Straight Seams, Start to Finish

What you will learn

• Pinning and sewing a seam
• Pressing a seam open
• Finishing the allowances

Materials and tools

• Threaded machine with universal needle 80/12
• Two pieces of woven cotton, 6 x 10 in (15 x 25 cm)
• Pins or clips
• Iron and board
• Scissors

1. Place the two pieces with right sides together and edges aligned. Pin at each end and every 3 to 4 in (7.5 to 10 cm), with pin heads toward the edge.
2. Slide the fabric under the foot with the edge along the 5/8 in (15 mm) guide line.

3. Start 3/8 in (1 cm) from the edge. Sew forward 3 or 4 stitches, reverse back to the edge, and sew forward again.
4. Sew at a steady slow speed. Remove each pin before the needle reaches it.
5. At the end, sew back and forward for 3 or 4 stitches to lock the seam, then cut the threads.
6. Before opening the pieces, press the seam flat as sewn. This sets the stitches.
7. Open the pieces and press the allowances open with the tip of the iron. Use a heat suited to the fabric's care label.
8. Finish the raw edges with zigzag if the fabric frays.

Tips for a neat result

• Press as you go. A seam sewn and pressed neatly looks professional.
• Use a ruler to check the allowance at the start, the middle and the end.

Common mistakes and fixes

Check your result

• The seam is straight with a consistent allowance.
• The pressed seam lies flat with no pleats.

Projects that use this