- Thread your sewing machine with your desired type of thread. ...
- Set your machine to the zigzag stitch setting. The zigzag stitch is a common one, so all sewing machines will have a zigzag stitch setting.
- Raise the presser foot and position your fabric. When your machine is set, raise up your presser foot using the presser foot lever.
- Lower the presser foot and begin sewing. When you are happy with the placement of your fabric, lower the presser foot using the presser foot lever and begin sewing.
- Trim away the excess fabric. Unless you are using the zigzag stitch for a hem, it is a good idea to trim away the excess fabric after you stitch ...
How do you sew a zigzag stitch on fabric?
Press as directed. Set your sewing machine to a zigzag stitch and test the stitch on a scrap of fabric, sewing the edge of the scrap just as you will on the seam allowance. Sew the stitch so that the right side of the stitch goes "just" off the edge of the fabric, enclosing the threads of the fabric.
Do you cut after zigzag stitch?
Unless you are using the zigzag stitch for a hem, it is a good idea to trim away the excess fabric after you stitch the edge of the fabric. This will help to reduce fraying when you wash and wear the garment. Trim along the edge of the zigzag stitch, but be careful not to cut into the stitching.
How do you use zigzag edges?
Zigzag edges are a great way to secure a hem, but they can also be helpful for preventing a piece of fabric from fraying. You can easily add zigzag edges to your sewing project using a sewing machine. No special equipment is required, but an overcast foot can be helpful for getting the zigzag stitches right on the edge of your fabric.
How do you cut your own fabric?
If you are using a table to cut fabric, an easy way to get it right is to keep the fabric squared with the table edges; keep the folded edge also flush with the table edge. Pin paper pattern to fabric. You can also use pattern weights. (Sometimes I use old clothes as pattern. Sometimes make sewing patterns using the tutorials here).
Which tool is used to cut a fabric in a zig zag shape?
Pinking shears are scissors with sawtoothed instead of straight blades. They produce a zigzag pattern instead of a straight edge.
How do you use zig zag scissors?
0:161:19How to use Pinking Shears - Seam Finishing Technique - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJust produce an edge that has been pinked. After you turn your edge with your pinking shears youMoreJust produce an edge that has been pinked. After you turn your edge with your pinking shears you want to take it back over to your ironing board and press it.
Does cutting fabric with pinking shears stop fraying?
Absolutely. By trimming your scrap fabric edges with pinking shears instead of a traditional straight cut on the grain, you can drastically reduce damage to your fabric caused by fraying.
Do pinking shears really work?
Not only will they help with minimising the amount of fabric fraying on raw edges, but if you don't have a serger / overlocker, or find your sewing machine isn't stitching a decent zigzag stitch, then having the option to pink your fabric edges is a no-brainer.
How do you cut fabric straight with pinking shears?
2:063:09Using Pinking Shears - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLet's get your pinking shears and just cut along the raw edge positioning this is within that v-MoreLet's get your pinking shears and just cut along the raw edge positioning this is within that v-shape. And start again all the way down.
What is the best scissors for cutting fabric?
BEST OVERALL: Fiskars 175800-1002 Razor-edge Softgrip Scissors.BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Fiskars The Original Orange Handled Scissors.BEST SERRATED SCISSORS: Havel's 30212 Serrated Fabric Scissors.BEST PINKING SHEARS: P.LOTOR Sewing Pinking Shears.BEST EMBROIDERY SCISSORS: Gingher 01-005280 Stork Embroidery Scissors.More items...•
Does Hairspray stop fabric from fraying?
Hairspray can work to prevent fraying, but only temporarily. Simply spray a thin and even layer of hair spray across the fabric you want to protect.
What can you use instead of pinking shears?
Tip. Pinking shears tend to be heavy, making it difficult to shear long lengths of fabric. As an alternative, look for a rotary cutter that has a pinking blade. While pinking shears will reduce fraying, they won't prevent it completely.
Should pinking shears be stiff?
They will always feel stiff if compared to straight cutting scissors because more cloth is cut when cutting a zig-zag pattern. than when cutting straight across. I cut several cloths at once so the shears will definitely feel tighter when cutting multiple thicknesses together.
Why do pinking shears stop fraying?
Pinking shears are a type of scissors with a zig-zag serrated cutting edge. Because it cuts the fabric on the bias, it stops some fraying. Pinking shears to stop fraying is best suited to cotton and crisp fabrics with a tight weave. Loosely woven fabrics may still fray so you may want to try another method.
How do you stop fraying without pinking shears?
Apply some nail polish! It works just as well on fabric edges, stopping fraying by coating the raw edges. Either choose a clear nail polish, or match the colour to your fabric. Apply a thin line along the very edge of the material.
How long do pinking shears last?
