Sewing 101: seam allowances
January 30, 2010 by Lex
Filed under Sewing, Sewing 101, Tutorials + How Tos, WhatTheCraft.com Tutorials
I don’t mention it in most tutorials, but you should always add a seam allowance when you cut out your pieces.
EXAMPLE: You are making a tube top with a bust of 36″. When you are cutting out the pieces, add an inch (or a 1/2 inch, it’s up to you) on each side. This will give you room to sew seams and hems, and it will also give you room for mistakes.
In this example, a piece that will measure 18″ across when completely finished will measure 20″ when you cut it out.
If you find that you make a lot of mistakes when you’re sewing, and you have to cut and sew the same spot so many times that you lose a few inches in the process, OR if you aren’t very good about measuring yourself, you might want to increase your seam allowance. That’s what it’s there for anyway, it gives you some room to make mistakes! And hey, mistakes are good! That’s how you learn.
Marjorie on Sun, 17th Jul 2011 8:37 am
Thanks so much for your tutorials and videos. You’ve got a great attitude and your explanations are clear. I especially love that you added not to be afraid of mistakes because that is how we learn. The spirit of adventure you bring to your projects is inspiring. Thanks again!
Lex on Sun, 17th Jul 2011 11:39 am
Thanks Marjorie!