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Why the waistband is sewn on last
Short answer: The waistband is fitted last because it has to be stretched precisely while it is sewn on. If it were d...
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Flatlock and overlock, the difference in the seam
Short answer: An overlock seam joins the edges and leaves a small ridge on the inside, while a flatlock seam lies fla...
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Why two factories give two fits
Short answer: The same sewing pattern made in two places rarely gives exactly the same result. Machines, seam width a...
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What a pattern size is
Short answer: A pattern size is a set of measurements the maker has chosen to build a garment from. It is not a body ...
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How a pattern becomes a garment
Short answer: A sewing pattern is a set of flat pieces that are laid out on the fabric and cut. The pieces are then s...
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Why new fabric should be washed before wearing
Short answer: New fabric carries production residue and loose dye on its surface. A single wash removes both, lets th...
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What fabric softening means
Short answer: Softening is a treatment that puts a thin layer on the fibres so the fabric feels smoother. The layer r...
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Fabric finishing, what it does
Short answer: After dyeing, fabric is treated so it becomes smooth, stable and easy to sew. Much of this treatment ri...
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Why dark colours need more dye
Short answer: A dark colour has to absorb almost all light, and that takes many times more dye than a light shade. Th...
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Dyeing fabric, what happens in the vat
Short answer: Fabric is placed in a warm bath with dye and auxiliaries, and the colour works into the fibres under pr...
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What circular knitting means for the seams
Short answer: Circular knitted fabric comes off the machine as a tube with no side seams. That means fewer edges agai...
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Why most basics are knitted
Short answer: Basics need to sit close, follow the body and go on and off without fastenings. Only knit can do all th...
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