Sewing homemade projects sometimes carry a rep. that the result will pale in comparison to those made by designers or sold in stores. What if I told you there’s a whole bundle of tips and tricks for designing garments that look just as good or better than those sewn professionally? Often, attention to detail and just a little extra time can transform the outcome of a project dramatically.
Read the tips below to make your home-sewn garments look so good they could pass for designer items!
1. But first, details.
Details first: add details like rhinestones, brooches, feathers, and buttons to pattern pieces before sewing major seams together when possible. Fewer pieces and weight to work with makes it easier to add details without interference or complications.
2. Hold it down.
Use pattern weights to hold the pattern down on top of the fabric to avoid irreversible holes or snags created by pins. You can also use Wonder Clips during construction to avoid the same issue.
3. Baste and tack it.
Add temporary basting or tacking stitches to keep the fabric in place to avoid fabric slippage when sewing. It also saves time down the road.
4. Covered in pearls.
Use trims and embellishments galore to up the appeal on your final products. Hand sewn jewels and beading done with care are common features found throughout designer garments that will make your garments look exquisite.
5. Press to impress!
Press seam-by-seam as you sew, using pressing tools to get tricky spots and to set the seams into place, then iron the final product really well. Start by ironing the details first, working your way inward to the body of the garment so that no areas are neglected.
6. Tame the mane.
An unruly collar is a recipe for disaster. Always under-stitch collars and facings to keep them in place.
7. Use stay-stitching.
Stay-stitching prevents the fabric from stretching out while being sewn; apply it to curved areas or bias.
8. Good quality shows.
9. Bigger is better.
Use wide elastic and casings to add to the overall quality of the finished product. Make sure that the elastic is sewn close to the casing or sewn directly onto it to avoid twisting.
10. Finish it off.
Finish all seam allowances, trimming them down with fabric shears to reduce bulk. We recommend serging your edges for the best results or using a french seam or a bias bound seam for any unlined garments.
11. Don't skimp on the fabric.
Sew wider hems and cuffs. This adds weight to the garment so that it hangs nicely and presents a nicer overall look.
12. Don't forget to cover-stitch knit.
Cover stitching adds a decorative finish that is also flexible, so you’ll likely find cover-stitching on knits – as they tend to offer stretch. You can also achieve the cover stitched look by using the double needle stitch on your sewing machine.
13. Check and double check your accuracy.
When cutting fabric or making pattern markings with a marking tool, double-check that all of your work is accurate to avoid finishing your project with wonky results. Don’t forget to double-check that grain, pattern alignment/placement, and nap placement (reference our sewing terms dictionary for help if needed) to ensure that they’re properly positioned.
14. Know your tools
Know what type of fabric you’re working with, and how to use your tools for the best results. Check that your sewing machine is properly adjusted and that you have a good understanding of how to use your tools to best benefit your projects.
15. Prototype it!
There’s no shame in making a prototype from muslin. Tweak any areas that aren’t fitting, sitting, or coming together as well as you’d like so you can move to your final product and fabric choice with confidence.
16. Plan ahead.
Make a schedule when sewing a project to stay organized and on track so that you don’t find yourself in a bind for time. Having a plan will allow you to take your time at each step.
17. Trim it up!
Snip any loose threads created by your sewing machine or from hand stitching to get a clean and high-end result.
18. A perfect fit.
Do your research and check out our blog post about bust fittings to learn how to sew garments that fit well and how to correct any fit issues that may be encountered. Your prototype will come in handy here. If you notice fit issues with length or sizing, you can address those before moving to your final product.
19. Think & Pre-Shrink
Launder any fabrics (including interfacings) as directed before sewing to avoid shrinkage after sewing your garment.
20. The prints are aligning.
If you’re sewing with a patterned fabric, make sure the pattern pieces line up accordingly so that they match.
21. Let's face it!
22. Keep it sleek.
Use invisible zippers when possible for a discrete yet functional closure, allowing the garment to take the spotlight.
23. Get a crisp finish.
Apply top-stitching around areas like necklines and hems to achieve a polished, clean look that also serves as a decorative finish.
24. Adjust your seam allowances.
Reduce ⅝” seam allowances to ¼” around collars, facings, waistbands, etc. to decrease bulky finishes and create smoother seams.
25. Keep it clean-cut.
Precise and cleanly cut pattern pieces increase accuracy and a stronger presentation overall. Make sure that your tools are of good quality and sharpened well.
26. The bottom line.
Press your commercial pattern flat, then cut pieces to their cutting line for the best results.
27. Stay organized & in control.
Keep all notions needed for your current project in a specific location for easy reference, so when it’s time to sew you have everything in one central location. This will make it easy to pinpoint any missing notions or major key elements before you start your project.
28. One & done.
29. Finish strong.
30. Showcase your work.
Once you’ve completed your piece, you should style it with other pieces that are as high quality as the piece you’ve created to showcase its quality.
Before you start your next sewing endeavor, use this tip guide so that your garments turn out professional and polished. And now that our all-inclusive list is finished, we want to know what some of your holy-grail tips are for achieving designer-like results on your own home sewing projects. I can’t wait to add more great tips suggested by our readers to the list!
5 comments
A very detailed and sensible list. Thank you. I will print this off and keep it so I refer to it at all times.
That is lovely!
I would like to add yo start with the design: add more details. Extra ruffles, shirring, trims, pockets. Mostly store bought items have lots more to it I notice.
Very Informative!
Nicely Done
Thank you for all of your helpful tips!!!
Exactly what I was looking for!
This is the kind of list I needed, Thank you a lot!!!!