Pin It

(5) print

While on the road at the American Sewing Guild conference we caught up with Threads contributing editor Susan Khalje. In this quick video, Susan Khalje demonstrates how a thread chain, sometimes called a swing tack or a French tack, can hold two layers of fabric together. This couture technique may not be as strong as a thread bar, but will work for many uses.

Also, don't miss Susan's techniques for sewing a thread bar and attaching metal fasteners. 

Victoria North, executive web producer
Posted on Feb 28th, 2011 in sewing, how-to, tips & tricks, videos, fundamentals

Pin It

(5) print

Comments (5)

ASiverson writes: This is a nice technique to have under one's belt!
Posted: 10:59 am on March 21st

SewingWithKathy writes: This is also a great method for constructing a hardly noticeable belt loop on a dress. One can start and end the chain in the same location.
Posted: 8:56 pm on March 20th

MorningGlory4 writes: So nice to hear and see that someone else pins the fabric they are working on to the knee of their slacks. I have been doing that for years with wedding gown hems when I have to attach the thread chains to the many layers along the hem edge. I have the gowns hanging from the ceiling and sit on the floor to be as close as possible to the gowns hem edge and have the layers of fabric hang straight down. I also use upholstery thread for added strength.
Posted: 1:58 pm on March 7th

CFields writes: This is a nice little finishing detail, handy for loosely connecting linings that are otherwise free at the hem. To make the chain you can also use a small crochet hook in place of your fingers. The results are the same.
Thanks for the review of these finishing techniques.
Posted: 9:04 am on March 7th

Phoebebird writes: I love it! I imagine it would be great for giving a loose anchor to skirt/slacks/coat and their respective linings. One side note, if one irons their thread after waxing they will find amazing results. The melted wax in the thread will strengthen the thread and make it a dream for sewing!
Posted: 4:40 pm on March 6th

You must be logged in to post comments. Log in.