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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: avajo
Date: 10-04-2004, 11:07 AM (1 of 7)
Hello-can someone tell me how to make a french seam or where there might be lessons or pictures pertaining to french seams? Thank you
User: avajo
Member since: 09-01-2004
Total posts: 10
From: MaryW
Date: 10-04-2004, 11:35 AM (2 of 7)
Hi avajo. French seams are easy and perfect for sheer fabrics.

To sew a french seam, put WRONG sides together and sew a "1/4" seam. Trim seam allowance then press seam open. Fold your fabric RIGHT sides together along stitching line and press again. Stitch 1/4" seam allowance.

I hope this is clear, my descriptive powers are very poor. Your finished seam will be very narrow and give a nice finished look to the garment. :bluesmile
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: GreenDragonLady
Date: 10-04-2004, 11:57 AM (3 of 7)
Here's a link to a couple of pics:

http://sewing.about.com/library/weekly/aa012098.htm

Jessica
photos.yahoo.com/greendragondesigns
User: GreenDragonLady
Member since: 07-29-2004
Total posts: 495
From: DorothyL
Date: 10-04-2004, 01:14 PM (4 of 7)
I always press the 1/4 inch seams (made with wrong sides together) open then trim each side. I put the seam on a seam roll while I trim -- it seems to make it a lot easier. Then I fold it so right sides are together and press again before I sew it.
You have to be careful when you make French seams because habit takes over and if you have been sewing with right sides together for many years -- and most of us have -- you may find yourself slapping yourself in the head and ripping out a seam. The big problem is when you start trimming the seams before you realize what you've done.
Dorothy
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002
Total posts: 3883
From: Mischka
Date: 10-04-2004, 01:42 PM (5 of 7)
Blackie posted this link under the "Proudest Sewing Day..." thread. I had a look and thought it was very helpful (thanks, Blackie!)

French Seams (http://www.sewneau.com/how.to/french.seam.html)
User: Mischka
Member since: 09-01-2004
Total posts: 63
From: avajo
Date: 10-04-2004, 10:53 PM (6 of 7)
Thanks everyone-That was very helpful.Now I think I can do it.......
User: avajo
Member since: 09-01-2004
Total posts: 10
From: siws1
Date: 10-12-2004, 08:26 AM (7 of 7)
When I was taught french seams in school many moons ago!!! We were taught to put wrong sides together and sew a 5mm seam and then press it open and then trim it slightly and then place the right seams together and sew a 1cm seam thus you are still using your 1.5 cm seam allowance that is usually allowed for. I have used this once when making a pure silk blouse a long time ago and must confess that it gave a very neat finish. Hope that this makes sense to you.

Sue.
User: siws1
Member since: 06-24-2003
Total posts: 1
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