Seam Allowance Defined

Seam Allowance

The part of the fabric between the stitching and the raw edge. Typically unseen in final projects, it can vary in size from a scant sixteenth-inch and up. In the illustration below the seam allowance measures a half-inch.

Selvage (Selvedge) Defined

Selvage (Selvedge)

The self-finished, uncut edge of a piece of fabric; will not fray. A result of fabric manufacturing, these parallel edges are typically visibly and texturally different from the regular weave of the fabric and may contain written information identifying the fabric and/or ink color tests. Most often best not to include the selvage in a project cut, as it can wash and age differently from the main weave. US English (British English)

Raw Edge Defined

Raw Edge

The edge of fabric where it has been cut and is not yet stitched or finished; may or may not fray easily depending on the fabric.

Top Stitch Defined

Top Stitch

From the visible side of a project, straight- or decorative-stitch on the piece. Similar to Edge-Stitch with the only difference being location, top-stitching is visible on the final project.

Edge Stitch Defined

Edge Stitch

Straight stitch sewn on a visible part of the project, 1/16" or 1/8" from and parallel to the fabric's edge, a seam, or another stitching line. When stitching use the edge of your pressure foot as a guide and adjust the needle position (left, center, or right) to create the distance you desire. Can be used to reinforce a seam or as a decorative finish.

Lock Stitch Defined

Lock Stitch

At the beginning or end of a line of stitching, set your stitch length to 0 and take a couple of stitches in place before changing your stitch to the appropriate length for your project. This acts as a knot, preventing a seam from unraveling at the beginning and end of stitching. Nearly invisible, it can be used in place of back-stitch or hand knotting.

Back Stitch Defined

Back Stitch

Sew 2-3 stitches forward, sew 2-3 stitches in reverse, repeat two-three times. This acts as a knot, preventing a seam from unraveling at the beginning and end of stitching. Best used when the stitching remains unseen; avoid using when top- or edge-stitching.