weight fabrics. Test on a scrap first.
2. Zig-Zag Stitch
If you’ve got a basic sewing machine, you’ve got a fray-fighting tool built right in. Stitch just inside the raw edge, or straddle it slightly to really seal the deal.
Top Tip: Don’t panic if the edge curls a bit — it’ll settle once it’s pressed and sewn into your project.
3. Overlocker (if you’re lucky enough to have one!)
Overlockers trim and seal your seams all in one go. They’re fast, professional-looking, and a little bit addictive. But no pressure — this is a “nice to have,” not a “must have.”
Make it stand out
Top Tip: Check your pattern to see whether it’s best to overlock before or after joining your pieces. And always do a test run!
4. French Seams
When you want your inside seams as pretty as the outside — think floaty fabrics or sheer blouses — French seams are your friend. You stitch wrong sides together first, trim, then stitch again right sides together to encase the raw edges.
Make it stand out
Top Tip: Best for lightweight fabrics so they don’t create bulk. They take a bit longer, but the result is beautiful!
💬 Tell me — which finish do you use most often? Or which are you excited to try?
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