Do you ever find yourself wondering what to do with the raw edges of your sewing projects? That’s where edge finishes come in. Edge finishes are techniques used to prevent fabric edges from fraying and to give a more polished look to your finished projects.
There are several types of edge finishes to choose from, each with their own benefits and uses. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, understanding different edge finishes can help take your sewing skills to the next level.
In this article, we’ll explore the definition of edge finishes, the types of edge finishes available, and when to use them. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Definition of Edge Finishes
If you’re new to sewing, you might be wondering what edge finishes are and how they can elevate the look of your projects. Simply put, edge finishes are techniques used to prevent raw fabric edges from fraying or unraveling.
These finishes can be functional or decorative, depending on the desired outcome of your project. Functional edge finishes, such as serging or zigzag stitching, are used to prevent the raw edges of your fabric from fraying. These finishes are common on garments that will be washed frequently or on fabrics that tend to unravel easily.
Decorative edge finishes, on the other hand, are used purely for aesthetic purposes. Examples of decorative finishes include bias binding, lace, or piping. Edge finishes are an important aspect of sewing, as they can make a big difference in the overall look and longevity of your projects.
By taking the time to properly finish your edges, you can ensure that your garments and home decor items will look polished and professional. So take some time to explore different edge finishes and experiment with incorporating them into your sewing projects.
Types of Edge Finishes
Discovering the various ways to perfect the borders of your garment can make all the difference in how it’s perceived. Edge finishes are just as important as other aspects of your garment, and there are several types of finishes to choose from. Here are four types of edge finishes that you should know:
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Zigzag stitch: This is a common type of edge finish used to prevent fraying. The zigzag stitch is created by sewing back and forth across the edge of the fabric, locking fibers in place.
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Bias binding: Bias binding is a strip of fabric cut on the bias and used to finish the edges of a garment. It’s great for curved edges, such as necklines or armholes, because it can be easily manipulated to fit the curve.
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French seam: A French seam encloses the raw edges of the fabric. This type of edge finish is great for sheer or lightweight fabrics, creating a clean and polished look.
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Overlock stitch: An overlock stitch sews over the edge of the fabric, creating a finished edge. This type of finish is great for knits or other stretchy fabrics, helping to prevent fraying and add stability to the fabric.
When it comes to edge finishes, there are many options to choose from. Each type of finish has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right one for your specific garment. By taking the time to perfect your edge finishes, you can elevate the overall appearance of your garment and ensure it looks polished and professional.
When to Use Edge Finishes
When deciding whether or not to use edge finishes, there are a few key factors to consider.
Firstly, the type of fabric you’re working with can greatly impact the need for edge finishing.
Secondly, the type of garment you’re making can also play a role in determining whether or not edge finishing is necessary.
Finally, the desired look of your finished garment can also be a deciding factor in whether or not to use edge finishes.
So, it’s important to take all these factors into account when making a decision on whether or not to use edge finishes.
Fabric Type
One important factor to consider when choosing edge finishes is the type of fabric being used. The fabric type will determine the appropriate edge finish to use to prevent fraying and ensure durability.
Here are some examples to guide you in choosing the right edge finish for your fabric:
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For lightweight fabrics such as chiffon, organza, and silk, a rolled hem or bias binding works best. This’ll create a clean and delicate edge that won’t weigh down the fabric.
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Medium weight fabrics like cotton, linen, and wool can benefit from a simple zigzag stitch or a serger finish. These edge finishes will prevent fraying and add a professional touch to your garment.
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Heavyweight fabrics such as denim or canvas require a sturdy edge finish to prevent the fabric from unraveling. A flat-felled seam or bound seam is ideal for these types of fabrics.
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Stretchy fabrics like jersey or spandex require a stretchy edge finish, such as a knit binding or a narrow hem. This’ll allow the fabric to stretch without breaking the stitches.
By taking into account the type of fabric being used, you can ensure that your edge finish will not only prevent fraying but also complement the fabric’s texture and weight.
Garment Type
Choosing the right garment type allows for a polished and cohesive look that’ll make you feel confident and put-together. Different garment types require different techniques for edge finishes. For example, a blouse may need a rolled hem edge finish, while a jacket may require a bound edge finish. Knowing which edge finish works best for your chosen garment type is crucial to achieving a professional-looking piece.
It’s also important to consider the overall style and design of the garment when selecting an edge finish. A simple and classic garment may benefit from a clean and minimal edge finish, while a more intricate or embellished garment may require a more elaborate edge finish to complement the design.
