Frank Carlson Library

Learn to pin, sew and press accurate, beautiful seams as Sara explains seam allowance, an essential concept for successful sewing. You'll also learn three options for easily finishing the raw edges of the seam allowance. And if you make a mistake, not to worry! You'll learn how to use a seam ripper to remove errors.

Side-seam pockets are easy to add when you've transferred the markings accurately. After stitching the pockets to the front and back of your dress, stitch the side seams, finish the seams, and press them. Afterwards, sew the armhole facings to the dress with the methods you learned in the previous lesson, and you're almost done!

Once you've pretreated your fabric, you're ready to lay out the pattern pieces on the fabric for cutting, arranging them for the most efficient use of your cloth. Sara walks you through reading the pattern layout diagrams and aligning the all-important grain line, found on each pattern piece.

Ready to start operating your sewing machine? First, wind a bobbin, thread the machine, load the bobbin, insert a needle and attach a presser foot. Then, select a straight stitch, set the stitch length, and let 'er run as you practice stitching straight lines, pivots, curves and backstitching on no-risk paper.

See how to choose thread and other essential smaller tools, including pins, needles and a seam ripper. Sara also covers twill tape for tote bag handles, and other trims and closures you might find useful as you continue to sew.

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