How to make a French Seam

A French seam is both a functional and a decorative seam. It is used for delicate and sheer fabrics. The total amount of the seam allowance is divided for a narrow and a wider seam. Example the first seam of 6mm is folded over, then stitch another seam of 9mm = total seam of 1.5cm. Seam Allowances may vary.

PRESSING AT EACH STAGE WILL GIVE YOU A PROFESSIONAL FINISH

1. Place the wrong sides of the fabrics together. Stitch 6mm seam allowance.
2. Press the seam flat to set the stitches and smooth the seam. Press the seam open. Fold the seam over (right side of fabric together) and press together so that the stitch line is on the fold of the seam.
3. Re-open the pressed seam and trim approx 2mm from the raw edge. This will leave a smooth unfrayed edge.
4. Fold fabrics with right sides together. Stitch 9mm seam allowance.
5. From the wrong side, press flat to set the stitches and press away any seam pucker, then press seam allowance towards one side.
6. Top stitching may be added for a more decorative finish.

Credits
Producing/Demonstrating: Claudette Davis-Bonnick
Filming: Nick Sargent
Editing: Nick Sargent Stills: Nick Sargent, Junior Bonnick
Thanks to: Oliver Furlong, Media Services, CLIP CETL "Making a Difference" funding at the London College of Fashion