By Marian Lewis Here is a sewing tip to help all zigzag sewing machine owners learn how to sew. Did you know that you can eliminate rolled up looking edges when you use a zigzag stitch to finish your seams in your sewing? Here is how to sew a zigzag stitch over an edge and keep it laying flat. Cut a piece of button and carpet thread or heavy string about 3 inches longer than the length of the seam you want to finish with a zigzag edge. Then, set your sewing machine for the longest and widest zigzag stitch. Lay the heavy thread/string just inside the raw edge of your seam allowance leaving about 3 inches extend over the end of the fabric where you will start stitching. This gives you a "tail" to hold on to as you begin your stitching.

Now, zigzag stitch over the heavy thread/string all along the edge of the fabric just like you normally finish your seam edge. You aren't stitching through the heavy thread. You are stitching over it. The heavy thread/string will not let the fabric edge be stretched and curled up by the presser foot as it stitches along the edge. Pull out the heavy thread/string after you complete your stitching. You can use the same string over again for all your seams. You will notice after you remove the thread/string that the stitches are laying loosely over the edge and are flat. This even works on thin, lighter weight fabrics like silk, challis, crepes, etc.. Press lightly and enjoy your flat edges! Try it! It just makes sense!
©2009 Marian Lewis - All Rights Reserved 1st Step To Sewing Success
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