how to: sew a french seam

French seams are a very delicate and easy way to add a level of professionalism to your ‘MeMade’ items. This method encases the raw edge of the fabric inside the seam. I particularly like to use this seam when sewing with silks. I’ve used cotton in this example, but there is a silk picture to show you at the end of the post.

 First, you need a 1cm seam allowance to work with. Pin the fabric wrong sides together. This feels very unnatural, and I still have to concentrate during this step. It’s so easy to pick up the fabric and whack the right sides together.

Sew down your seam 5mm away from the raw edge.

Being very careful, trim away the seam allowance, getting as close to the stitches as you dare! I usually cut off around 3mm-4mm.

Once the seam is trimmed, fold the fabric so that right sides are together, encasing the raw edge in the new seam. Some people like to use an iron to get a very crisp fold, but I find working the seam out with my fingers is just as good.

Pin, and stitch another seam, 5mm away from the sewn edge.

That’s it! You don’t have any raw fabric showing, which makes for a very tidy looking seam. Below is a picture of a French seam in silk organza. I’ve pressed this seam to one side to flatten it. I really love how the seam is visible through the sheer fabric.

This is actually part of a very special dress that I’ve made.. You’ll see more of it in a few weeks time!

Mitty x