Category Archives: SEWING ESSENTIALS

Last week we showed you how to make your own bias tape the traditional way. Whereas this method is great for making short amounts of bias tape for binding a neckline or a couple of armholes, sometimes the project your are working on might require larger amount of bias tape. To save yourself some time…

Bias tape is something that is often used in sewing for binding necklines and armholes or finishing raw edges. As its name suggests, bias tape is a long strip of fabric that’s been cut on the bias of fabric (diagonally across the grain of the fabric). Because it is cut on the bias, it’s stretchier…

Inseam pockets are the type of pockets that are hidden in a seam of your garment and are entirely enclosed by the outer layers, leaving no visible edges, stitching lines etc. They are primarily, though not exclusively, used on dresses, skirts and some pants. Inseam pockets add so much functionality and comfort to any garment…

In this easy tutorial we are going to show you how to sew a back slit and add a fabric button loop for closure. It is a really simple way to add a little interest to a closed up back of a top or a dress. Materials Fabric of your choice (we are using our…

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…

There are many ways to add original details to your simple garments, and a side slit is one of them! It can really change the feel and mood of any skirt, top or dress and make it more feminine or plainly practical. Even if the pattern you are using doesn’t call for a slit, it…

There are many ways to embellish a simple garment and a back tie is one of them. It gives a touch of originality and femininity to any top or dress and is very easy to make in just a few simple steps. In this tutorial we are going to show you how to sew a…

There are several ways to finish a neckline: you can either use a bias tape, invisible (or visible) binding or opt for a facing. But we decided to share with you this very simple band binding method which is a great (and quick) alternative to the traditional techniques. It consists in folding a band of…

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…