What are the different finishes in sewing?

Finishes are an essential step in sewing, whether you work with a sewing machine or by hand. They allow for a clean result, prevent fabric from fraying, and improve the durability of your creations.

Depending on the fabric used cotton, jeans, linen or more fluid fabric, finishing techniques can vary. Some are simple and quick, others require more precision.

In this guide, discover the different sewing finishes and learn how to choose the ones that best suit your projects.

Overlocking

Overlocking is a basic technique that prevents fabric edges from fraying.

This is the most common method for creating clean finishes inside a garment. Overlocking involves sewing the edge of the fabric using an overlocker or the zigzag stitch on your sewing machine, to keep the fibers in place and reinforce the seam's durability.

Different techniques with overlocking

Open seam

Closed seam

The closed seam consists of folding the seam allowances to the same side after assembling the fabric pieces.
To perform this technique, first assemble the different pieces, then overlock the layers together to hold them firmly.

Stronger than the open seam, the closed seam effectively reinforces certain areas of the garment.
It is especially recommended for garments subjected to tension or requiring high durability.

Seam without overlocking technique

Some techniques allow finishing seams without overlocking. They are often used for cleaner or decorative finishes.

These methods are particularly useful for fine fabrics or elegant garments.

French seam

The French seam is a very neat finish that completely encloses the fabric edges inside the seam.

To make it, first assemble the fabric pieces wrong sides together, then turn the work inside out before sewing a second time right sides together. This technique completely hides the fabric edges inside the seam for a clean and durable result.

It is ideal for fine fabrics like silk or viscose, as it prevents visible threads and provides a high-end finish.

It is a slightly longer technique to perform, but it offers a particularly neat and professional result.

Flat-felled seam

The flat-felled seam is a strong and durable finish. It involves folding the seam allowances and sewing them to hold them in place.

It is often found on jeans or durable clothing.

It provides a clean finish and strengthens the garment's durability.

Finishes: the key to a clean and durable result

Finishes are essential to achieve a creation that is both clean, sturdy, and pleasant to wear. At Verotex, we offer quality fabrics suited to all finishing techniques: easy-to-work cotton, durable jeans for strong seams, or flowing fabrics for more delicate results. Well-chosen materials make sewing easier and allow for neat finishes from the very first projects.

Whether you use simple overlocking or more advanced techniques like the English seam, you will find fabrics at Verotex suited to all your projects. Well chosen, the fabric helps improve the fit and achieve a neat and professional result.

Conclusion

Finishes are essential to achieve a clean and durable result in sewing. Each technique has its advantages and suits a type of fabric or project.

Overlocking is ideal for beginners, while techniques like English or flat-felled seams offer more professional finishes.

By choosing the right method, you improve the quality and longevity of your creations.

FAQ - What are the different sewing finishes?

What finish to start with?

Overlocking is the simplest technique.

What finish for thin fabric?

The English seam is ideal for a clean finish.

What finish for jeans?

The flat-felled seam is the most suitable.

Can you sew without overlocking?

Yes, with techniques like English seam.

Why do finishing?

To prevent the fabric from fraying and improve the finish.