Mastering Seam Finishes with ZJ Humbach

Checklist For Perfect Seams

❏ Cut accurately.
1
❏ Align edges and pin ends, centers, and notches, as a
minimum.

❏ Use straight-stitch needle plate and foot.

❏ Engage dual feed, if available, to keep layers from
shifting. (Pic.1)

❏ Engage needle down, if available.

❏ Use machine markings or specialty guides/feet for
accuracy. For extra accuracy, place painter’s tape on 2
your machine at the desired seam allowance. (Pic.2)

❏ Secure stitching at both ends with back tacking,

Exception: quilting seams.

❏ Guide--don’t pull the fabric--to avoid puckering or

skipped/broken stitches.

❏ Sew at a speed that matches your ability.

❏ Press to set seam, and then press seam open.
Exceptions: Most quilting seams, encased seams, and
flat-felled seams are pressed to one side. (Pic.3) 3
TIPS
• Change your needle after 8 hours of sewing, at a
minimum, to avoid pulled threads on your project.

• ALWAYS make a test sample with the fabrics you will be

using to adjust tension and stitch length as necessary.

• Make several test samples to determine which seam

finish will work best with your fabric.

• Place the needle in a starter square of fabric, and then STANDARD SEAM ALLOWANCES
butt your seam up to the edge of the starter square • Quilting: ¼”
and continue sewing to avoid having fabric pulled into
• Garment Construction: 5⁄8”
the needle hole. Clip off the starter square and reuse as
desired. • Home Dec Construction: ¼” – 1”, typically

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