SEWING TERMS

Sewing Terms Backstitch: Used at the beginning and the end of a seam, a couple extra stitches are sewn back and forth to anchor (secure) the seam. You hold down the reverse button to backstitch.

Sewing Terms Raw edge: The unfinished edge that will ravel.

Sewing Terms Zigzag stitch: A row of stitches in a diagonal pattern that looks like a continuous row of W’s. the stitch is used to prevent the raw edge from raveling.

Sewing Terms Right/Wrong side: The right side of the fabric is usually the “pretty” side which is seen when the project is done. The wrong side is the back side of the right side, usually the “dull” side.

Sewing Terms Seam Allowance: The fabric between the cut edge of the fabric and the like of stitching.

Sewing Terms Selvage edge: The factory edges of a fabric that runs lengthwise on both sides of the fabric. It is the non-stretchy side and is sometimes frayed.

Sewing Terms Bobbin: Thread that comes up from the bottom of the sewing machine and meets the thread from your spool to form a stitch. You will have to wind your bobbin and insert it in your machine as a “perfect P”

Sewing Terms Foot pedal/foot control: You press with your foot to make the needle sew.

Sewing Terms Pinning: Holds fabric in place before you sew. Pins must go through all layers of fabric for it to hold in place. ALWAYS remove pins as you are sewing so you DO NOT sew over them.

Sewing Terms Presser Foot: The metal piece that is near your needle. You will lower it by the lever when you sew and lift it with the lever when you are done sewing. Its function is to keep your fabric in place while you sew.

Sewing Terms Seam ripper: A sharp pointed tool that you use to rip out a seam when you make a mistake. You use the sharp part to break the thread.

Sewing Terms Pin Cushion: Used to hold pins to keep the organized.