Gingher Pinking Shears Gingher's shears have topped the fabric scissor market for decades for good reason: The heavy-duty tools are meant to last a lifetime or two. Their 7.5-inch pinking shears are no exception, as they are resistant to both wear and corrosion.
Which way do you use thinning scissors?
With thinning scissors, we want to stick to creating a blended, seamless look. On longer hair, angle your thinning scissors downwards in the direction of hair growth. With each snip, keep the blades closed and glide the scissors down as if you are combing through the hair.
How do you sharpen pinking shears?
0:021:02How To Sharpen PInking Shears And Scissors - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWell there are lots of ways to sharpen regular scissors and knives but pinking shears are a littleMoreWell there are lots of ways to sharpen regular scissors and knives but pinking shears are a little problematic because of their jiggly T. Well all you need to do is grab a sheet of aluminum foil.
How does a thinning scissor work?
Thinning shears are scissors that have one blade with teeth and one blade without. These teeth are little grooves on the blade that will quickly take your hair out in even sections to help alleviate excess weight, soften lines, and blend between sections.
Why do barber scissors have a hook?
The hook however is for the comfort and security of your pinky finger so it's not whipping around anywhere near the blade of the scissors or getting caught in the hair or comb.
What Are The Essential Tools You Need For Cutting The Fabric
1. A long pair of fabric scissors which is at least 8 inch longThere are two kinds of scissors -Bent handled scissors which has an angled handle th...
How to Make Your Fabric Cut Edge Straight
Sometimes after repeated cuts from the fabric store, your fabric may come out with the edges not at all straight. Do not pull out your hair yet. Yo...
How to Fold The Fabric For Cutting on The Straight Grain
Identify the center line of the fabric lengthwise.Fold the fabric along the center line, aligning the selvages together.Fold again widthwise by hal...
Basic Steps to Cutting Fabric
1. Prepare the paper pattern by cutting it out. 2. Prepare the fabric by prewashing and pressing. 3. Lay out the fabric on your cutting surface as...
Points to Consider Before Cutting The Fabric
1. Most of the time there will be creases in the paper pattern; use a dry iron to take them out. 1. Skip prewashing of new fabric at your own peril...
How to Cut Leather Or Faux Leather
If you are cutting leather or faux leather you can save a lot of frustrations by using a rotary cutter and mat. That is not to say you cannot use s...
How to Cut Slippery Fabrics Like Chiffon
This is a tricky and frustrating space – cutting slippery fabrics. You can do the worst – wet it before cutting. Wetting the fabric lightly with a...
How to Cut Delicate Fabrics
For tissue like fabrics you can keep a thin paper/ tissue paper along with the fabric and cut together. I use this method for silk also . Checkout...
How to Cut Printed Fabric
One of the joys of sewing your own clothes for me is matching prints on the seam lines. You rarely see this in store brought clothes. Just imagine...
Stripped Fabric – Cutting Tips
Check out the post on the 15 different types of stripes in fabric.One important thing to note when cutting stripes is to ensure that the two sides...
How to cut straight edge?
How to make your fabric cut edge straight 1 We have to get the crosswise grain of the fabric at 90 degrees to the lengthwise grain. 2 The most typical way to get the straight edge is to tear it from one side. First, make a small snip with the scissors and then tear straight. but this method works only with natural woven fabric like cotton and I do not like the ragged edges that result when you tear the cloth. 3 The greatest ever is if you have a cutting mat with grid lines. You just have to align the selvages with it and cut off the extra. 4 Not everyone has a cutting mat. Then you can still do this trick with a ruler. Fold the fabric lengthwise selvage to selvage. Then Keep a wide ruler along the cut edge, with a side flush with the selvage. Cut off the fabric above the ruler. 5 Another easy way is to fold up the selvages diagonally so that the straight edge of the selvage will form the top straight edge. Now you have a straight edge guide to mark your cut edge. Isn’t this easy?. I use this method all the time.
How to prepare fabric for sewing?
Prepare the fabric by prewashing and pressing. Learn more about prewashing fabric before sewing here.
What is the edge of a fabric called?
This edge on either side of the fabric is also called the selvedges or selvages.Selvages usually have small perforated holes along the length. For printed fabric selvages are mostly plain. When sewing we usually cut fabric lengthwise, i.e along the warp threads. These threads are stronger.
How to tell if a fabric is woven?
For a woven fabric the best way is to look at both sides – the right sides usually have brighter colors, a special sheen, etc. The wrong side may have thread knots/ties from the weaving – this will not be there on the right side. On the selvage you will find holes that are open on the wrong side.
What is the joy of sewing your own clothes?
One of the joys of sewing your own clothes for me is matching prints on the seam lines. You rarely see this in store brought clothes. Just imagine a printed pencil skirt with unmatched prints along the center seam line on the back. It will look so odd
What can I use to protect my cutting surface?
