Fabrics

Seam allowance

Seam allowance / this is the area of the fabric from the stitch to the edge. This can vary based on what gets sewed. #seamallowance

Seam allowance

A seam allowance reminds me of a bleed in the graphic design and printing industry.

A seam allowance is the area between the edge of fabric and the stitching line (or seam line) on two (or more) pieces of material being stitched together. 

Seam allowance - in this sewing terminology blog post o share what a seam allowance is. #seam-allowance

Notice the graphic above with the left and right arrows on the right side

Home sewing Seam allowances can range from 1/4 inch wide (6.35 mm) to as much as several inches.

Commercial patterns often have seam allowances ranging from 1/4 inch to 5/8 inch.

When you sew a project, you must keep to the same seam allowance through out, unless it calls for various allowances.

Always check your pattern for what seam allowance is used.

Common seam allowances:

  • 0.6 cm / 1/4″
  • 1 cm / 3/8″
  • 1.6 cm / 5/8″
  • 2.5 cm / 1″

Narrow seam allowance

  • Curves
  • Special seams
  • French seams

Wider seam allowance

  • French seams
  • Heavier fabrics
  • For fitting or size adjustments

First published March 3, 2022. Last updated or republished December 27, 2022.


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