Level 1 Sewing

  • Overlock Closed Seam (serger, 1/2") OVC

    The 1/2" overlock closed (serger) seam (OVC) is probably the most common seam finish. After sewing the 1/2″ seam, overlock/serge the seam allowances together and press to one side.
  • Cleaned Seam (3/4" to 1/2")

    Cleaned seams can be used when a serger/overlock is not available or desired. This finish also works well for unlined Jackets made with stable fabrics.
  • Sewing Basic Plain Seams

    These are the most common seam allowance amounts; 1/4", 1/2", 3/4" & 1". The home sewist may want to use a guide for these amounts.
  • Corner Seam

    The corner seam is useful when color blocking is desired, especially when working with geometrics. Don’t confuse this with square edges, such as a neckline or armhole. This is an actual seam within the garment.
  • Curved Seam

    You will encounter curved seams a lot, such as armholes. You will be sewing opposite curves together. One side will be concave and the other will be convex. When sewn together properly, the two will create the perfect curved seam.
  • Flat Felled Seam

    Flat Felled seams are predominately used on workwear. However, you may have noticed them on the center back seam and inseam of your jeans
  • French Seam

    The French Seam is predominately used on finer and lightweight fabrics when overlock/serger isn’t appropriate. It can also be used on medium weight fabrics when there is a long seam and overlocked/serged seams are not desired.
  • Overlock Closed Seam with Topstitch (serger, Single & Double) OVC 1TS, 2TS

    This sample exercise is both utility and decorative. After sewing the seam and overlocking/serge the seam closed, press the seam to one side. Flip the garment to the face side and stitch on top of the fabric through the seam allowance.
  • Overlock Press Open Seam (serger, bust open) OVBO

    The bust open seam is used to lower bulk on seams. Using the overlock (serger) is a quicker way of achieving the finish of both seam allowances. Once you sew the 1/2″ & 3/4″ seam, you will press it open flat (Bust Open), then overlock/serge each seam allowance separately.