Sewing Masterclass: How To Sew Fine Fabrics Without Snags
Have you been scared to try sewing in fine fabric, such as silk or silk blends, polyester or a viscose-mix fabric? Here are some top tips for working with these types of fabric.
This post is sponsored by Janome
Treat yourself to some quality dressmaking shears
It is important to use sharp dressmaking shears that are only used on fabric! Ones with finely serrated blades are perfect for slippery fabric as they grip the cloth as you cut. Take long slices, using the whole length of the blades as you cut.
Juliette Dress, Love Sewing Issue 90: BUY NOW
Prefer a rotary cutter? Make sure your mat is a good size!
If you prefer using a rotary cutter, ensure you have a large enough mat so you won’t have to reposition your fabric multiple times to cut it out. Each time you move the material you risk cutting it off the grain.
Simple Sew Grace Dress & Skirts: BUY NOW
Try a straight stitch needle plate
If you plan to regularly sew with slippery or lightweight fabric, invest in a straight
stitch needle plate. This can be easily swapped with your regular plate with a screwdriver and has a smaller eye for the needle to pass through, meaning fabric is less likely to be dragged into the mechanism as you sew.
Float on By Sundress: DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE TEMPLATES NOW
Be picky with your pins
Stay sharp by using extra-fine pins such as special lace or silk pins, and a fresh thin needle in your machine. Failure to do so will risk snags and visible holes in your fabric which will ruin the final finish.
Perfect Pleated top, Love Sewing Issue 98: BUY NOW
Feeling fancy? Go French!
Why not try French seams? They look neater if seen through slightly sheer fabric and are best for fabric prone to fraying.