What is a Seam Allowance?
A seam allowance is the area between the edge of the fabric and the stitching line. It provides the extra material needed to sew pieces together without making the garment smaller than intended.
Standard Seam Allowances
•1.5 cm (5/8 inch): Most common for garment sewing. Used for side seams, shoulder seams, and most construction seams.
•1 cm (3/8 inch): Used for curved areas like necklines, armholes, and collars where less bulk is needed.
•0.5 cm (1/4 inch): Used for very tight curves and some facings.
•3-4 cm (1.5 inch): Used for hems.
💡 Note: Our patterns include seam allowances — the cutting line IS the outer edge. No need to add extra.
Finishing Seam Allowances
1**Overlock/Serge**: The most professional finish. Trims and wraps the edge in one step.
2**Zigzag stitch**: A good alternative if you don't have a serger. Stitch near the raw edge.
3**Pinking shears**: Quick but less durable. Best for fabrics that don't fray much.
4**French seam**: Encloses the raw edge completely. Best for lightweight fabrics.
5**Bound seam**: Wrapping with bias tape. Used in unlined jackets where the inside is visible.
💡 Tip: Always finish your seam allowances before pressing — it prevents fraying during construction.