Learning how to sew like a pro requires proficient sewing skills. Here are sewing tips to help you get a professional result in all your sewing projects!
Learn How To Sew Like a Pro With These Sewing Tips
When I started sewing garments, I would always compare my work to store-bought clothes. I noticed mine were a bit dull. But, with the sewing tips shared by an expert sewer I know, I made mine more polished– no one suspected I made it myself. There are lots of sewing tips I learned throughout the years and I am sharing with you some of the basics. These simple sewing tips will help you learn how to make your sewing projects look like it's been sewn by a pro.
Tip#1. Pressing the Seams
Pressing the seams before you sew is very important. It helps you control your seam allowances, and it makes your work look neat too. Pressing the fabric before you sew can also make the thread meld accurately into the fabric. Thus, this process results in a flattering finish.
Tip#2. Cut Off all Excess Threads
Protruding thread on the right side of the fabric is really annoying. If you're a meticulous seamstress, you would always want to follow the right details and try to make everything neat and perfect. However, protruding thread is inevitable. But, you can always cut them right away.
Here's a basic trick on how to trim excess thread nicely:
- When you cut the excess thread, start on the right side of the fabric. That way, when you pull over the thread from the wrong side of the fabric, the tiny little amount of thread from the right side pulls over to the wrong side of the fabric.
Clipping the excess threads will always give your projects a clean and professional look.
Tip#3. Use the Right Thread Color
As much as possible, always use the thread color that matches exactly the same as your fabric. The closer the thread matches the color of the fabric, the less anyone will notice the thread. Example, if you're using a thread lighter or a darker than your fabric, then you inadvertently make a mistake, it would become more noticeable. Unless you are purposely using a contrasting thread for a design, the thread is something no one should notice.
Tip#4. Use Short Stitch Length
This actually depends on the fabric you're using. But, most of the time, short stitch length is more advisable as it keeps any sewing projects durable. It will help the seams of your project stay sturdy and prevent it from tearing away. Most sewing machines indicate stitch lengths in millimeters, and for me, 2.4 millimeter is my best stitch length. It makes my sewing projects strong and the stitches look neat.
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Tip#5. Setting the Machine Tension
Machine tensions are often neglected and I am guilty of that as well. Adjusting your machine tension to the right setting can affect the outcome of your project. If you noticed your stitches don't come out perfectly (skipped stitches), they're either too tight or too loose.
Your sewing machine is set in an average tension appropriate for sewing most of your projects. Over time, your tension wheel can change and need to be adjusted to its original setting.
Reminders:
- When you purchase a sewing machine, it is generally set in the middle (around 5).
- You'll know if the tension is off when it's too tight or too loose. If it's too tight the thread crumples the fabric as you sew. When it's loose, the thread is slightly loopy.
- Read the manual of the machine to get information for the appropriate setting.
Tip#6. Finish Off the Seams
There are a lot of ways to finish the seams. You can either trim your seam or use an overcast stitch along the edges of the seams. When I start making projects, I usually trim off the seams, but the threads easily break. I tried using a zigzag stitch or overcast stitch, but it doesn't seem suitable for a professional look. If you really want your project to look professionally done, use a serger to finish off your interior seams.
Tip#7. Top Stitching
Top stitching makes any project look more professional. It is a type of finishing stitch you sew on the right side of the fabric. It also helps stabilize two pieces together. Top stitching should always be, or almost, 1/8″ from the edge. If you're just learning how to do a top stitch, you should always go slowly. It takes patience and a lot of practice to achieve a clean even stitch. Keep trying and pretty soon you'll get the hang of it!
If you want to learn more sewing tips from the experts, watch this video from National sewing circle:
There are a lot of things you still need to learn even if you already have much experience in sewing. Every sewing tip will help you improve your sewing skills. Keep on practicing and these sewing tips will have you sewing like a pro in no time!
Do you think there are other sewing tips you can add from the list above? Share it with us by leaving your comment below! Improve your sewing skills and learn more tips on these 10 sewing techniques all sewers should master!