My mom was my first sewing teacher, and one piece of her advice really stayed with me through the years. Back in home-ec class during the 1950s she was taught to make sure that inside of the garment looked as good as the outside. Though many sewing techniques have changed and upgraded since the ‘50s, this rule still stands true.  It is important that the inside of your garment looks just as clean, well-sewn, and professional as the front of your garment.

One of the ways to achieve this is to press as much as possible during the sewing process.  If you are going to take the time to make something then it’s important to take the time to press as you sew.  A well-pressed garment creates flat, form fitting pieces.

Another important reminder in making a professional garment is to make sure that you seam finish every seam edge.  Seam finishing makes the life of the garment longer by protecting the fabric from fraying after it has been washed and dried. The most common seam finish is a zigzag seam finish, which is achieved by zigzagging on the edge of your seam.  This easy finish creates the looks that a serger would give. Another way to seam finish is to cut the edge of your fabric with pinking sheers.  However, this method is not very sturdy and will not hold up many washes. A French seam helps if you’d like to hide any evidence of raw edges or finishing.  This seam finish is used on lighter, softer fabrics that tend to fray more.

Be sure to trim all threads on the inside of the garment as well as the outside.  Sometimes we are in such a hurry to finish a project that we forget about the inside.  Next time you are shopping for clothes, take a look at the inside of the garment. The inside story shows the quality of work.