Garment Making Techniques – Seams & Hems

Dressmaking Techniques – Seams & Hems

This one day workshop gives you the opportunity to make a set of samples of various types of seams and methods of hemming that you might encounter when dressmaking. These sample techniques along with the supplied notes will serve to provide you with your own practical reference manual.

Mary-Louise will teach you methods for the following techniques that will help you to get the best possible results. Gain an increased confidence by having the opportunity to try out the following techniques without the pressure of doing them for the first time during the making of a new project:

• A plain seam pressed open and neatened
• A plain seam pressed to one side and neatened
• A welt seam
• A French seam
• Clipping and notching of curved seams
• Binding an edge
• A double fold hem
• Blind stitch hem using the sewing machine
• Blind hemming by hand
• A mitred corner
• A baby or pin hem

During the practical production of these various techniques we will also explore the following key points:

• How fabric choices influence construction methods
• How design choices influence construction methods
• How to use pattern markings to aid construction
• Understanding the different fabric grainlines
• Marking methods
• Methods for pinning and tacking to improve results
• Tools or products that can aid success
• Adjusting machine settings to fine tune a quality finish
• How to avoid hemming stitches being visible

You will need to bring:

A basic sewing kit – Fabric scissors and a rotary cutter if you like to use one, pins, hand sewing needles, un-picker/seam ripper, tacking/basting thread, tape measure and a pen or pencil to add to your notes.

Refreshments are provided, but you may wish to bring a packed lunch or pop out to get something.

Sewing machines are provided for your use. A set of fabrics to make the sample techniques are included in the workshop price.