How to Sew Satin Fabric
Satin is a smooth woven fabric that can be made from a wide variety of materials including silk, cotton and polyester. It generally has a shiny surface on the right side of the fabric and a dull, rougher surface on the wrong side. It can be a difficult fabric to sew with due to the slippery nature of the right side of the fabric. Additionally, satin shows pin marks and holes. However, several techniques can help seamstresses deal with satin in their sewing projects.
Instructions
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Use tailor's chalk to mark the fabric on the wrong side only. Other marking implements and tools can leave permanent marks on the fabric. Do not mark on the right side of the fabric, as it may permanently stain the shiny surface.
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Hold down patterns with pattern weights instead of pins. Pattern weights can help prevent damage to your fabric.
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Place tissue paper between the layers of satin when you sew. Placing the right sides of satin together can cause the slick surfaces of the fabric to slide around. A layer of tissue paper helps keep the fabric in place, and can be sewn through and removed easily.
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Pin within the seam allowances. Pin holes cannot be hidden on satin fabrics; they will always show through. When you are pinning satin, make sure that you are only pinning within the seam allowances to minimize damage to the right sides of the garment.
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Replace your pins and needles frequently. Use fine, sharp pins and needles when sewing to avoid snags and runs in your fabric.
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Seam using the French or lapped technique. These seams encase the raw edges of the fabric, which on satin can unravel. easily. Additionally, these techniques produce strong seams that can withstand wear and tear.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Satin Wave Structure-abstract image by Svenja98 from Fotolia.com
