Category Archives: SEWING GLOSSARY

This week we’re back with a little tutorial on how to alter your pattern sleeves to create natural looking cuffs. A cuff can add a lot of character to a simple short sleeve and spice up the whole look of a finished garment. However, sewing a cuff doesn’t necessarily mean attaching a folded cuff band….

One of the most beautiful and feminine accents that you can add to a sewing project is a ruffle. Ruffles can give a lot of personality to any simple garment: from tops and dresses to home decor and craft projects. Being armed with a basic technique for ruffle making will allow you to dress up…

A baby hem, as its name suggests, is just a tiny narrow rolled hem that is only 1/8” or 1/4” wide. The fabric is double turned to enclose the raw edge within a small fold. This technique is used on sheer or lightweight fabrics to create a neat and delicate finish. A baby hem is…

Pintucks are a decorative element that can be added to your garments: tops, dresses, skirts etc. They look fabulous on linen and can bring a touch of fantasy and sophistication to a simple garment. They are formed by folding and stitching the fabric on the right side (much like a pleat) and are typically created…

Facing is another great way to finish a neckline along with bias binding and lining. Facings are pieces of fabric that follow the shape of the neckline. They are usually reinforced with interfacing (fusible or sew-in) to add a bit of extra firmness and shape. There are many different types of interfacing but the fusible…