Are you struggling to sew a french seam? This how to sew a french seam post will elevate your sewing and make all your seams look professional. Want to know how to sew a french seam plus 7 additional seams? Check out my sewing seams printable and quick reference guide in my Etsy shop.
What is a French Seam?
A french seam is a closed seam which means that the raw edges are completely enclosed in the seam allowance. This seam does not require the raw edges of the fabric to have stay stitching and provides a beautiful finish to garments and is a very strong seam finish.
How to Sew a French Seam – Instructions
Step 1: Determine the seam allowance, typically 5/8″.
A french seam works best with a generous seam allowance. I recommend if your seam allowance is less than 5/8″, you should add more seam allowance to the garment before cutting out the pattern pieces.
Step 2: Stitch fabric wrong sides together using a 3/8″ seam allowance.
For a 5/8″ seam allowance when finished, stitch a 3/8″ seam allowance with the fabric wrong sides together. This is different than how you would sew most pieces.
Step 3: Trim the seam allowance. Press
Next, check to make sure that the seam is sewn well and you are happy with how it is stitched. Next, trim the seam allowance to about 1/4″ and remove any stray threads. Press the seam open with the right sides of the fabric facing up.
Step 4: Turn the fabric right sides together and press.
Then, fold the fabric pieces with the right sides together along the stitched seam allowance enclosing the seam. Press with an iron.
Step 5: Stitch 1/4″ with right sides together.
Lastly, stitch the final seam 1/4″ with the right sides together and press the bulk of the seam in the direction indicated on the pattern.
I hope you enjoyed this tutorial on how to sew a french seam. This seam is great for lightweight cotton seams for garments. I would not use this seam for bulky items like jackets or jeans.
Looking to learn how to finish more seams? Check out my complete printable with videos included in my Etsy Shop.
