Basic Seam A 3/8 inch seam is the most basic seam to attach two pieces of fabric together.
Pinked Seam You can use pinking sheers to finish the edges of a basic seam when you don't have a serger.
Serged Seam Serged seams are best for stretch fabric, woven seams and any basic seam that does not need to open. It you don't have a serger, try using the zigzag stitch on your home machine.
Bound Seam This seam is commonly found inside of unlined outerwear. It's a nice looking way to finish any garment without lining it.
Serged and Pressed Seam Use this for seams that need to be pressed open and finished. This is commonly used for zipper seams.
French Seam French seams are good for sheer and lightweight fabrics. They are commonly found in expensive garments.
This sewing basics series was created in collaboration with Missy Creed of Momentum Fashion. Missy is a talented seamstress who sews for Red Velvet!
This is perfect! I just started (well tried to start) teaching myself how to sew for mending purposes... this will really help!
-meesch
http://www.aperfectkindofday.com
Posted by: meesch | January 16, 2012 at 12:57 PM
what a great guide! thanks :)
Posted by: Emily | January 16, 2012 at 12:59 PM
Great guide Elsie. I always sort of wing it when sewing, but this will make me think more about what's the best way to do things.
Posted by: Lisa | January 16, 2012 at 01:11 PM
You are doing a terrific job!
A jewelry blog.
http://www.houseofavandan.blogspot.com
Posted by: Vanita | January 16, 2012 at 01:24 PM
your blog is amazing! great work!! feel free to check out our new blog :)
nikki and heidi
pulling-it-off.blogspot.com
Posted by: heidi and nikki | January 16, 2012 at 01:24 PM
I'm favoriting this for when I have a sewing machine! :) Simple and perfect instructions, really!
Posted by: Daryl | January 16, 2012 at 01:32 PM
Fabulous guide for any beginning sewist. I love the way you put it together :)
Posted by: Kate @ PeepThread | January 16, 2012 at 01:33 PM
Ohh that's really helpfull Elsie! =)
Well now i remembered who you remind me of, my favourite Zooey Deschanel! You are like her sister or what? Especially when you smile!! =)
Thanx Elsie, or maybe Zooey!! ;)
(Pls check my new blog guys: http://inwhirlofinspiration.blogspot.com)
Posted by: call me debbie | January 16, 2012 at 01:35 PM
Thanks for the tips, I'm a beginner to all this so it was quite helpful :)
Posted by: Bettina | January 16, 2012 at 01:35 PM
This is such a nice guide! Helpful and pretty!
-Miranda
Posted by: Miranda | January 16, 2012 at 01:39 PM
This was very thorough! Although it may be helpful to point out that probably all the seams should be pressed, not just that one. :D
Posted by: Amanda | January 16, 2012 at 01:52 PM
This is so helpful for alterations on vintage!
Thank you!
anna
Posted by: olive green anna | January 16, 2012 at 02:25 PM
Blimey! So many seams, so little time...!
Emma xx
Posted by: GawgusThings | January 16, 2012 at 02:37 PM
SO helpful! Thanks, Elsie :) Now I just need a sewing machine...
http://thejoyfulfox.blogspot.com
Posted by: Laura | January 16, 2012 at 02:38 PM
i zigzag.. but one day when i decide to sew more... i will get a serger.... my bf doesn't realize how big of a deal it really is... <3 though he supports my sewing needs :)
Posted by: jean | January 16, 2012 at 04:53 PM
great tips! one thing to point out for any ladies using sewing patterns, is that seam allowance is typically 5/8" instead of 3/8"
Posted by: Khala | January 16, 2012 at 07:50 PM
I am loving this series!
Posted by: Chloe | January 16, 2012 at 09:38 PM
thanks for doing this! i needed a bunch of tips. =)
Posted by: Cassie | January 17, 2012 at 12:51 AM
Great post, very helpful for the new sewers. Thanks for sharing it with us.
Posted by: PassForSure | January 17, 2012 at 02:05 AM
Thanks for the information on the seams and hems! What do you recommend for button holes?
Posted by: Karen | January 17, 2012 at 07:42 AM