Finishing touches ensure a clean, strong, and durable garment. Here are four common techniques to know.
English sewing
The English seam consists of enclosing the edge of the fabric inside a double seam.
Why use it?
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Very clean finish
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Ideal for fine fabrics (light cotton, voile)
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No visible seams on the inside
👉 Perfect for blouses and delicate garments.
The zigzag stitch finish
The machine's zigzag stitch is used to prevent the fabric from fraying.
Why use it?
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Simple and quick
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Suitable for beginners
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Suitable for most fabrics
👉 This is the most common basic finish.
Bias sewing
Bias sewing involves covering the edge of the fabric with a strip of bias tape.
Why use it?
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Very aesthetically pleasing
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Reinforces the edges
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Ideal for unlined garments
👉 Often used for lightweight jackets and decorative finishes.
The reverse-stitched finish
The turned-and-stitched finish (also called flat-stitched) consists of turning the seam allowances flat on one side and stitching them to hold them in place.
Why use it?
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Reinforces the seam
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Gives a professional look
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Widely used in casual sewing (shirts, jeans)
👉 Provides strength and style.
In summary
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Invisible cleanliness → English seam
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Speed → zigzag
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Aesthetics → bias
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Durability & style → reversed and quilted
Each finish has its purpose: the choice depends on the fabric and the desired look ✨