By taking into account the garment type and style, you can choose the perfect edge finish to enhance the overall look and feel of your garment.
Desired Look
To achieve the desired look for your garment, it’s important to consider the overall style and design. The edge finish you choose can play a big role in this. For example, a raw edge finish can give a more casual and rough look, while a clean finished edge can give a more polished and professional look.
Additionally, the type of edge finish can also affect the drape and movement of the garment. A rolled hem, for instance, can create a softer and more flowing effect, while a bound edge can create a more structured and defined edge.
When deciding on your desired edge finish, it’s important to consider the fabric type and weight as well. Some fabrics may require a certain type of edge finish to prevent fraying or to maintain the integrity of the fabric.
It’s also important to consider your skill level and the tools and equipment you have available to achieve the desired edge finish. Taking all of these factors into consideration can help you choose the best edge finish for your garment to achieve the desired look and overall style.
Serging
If you want to achieve a professional-looking edge finish on your fabric, consider using a serger. Serging is a type of sewing technique that involves using a serger machine to create an overlock stitch. This stitch not only sews the fabric together but also trims the excess fabric, creating a clean and finished edge.
Here are some benefits of serging:
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Durability: The overlock stitch created by a serger is very strong and durable. This makes it ideal for finishing edges on garments that will be frequently washed or worn, such as t-shirts or jeans.
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Time-saving: Serging is a quick and efficient way to finish edges. Since the machine trims and sews at the same time, it saves you time compared to finishing edges with a regular sewing machine or by hand.
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Professional-looking: The finished edge created by a serger looks neat and professional, making it a great choice for garments that require a polished look. Serging is also a popular choice for finishing edges on home decor items like curtains or tablecloths.
Overall, serging is a versatile and practical technique for finishing edges on a variety of fabrics. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, a serger is a great investment that can help you achieve a polished and professional-looking project.
Zigzag Stitching
Now that you know about serging, let’s move on to another popular edge finishing method – zigzag stitching.
With this technique, you’ll use a regular sewing machine and a zigzag stitch to secure the raw edges of your fabric. This method is great for lightweight fabrics that don’t fray too much, but it can also work on heavier materials with a more substantial zigzag stitch.
To get started, set your sewing machine to a zigzag stitch and adjust the stitch width and length to your liking. You’ll want the zigzag to be wide enough to cover the raw edges of your fabric, but not so wide that it causes puckering.
Once you have your settings, simply guide the fabric under the needle, making sure the zigzag stitches catch the raw edge as you sew. To ensure an even and clean finish, take your time and try to keep the fabric flat and taut as you sew.
If you’re working with a particularly fraying fabric, you may want to trim the edges with pinking shears before zigzag stitching to prevent excessive fraying. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to master this edge finishing technique and create beautifully finished garments and projects.
Binding
You’ll love how binding adds a polished and professional touch to your sewing projects. Binding is a strip of fabric that’s used to cover the raw edges of a garment or a sewing project. It can be made from the same fabric as the project or a contrasting fabric for a pop of color.
One of the benefits of using binding is that it can add durability to the edges of your project, preventing fraying and wear and tear. It can also help to create a clean and finished look to your project, making it look more high-end and sophisticated.
Using binding can be a fun and creative way to add a unique touch to your sewing projects. You can experiment with different colors and fabrics to create a custom look that’s all your own. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to practice your sewing skills and learn new techniques.
Choosing the Right Edge Finish for Your Project
When selecting the perfect way to complete the edges of your sewing project, it’s essential to consider the fabric type and project style to ensure a professional and long-lasting finish. There are various types of edge finishes, and choosing the right one is vital to the overall appearance and durability of your project.
The most common edge finishes include serging, zigzag stitching, and binding. Serging is a popular edge finish that involves using a serger machine to trim and overcast the edges of the fabric simultaneously. This type of finish is ideal for fabrics that tend to fray, such as lightweight or loosely woven fabrics.
Zigzag stitching is another popular edge finish that involves sewing a zigzag stitch along the raw edge of the fabric. This type of finish is perfect for stretchy fabrics, as it allows the fabric to stretch without breaking the seam.
Binding is a decorative edge finish that involves sewing a strip of fabric to the raw edge of the fabric. This type of finish is perfect for adding a pop of color or pattern to your project. It’s also an excellent choice for fabrics that tend to unravel, such as linen or cotton.
When selecting an edge finish for your project, consider the fabric type, project style, and intended use. By doing so, you’ll ensure a professional and long-lasting finish that will stand the test of time.
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