French seam
A premium seam finish that encloses raw edges within a double row of stitching, perfect for sheer or lightweight bias-cut garments.
Where it is used
Side Seam Finishing with French Seams
p. 8- Turn the pieces to the wrong side, ensuring the seam allowances are inside. Press, smoothing out the facing edge. Sew a joining stitch 0.7 cm from the edge of the seam.
Stitching the back seam (French seam)
p. 4- Lay the pieces wrong sides together, and pin. Place a stitch on the right side of the back piece at a distance of 4–5 mm from the edge, with backstitches at the beginning and end of the stitching line. Press the allowances open, and then press them flat (to the edge). It is important that the allowances do not get caught under stitching 2 (see diagram 1).
Stitching shoulder seams
p. 5- Stitch the shoulder seams using a French seam, similar to the back. Press the seams toward the front piece.
Stitching side seams
p. 6- Similar to the back, stitch the shoulder and side seams using a French seam. It is important to ensure that the allowances are enclosed within the stitching so they do not protrude on the right side. Press the side seam allowances toward the back.
Side Seams
p. 10- Align the front and back pieces along the side edges. Stitch them together, then press the seam allowances open.
Related terms
requiresSewing machine
requiresSewing machine
requiresSewing machine
compatible withSilk satin
← compatible withBias-cut fabric
← requiresShoulder seam
← requiresSide Seam
compatible withViscose challis
alternative toHeavy cotton