You can use a special cutting mat – this will protect your cutting surface and gives you a place to pin the fabric so that it wouldnot move. I have a detailed post on 13 cutting tools you (may) want for sewing. Keep your cutting tools well maintained and sharp at all times for frustration-free cutting.
What does sloppy cutting mean?
Sloppy cutting will result in a sloppy garment. That is guaranteed. Get some basic knowledge of cutting and you are set to go. A professionally finished garment requires that you cut accurately and precisely.
What is the width of a zigzag stitch?
If your machine does not automatically adjust the width and length of the stitch for you, then start with a stitch length of 1.4 and a stitch width of 5.0. Switch out your traditional sewing machine foot with a "zigzag" foot.
What is a zigzag edge?
Zigzag edges are a great way to secure a hem, but they can also be helpful for preventing a piece of fabric from fraying. You can easily add zigzag edges to your sewing project using a sewing machine. No special equipment is required, but an overcast foot can be helpful for getting the zigzag stitches right on the edge of your fabric.
What stitch to use to hem edges?
3. Use the zigzag stitch to hem edges or finish edges. The zigzag stitch can be useful as a way to create a hem on a finished skirt, shirt, or other project. The zigzag edge that you sew into the hem will be decorative and functional. However, finishing raw edges with the zigzag stitch is also a good strategy.
How to stop fraying when sewing?
Trim away the excess fabric. Unless you are using the zigzag stitch for a hem, it is a good idea to trim away the excess fabric after you stitch the edge of the fabric. This will help to reduce fraying when you wash and wear the garment. Trim along the edge of the zigzag stitch, but be careful not to cut into the stitching.
How to use a presser foot on a sewing machine?
When your machine is set, raise up your presser foot using the presser foot lever. Then, place your fabric under the presser foot. Make sure that the fabric is positioned so that the edge of the fabric will be lined up with the sewing area (where the needle comes down) on the presser foot. ...
Why do you write each setting on scrap fabric?
It may be helpful to write each setting directly onto the scrap fabric so you know what each one will look like. This will make it easier to decide on a preferred setting and serve as a helpful reference for future projects.
What to do if you are unhappy with the placement of the stitches?
If you are unhappy with the placement of the stitches, then stop the machine and adjust the position of the fabric. If you are unhappy with the length and/or width of the stitches, then adjust the length and/or width to your liking.
How to prepare fabric for cutting?
Here’s how to prepare your fabric for cutting and sewing: Pre-wash your fabric to stop future shrinkage, and remove excess dyes and chemicals from the production process. Dry your fabric. A tumble dryer is ideal as it will further pre-shrink your fabric, but it’s optional. If you’re using a fabric that requires dry cleaning, not washing, ...
How to dry fabric before cutting and sewing?
You obviously can’t cut and sew wet fabric, so you’ll need to give it time to dry. Either: Hang it on a washing line. Use a tumble dryer. If you don’t have a tumble dryer, you’ll need to use option 1. But if you do have a dryer, I recommend using it.
How to check grain on fabric?
Here’s how to check your fabric’s grain lines: Make sure the cut edges are perfectly straight. Pull 1 thread out, and use that empty gap to cut it straight. Or make a 2″ cut, and rip the rest of the fabric. On a flat surface, fold the fabric in half, matching the selvage edges together.
What to use to protect fabric from ironing?
If your fabric is delicate and could be damaged by an iron, use a cloth in between the fabric and the iron to protect it. I use a piece of 100% cotton. For example, do this if your iron leaves shiny marks on the fabric (find out by testing a small corner). Some fabrics just don’t need any ironing.
Why iron fabric flat?
After all this washing and drying, your fabric is probably looking rumpled right now. You need to iron it flat so that you can cut your pattern pieces out accurately.
What do we want in a fabric?
We want the fabric to move about freely, and for the water to penetrate every area.
Should I tumble dry fabric before sewing?
It’s convenient. So if it’s used in your home, I recommend tumble drying the fabric before you cut and sew it, even if you plan to avoid tumble drying it later. Someone in your house may wash and tumble dry your item accidentally, so we want to prepare for the worst!
How to use zigzag stitch?
How to Use the Zigzag Seam. Vary the stitch width and stitch length to prevent extra bulk that may prevent the seam from laying neatly or may cause extra bulk that would show through to the correct side of the seam when it is pressed . The goal of the zigzag stitching is to enclose the threads of the fabric and prevent those threads ...
What is zigzag stitching?
The goal of the zigzag stitching is to enclose the threads of the fabric and prevent those threads from fraying away from the fabric. Adjusting the stitch width and stitch length allows you to control how much of the threads are enclosed and how much bulk the zigzag seam finish is creating. The larger the threads or fibers are ...
How to treat seam allowance when sewing?
If the seam is pressed to one side, treat the seam allowance as one piece. If the seam allowance is pressed open, treat each part of the seam allowance separately. Press the seam again once you have finished sewing the seam finish. Read More.
