Basic Sewing Techniques FID 1

Understanding Fabric

Fabric Basics True bias- fabric grain that runs at a 45 degree angle, allows the greatest amount of stretch in a woven fabric Selvage- side edges of a woven fabric, very strong and will not ravel, used in the fabric making process

Fabric Basics Lengthwise grain- runs parallel with selvage Widthwise/crosswise grain- runs perpendicular to selvage Off grain- the lengthwise and widthwise yarns of the fabric are not at 90 degrees, low quality *Sketch in notes

Sewing Techniques

Seam and Seam Allowance Seam - joining of pieces of fabric together with stitching Seam allowance- width between the fabric edge and the seam line *Both are extremely important in the overall look and fit of a garment

Stitching Backstitching- sewing backwards and forwards in the same place to secure stitching Staystitching- a line of regular machine stitching on a single thickness to stabilize curves and prevent stretching Directional stitching- stitching with the grain to preserve the position of the grain

Stitching and Finishing Basting- temporarily joining layers of fabric together Gathering- tiny, soft folds of fabric formed when a larger piece of fabric is sewn to a small piece of fabric, use a basting stitch and then pull threads to create folds Seam finishes- treatment of a seams edges to prevent raveling and to make the seam stronger and longer wearing

Seam Treatments Trimming- evenly cutting away part of the seam allowance Grading- Trimming each seam allowance to a different width

Seam Treatments Clipping- making straight cuts into a seam allowance so that curved seams will lie flat Notching- clipping v-shaped sections from the seam allowance on seams that curve outwardly

Notions Notions- items other than fabric that become part of a garment

Review Look over your parts sewing machine parts notes and these notes from today. Quiz coming up tomorrow!