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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
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From: tonigirl10
Date: 09-21-2004, 01:10 PM (1 of 9)
| Ok. I am sewing my first garment ever! I do great with the 5/8 seams following my piece of tape. However, as soon as I start to sew a curve I'm just not sure what to do and my curves just aren't right. The neckline really gets me. I have ripped the seams out twice already. How do you sew on a curve and keep the seams even? Is there a secret to doing this right? |
User: tonigirl10
Member since: 09-21-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: MaryW
Date: 09-21-2004, 01:22 PM (2 of 9)
|
Sewing in a circle is an aggravation to all beginners. One thing I was always told was NOT to watch my needle, watch the edge of the fabric. Sew slowly and gently move the fabric bit by bit with your hands. It takes practice. Welcome to Sew Whats New. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
|
From: mommgsews
Date: 09-21-2004, 03:00 PM (3 of 9)
|
The only thing that I would add to the last post is that it may help to lift the presser foot and readjust the sewing angle on occasion in order to keep the circle smooth. Go slowly enough to keep it even. It takes less time to go slowly the first time than to rip and re-sew later. A long pin may help adjust the extra fabric (seam allowance) under the presser foot, too. |
User: mommgsews
Member since: 03-15-2004 Total posts: 73 
|
From: dmoses
Date: 09-21-2004, 03:30 PM (4 of 9)
|
When I have a difficult seam to sew, I have found that it really helps to hand baste first, using a contrasting coloured thread. This holds the two layers of fabric in position, and really helps to guide you along the seam line. The other advice about going slow and stopping to readjust are right on the money! 
Take care,
Donna |
User: dmoses
Member since: 02-22-2002 Total posts: 964 
|
From: blackie
Date: 09-21-2004, 04:19 PM (5 of 9)
|
Depending on the application, you can use fusible web tape to "baste" your curved seams before sewing. I just used Steam a Seam Lite 2 1/4 tape to baste small armholes (a dress for a 2 -year old). I clipped and pressed, using the tape, and ended up with a nicely finished seam.
see the mundane life of a housewife.
|
User: blackie
Member since: 03-31-2004 Total posts: 594 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 09-21-2004, 06:57 PM (6 of 9)
|
Be sure when you lift the presser foot to move your fabric that you have left the needle down in the fabric.. Most machines have this feature nowadays, but if yours does not you can do it manually by turning the wheel with your hand before you lift the presser foot..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
|
From: blackie
Date: 09-21-2004, 07:13 PM (7 of 9)
|
Libby - that is a VERY important tip!
see the mundane life of a housewife.
|
User: blackie
Member since: 03-31-2004 Total posts: 594 |
From: maryc
Date: 09-21-2004, 08:39 PM (8 of 9)
| When I was learning to sew in circles many, oh my gosh, way too many years ago, my home ec teacher drew circles and spirals on typing paper and we practiced with an old needle until it was easier for us to do. I also finally got to the point when I figured that it was easier to do faster rather than slower. Good luck. |
User: maryc
Member since: 07-02-2002 Total posts: 1 |
From: bunzino
Date: 09-21-2004, 10:31 PM (9 of 9)
|
If you're really desperate, draw the sewing line on w a pencil first. nancy |
User: bunzino
Member since: 08-16-2002 Total posts: 119 |
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