I’m about to start on a dress using silk dupioni, which I’ve never used before. I haven’t cut the fabric yet but already it seems to be fraying easily. Is there anything special I need to do with this fabric to keep it from fraying all over? Do pinking shears help? Should I overlock the edges? Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
JT
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Replies
First of all, steam press to shrink the fabric before cutting! I use the serger to finish the edges. Some use cotton thread, I use Gutermann or Metrosene poly but wind the bobbin slowly to prevent stretching the thread and seam puckers.
I like to underline this fabric with silk organza if it is fitted. Reduces wrinkles and prevents seems from pulling away
After cutting, before picking up off cutting table, I edge my pieces with fraychek. Use a pin or needle as a brush to put it on so you will have the tiniest line possible. Galey
Galey - is fray check the stuff that sort of hardens on the fabric? I think I've used it before and I think I may even have some but I just want to make sure that's what you meant? Thank you!
JT
Yes , fray check is a liquid that dries hard and is like a glue to hold the threads together so they won't fray.
Becky
I never have thought of fray chek as drying hard, but it does keep edges from fraying. It comes in about a 2 ounce bottle with applicator tip and drys clear on most fabrics or you can be sure it is only in the seam allowance. Ask for it by name at Walmart, Joannes, Hancock Fabrics, etc. Galey
There is another product, Fray Block by Juen Tailor and it dries without the hard edge.
Again, thank you for the thoughts and advice. I've decided to start small and am making a silk sash as illustrated in Threads #126. It's supposed to be a Christmas gift so it still may not be the best item to learn on but I have a fabric store close by so if I have to do it over, I can.
Thank you all, again!
JT
Thank you all for these suggestions - all things I would not have done and not even have thought about. I appreciate the advice!
JT
You can pink the edges or overcast them by hand - gives a much lighter finish than serging it. In Haute Couture seams are overcast by hand.
Edited 11/8/2006 7:57 pm ET by HeartFire2
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