Why do you use a zigzag finish on seams?
A zigzag seam finish can be used on almost any seam to enclose the raw edge and prevent fraying if you have the option of sewing a zigzag stitch with your sewing machine .
When to press seam again?
Press the seam again once you have finished sewing the seam finish.
Can you sew straight on a sewing machine?
If you are watching the sewing machine needle, it is almost impossible to sew straight, especially when you are sewing a zigzag stitch with the needle moving right and left while creating the zigzag stitch. If the seam is pressed to one side, treat the seam allowance as one piece.
What to use to make a zigzag pattern?
1. Fabric: You can use any quality of fabric to complete your raw edges with the help of pinking shear. You can use crisp fabrics like the chiffon or taffeta for a clean and beautiful zigzag pattern. Crisp fabrics are less thick at the ridge and make it easy to cut through the layers.
What fabric to use for zigzag stitch?
You can use less thick fabric to avoid any bunch up underneath. A crisp fabric will be the best choice for your zigzag stitches. Additionally, it will help you to finish the raw edges with zigzag stitches efficiently.
What Stitch To Use To Keep Fabric From Fraying?
When you are thinking of preventing the fabric from fraying and using a stitch to finish the raw edges, it would be best to go with a zigzag stitch. This stitch is commonly used for securing the seams on a material. Adjust the setting of the stitch to the default, and start sewing. However, it would help if you practiced scrap fabric stitches before going on the final garment. It will help to get the perfect setting for your stitch. Most of the machines come with an overcast stitch, and you can also go for this stitch for a more professional look.
What is the oldest method of finishing seams?
The turn and stitch method of finishing seams on a piece of fabric is probably one of the oldest ways of doing it. If you have a sewing machine that does not have a zigzag stitch, you can always choose this process to finish your fabric’s raw edges. This method is comparatively more comfortable and does not use much of the thread. Let us take a look at it.
How to seal raw edges of fabric without sewing?
If you want to finish the raw edges of fabric without using a serger, sewing machine, or even stitches, then you can use a pair of pinking shears. It is one of the simplest ways of sealing fabric edges without sewing that you will ever come across. These shears cut the edges uneven, which makes it difficult to fray.
How to finish raw edges without a serger?
There are many ways to finish raw edges without a serger. You can use pinking shears, sew the edges with a zigzag stitch, or mock overlock stitches, or you could turn and straight stitch the material. You can also go for french seams for the same.
How to finish raw edges of fabric?
Method 4. Finish Raw Edges of Fabric Using Hong Kong Seam or Bound Seam 1 Bias Tape: You will need a narrow strip of fabric called bias tape to bind the seam and finish the raw edges. 2 Sewing Machine: You can use any smooth-functioning sewing machine for sewing the seam and stitching the edges. 3 A Pair Of Scissors: You can use a sharp-edged simple scissor for cutting the tape or excess fabric. 4 Fabric: It is necessary to use a few layers of crisp quality fabrics for the best sewing quality and experience.
How to seal frayed edges of fabric?
1. Using Nail Polish To Seal Fraying. This is one of the most inexpensive and easiest methods of containing fraying in fabric edges. All you need to do is apply a layer of nail polish along the cut edge of your fabric. Once the nail polish dries, the unraveling edges are locked in securely.
How to keep fabric from fraying in the wash?
To keep your fabric from fraying in the wash, you should serge the cut ends of your fabric yardage. This should be done right before you put in the fabric through the washing machine. If you don’t have a Serger, then you can use a regular sewing machine to create zig-zag stitches over the edge.
What is A No-Sew Fabric Finish?
There are many techniques you can use to keep the fraying of your fabrics to a minimum, and ensure a perfect finish.
Why do you stitch a no sew finish?
But for “no-sew fabric edge finishes,” you cannot make use of a conventional stitch to prevent your fabric from fraying.
What does it mean when a fabric frays?
Most woven fabrics are susceptible to fraying, and unless you are working with a fabric that doesn’t fray at all, this is very likely to happen. If you don’t understand what the term “fraying” means, it is the loosening of thread that unravels when you cut the edge of a fabric. Whenever you are working with fabric, regardless of the texture, ...
How to prevent fraying edges?
Use Adhesive Iron-On Hem Tape To Prevent Edges From Fraying. If you are working on a project with an enclosed edge, then using an adhesive iron-on hem tape is a very efficient way to prevent your edges from fraying. To implement this no-sew technique, you need to have enough edge allowance at the edge of the fabric, because it has to be folded.
Why is no sew not used in sewing?
The no-sew finishing is rarely used in sewing because it doesn’t guarantee a long-lasting effect. However, in a case where you are finding it hard to contain the fraying on the edges of a fabric, using the no-sew finishing technique guarantees a clean finish.