How does one do this? Butterick pattern (5588) says to sew 2 inch seam binding invisibly along seam lines. This is odd since there is a lining to this dress. The pattern instruction shows a small piece of seam binding approx. 6" from hem line. I read the instructions on next page and see that it is about where the slit in the dress will come.
help!
It's for reinforcing the fabric at the top of the slit, and the idea is that you don't want to see the stitching from the right side of the dress.
I don't have that pattern here, but are you supposed to stitch the seam binding on before you sew the seam or after (or at the same time)?
If it's to be put in before the seam is sewn, stitch it 1/2" in from the cut edge (centering it over the seam line), then stitch the seam using a 5/8" seam allowance. This will reinforce the fabric at the stress point.
If it's to be put in after the seam is sewn (which doesn't sound likely, from your description, but sometimes it's a good idea even if the dress is lined), sew the seam, press it open, then stitch the seam binding to the seam allowances.
-- Jenn Ridley : snipped-for-privacy@chartermi.net
Thanks for the explanation. The pattern states to "stitch 1/2 inch from sides above waist. Sew 2 inch seam binding invisibly along seamlines.
My Note: These are not clear directions since the notions listed for the pattern says 22" zipper, seam binding. Does this mean to use the 1/2 inch seam binding I bought and use a 2 inch piece of it? I think so from your explanation and my good sense. I did see some 2 inch wide seam binding but it looked like it would be used for a blanket edge.
Again, thanks for clear instructions. Going to go sew it now.
Goodness - what awful directions! Are the pictures any use? What this means is to use 2" wide seam binding and start applying the seam binding from 1/2" above waist line along the seams down (or up!) to where ever it should go to......
HTH,
Sarah
The picture shows about a 2 inch piece just where the slit will be. that's it.
If you're using the bias binding to finish the raw edge of the seam, use self-fabric bias; the bought stuff is way too stiff. Used in this way, it's called a Hong Kong finish. With right sides together, sew one side of the bias to the seam allowance, holding it taut but not stretched. Fold the bias over the seam, and hand-sew or stitch-in-the-ditch to secure the second side. Hand sewing makes it invisible; a little practice will help with the second (stitch-in...method).
To finish the top of a slit to keep it from tearing, the bar part of a hook and eye works well. Sew it firmly to the seam allowances just above the slit.
Teri
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