Seam allowances

Definition

Seam allowances are the extra fabric that is left beyond the seam line when two pieces of fabric are stitched together. This extra margin is crucial as it allows for adjustments during fitting, contributes to the durability of the seams, and helps to achieve a clean finish. Understanding how to properly measure and use seam allowances is essential in draping, as it impacts the overall fit and appearance of the garment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Seam allowances typically range from 1/4 inch to 1 inch, depending on the type of garment and fabric used.
2. In draping, it's essential to mark seam allowances accurately on the fabric to ensure proper fitting and alignment.
3. Different sewing techniques may require varying seam allowance widths; for example, French seams need wider allowances for the finish.
4. Seam allowances are critical for ensuring that garments can be altered easily if needed, providing flexibility in adjustments.
5. When working with patterns, always check if seam allowances are included or need to be added separately before cutting fabric.

Review Questions

• How do seam allowances impact the fitting process during draping?
  • Seam allowances play a vital role in the fitting process during draping as they provide the necessary fabric to make adjustments. When creating a garment, having sufficient seam allowance allows designers to take in or let out seams to achieve a better fit on the body. Without adequate seam allowances, alterations could become impossible or difficult, resulting in a poorly fitting garment.
• Discuss the importance of accurate seam allowance measurements in relation to various sewing techniques.
  • Accurate seam allowance measurements are crucial because different sewing techniques require specific widths to ensure structural integrity and aesthetic quality. For instance, when using techniques like flat-felled seams or bias-bound seams, the size of the seam allowance directly affects how these finishes look and perform. If the seam allowance is too narrow, it may lead to weak seams or an unprofessional appearance; therefore, understanding this relationship helps create high-quality garments.
• Evaluate how understanding seam allowances can influence pattern making and overall garment design.
  • Understanding seam allowances is key in pattern making because they affect how patterns are created and how garments are ultimately constructed. When designing, if seam allowances are not accounted for properly, it can lead to significant discrepancies in fit and style. This knowledge enables designers to manipulate patterns effectively, ensuring that all elements align correctly while providing the necessary flexibility for alterations, ultimately leading to better-fitting and more polished finished garments.

Related terms

Draping: The technique of arranging fabric on a dress form or model to create the structure and style of a garment before it is cut and sewn.

Basting: A temporary stitching method used to hold layers of fabric together before the final sewing process is completed.

Pattern Making: The process of creating templates from which garments can be cut and sewn, including accounting for seam allowances in the design.