What Are Edges?
Edges refer to the outermost parts of a piece of fabric, often where it has been cut. These edges can be straight or curved, and they need to be finished in order to prevent fraying and unraveling.
Why Do You Need to Finish Edges?
If you don’t finish your edges, the fabric can start to fray and unravel over time. This can make your project look messy and unprofessional. By finishing your edges, you can help prevent this from happening and give your work a clean, polished look.
How to Finish Edges
There are several ways to finish edges, depending on the type of fabric you’re working with and the look you’re trying to achieve. Here are some common techniques:
1. Zigzag Stitch
One of the easiest ways to finish edges is with a zigzag stitch. Simply sew along the edge of the fabric using a zigzag stitch, which will help prevent fraying.
2. Overlock Stitch
An overlock stitch is a type of stitch that sews over the edge of the fabric, encasing it and preventing fraying. This can be done with a serger machine or a regular sewing machine with an overlock foot.
3. Bias Binding
Bias binding is a strip of fabric that is cut on the bias (diagonal) and used to finish edges. It can be sewn on by machine or by hand.
4. French Seam
A French seam is a type of seam that encloses the raw edge of the fabric, preventing fraying. It’s often used in delicate fabrics, such as silk or chiffon.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to finish all edges?
A: It’s generally a good idea to finish all edges, especially if you’re working with a fabric that tends to fray easily.
Q: Can I use a regular straight stitch to finish edges?
A: While a straight stitch can be used to finish edges, it’s not the most effective method as it doesn’t prevent fraying as well as other stitches.
Q: What’s the best way to finish curved edges?
A: Bias binding is a great option for finishing curved edges, as it can be easily manipulated to fit the curve.
Conclusion
Learning how to do edges for beginners is an important part of any sewing or crafting project. By finishing your edges, you can help prevent fraying and give your work a polished, professional look. Try out different techniques to see what works best for you and your project.