Replies

1. 
   alotofstitches | Nov 06, 2006 05:32pm | #1

   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.

2. 
   SewNancy | Nov 06, 2006 07:04pm | #2

   I like to underline this fabric with silk organza if it is fitted. Reduces wrinkles and prevents seems from pulling away

3. 
   mygaley | Nov 07, 2006 09:14am | #3

   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

1. 
   jatman | Nov 07, 2006 09:27am | #5

   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

1. 
   Becky-book | Nov 07, 2006 05:15pm | #6

   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

2. 
   mygaley | Nov 09, 2006 02:02am | #7

   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

1. 
   SewNancy | Nov 10, 2006 07:10am | #10

   There is another product, Fray Block by Juen Tailor and it dries without the hard edge.

3. 
   jatman | Nov 09, 2006 06:50pm | #9

   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

4. 
   jatman | Nov 07, 2006 09:24am | #4

   Thank you all for these suggestions - all things I would not have done and not even have thought about.  I appreciate the advice!

   JT

5. 
   HeartFire2 | Nov 09, 2006 03:52am | #8

   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.

   
   

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   Edited 11/8/2006 7:57 pm ET by HeartFire2