Terms To Know: Seam Serge Pinked Turned and Zigzagged Seam Finishes Terms To Know: Seam Serge Pinked Turned and Zigzagged

Why We Finish Seams Raw seam edges can look unattractive. Raw seams may ravel during laundering and wearing. Raveling can lead to weakened seams and shorter life of the garment.

Possible Ways to Finish a Seam Serge Seams Together or Separate. Pinked with special Pinking Scissors. Turned Seams. Zigzagged Separately

How to Apply These Finishes For all of these finishes start by sewing a plain 5/8” seam. Then iron the seam open. Now choose the finish that best suits your fabric

To Serge a Seam First decide if it is best to serge seams separately or together. If you are serging separately take each side of the seam and serge close to the edge of the fabric. If you are serging together hold both sides tight and serge close to the stitching line. Remember to trim all threads.

To Pink a Seam First find a pair of Pinking Shears. Start with your 5/8” seam allowance. Now cut close to the edge of the seam allowance on both sides. Remember to trim all threads.

To Turn a Seam Start with your 5/8” seam allowance. Turn under the edge of each seam allowance 1/8 inch and iron. Now stitch close to fold. Remember to trim all threads.

Zigzag a Seam Start with your 5/8” seam allowance. Set your machine to a zigzag stitch. Width-3, Length-3 Sew close to the edge on each side separately. Remember to trim all threads.

When & Which finish to use Fabrics that ravel a lot are better off serged. For woven fabrics that ravel only slightly pinking is a good choice. For lightweight to medium fabrics turning and stitching would work best. For a quick finish that works on most fabrics Zigzagging is always a decent choice. (especially when a serer is not available)

Now Apply What You Have Learned Try Making Four Samples: Serge, Pinked, Turned and Zigzagged Remember to Iron Always Trim threads Have as much fun as possible!